Welcome to the 2022 Homeland Security Enterprise Forum

Our nation is experiencing a measurable rise in domestic violent extremism fueled by diverse collection of racially, religiously, or issue-oriented ideologies. The problem persists on both ends of the political spectrum with investigations ongoing into both left and right-wing actors and organizations. In a July report, DHS’ own IG recommended improvements to the department’s ability to collect and consolidate information; yet even access to complete federal intelligence and information would only paint part of the picture. How can the private sector and local and federal governments better collaborate across the homeland security enterprise to share information while not infringing on Constitutionally protected rights? What information can and should be shared about impending threats? After more than 20 years of our current understanding, what is the new face of terrorism?

The age of “information disorder” is upon us. Deep fakes, false political narratives, and flawed COVID rumors are all rampant online, threatening America’s national security, as well as democracy itself. Though bad actors have always had the capacity to deceive, the ease, speed, and degree to which anyone can create misleading information has engendered a dangerous new world. And yet many solutions can also run directly against longstanding western principles, such as free speech and a lack of censorship. Prescriptions, some argue, can be as dangerous as the disorder itself. So, what can be done? In partnership with the Homeland Security Experts Group, Intelligence Squared U.S. debates how to combat this dangerous new phenomenon, termed “information disorder.” Our expert panel takes a look at what the private sector should do, what the public sector can do, and how political actors who spread false information should be handled.

Quantum technologies could create vulnerabilities for the homeland by breaking public key encryption, providing new forms of sensing, or advancing algorithms used in warfare and intelligence. The global race is on, with government and private investment in quantum skyrocketing. Most efforts focus on developing underlying quantum computer hardware, employing competing approaches that face distinct challenges even as they integrate into classical computing frameworks. This panel will sort hype from reality and discuss opportunities for partnership among leaders in National Security, industry, and academia.