GS III-Security
Context:
National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval recently hosted a high-level intelligence meeting with representatives from the Five Eyes alliance.
Origins & Formation
- World War II Beginnings: Originated with the BRUSA Agreement (1943), a secret pact between the U.S. War Department and the UK Government Code & Cypher School (GC&CS) for intelligence cooperation.
- Formalization: The UKUSA Agreement (1946) officially established this strategic intelligence-sharing partnership.
- Expansion of Membership:
- Canada joined in 1949
- Australia & New Zealand became members in 1956
Purpose & Oversight
- Core Objective: Facilitates multilateral intelligence-sharing to enhance national security, cybersecurity, and counterintelligence operations.
- Oversight Mechanism: The Five Eyes Intelligence Oversight and Review Council (2016) ensures non-political oversight and strengthens security coordination among members.
Significance
- Strengthens defence and security ties among English-speaking democracies.
- Enhances intelligence cooperation on cyber threats, espionage, and counterterrorism.
- Plays a crucial role in global surveillance, security alliances, and geopolitical strategy.