By the Numbers: 22 October 2018

By the Numbers: 22 October 2018

$2.8 Trillion
The amount spent by the United States on "governmentwide homeland security efforts, international programs, and the wars in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria" from FY 2002 through FY 2017, according to a new report from the Stimson Center -- Counterterrorism Spending: Protecting America while Promoting Efficiencies and Accountability.

In attempting "to provide an initial tally of total CT spending since 9/11," the Stimson researchers "found a variety of weaknesses in definitions, tracking, and consistencies that limit accuracy and contribute to a lack of transparency regarding the current data on CT spending. These weaknesses make it difficult to evaluate whether CT spending has been effective at enhancing security at home or overseas." The report offers suggestions "designed to improve the accuracy of tracking CT spending and to provide greater clarity for budget planning for future CT programs."

The Stimson Center is a nonpartisan policy research center working to protect people, preserve the planet, and promote security & prosperity. Stimson’s award-winning research serves as a roadmap to address borderless threats through concerted action.