APPSNO 2016: National Security Revisited

BACKGROUND AND AIMS OF THE CONFERENCE

National security is today a complex domain, encompassing matters ranging from the challenges of homeland security management to designing coping strategies for a wide variety of traditional and non-traditional threats. National security, especially in a rapidly changing and complex environment, remains a key concern for countries worldwide.

With the aim of promoting a multi-agency and networked government approach as an important response to today’s complex and uncertain security milieu, the Centre of Excellence for National Security (CENS), a research unit of the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS) with the support of the National Security Coordination Secretariat (NSCS), part of Singapore’s Prime Minister’s Office, organised the 9th Asia-Pacific Programme for Senior National Security Officers (APPSNO). APPSNO is targeted at senior government officials from the Asia-Pacific and beyond with responsibilities for national security matters. It is hoped that APPSNO will become an important tool for promoting the analytical frameworks, mindsets and skills needed for effective national security management.

APPSNO is driven by two primary objectives:

1. Enhance exposure to global best practices in national security
Participants will be given the opportunity to learn about the trends and global best practices in national security issues through lectures and informal discussions. Over the years, prominent speakers have been invited to speak on topics related to national risk assessment and management, strategic and crisis communication, cyber security, and countering violent extremism and radicalisation. The small-group interactive discussion format enables participants to share ideas, anecdotes and experiences that will be of broad professional interest.

2. Facilitate an international network of national security experts and practitioners
APPSNO will provide the platform for participants to network with global national security experts as well as develop stronger relationships with their regional counterparts. Interaction will be facilitated through field visits, educational and study tours and social activities.