What is a primary goal of an FDO when assessing a disclosure request?

A primary goal of a Foreign Disclosure Officer (FDO) when assessing a disclosure request is to evaluate the potential risks to national security. This involves analyzing how the release of specific information might impact the security of the United States and its interests. The FDO must carefully consider the sensitivity of the information, the foreign entity requesting access, the potential for misuse, and the broader implications of sharing this data.

In this context, the FDO balances the need to share vital information for strategic partnerships and cooperation against the responsibility to protect critical national security interests. This entails understanding the nature of the information, the credibility of the requester, and the geopolitical context in which the information will be used. Evaluating potential risks is crucial as it serves to safeguard U.S. security while allowing for beneficial collaboration with foreign partners.