CISA Announces New Advisory Council to Strengthen Partnerships and Secure Critical Infrastructure
CISA launched ANCHOR-CI, a new advisory framework to enhance public-private collaboration on securing critical infrastructure against evolving threats.
The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) introduced the Alliance of National Councils for Homeland Operational Resilience – Critical Infrastructure (ANCHOR-CI), a framework designed to improve information sharing and partnerships between government and industry stakeholders. ANCHOR-CI builds on the Critical Infrastructure Partnership Advisory Council (CIPAC) model, expanding engagement to a broader range of participants to address real-time threats to critical infrastructure. The initiative aims to foster open dialogue and strengthen coordination in safeguarding essential services. DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin highlighted the framework’s role in uniting stakeholders to confront current and emerging risks.
CISA will oversee the governance of ANCHOR-CI, which includes four types of councils: sector-specific, cross-sector, industry-focused, and regional coordinating councils. These councils will provide strategic recommendations to enhance national resilience and security efforts. The framework prioritizes the inclusion of private-sector perspectives to ensure actionable solutions. ANCHOR-CI’s structure is intended to streamline collaboration and improve the effectiveness of critical infrastructure protection measures. The initiative will operate for an initial two-year period, with potential extensions under the Homeland Security Act.
Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and CISA developed ANCHOR-CI to address gaps in critical infrastructure security by ensuring partner voices are central to the process. Acting CISA Director Nick Andersen emphasized the agency’s commitment to engaging with infrastructure stakeholders at every stage of its work. The framework aligns with CISA’s statutory mission to coordinate national efforts in securing vital services. By establishing ANCHOR-CI, CISA seeks to strengthen collective resilience against threats to the nation’s critical infrastructure. The initiative reflects a broader effort to adapt to the evolving threat landscape.
ANCHOR-CI’s launch follows a period of heightened concerns over critical infrastructure vulnerabilities, including cyber and physical threats. The framework’s councils will facilitate candid discussions among participants to address sensitive issues. More details about ANCHOR-CI, including its charter, are available on CISA’s website. As the national coordinator for critical infrastructure security, CISA continues to lead efforts to manage and reduce risks to the nation’s digital and physical infrastructure.