The Gates Forums

Each year, the Global Research Institute (GRI) and the Gates Global Policy Center (GGPC) convene senior government and industry leaders in Williamsburg, Virginia to tackle critical challenges facing U.S. national security. Chaired by William & Mary’s Chancellor Robert M. Gates, each Gates Forum runs for two days and draws upon the real-world experience of conferees and the best available research - produced and organized by GRI - to diagnose the challenge, consider a range of possible response options, and articulate a bipartisan roadmap for improvements in U.S. policy moving forward. Gates Forum 1, held in December 2022, tackled the issue of U.S. strategic communications. Gates Forum 2, held in December 2023, analyzed U.S. development assistance. Gates Forum 3, held in December 2024, assessed U.S. sanctions policies and economic statecraft. Gates Forum 4, to be held in December 2025, will address U.S. security assistance.