The Jack Gordon Institute for Public Policy's Human Aspects in Security Forum (HAS) strengthens the human dimension of defense and security across the Americas. Through research, education, and engagement with U.S. and partner-nation institutions, the Forum examines how people, systems, and institutions influence strategy, operations, and long-term security outcomes. Its work is organized around three distinct pillars that reflect today’s evolving security environment.
The Three Pillars of the Human Aspects in Security Forum are:
Women, Peace and Security (WPS)
This pillar advances the WPS framework grounded in UNSCR 1325 and aligned with U.S. government strategies. It focuses on research, policy, and education to support defense and security institutions apply WPS in practical, mission-focused ways—strengthening institutional approaches, improving planning and training, and supporting U.S. and partner-nation integration of WPS across security cooperation.
Human Factors and Whole-of-Society Approaches
This pillar examines the human elements that drive the effectiveness of defense and security institutions. It emphasizes leadership, professionalism, institutional cooperation, and multi-sector engagement to address complex security challenges. The work highlights how whole-of-society efforts reinforce national objectives, strengthen institutions, and enhance security cooperation across the region.
Interdisciplinary Security Integration
This pillar explores where human factors and WPS converge with contemporary national security issues. Drawing on fields such as intelligence, strategic competition, illicit activities like illegal fishing, and emerging technology, it brings human-centered insights to broader security challenges—ensuring people and institutions remain central to how evolving threats are understood and addressed.
Publications
The Human Aspects in Security Forum team will be releasing exclusive publications through our website. Stay tuned!