During Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, it is typical for national security institutions to celebrate the accomplishments of AAPI national security and foreign policy leaders, like Senator Tammy Duckworth, former USAID Administrator Rajiv Shah, Ambassador Richard Verma, and many others. In addition to celebrating these leaders’ important legacies, it is equally important to celebrate rising leaders in this space.

In 2019, the Diversity in National Security Network and New America highlighted our inaugural list of next generation AAPI Foreign Policy and National Security experts. This list is part of a series highlighting the need for diverse voices in national security and foreign policy. We encourage you to read “Bringing More Diversity to the National Security Arena” and all of the lists in the #NextGenNatSec series. In 2020, our organizations are committed to continuing this important work.

The Diversity in National Security Network and New America are pleased to honor the contributions of 35 AAPI experts in U.S. national security and foreign policy. The list features experts currently serving in government, think tanks, academia, non-governmental organizations, and the media. Selection is based on excellence and leadership; their current work in national security or foreign policy; and their contributions to their issues of expertise through thought leadership.