May Newsletter: Intelligence

by Robb Bloomfield

Photo by Stefan Widua on Unsplash

This month we are returning to a popular theme of 'intelligence' and have been delighted to collaborate with the Secrecy, Power and Ignorance (SPINS) Research Network and the Women's Intelligence Network (WIN) on our Twitter Hour. Reflecting on intelligence, reminds us of the unclear boundaries surrounding what is classified as intelligence rather than mere information. How is it that something becomes intelligence? Are all voices listened to in the gathering and sharing of intelligence? Who and what are acceptable subjects about which intelligence is gathered and how do they become so? We've enjoyed reflecting on different perspectives on intelligence this month and you can explore this theme further through our recount of the twitter hour below. Our news section also considers contemporary uses of intelligence and, in particular, its application in the war in Ukraine.

We have some fantastic opportunities to get involved with our network this month. We are delighted to share that we will be at the British International Studies Association conference being held in Newcastle from 15-17 June so come and say hi at our stand there. Do let us know if you are going to be presenting there so we can promote your panel/roundtable? And, we are thinking of arranging an informal social gathering in the margins of the conference so ping us a message or email if you'd be interested in meeting some friendly faces in person and we will keep you posted.

This month sees the launch of the first DRN Monthly Writing Group! We are really excited to see some of you there and share a supportive space to help you along with your writing. Check out the section below with more information about this and how to register. We will also be holding our next online seminar in the 'Roads to and from a PhD' seriesthis month followed by our first face to face event since 2019 at Kings College at the end of the month (see the following section for more about these).

Thank you all for your ongoing support and do talk to us about anything you'd like to see or need help with.

Hannah West and Jemma Humphries
Co-Chairs of the Defence Research Network

See the full newsletter here: Intelligence

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