Executive and Senior Executive Seminars
The NESA Center core programs provide the foundation upon which we have built and enhanced our mission. We hold 3-week Executive Seminars for leaders from the Lt. Col. to Brigadier General level and shorter Senior Executive Seminars for Flag/General Officers, Ministers and Ambassadors. Topics include the American national security structure and process, the current and future regional strategic environment, counter-terrorism, the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and disaster management. These off-the-record, not-for-attribution seminars encourage a frank and open exchange of views under Chatham House Rules. Participants are reminded to speak candidly rather than use their government talking points or policy statements. Seminars generally contain 35-40 participants from 19-23 countries, including the United States. Plenary sessions bring in outside speakers, including senior U.S. government officials, specialists from think tanks, and academicians to help frame broad issues and generate thinking and discussion. Faculty lead breakout groups, prompting frank and open discussions.
In general, NESA Executive Seminars follow the three-week schedule in the box at right. Senior Executive Seminars (SES) cover the same topics in two weeks.
Combating Terrorism Seminars
Designed for CT practitioners, these workshops seek to build capacity and enhance regional partnerships. Key themes include: defining regional terrorist threats; assessing regional, sub-regional and national responses; tools, strategies and best practices for combating terrorism; strategies for enhancing national and regional cooperation and a case study/capstone experience.
Participants visit the Pentagon, State Department, Capitol Hill, and, frequently, the National Security Council and the Supreme Court. They meet with senior officials, Members of Congress, Hill staffers, lobbyists, and others to learn how they fill their roles in formulating policy. On the popular Capitol Hill visit, participants sit on the House floor to learn about the complex Congressional procedures, and meet lobbyists, many encountering the concept of professional advocacy for the first time. Specifically relevant to the NESA region, our participants hear from advocates for Israel, Arab countries and India
Participants also have the opportunity for optional tours and an overnight stay beyond the immediate Washington area.
