Academy Calls for Renewed Security Studies Funding
A September 2026 report warns that funding cuts threaten the future of national security research.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Terrorism
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In September 2026, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences issued a report urging increased investment in security studies to address complex global risks. The study warns that recent funding reductions could jeopardize the development of the next generation of security experts.
Why it matters
The report highlights that a lack of financial support for research institutions could result in a lost generation of scholars. Strengthening education and fellowships is deemed vital to addressing pressing concerns like nuclear proliferation, technological risks, and international conflict.
The report identifies 91 terminated Department of Defense Minerva Research Initiative grants and estimates that 75 to 100 postdoctoral fellowships have been affected. These figures underscore the scale of funding gaps facing institutions like the Belfer Center.
The players
American Academy of Arts and Sciences
This honorary society and policy research center focuses on studying global challenges and informing public policy through interdisciplinary research.
Department of Defense
This federal executive department is responsible for coordinating and supervising all agencies and functions of the government directly related to national security.
Harvard University
This private Ivy League research university hosts the Belfer Center, a prominent hub for international affairs and security research.
Dartmouth College
This private Ivy League research university is home to the Dickey Center, which supports research on international issues.
Stanford University
This private research university houses CISAC, an institution dedicated to addressing security problems through interdisciplinary collaboration.
The details
The American Academy of Arts and Sciences details current security concerns including the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, nuclear risks, and non-compliance with international law. To counter these challenges, it recommends supporting international study groups and enhancing undergraduate security education.
Timeline
The American Academy of Arts and Sciences published the report in September 2026.
University research centers have trained scholars since the 1980s.
Legal Context
This analysis extends the discourse surrounding the Department of Defense's Minerva Research Initiative by highlighting the negative consequences of its recent grant terminations. It places the current academic climate in contrast to the historical expansion of security programs since the 1980s.
The potential decline in security scholarship could impact the quality of expert analysis available to policymakers and the public regarding international risks. Residents may observe fewer academic programs dedicated to addressing complex global threats at major university centers.
The takeaway
The decline in specialized research funding signals a critical need for institutions to prioritize the development of new security experts. Strengthening academic support is essential for preparing future generations to manage the complexities of evolving global conflicts.
Further reading
For more on the current state of security research, visit the Terrorism section.
More information
View the original report and organizational details on the American Academy of Arts and Sciences portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Stanford.
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