Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)

The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) is a key agency within the United States government, dedicated to providing national security intelligence services. Established in 1947 through the National Security Act, the CIA focuses on collecting intelligence through human sources and other methods, while also analyzing foreign intelligence issues. It plays a vital role in coordinating the collection of national intelligence outside the United States, ensuring effective resource utilization and risk management. The agency is involved in evaluating intelligence related to national security and disseminating this information appropriately. The CIA operates multidisciplinary centers addressing critical issues such as counterterrorism, nonproliferation, and international organized crime. Its organizational structure includes various departments, such as Intelligence & Analysis and Clandestine Services, and it also offers educational resources, publications, and a center for the study of intelligence. The CIA is headquartered in Washington, D.C.