Episode 200 of The Global Discussion features an exceptional guest, David Bickford. David, a former Under Secretary of State and Legal Director to the British Intelligence Agencies MI5 & MI6, offers a unique perspective on the murky worlds of terrorism, espionage, and organised crime. His illustrious career and transition to a successful author make for a captivating story.
A Distinguished Career in Intelligence
David Bickford's journey is anything but ordinary. With a background in law, David initially worked as a legal advisor to the Turks and Caicos Islands government before joining the British Foreign Office. Before being invited to join MI5 and MI6 as their Legal Director, his work spanned human rights, defence, and even Space Law. His path to the intelligence agencies was unconventional, yet his contributions were monumental.
In his role, David was at the forefront of the battle against international terrorism, espionage, and organised crime. His groundbreaking solutions and strategic insights earned him the Companion of the Order of the Bath, a prestigious honour recognising his exceptional service.
Integrity and Courage: Hallmarks of an Intelligence Officer
David's admiration for the intelligence officers he worked with is palpable. He speaks highly of their integrity, courage, and determination. "The very top quality that the agencies look for is integrity," David emphasises. This integrity is crucial as intelligence officers navigate the dangerous and complex world of espionage, ensuring that their actions are both necessary and proportional.
He also highlights women's unique strengths in intelligence work, noting their remarkable ability to think simultaneously about multiple aspects of a situation and synthesise these threads into actionable intelligence.
Transition to Authorship
After an illustrious career in intelligence, David transitioned to authorship, bringing his rich experience into the world of espionage fiction. His novels, co-written with his wife, Cary, introduce readers to the world of Katya, a Russian intelligence agent navigating the perilous landscapes of terrorism and organised crime.
David's granddaughter's school project on espionage sparked the creation of Katya, leading to the publication of two thrilling novels. The first novel follows Katya as she chases a money launderer who has stolen Gaddafi's personal fortune, navigating through the dangerous terrains of terrorism and offshore tax havens. The second novel delves into Katya's first operation against the Russian mafia, showcasing her raw, unpolished determination.
Insights into Modern Threats
In this episode, David also shares his insights on modern global threats. He discusses the complexities introduced by cyber terrorism, artificial intelligence, and fake news. While rooted in traditional threats, these challenges have become increasingly sophisticated and require advanced analytical and technological capabilities to counter.
David's experience underscores the importance of balancing individual rights with national security. His work with the intelligence agencies involved meticulously planning operations within a legislative framework, ensuring that the rights of individuals were respected even in the pursuit of national security.
Looking Ahead
David and Cary continue to write, with new projects on the horizon. The next instalment of Katya is called Arctic Betrayal, set in the Laptev Sea in northern Siberia, and a novel focusing on another major character from the Katya series.
David Bickford's books are a must-read for those interested in diving into the thrilling world of international crime and espionage. His rich background and firsthand experience bring unparalleled authenticity to his storytelling.
Final Thoughts
David Bickford's journey from the secretive tunnels of MI5 and MI6 to the imaginative realms of espionage fiction is fascinating. His dedication to integrity, balanced rights, and storytelling excellence offer his readers and listeners a compelling narrative.
Don't miss episode 200 of The Global Discussion.
Find more about David Bickford:
https://davidbickford.co.uk/career
https://davidbickford.co.uk/espionage...
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