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This research examines gender dynamics within the National Security Council (NSC) and its implications for national security.

April 29, 2026Open Access

Gender at the National Security Council

Key Points

This research examines gender dynamics within the National Security Council (NSC) and its implications for national security.
Interviews conducted via Zoom with experts on gender and national security
Analysis of the roles of NSC members, including dual-hatted positions
Focus on the Biden administration's approach to gender policy
Insight into gender representation within the National Security Council
Identified unique roles of key personnel like Cailin Crockett
Highlights the intersection of gender policy and national security strategies

Abstract

The National Security Council (NSC), established in 1947, advises and assists the President of the United States on matters of national and international security. Members of the NSC include staff seconded from government agencies, like Andrea Freeman (AF) from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and Cailin Crockett (CC) from the Department of Defense. During the Joe Biden administration, CC also held a unique position dual-hatted as a Director on the NSC and as a Senior Advisor on the White House Gender Policy Council. This is a slightly edited version of interviews that took place with Mona Lena Krook (MLK) via Zoom on January 5, 2026, and February 2, 2026.

Gender at the National Security Council

Key Points

Abstract

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