Centre for Security and Strategic Studies

The Centre for Security and Strategic Studies (CSSS) is an initiative by the Maldives National University (MNU) aimed at advancing academic knowledge, research, and teaching in the areas of national, regional, and international security. By fostering connections between security policy, practice, research, and analysis, CSSS will serve as a premier institution in shaping security discourse in the Maldives.

Officially launched on 23 April 2025, CSSS forms a research-intensive platform, designed to encourage a national dialogue on security policy and practices. The key initiatives of CSSS will include a Master of Security and Strategic Studies (Research) programme and a Bachelor of Security and Strategic Studies programme. The programmes are expected to begin between 2025 and 2026. These academic programmes will provide a strong basis for CSSS to evolve as a hub for intellectual and policy-oriented discussions.

CSSS serves as a collaborative platform, regularly bringing together key security agencies to foster dialogue, debate, and discourse on pressing security challenges facing the Maldives. It will be a key thinker for Maldives’ government policy and national security. Through its stakeholder engagement platform, CSSS works to identify and explore critical national and regional security strategies, shaping the Maldives’ foreign and security policy in response to an ever-changing global environment.

Research Clusters

Maritime Security

Cyber Security, Technology and AI

Transnational Crimes and National Security

Indo-Pacific Strategy and Diplomacy

Environment, Health and Gender

Military Tactics, Strategy and Grand Strategy

Welcome to the Centre for Security and Strategic Studies (CSSS) at the Maldives National University (MNU). The CSSS aspires to become a premier platform for academic excellence and policy analysis, dedicated to cultivating a deeper understanding of the fundamental principles and values that shape Maldives’ national security and strategic interests.  Through advanced degrees and cutting-edge research programs, CSSS will provide unparalleled opportunities for Maldivians and international candidates alike to enhance their professional expertise and skill sets. By integrating sophisticated technologies, including machine learning and artificial intelligence, and developing academic, policy and strategic models, the center will create and empower students, academics and professionals to navigate Maldives’ public interests, security priorities and strategic objectives, and effectively address traditional and non-traditional security challenges at the national, regional, and international levels.  CSSS aims to play a pivotal role in shaping national security and foreign policy, in line with the policy priorities, interests, and objectives of the Government of Maldives and its security and defence institutions.