CNA independent analysis has supported US government efforts to reduce civilian casualties for two decades. We bring unique operational expertise to this challenge—as a nonprofit organization of scientists that has collected data alongside US forces in every major conflict since World War II. CNA research reveals how civilian harm happens in practice and offers practical solutions. We have led or contributed to every US assessment of civilian harm mitigation, and our recommendations have informed practice and policy, including the DOD Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan. We also work with militaries in the field to help them protect civilians while maintaining or improving mission effectiveness. CNA engages with all stakeholders—civilian, military, and governmental—to develop data-informed solutions that advance both civilian protection and national security.
Emerging Technologies and Civilian Harm Mitigation
Leveraging AI to Mitigate Civilian Harm
Redefining Human Control: Lessons from the Battlefield for Autonomous Weapons
Promoting Civilian Protection During Security Assistance: Learning from Yemen
Integrating Civilian Protection into Security Assistance: Learning from Yemen
Responsible Arms Sales: Promoting Civilian Protection with Partner Forces
Protecting Civilians in Gaza Requires Not Just a Will, but a Way
Improving Lethal Action: Learning and Adapting in U.S. Counterterrorism Operations
Decade of War: Applying Past Lessons to the Counter-ISIS Campaign
Drone Strikes in Pakistan: Reasons to Assess Civilian Casualties
Operation Enduring Freedom-Philippines: Civilian Harm and the Indirect Approach
Lesson from Mosul and Raqqa: Next Time, Do “Everything Possible” to Reduce Civilian Casualties
From Aspiration to Action: Lessons to Reduce Civilian Casualties
Improving Protection of Humanitarian Organizations in Armed Conflict
Larry Lewis — Formerly the State Department Senior Advisor on Civilian Protection (2015–2017), he was a primary author of the 2016 executive order on civilian protection. Dr. Lewis has led many studies to determine the causes of civilian casualties and develop tailored, actionable solutions. He has advised military forces on how to reduce civilian harm.
Marla Keenan — The former senior director of programs at the Center for Civilians in Conflict, Keenan has decades of experience working with international and regional organizations in the UN, African Union, and NATO on the protection of civilians and related issues.
Sabrina Verleysen — The senior specialist for strategic development at CNA executes strategic initiatives, events, and engagements for CNA’s civilian harm mitigation portfolio, in addition to conducting related research. Verleysen previously worked at the Center for Civilians in Conflict and has expertise in Indonesian civilian-military relations.