The National Security and Intelligence Advisor’s Leadership Challenge

Policy Brief No. 198

February 20, 2025

The Canadian security and intelligence community needs new gateways to ensure that key intelligence products reach the prime minister, cabinet ministers and deputies. The national security and intelligence advisor (NSIA) must shift from being a "coordinator" and convenor to being the leader of the security and intelligence community. Seizing on a new mandate letter, the NSIA must ensure the rapid delivery of a substantive national security strategy, accompanied by a strong engagement plan to inform Canadians. The NSIA must work to change the culture of Canadian intelligence.

About the Author

Wesley Wark is a CIGI senior fellow.