The Convergence of Artificial Intelligence, Cyber, and Intelligence on Global Security Interests: International Association for Intelligence Education (IAFIE) Global Annual Conference 2026

The International Association for Intelligence Education (IAFIE) 2026 Global Annual Conference at the University of North Georgia-The Convergence of Artificial Intelligence, Cyber, and Intelligence on Global Security Interests-explored one of the most consequential transformations facing the intelligence, homeland security, cyber, and national security professions: the rapid integration of artificial intelligence into analysis operations, governance, and decision-making. Scholars, practitioners, educators, and students examined how intelligence studies increasingly intersect with data science, cybersecurity, psychology, political science, law, ethics, and strategic communications. From AI-assisted intelligence analysis and structured analytic techniques to cognitive warfare, counter-disinformation strategies, cyber operations, HUMINT and OSINT modernization, and ethical governance frameworks, participants repeatedly emphasized a central theme: technology must strengthen-not replace-human judgment, analytical rigor, accountability, and professional integrity.

The diversity of topics presented in this abstract compendium reflects the evolving operational environment in which intelligence professionals must function. Equally important, the scholarship reinforces the enduring value of intelligence education. As AI tools become more sophisticated and widely accessible, the demand for critical thinking, methodological discipline, source validation, ethical reasoning, and leadership becomes even greater. The future intelligence professional must understand not only advanced technologies but also their limitations, vulnerabilities, and strategic implications. The exchange of ideas, debate, and professional engagement at this year's conference reflects IAFIE's very mission: advancing intelligence education and strengthening the profession through scholarship, innovation, and international cooperation.

Dr. Bryson Payne is a tenured professor and Director of the Institute for Cyber Operations at the University of North Georgia, an NSA-designated National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense. Dr. Payne coached UNG's #1-in-the-nation 2019 & 2020 NSA Codebreaker Challenge teams, the #1-in-the-nation Department of War CIO's Cyber Workforce Competition team in 2026, and he serves on the coaching staff for the U.S. Cyber Team. Dr. Payne has written over $94 Million in successful grants, spoken at more than 200 conferences on six continents, published more than 100 scholarly articles, and he is a TEDx speaker on coding and cybersecurity.

Dr. Edward L. Mienie is the Executive Director and Professor of Strategic & Security Studies in the Department of Political Science & International Affairs at the University of North Georgia. Dr. Mienie has more than 25 years of experience working in international relations and business, media relations, and coalition building. He earned a bachelor's degree majoring in law from the University of South Africa and received his doctorate in international conflict management from Kennesaw State University. He served in the Diplomatic Corps of South Africa from 1987-1998, including four years as Deputy-Ambassador to Switzerland, four years as the Political Advisor to the Ambassador, and U.S. Government and Congressional Liaison, Washington, D.C., 1989-1992.