The national security strategy of the United Kingdom : security in an interdependent world

The Cold War threat has been replaced by a diverse but interconnected set of threats and risks, which affect the United Kingdom directly and have the potential to undermine wider international stability. They include international terrorism, weapons of mass destruction, conflicts and failed states, pandemics, and transnational crime. These threats and risks are driven by a diverse set of underlying factors, including: climate change; competition for energy; poverty and poor governance; demographic changes; and globalisation.This first National Security Strategy sets out how the Government will address and manage both challenges and drivers. Its view of security has moved away from the traditional one of the state being the focus of foreign, defence and security policies and now encompasses threats to individual citizens and to our way of life.The approach is grounded in a set of core values: human rights; the rule of law; legitimate and accountable government; justice; freedom; tolerance; and, opportunity for all.These guiding principles are outlined along with recent changes to the security structure. The challenges and the UK's response are also covered in detail. The Government stresses its multilateral approach overseas and an integrated response throughout Government. It calls on individuals and communities to contribute to national security through vigilance and preparing for civil emergencies.