On June 5, 2013, controversial revelations by former NSA contractor Edward Snowden sparked an intense, worldwide debate about the methods and technology used by the U.S. and its allies to collect intelligence. While experts argue whether Snowden is a whistleblower or a criminal, there’s no question that the issues raised about national security and civil liberties are real, important and timely.

In a unique series, the Wilson Center will host four panel discussions leading up to the anniversary of Snowden's leaks. We will examine how and why countries conduct surveillance, the relationship between security and liberty, whether current technology will become obsolete and how to explain surveillance to a generation raised in a digital world.