Introduction

Abstract

In this chapter Richardson and Gilmour introduce a comprehensive source document which systematically collates research and commentary on intelligence and security oversight and review and comparatively analyses oversight practices in nine countries. The authors acknowledge the growing interest in the area of intelligence and security and the intensified focus on oversight and review post-Snowden disclosures. This chapter also briefly discusses the similarities of and differences between the terms ‘oversight’ and ‘review’ and how they shape the role and function of various oversight/review bodies. Furthermore, this chapter details how the authors chose the nine countries discussed in this book and compiled the various research books and commentary pieces, and gives a brief outline of each section.