Intersections of International Development and National Security

This in-person panel event offers a timely opportunity to explore the intersections between international development and national security at a time when security and defence have risen up the UK political agenda, while ODA spending has been reduced to pay for an increase in defence. It will bring together development and national security actors alongside think tanks and campaign groups to discuss how development programmes can better support national and international security objectives.

The recently-published Strategic Defence Review (SDR) and the International Security Strategy both highlight the enhanced threats to the UK’s security and call for a broad-based approach to protecting UK interests. International development efforts already contribute significantly national security through programmes which support stabilisation and contribute to conflict prevention and resolution, while building productive relationships around the world which can also contribute to the UK’s own security. Senior defence and security figures have emphasised the importance of maintaining international development programmes as an essential part of our national security strategy. In this context, this panel will explore how and where international development and defence intersect, and how the UK can make the most of these synergies to support a coherent approach in line with the UK’s international objectives.

The Coalition for Global Prosperity will open the panel by outlining the current context. Zoe Swanwick, Senior Researcher at the Coalition for Global Prosperity, will consider how international development initiatives fit the UK’s national security interests, both of which need to be aligned to the UK’s overarching foreign policy goals. Niki Wood, Head of Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning (MEL), at Integrity, will then speak to the importance of evidence-based MEL programmes, especially when budgets are reassigned and more closely scrutinised for demonstrable benefits to the UK. Niki will highlight the role of international cybersecurity efforts in building valuable partnerships and sources of information across the globe. Scott Gilfillan, Associate Director at Global Counsel, will share insights from his own experience as a Special Adviser to the Labour government, leading on international development. Scott will examine the Labour government’s approach to these intersections, as well as exploring the new approaches needed to encourage collaboration between defence, diplomacy and development. Finally, Dr Roli Asthana, Associate Fellow at Chatham House will examine the importance of economic security as part of the national security strategy. Drawing on her experience in complex international contexts, she will explore balancing risk and building resilience when faced with significant barriers.