Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Begins Process to Designate Certain Muslim Brotherhood Chapters as Foreign Terrorist Organizations and Specially Designated Global Terrorists

Risks & Considerations

• The Executive Order to designate certain chapters of the Muslim Brotherhood as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) and Specially Designated Global Terrorists (SDGTs) could lead to heightened geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East. This may influence the international landscape in which Vanderbilt University operates, particularly for students and faculty involved in international studies and collaborations.
• Increased security measures and restrictions on travel from countries associated with these organizations may complicate international partnerships and student exchanges, affecting programs that involve Middle Eastern studies or collaboration with institutions in affected regions.
• The designation of these groups as terrorist organizations may lead to changes in funding priorities for research related to counterterrorism, international relations, and Middle Eastern studies. Vanderbilt may need to reassess its research agenda to align with these shifts.
• The University should consider potential impacts on the diversity and inclusion of its student body, particularly for students from the Middle East, as political and social narratives may shift in response to this Order.

Impacted Programs

• The Center for International Studies and Programs at Vanderbilt may need to adjust its focus and resource allocation to navigate the changing geopolitical climate and ensure continued international collaboration and student exchanges.
• The Department of Political Science could see increased interest and need for expertise in international relations, Middle Eastern politics, and counterterrorism strategies, potentially influencing curriculum development and research funding.
• Vanderbilt’s Office of Global Safety and Security may be required to update travel advisories and security protocols for students and faculty traveling to or from regions affected by these designations.
• The Peabody College of Education and Human Development might explore new avenues for research into the impacts of international policy changes on educational access and human development in affected regions.

Financial Impact

• Changes in federal funding priorities due to heightened counterterrorism measures may affect grant opportunities and necessitate strategic partnerships with government agencies focused on national security and international peace efforts.
• There may be increased demand for expertise and research funding in counterterrorism, international law, and Middle Eastern studies, which could benefit departments specializing in these areas.
• Restrictions on the entry of individuals from certain countries could impact the university’s tuition revenue and necessitate adjustments in recruitment strategies for international students.

Relevance Score: 3 (The order presents moderate risks involving compliance, potential changes in international collaborations, and adjustments in research and educational programs.)