Matthew Conklin

was a research intern with the International Security Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), where he provides research assistance on projects relating to national security and defense issues. He holds a master’s degree in international relations from the University of Chicago and a bachelor’s degree in history from Wichita State University. Following his internship at CSIS, Mr. Conklin will return to the University of Chicago to pursue a PhD in political science with a concentration in international relations.

Analysis / Strategy

By Other Means – Part II: U.S. Priorities in the Gray Zone

Geopolitical competition is increasingly playing out in the gray zone—the space beyond diplomacy and short of conventional war. The nature of this competition is forcing the United States to confront the liabilities of its strengths. This report assesses current U.S. government actions to deter, campaign through, and respond to competitors’ gray zone tactics.

Analysis / Strategy

By Other Means – Part I: Campaigning in the Gray Zone

With the significant costs of engaging the U.S. in combat and a growing range of non-military tools at their disposal, rivals threaten U.S. interests by operating in the “gray zone.” The U.S must employ a broad spectrum of tools and concepts to deter and compete in the gray zone.