Events Calendar

On Thursday, November 13th, the Clements Center for National Security, the Robert M. Gates Global Policy Center, and the Strauss Center for International Security and Law will host “Beyond the Battlefield: Influence, Incentive, and Coercion in the New Era of Great Power Competition,” the sixth installment of our Texas National Security Forum. After a five-year hiatus, this signature conference returns to Austin, convening top voices from government, academia, and the private sector to examine how the instruments of national power are evolving in a new strategic era.

We are excited to host the Honorable Robert M. Gates, former Secretary of Defense and Director of Central Intelligence, for a keynote conversation with Will Inboden, Executive Vice President and Provost of the University of Texas at Austin. We are also featuring General (Ret.) Vince Brooks, U.S. Army, General (Ret.) Peter W. Chiarelli, U.S. Army, General (Ret.) Robert Neller, U.S. Marine Corps, and General (Ret.) Tod Wolters, U.S. Air Force, for a keynote panel, and renowned defense expert Kori Schake for a conversation with Bobby Chesney, Dean of the University of Texas School of Law. Join us from 9:15 am – 4:00 pm at the Etter-Harbin Alumni Center. Doors open at 9:00 am.

In an era of renewed great power competition, the tools of influence extend far beyond the battlefield. This conference will explore how diplomacy, economic statecraft, intelligence, emerging technologies, and historical lessons inform the United States’ ability to shape the global environment without overreliance on military force. As current and future leaders confront rising global challenges, these tools are more critical than ever to protecting American interests and sustaining leadership. Through a series of focused panels, a keynote address from Robert Gates, and a keynote conversation with senior military leaders, we will examine how all instruments of national power must be integrated into a comprehensive strategy to sustain American leadership and counter rival powers. The event will bring together senior policymakers, scholars, military leaders, and practitioners to chart a path forward for U.S. national security in the 21st century.

This event is free and open to the public. Registration is required and does not guarantee admission. Parking is available for a fee at Manor and Brazos garages. Complimentary lunch will be available.