Military secrecy

Nature

Exact information concerning a nation's offensive and defensive capabilities is known only to a limited number of persons, both civilian and military, within a country. Details and aggregate statistics, military weapon technology and military planning are all classified according to a hierarchical system of increasing degrees of required secrecy. Thus the public and its elected representatives have no knowledge of military matters other than what they are told by their government. Ignorance of military affairs prevents the public from voicing approval or disapproval. Under the cloak of military secrecy: imprisonment of political 'criminals' may be conducted; operations may be undertaken against labour or civil unrest; and inhumane warfare and war crimes engaged upon.

Background

Military secrecy emerged as a significant global concern during the early 20th century, particularly with the advent of large-scale warfare and intelligence operations in World Wars I and II. Its importance was further highlighted during the Cold War, as governments increasingly restricted information to protect national security. Over time, revelations about covert operations and classified programs have intensified international debate, drawing attention to the balance between security imperatives and public accountability.

Incidence

In the USA, there was great secrecy concerning the Vietnamese War, the Bay of Pigs landing in Cuba, and the abortive rescue mission in Iran.

Claim

National defence depends on military secrecy. The vital nature of military information is indicated by frequent espionage activities reported in the press. However, military secrecy can be self-defeating by, for example, delaying the flow of information and decisions needed for defence.

Counter-claim

Military secrecy is not an important problem at all. In fact, it is a necessary and routine aspect of national defense. Most classified information protects lives and operations, not democracy or transparency. Worrying about military secrecy is a distraction from real issues—governments must keep certain details confidential to ensure security. Obsessing over secrecy only undermines trust in institutions and ignores the practical realities of defense and intelligence work.