C10.16.1. The RCs for Security Studies are international venues for the exchange of ideas among nations. Each center covers a geographical area based on the Unified Command Plan. Through classroom-based activities, research, and outreach, the five centers build partner capacity, human and institutional, consistent with U.S. policy goals. See Table C10.T15. for RC Web Sites.

Table C10.T15. DoD Regional Center Web Sites

C10.16.2. The statutory mission of the RCs is to study security issues relating to specified geographic regions of the world by serving as forums for bilateral and multilateral research, communication, and exchange of ideas involving military and civilian participants (10 USC 184). In response to complex security challenges, cooperation among the five centers is increasing, with joint programs and participants from multiple regions, as warranted by the topic.

C10.16.3. RCs engage regional participants in a global context. Although the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy (USD(P)) assigns regions of primary interest for the RCs, they also engage participants outside of their regions when external actors strongly influence the region, or the substantive security issues associated with a specific center activity are enhanced with out-of-sector participation.

C10.16.4. The RCs develop and implement activities in accordance with policy guidance and oversight from the USD(P) implemented by the Combatant Commands (CCMDs). DSCA supports the RCs through programming, budgeting, financial management of operation and maintenance costs, human resources services support, and personnel management.

C10.16.5. Participation. Participation in the activities of the RCs is on a reimbursable basis, although delegations of authority allow each center to waive participation costs, subject to center-specific limitations. International Military Education and Training (IMET/E-IMET) funding is not available for the RCs, but they may compete for such funding as the CTFP, Warsaw Initiative Funds, and Combatant Command Initiative Funds. FMS process may be used for countries to pay for travel, lodging, and per diem costs for foreign participants. The centers are also authorized to accept gifts or donations for the purposes of defraying the cost, or enhancing the operation of the center (10 USC 2611). Participants in activities of the RCs may include U.S. and foreign military, civilian, and nongovernmental personnel.

C10.16.5.1. The target audience for RC programs is typically mid- to high-level civilian government officials, military officers, parliamentarians, academics, non-governmental, and international organization leaders who are either current or future leaders of their country serving in defense, security, foreign affairs, disaster management or counterterrorism positions.

C10.16.6. Health Insurance for Regional Centers. Participants traveling to an RC program or event (e.g., course, seminar, conference, workshop, etc.) are responsible for meeting any and all healthcare coverage requirements required by the country where the RC event is being held. The host RC will advise event participants of any corresponding requirements. See Section C10.9. for additional healthcare coverage requirements.

C10.16.6.1. Attendees are encouraged to obtain or have their own medical insurance for themselves and/or any family member that might accompany them to any RC courses or events.