Homeland Security Presidential Directive 7: Critical infrastructure identification, prioritization, and protection

Summary

Homeland Security Presidential Directive 7 (HSPD-7) establishes a national policy for Federal departments and agencies to identify, prioritize, and protect critical infrastructure and key resources from terrorist attacks. It addresses the vulnerability of critical infrastructure, which includes both physical and cyber elements essential to national security, the economy, and public safety.

The directive outlines that critical infrastructure could suffer catastrophic impacts if targeted by terrorists, including health effects, economic disruption, and damage to public morale. It acknowledges that while it’s impossible to fully protect all critical infrastructure, strategic and tactical security improvements can reduce vulnerabilities and mitigate the effects of attacks.

HSPD-7 defines terms such as “critical infrastructure,” “key resources,” and “Sector-Specific Agencies,” assigning specific roles to various federal agencies. The Secretary of Homeland Security is tasked with coordinating efforts across sectors and ensuring uniform policies and guidelines. Sector-Specific Agencies, including the Departments of Agriculture, Health and Human Services, and Energy, among others, are responsible for protecting their designated areas by conducting vulnerability assessments and encouraging risk management strategies.

The directive also outlines the responsibilities of other federal entities like the Department of State, Justice, and Commerce, which collaborate on international and domestic security measures. Additionally, the Office of Management and Budget and other offices oversee aspects of information security and infrastructure protection.

Overall, HSPD-7 emphasizes the need for federal, state, local, and private sector collaboration to enhance the protection of critical infrastructure and ensure effective response to potential threats.