The Institute for Security Policy and Law (SPL), formerly known as the Institute for National Security and Counterterrorism (INSCT), is a multidisciplinary research institute based in the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs and the Syracuse University College of Law. SPL was established in 2003 by Prof. William C. Banks with the goal of supporting an interdisciplinary approach to national security and counterterrorism law and policy. SPL consists of several full-time fellows and graduate research assistants, and dozens of affiliated faculty members at Syracuse University. The Institute publishes analytical policy papers, journal articles, and books; it develops courses and other academic opportunities for graduates (like the certificate of advanced study); and it hosts conferences and seminars at Syracuse University and at its collaborating institutions.

History and mission

The mission of the Institute for Security Policy and Law is to perform interdisciplinary research, teaching, public service, and policy analysis in the fields of national and international security and counterterrorism. The Institute collaborates with national and international practice-based institutes to advance common research and project goals. The Institute conducts research, policy analysis, and projects in consultation with government agencies, municipalities, and universities to facilitate public service y Commissions Prosecutions Unit, US Naval Air Systems Command, the US Department of Defense, the US Department of State, the US Department of Justice, and Homeland Security. From 2013–2018, SPL, as part of a larger Program on Security in the Middle East, began offering a graduate study abroad fellowship, in collaboration with the International Institute for Counter-Terrorism at Interdisciplinary Center Herzliya in Israel.

Leadership and notable faculty

Publications

The Journal of National Security Law and Policy is a semi-annual, peer-reviewed journal that SPL originally co-published with the University of the Pacific's McGeorge School of Law, before beginning an editorial collaboration with Georgetown Law in 2011.