The Wilson Center Announces Distinguished Fellow Bryan Cunningham

WASHINGTON - The Wilson Center has named H. Bryan Cunningham a Distinguished Fellow. A renowned expert in national security, cybersecurity, intelligence, and the law of armed conflict (LOAC), Cunningham brings decades of experience in government, academia, and the private sector to the Wilson Center’s work. Cunningham will lead the “Deterring 21st Century War Crimes Project: Reconsidering the Laws of Armed Conflict,” a critical initiative that examines how evolving technologies and modern warfare impact the application of LOAC and international security norms.  

“Bryan’s extensive experience in national security, law, and cybersecurity makes him an ideal addition to our community of experts,” said Ambassador Mark A. Green, Wilson Center President and CEO. “His leadership on the evolving challenges of modern warfare and legal frameworks will provide invaluable insights for policymakers during a critical time.”  

Cunningham’s distinguished career includes serving as Deputy Legal Adviser to the National Security Council under Condoleezza Rice and as a career CIA officer and US federal prosecutor. A former White House lawyer, he advised multiple administrations —Presidents Ronald Reagan, Bill Clinton, and George W. Bush—on intelligence, terrorism, cybersecurity, and national security law. He played a key role in drafting the Homeland Security Act and related legislation, working closely with the 9/11 Commission and senior government officials on matters of national security. 

“Nothing will be more important this century than ensuring that future conflicts are fought morally and lawfully and that the side of freedom wins them. I can think of no better place than The Wilson Center to work towards that end and am thrilled to continue my ongoing mission of protecting the security of Americans here at Wilson.” 
 
Cunningham has made significant contributions to cybersecurity policy. He is the principal author of legal and ethics chapters in authoritative cybersecurity textbooks and founded the University of California, Irvine’s Cybersecurity Policy & Research Institute, where he served as Executive Director. He was also a founding vice-chair of the American Bar Association’s Cyber Security Privacy Task Force and has served on expert committees for the National Academy of Sciences, the Markle Foundation, and the Bipartisan Policy Center.