American Leadership Policy Studies and Research | Leadership for America

American Leadership

The freedom and security of Americans depend on America's global leadership.
Learn More... Statement of Purpose Without American leadership the world will become a more dangerous place – for Americans and for freedom. If left unchecked, the growing dangers will only get worse and may reach the point where America’s very existence is at stake. Transnational terrorism, rampant anti-Americanism, unaccountable international institutions, nuclear proliferation, and regional conflict all represent real threats to peace and prosperity. We can deal with these grim challenges. Just as The Heritage Foundation helped devise the strategies and plans to win the Cold War, it can and should do the same with respect to helping America win the global war of ideas for freedom and security.

It will be Heritage’s mission to carry forward the legacies of Ronald Reagan and Margaret Thatcher by devising and promoting new strategies and policy recommendations for the 21st Century. In this new era, it will be crucial for the United States to prevail in the ideological battle against radical Islam and the resurgence of leftist populism and other ant-American forces, create alternatives to the United Nations, and spread and institutionalize global economic and political freedoms around the world. What is required is a coherent overarching blueprint that identifies the sources of anti-Americanism and the lack of confidence and coherence in U.S. leadership here at home, while also outlining the political, diplomatic, economic, and military instruments that are needed to overcome these obstacles and reassert the nations global leadership role. These solutions must be grounded in the First Principles of the Constitution and its intent of safeguarding and advancing the cause of freedom.

Bomb or Surrender: Not America's Only Options Regarding Iran

November 2, 2009

Any long-term strategy to counter the possible emergence of a nuclear Iran must include offensive strike options, defensive systems--including ballistic missile defenses--and diplomatic initiatives.

By Baker Spring and James Phillips

Congress Wisely Acts to Bring Greater Independence to Pentagon's Quadrennial Defense Review Process

November 2, 2009

Congress has wisely appointed an independent panel to critique the analysis underpinning the Pentagon's 2010 Quadrennial Defense Review. The panel should pay particular attention to two of the inherent risks described in the review.

By Mackenzie M. Eaglen and Eric Sayers

Honduran Handshake: U.S. Policy Still Needs to Be Better

October 30, 2009

Presidential elections will take place in Honduras on November 29. As a result, it is now possible that the Honduran people--not outsiders--will decide who governs their nation

By Ray Walser, Ph.D.

U.S.-China Space Cooperation: More Costs Than Benefits

October 30, 2009

The potential costs of extensive cooperation between the U.S. and Chinese space programs far outweigh the likely benefits.

By Dean Cheng

Secretary Clinton's Visit to Pakistan: Into the Crucible

October 29, 2009

Secretary Clinton's visit to Pakistan could help to calm some of the current tensions in the U.S.-Pakistan relationship. However, it must be followed by concrete and consistent U.S. aid programs and a clear U.S. commitment to stabilizing Afghanistan.

By Lisa Curtis

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What Iran Learned From the Hostage Crisis: Terrorism Works

November 5, 2009

Today is the 30th anniversary of the beginning of the Iranian hostage crisis, America's first searing experience with Islamist terrorism.

By James Phillips

With Karzai's Victory, Security Must Take Precedence

November 5, 2009

Now that the Nov. 7 runoff election in Afghanistan has been canceled and Hamid Karzai announced the official winner of the Aug. 20 vote, President Obama must end the uncertainty surrounding the future of U.S. engagement in the region, and announce a strategy for moving forward in Afghanistan.

By Lisa Curtis

Armed Forces May Count the Cost of Cutbacks on Defence

October 29, 2009

The publication of Bernard Gray's much-leaked report on defence procurement gives all the parties a vital chance to commit to spending plans and sensible reforms that will protect the future of Britain's armed forces.

By Ted Bromund

Blood Brothers No More?

October 9, 2009

Is President Dmitri Medvedev of Russia trying to come out from under the shadow of his long-time political mentor and former boss Prime Minister Vladimir Putin? So it would seem.

By Ariel Cohen

Oslo's Decision Is Shortsighted

October 9, 2009

Waking up to a Nobel Peace Prize may not have been what President Obama wanted. Here's why: The Nobel Committee awarded the prize on the basis of hope for what he'll do in the future, rather than on his past achievements.

By James Carafano

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