How a Washington think tank became a global powerhouse for foreign policy strategy

Nature · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Founded in 1962 to navigate Cold War tensions, the Center for Strategic and International Studies has evolved into a premier bipartisan institution. By bridging the gap between high-level government officials, corporate stakeholders, and academic research, it shapes U.S. strategy through deep analysis, multimedia engagement, and influential policy recommendations.

Established by Arleigh Burke and David Manker Abshire, the institution originally operated as an affiliate of Georgetown University. Its intellectual foundation was solidified by a massive 1963 conference report, which defined a specific school of thought that later influenced the Nixon, Ford, and Reagan administrations. By the late 1970s, the center had become a magnet for senior policymakers, most notably Henry Kissinger, whose 1977 arrival significantly elevated its public profile.

The relationship with Georgetown eventually soured due to concerns over academic rigor and media focus, leading to a formal separation in 1987. Following this, the center incorporated as an independent nonprofit, allowing it to expand its scope beyond traditional security. In the 1990s, it pioneered the Commission on the Strengthening of America, which advocated for a National Economic Council, signaling a shift toward integrating economic policy with international security. Today, its research spans diverse fields including cybersecurity, global health, and climate change.

Operating from a LEED Platinum-certified headquarters in Washington, D.C., the organization maintains a complex funding model. While it receives support from the U.S. government and various international states, it also draws significant backing from major defense contractors and corporate leaders. This financial structure has drawn criticism, with some observers labeling it a pro-war entity. Despite such scrutiny, it remains a dominant force in policy circles, frequently cited by the media and consulted by the executive branch to refine national strategy.

The center's influence is sustained by a robust network of 275 full-time staff and numerous affiliated scholars. It hosts high-profile events, such as policy addresses by cabinet members, and produces extensive research that reaches decision-makers globally. In 2019, it was ranked the top think tank in the United States. As it transitions into new leadership under General Joseph Dunford, it continues to serve as a critical venue for vetting ideas and navigating the complexities of global geopolitics.

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