Secret Service - National Security in an Age of Open Information
Secret Service - National Security in an Age of Open Information
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Former Director General of the British Security Service Jonathan Evans discusses the need for greater openness and transparency in the secret services, drawing insights from investigative journalism and espionage. He explores differences and similarities between other security services and how Brexit might impact the UK's collaboration with them.
Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 90 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2020
Publisher: Haus Publishing
Introduction:
It is often said that hindsight is 20/20, and in the case of my joining MI5, I can certainly attest to that. It was only two days after my arrival that I realized I had actually joined the iconic British intelligence agency. However, it did not exactly throw the doors wide and welcome scrutiny. The existence of the service was avowed, but very little else about it was known. Who worked for it? Where were its offices? What was its budget? What did it do? What was its relationship with the government? All of these were secret, and yet MI5 was the most open of the three intelligence services.
The Need for Greater Openness and Transparency:
During my tenure as the Director General of the British Security Service, I faced the challenge of addressing the need for greater openness and transparency. This was a particularly pressing issue in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, as the public demanded more information about the security services and their operations. At the same time, national security needs were heightened, making it essential to balance the need for transparency with the need to protect sensitive information.
Similarities between Investigative Journalism and Espionage:
One of the key insights I gained during my time at MI5 was the similarity between investigative journalism and espionage. Both involve following leads, checking information, and protecting sources. In investigative journalism, reporters and journalists work to uncover the truth behind a story, often at great personal risk. In espionage, agents and operatives work to gather intelligence, often in hostile environments and under cover of secrecy.
The Benefits of a Mature Relationship between the Security Services and Journalism:
I welcomed the benefits of a mature relationship between the security services and journalism. Such a relationship can be mutually beneficial, as it allows the security services to provide information to the public in a controlled and responsible manner, while also ensuring that sensitive information is protected. It can also help to build trust between the security services and the public, which is essential for effective counterterrorism operations.
Differences and Similarities between Other Security Services:
I also explored the differences and similarities between other security services around the world, especially those in the United States. The United States has a well-established intelligence community, with multiple agencies working together to protect national security. However, there are also differences in approach and culture between the United States and other countries, which can impact collaboration and information sharing.
Brexit and the Future of Collaboration with European Security Services:
Finally, I considered the impact of Brexit on the UK's future collaboration with other European security services. Brexit has the potential to create uncertainty and complexity in the UK's relationship with its European partners, particularly in the area of security. It is essential that the UK and its European partners work together to find ways to maintain close collaboration and information sharing, even in the face of political and economic challenges.
Conclusion:
Secret Service is a fascinating insight into the world of the security services and a reminder of the importance of actively attending to the moral health of both the institution itself and its operatives who, by their very nature, are its greatest strength and also its greatest weakness. It is a call to arms for all those who care about the security of their country and the well-being of its citizens. By working together, we can ensure that the security services are able to carry out their vital work in a transparent and responsible manner, while also protecting the privacy and rights of individuals.
Weight: 64g
Dimension: 111 x 179 x 9 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781912208944
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