Mass Atrocity Prevention Operations: A SOF Core Activity in Support of Great Power Competition

ABSTRACT Preventing mass atrocities is a core national security objective. Despite a series of broad statements in strategy documents, there is a dearth of operational doctrine. This article suggests that mass atrocity prevention operations should be designated as a Special Operations Forces (SOF) Core Activity. This would operationalize long-standing strategy, prevent competitors from capitalizing on power vacuums where mass atrocities are taking place, and provide a direct link between SOF capabilities and great power competition. SOF have the appropriate skill set to engage in mass atrocity prevention. Designation of this Core Activity would not place significant burdens on special operators.