Optional Topics for the Final Paper 

Below is a list of suggested topics for your final paper. These topics are designed to guide your research and analysis in the field of intelligence studies. Each topic allows for theoretical engagement, case-based analysis, and methodological reflection. Students are encouraged to refine and narrow their selected topic in consultation with the instructor, and must apply appropriate academic methodologies and referencing systems.

1.       Controlling External Intelligence: A Comparative Study of Democratic and Non-Democratic Regimes

Analyze the institutional and legal mechanisms used to oversee external intelligence services in both democratic and authoritarian regimes. Include theoretical frameworks of civil-military relations and discuss the effectiveness of actual practices in key case studies.

2.       HUMINT versus Cyber Intelligence: Technological and Methodological Considerations

Compare human intelligence (HUMINT) and cyber intelligence in terms of operational technologies, methodological frameworks, and risks. Assess the strengths and weaknesses of each mode of intelligence collection in both strategic and tactical contexts.

3.       Intelligence Analysis and the Integration of Artificial Intelligence

Evaluate the role of artificial intelligence in modern intelligence analysis. Discuss both its capabilities and limitations, including issues of bias, decision-making, and predictive modeling within intelligence cycles.

4.       The European Union Intelligence Agency: Mission, Policies, and Security Contributions

Examine the structure and goals of the EU's intelligence coordination mechanisms, such as INTCEN. Analyze their relevance to contemporary EU security challenges, including counterterrorism, cyber defense, and border protection.

5.       Human Intelligence Collection in the Darknet and Social Networks

Explore how HUMINT is deployed in virtual environments, with particular focus on the Darknet and social media platforms. Address challenges of anonymity, verification, and ethical boundaries.

6.       Legal Oversight of U.S. Intelligence Services: Effectiveness and Limitations

Critically examine the legal and institutional structures that oversee American intelligence agencies, including the role of congressional committees, judicial mechanisms, and executive control. Assess their effectiveness in balancing national security and democratic accountability.

7.       Non-Governmental Actors in Covert Intelligence Gathering

Investigate the growing role of NGOs, private contractors, and individual actors in the realm of covert intelligence. Assess legal implications, accountability issues, and potential national security risks.

8.       Parliamentary Supervision of Intelligence Budgets in Democracies

Analyze how parliaments in democratic states oversee intelligence budgets and expenditures. Discuss transparency challenges, secrecy norms, and models of legislative accountability.

9.       Can Cyber Intelligence Replace Traditional Espionage?

Debate the potential of cyber intelligence to substitute human-based espionage. Discuss complementary roles, operational challenges, and cases where cyber operations have succeeded or failed to meet strategic goals.

10.   The Role of Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) in National Security

Assess the growing use of OSINT in national intelligence strategies. Evaluate its sources, reliability, and utility across different intelligence domains, including counterterrorism, foreign affairs, and public health surveillance.