What can significantly alter the approach an FDO takes with a foreign disclosure request?

National policy changes play a crucial role in influencing how a Foreign Disclosure Officer (FDO) handles foreign disclosure requests. These changes can shift the guidelines, priorities, and legal frameworks surrounding information sharing with foreign entities. For instance, if a country alters its defense strategy or enters a new alliance, this can lead to stricter controls or, conversely, more openness in what information can be shared. An FDO must stay abreast of these changes as they directly affect the assessment of risk and the compliance with laws and regulations related to intelligence and military information sharing.

While the other factors, such as the length and volume of the request and previous disclosures, can certainly inform the process, they do not carry the same level of weight as overarching national policies. They might assist in evaluating the specific situation or context but do not fundamentally alter the strategic considerations that come into play with changes in national policy.