CIAO DATE: 02/06

Backgrounder: National Security Policy

Abstract

National security policy (NSP) is a framework for describing how a country provides security for the state and its citizens, and is often presented as an integrated document. For the purposes of this Backgrounder, NSP will refer to such an integrated document. This document can also be called a plan, strategy, concept or doctrine.

NSP has a present and future role, outlining the core interests of the nation and setting guidelines for addressing current and prospective threats and opportunities. Normally, NSPs are hierarchically superior to other subordinate security policies such as military doctrine, homeland security strategy, etc., which address national security as it concerns specific agencies or issues. It is also distinguished from these other policies by the range of subjects that it addresses, attempting to outline both internal and external threats. Finally, it seeks to integrate and coordinate the contributions of national security actors in response to the interests and threats deemed most important.

Some states, such as the UK, France and China, do not have a single, unified NSP document, but rely on defence policies or white papers that focus solely on national defence. Other states do not make public their policy documents, or do not have comprehensive written policies on security or defence.

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