Interagency coordination organizations at the combatant command level contribute significantly to irregular warfare (IW) planning and execution but need reform to become more effective. The challenges presented to the United States by IW are substantial and persistent. National level interagency reform is necessary to manage IW threats, but is impeded by numerous considerations. Interagency improvement at the Combatant Command level is more practical and offers immediate benefit to national strategy. Combatant Commanders are charged with applying IW doctrine in order to accomplish United States policy in their areas of responsibility. As configured, the Joint Interagency Coordination Groups (JIACGs) serving the Combatant Commanders require improvement in organization, resourcing and training. Study of three specific interagency organizations provides potential areas of improved performance and efficiency. The USPACOM Joint Interagency Coordination Group for Counterterrorism (JIACG/CT) from 2001 through 2005, the USSOUTHCOM's reconfigured Interagency Coordination Group (IACG) within its Partnering Directorate, and the USSOCOM Interagency Task Force (IATF) offer examples of JIACGs coping with the issues of IW. Each organization possesses strengths and weaknesses but all need additional emphasis and support. Congressional legislation should establish minimum levels of budgetary and personnel support from the whole of government to the JIACGs. Congressional legislation should also stipulate specific training requirements for interagency members who serve in JIACGs. Finally, Combatant Commanders should introduce an IW Directorate within their staff to assist JIACGs and all directorates with the conduct of IW.

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