Michael Shurkin, Ph.D., is a Washington, DC-based analyst, consultant, and researcher with 20 years of experience working in defense, intelligence, and national security. He has expertise in military strategy, West Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. He consults to business, governments, militaries, and organizations and provides high-quality tailored analysis and research. He is the host of the Pax Americana YouTube channel.
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WHAT I DO
I provide tailored analysis, briefings, and advisory support on geopolitical, defense, and security issues. I help organizations understand complex developments, assess risks, and make better decisions by translating military, political, and strategic dynamics into clear, usable insight.
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Custom geopolitical & security briefings
When your organization needs to understand a conflict, region, or strategic issue, I provide tailored briefings that turn complexity into clear, decision‑ready insight. I combine open‑source intelligence, historical and military context, and current political trends to explain what is happening, why it matters, and what it could mean for you. Typical engagements include a focused written memo plus a virtual or in‑person briefing with Q&A for leadership or key staff.
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Scenario planning and geopolitical risk assessments
For organizations exposed to geopolitical or security risk, I help map plausible futures and their implications. I identify key drivers—political dynamics, military developments, alliances—outline realistic scenarios, and assess how each could affect your operations, reputation, or mission. The outcome is a concise set of risks, indicators to watch, and practical options for mitigation or preparation.
Strategic research and writing
Many institutions and companies need serious, well‑argued analysis but lack the time or specialized expertise to produce it. I conduct in‑depth research and write reports, articles, op‑eds, speeches, and other materials on defense, strategy, and international affairs. You get lucid, thoroughly grounded analysis suitable for publication, internal use, or briefing key stakeholders.
How I work
I use a structured, four‑step approach to every question I take on.
First, I clarify the decision or problem my client is facing, so the work is anchored in their real concerns rather than abstract geopolitics.
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Second, I reconstruct the relevant context—military, political, and historical—drawing on open sources and prior expertise to build a coherent picture of what is actually happening.
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Third, I identify key drivers and map plausible scenarios, focusing on how events could realistically evolve and what would move them in one direction or another.
Finally, I translate those findings into clear implications, risks, and practical options tailored to the client, delivered in concise memos and briefings that non‑specialists can act on.
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If you think your organization could benefit from this kind of support, I’d be happy to discuss your needs.