ISSUP seeks to meet the general need in South Africa for academic research into strategic issues. ISSUP's approach is determined by two basic factors. Firstly, strategy has not only a military dimension but also important nonmilitary aspects (e.g., economic, social, psychological, and political). Secondly, emphasis is placed on South Africa, Southern Africa, Africa, and the surrounding ocean areas to ensure relevance. The institute's publications comprise three categories: (1) extensive ad hoc publications; (2) the Strategic Review for Southern Africa, which contains articles on current strategic matters; and (3) an ISSUP bulletin that carries commentary on newsworthy issues. In addition, ISSUP undertakes contracted research and organizes workshops, public lectures, and symposia on, for example, national security and strategy as well as revolutionary warfare.

ISS is an applied policy research institute active in sub-Saharan Africa with expertise in the research, publication, facilitation, capacity building, and monitoring of most aspects of the human security agenda in Africa. The institute's vision is that of a stable and peaceful Africa, characterized by human rights, the rule of law, democracy, and collaborative security. These issues reflect the core values of ISS and guide its external interactions. ISS seldom takes a common or institutional position on issues but allows differences in opinion and interpretation. Formally, ISS's mission is to conceptualize, inform, and enhance the security debate in and on Africa through independent applied research and analysis, formulating and influencing relevant policy-making, raising the awareness of decision-makers and the public, monitoring trends and policy implementation, and focusing on capacity building. In general, ISS's activities have moved toward capacity building at a senior level as an increasing component of its engagement, interpreting expert workshops and assistance with policy development and the monitoring of policy implementation as part of such capacity building.

CDE is one of South Africa's development think tanks, focusing on critical national development issues and their relationship to economic growth and democratic consolidation. Through examining South African realities and international experience, CDE formulates practical policy proposals outlining ways in which South Africa can tackle major social and economic challenges. CDE has a special focus on the role of business and markets in development.

AISA is a research council combining analysis and research with topicality and policy relevance. AISA's vision is to become an independent authoritative center of excellence for the furtherance of knowledge about Africa and to promote awareness concerning the importance of unity, peace, prosperity, and democracy on the African continent. AISA's mission is dedicated to knowledge production, education, training, and the promotion of awareness about the African continent for both Africans and the international community. This mission is realized through independent policy analysis and the collection, processing, interpretation, and dissemination of relevant information.