Defence Policy and Capability in the Age of Disruption
Dates
Contact us for details
Length of Course
3 hours
Delivery Method
Online
Cost
$425 CAD
Summary
 This masterclass offers a forward-looking, evidence-based exploration of how global shifts are reshaping defence and national security. In an era of rising protectionism and inward-looking politics, defence institutions worldwide face unprecedented pressures that are transforming national policy postures and alliance dynamics. Led by Professor Ann Fitz-Gerald, the course examines the future of war and conflict across land, sea, air, cyber, and space domains. It highlights the implications of evolving threat vectors, new policy priorities, and the institutional adaptations required to meet them. Drawing on the realities of a digital and data-driven world, the program addresses the growing importance of dual-use technologies, specialized capabilities, and human capital pipelines. Participants will also assess how states can position themselves within alliances and international partnerships to remain competitive, resilient, and secure in a rapidly changing strategic environment.
Instructor
Ann Fitz-Gerald became the Director of the Balsillie School of International Affairs in August 2019 and has led the School’s “Technology Governance Initiative” since 2023. She has degrees in both commerce and political science from Queen’s University, and was the first civilian female to graduate from the Royal Military College of Canada. Before completing a PhD in the UK, she worked at the Pearson Peacekeeping Centre, NATO headquarters, and the North Atlantic Assembly.
She has worked at King’s College, London University and Cranfield University, where, before her move back to Canada, she was Director, Defence and Security Leadership at Cranfield’s Defence Academy of the United Kingdom campus. Ann is a Senior Research Fellow at the Royal United Services Institute, a Senior Fellow at the Institute for Peace and Diplomacy, a Fellow at McLaughlin College, York University and has served/still serves on a number of non-executive boards and in advisory roles for the British Government, the United Nations and the African Union.
Ann is widely published on issues concerning the governance of national security and has helped facilitate national security policies and strategies in a number of conflict-affected countries including Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Sudan, Ukraine, Sierra Leone, Nepal, Serbia, Nigeria and others. She has also supported internationally-sponsored peace talks, including the Sudan-South Sudan peace talks led by former South African President Thabo Mbeki - efforts for which the Government of Canada awarded Ann with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal.
In December 2024, Ann was recognized for her leadership of the Balsillie School of International Affairs and awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal.
Format
The masterclass format is a concise summary of 4-5 sessions delivered over a 3-hour period. Upon completion of the masterclass learning objectives, participants will receive a BEI certificate.
Target Audience
This masterclass is designed for those seeking to analyze the global shifts shaping defence and security, exploring future conflicts, evolving threats, dual-use technologies, and alliance strategies in a data-driven world.