Advisory Council

We live in an age when authoritarian regimes seize on novel technologies, and then use it to oppress their people and stop the flourishing of democracy. But America and other democracies can fight back with the same technologies, building a peaceful and prosperous future. The Institute is well-positioned to influence American diplomacy towards the idea of "tech diplomacy"—protecting us from rising threats from China, Russia and elsewhere.

The Krach Institute for Tech Diplomacy at Purdue is at the forefront of leveraging societal impact technologies and private sector innovation to advance freedom and democratic values globally. Its nonpartisan model and deep expertise in deploying and utilizing cutting-edge technology globally make it a critical player in promoting trusted technology and countering technological authoritarianism. I am honored to join the Advisory Council and contribute to this noble mission.

Without trust there is no business. Without a safe harbor to innovate and exchange ideas, greatness sought will turn into mediocrity. Great countries protect and reward innovation.

Technology plays a vital role as it concerns U.S. foreign policy and national security interests. The Krach Institute for Tech Diplomacy is also playing a vital role as it continues to educate and illuminate around the many issues that congregate at the tangled intersection of Trust, Policy and Tech as a fulcrum and forcing agent of Global Peace. The Institute's work is taking on new urgency in the current environment—authoritarian challenges, and the devastation that incursions unleash, are on full display right now in Ukraine. A stark reminder that now, more than ever, leadership is needed in the international arena. Keith Krach has embodied that spirit over the course of his career, and I am incredibly honored to align with Keith and the rest of this esteemed group as it seeks to leverage the best in technology to promote human advancement and freedoms worldwide.

In the realm of technology, the imperative to safeguard our citizens' lives and uphold the digital sovereignty of our nations, institutions, and individuals in cyberspace is paramount. However, it is incumbent upon our esteemed leaders and overseers within our institutions to recognize that cybersecurity cannot rely solely on technical prowess. This approach has inadvertently allowed for the proliferation of a $7.9 trillion cybercrime economy, a figure that eclipses the GDP of all but the United States and China.

At this juncture, where cybercrime demonstrates a staggering 15% annual growth while cybersecurity lags behind at less than two-thirds of that rate, authentic and comprehensive leadership is indispensable. Victory in this arena hinges on our leaders' adeptness in three key domains: technology, setting a model precedent from the apex of the hierarchy, and crafting a strategic vision.

It is with great honor and a profound sense of duty that I have answered the call to serve on the Advisory Council to The Krach Institute for Tech Diplomacy at Purdue and concurrently serve as the inaugural Chairman of its Cyber Defense Advisory Council. Our nation and its citizens deserve no less a commitment.

The United States and the free world face a relentless technological assault from dangerous actors – the Communist Party of China foremost among them. Chinese ruler Xi Jinping is investing heavily in high tech because he sees it as the path to domination in the 21st century. A whole-of-society adoption of trusted technologies is the key to countering this technological threat and safeguarding freedom. The Krach Institute for Tech Diplomacy at Purdue, by bringing together government, business, and civil society leaders, is helping to ensure the future is built on democratic values. I’m proud to contribute to its mission.

The future of the free world will be secured by the democratic use of technology to benefit all people and not dominated by autocrats. The Institute is a pioneer in bringing all partners and tools to bear on this existential challenge. There is no more time to waste.

The Krach Institute is in the vanguard of problem solving on the most critical economic and national security issues we face. I am pleased to join this unique endeavor committed to bringing together the best experts from the research community, private sector and policy makers to train, protect and promote our assets and interests especially in the field of biotechnology.

Trusted technology is the key to preserving our fundamental values for the next generation. The Krach Institute for Tech Diplomacy at Purdue is at the forefront of this critical mission. I am proud to join its impressive team and contribute to advancing freedom, religious liberty, and human rights through trusted tech.

Rule of law, private property and freedom of religion are just some of the essential foundations of western society that need to be defended. Advanced technologies are the tools we will need for that defence well into the future.

Ambassador (Ret.) Kelley E. Currie is currently an Adjunct Senior Fellow at the Center for a New American Security, a Washington DC think tank.