• Brennan Center »
• Justice »
• Liberty & National Security

Liberty & National Security

In the wake of the September 11th attack, the American government moved aggressively to protect the United States from future acts of terror. But the government has too often claimed to promote national security to the point that these measures have encroached on civil liberties of U.S. citizens and non-U.S. citizens alike.  However, an effective national security policy that truly counters terrorism does not need to limit the rights recognized by the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. 

Through the Liberty and National Security Project, we fight to preserve our constitutional values against erosion in the post-9/11 world and to set meaningful limits on the exercise of executive power. We develop innovative policy recommendations, and then use litigation and public advocacy to ensure that our nation’s commitment to our national security does not trump the nation’s commitment to fairness, accountability, and due process. These ideals remain fundamental to and compatible with effective security measures. 

Call for a Non-Partisan Investigation

Click here to learn more about Brennan Center efforts to have an independent commission of inquiry established to examine recent counter-terrorism policies that may have violated the rule of law.

• Checks & Balances
• Detention & Habeas Corpus
• Domestic Counterterrorism