Robert C. O’Brien: A Profile of a National Security Advisor and Global Strategist

From co-founding American Global Strategies to serving as the 27th U.S. National Security Advisor, Robert C. O’Brien has had a distinguished career in international law, diplomacy, and national security.

Robert C. O’Brien is a respected global strategist, international lawyer, and diplomat who has had a distinguished career in both public service and private practice. As the co-founder and chairman of American Global Strategies, O’Brien has continued his commitment to providing innovative solutions to complex international problems.

O’Brien's tenure as the 27th U.S. National Security Advisor from 2019 to 2021 was marked by significant accomplishments. His focus on defense and industrial base issues led him to visit leading shipyards, defense plants, and military bases around the world. During his tenure, the United States brokered the historic Abraham Accords in the Middle East, achieved economic normalization between Serbia and Kosovo, and increased cooperation with America’s allies across the Indo-Pacific. He also played a crucial role in the return of over 25 detainees and hostages to the United States.

History of Robert C. O’Brien

Before serving as National Security Advisor, O’Brien was the Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs, where he worked to secure the release of American hostages held overseas. He also served as Co-Chairman of the U.S. Department of State Public-Private Partnership for Justice Reform in Afghanistan and was a presidentially-appointed member of the U.S. Cultural Property Advisory Committee.

Expertise

O’Brien's international legal expertise has been recognized with numerous accolades, including the National Security Medal, the National Intelligence Distinguished Service Medal, and the Department of Defense Medal for Distinguished Public Service. He has also been awarded the Legion d’honneur (chevalier) and the Republic of China (Taiwan) Order of the Brilliant Star with Special Grand Cordon, among other honors.

With American Global Strategies

In 2022, O’Brien was elected Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Richard Nixon Foundation and serves as co-chair with former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo of The Nixon Seminar on Conservative Realism and National Security. His contributions to the field of international law were also recognized by the U.C. Berkeley School of Law, which awarded him the Stefan A. Riesenfeld Memorial Award for outstanding contributions to the field in 2011.

With his deep understanding of international law, diplomacy, and national security, Robert C. O’Brien continues to be a respected voice in shaping U.S. foreign policy and global strategy.