forge new frontiers with ‘KRISIS!’ exercise

THE William J. Perry Center for Hemispheric Defense Studies, in collaboration with the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, recently conducted a groundbreaking tabletop exercise titled “KRISIS!” This inaugural event, hosted by the Guyana Defence Force in Georgetown, brought together 35 senior security and defence sector participants and observers.

The exercise, designed by the Perry Center, focused on testing and improving the government’s response capabilities to various crises and disasters. It simulated scenarios encompassing both natural calamities and human-made emergencies. Participants engaged in mission analysis, strategy development, and strategic communication to diagnose challenges, identify gaps, and propose corrective measures.
Dr. Paul J. Angelo, Director of the Perry Center, emphasised the exercise’s critical role in enhancing decision-making processes during crises. “KRISIS! was developed to ensure that decision-makers can respond effectively and rapidly in dynamic environments,” Dr. Angelo stated during his opening remarks. He underscored that while crisis response was the primary focus, the exercise also aimed to enhance steady-state decision-making across different sectors.
Reflecting on the collaboration with Guyana, Dr. Angelo expressed gratitude for the trust and partnership cultivated over 27 years. “The fact that Guyana, along with the Guyana Defence Force, hosted our first-ever KRISIS! exercise underscores the strength of our relationship,” he remarked.

The Perry Center’s engagement in Guyana extends beyond KRISIS! exercises. Dr. Angelo held discussions with institutional partners to explore ongoing and future collaborative efforts. His visit follows a previous trip in March, where the Perry Center honoured the University of Guyana with the William J. Perry Award for Excellence in Security and Defense Education. This recognition celebrated the University’s Master of Science in Strategic Development Studies programme, underscoring its contribution to regional security and defence education.

President Irfaan Ali, an esteemed Perry Center alum, participated in these initiatives, further solidifying the ties between the Perry Center and Guyana. The Center’s mission includes fostering sustainable institutional capacity, promoting the rule of law, and enhancing understanding of US policy in the Western Hemisphere.