Mission
The Project on Defense Alternatives (PDA) conducts defense policy research, analysis, and development, combining “common security” and “defense reform” perspectives. The project seeks to advance policy options that reconcile the goals of:
- Reliable, sustainable defense against aggression;
- Enhanced international stability and cooperation;
- Robust national defense without contributing to interstate tensions, crisis instability, or arms racing;
- Lower levels of armed force and military spending worldwide; and
- The progressive diminishment of the use and role of force in international relations.
Method
PDA understands policy change as not only a political process, but also an intellectual and social one. We combine pragmatism and vision to alter policy in two interlocking ways: First, by altering the balance of expert, leadership, influential, and public opinion, and second, by developing and supporting “alternative policy networks” that cut across leadership sectors and bring together like-minded, influential individuals. We believe that the prerequisite of innovation to be a close and critical engagement in the mainstream security policy debate, engaging with informed opposing views seriously and with respect.
The constituencies for these efforts – our “focal audiences” – are:
- The policy development community;
- NGO and civic leaders;
- The media; and
- Government and congressional leaders and staff.
The tools we use to “alter opinion” and “build alternative policy networks” include reports and articles of various length and detail, resource compilations, fact sheets, graphic material, public education materials, media interviews, and public presentations. PDA also organizes and conducts meetings of various types, including round tables and study groups, media and congressional briefings, and conferences.