The 2026 CGSC Ethics Symposium is scheduled for March 27, 2026.
The 2026 theme:
Civil–Military Relations Since World War II: Ethical Considerations
The conference examines the evolving relationship between civilian leadership and military institutions from 1945 to the present, with particular focus on the ethical challenges that emerge in times of crisis. We seek papers that use historical case studies—before, during, and after war—to raise and address ethical questions faced by civilian policymakers and military leaders. In part to commemorate the recent 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, we encourage (but do not require) a focus on cases from that war. Submissions should explore how past episodes of cooperation and conflict between civilian authority and the armed forces help us understand accountability, political neutrality, constitutionalism, just war reasoning, military professionalism, and the proper limits of dissent and obedience.
Please register by filling out the form below.
Featured Guest Speakers:
Civil–Military Relations Since World War II: Ethical Considerations
presented by
Paul David Miller, Ph.D., Georgetown University
CGSC Foundation General Hugh Shelton Distinguished Visiting Chair of Ethics
A History of U.S. Civil-Military Relations
presented by
Kori Schake, Ph.D.
Senior Fellow and Director of Foreign and Defense Policy Studies, American Enterprise Institute
Downloads and other resources
• 2026 Ethics Symposium Agenda (as of 17DEC25)
• 2026 Ethics Symposium Speaker/Panelists Bios (TBP)
Please note: Non-DoD ID card holders must request a pass from the Fort Leavenworth Visitor Control Center. You may register for gate access not more than 10 days but not less than 24 hours before the event starts. Click this link to request a pass: https://pass.aie.army.mil/?b=usa&i=fort_leavenworth&e=9VHF4SZ1
See the Visitor Control Center gate information web page for more information or questions.
