Thomas Bryja

Program Manager and Research Associate, Project on Prosperity and Development
Thomas Bryja

Thomas Bryja is a program manager and research associate for the Project on Prosperity and Development at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. In this role, he supports the program’s research agenda, business development, and administrative management. His analytical focus is on leveraging non-military power to advance the interests of the United States abroad and, in particular, to confront China’s growing global influence. Previously, Thomas worked for the U.S. Senate, the U.S. House of Representatives, the Institute of Politics at the University of Chicago, and Goldberg Kohn Ltd. He holds a BA with majors in political science and history from the University of Chicago, and he is pursuing a master's degree in the Security Studies Program at Georgetown’s Walsh School of Foreign Service.

Programs & Projects

All Thomas Bryja Content

Filter by

1 - 10 of 21 results

The Strategic Future of Subsea Cables: Egypt Case Study

The concentration of subsea cables funneled through the narrow Red Sea cements Egypt’s status as a global hub and chokepoint. Strategic and economic choices to enhance commercial appeal can secure Egypt’s continued position as a digital gateway between continents. 

Report by Erin L. Murphy and Thomas Bryja — November 12, 2025

The Strategic Future of Subsea Cables: Singapore Case Study

Singapore’s location, pro-business regulations, and forward-planning have made it a global hub to be emulated for data movement and subsea cables; however, its limited space constrains future prospects in an increasingly tense geopolitical region, demanding key next steps.

Report by Erin L. Murphy and Thomas Bryja — September 24, 2025

The Strategic Future of Subsea Cables: Japan Case Study

Japan, an island nation dependent on subsea cables and a nexus for Asia-North America communications, faces many risks amid regulatory slog and geopolitical tensions. It must leverage its industry leadership and global partnerships to secure this critical infrastructure.

Report by Erin L. Murphy and Thomas Bryja — August 26, 2025

The Strategic Future of Subsea Cables: Ireland Case Study

As Ireland finds its strategic position no longer shielded from evolving geopolitical forces, this paper analyzes Ireland's subsea cable infrastructure— a lynchpin and chokepoint in worldwide connectivity— for key risks and presents recommendations for greater resilience.

Report by Romina Bandura and Thomas Bryja — July 23, 2025

Audio Briefs

Answering the Call: The Foreign Assistance Review

An audio version of “Answering the Call: The Foreign Assistance Review,” a new commentary by CSIS's Daniel F. Runde, Richard Crespin, and Thomas Bryja. This audio was generated with text-to-speech by Eleven Labs.

Podcast Episode by Daniel F. Runde, Richard Crespin, and Thomas Bryja — February 28, 2025

Audio Briefs

Answering the Call: The Foreign Assistance Review

Criticism of U.S. foreign aid has led to a review by the Department of State. This paper provides sample metrics for consideration to ensure international assistance succeeds in making the United States “safer,” “stronger,” and “more prosperous."

Commentary by Daniel F. Runde, Richard Crespin, and Thomas Bryja — February 28, 2025

Moldova in the Digital Age

A focus on cybersecurity is especially important as the Moldovan government continues its efforts to digitize more systems and to support the growth of the technology sector.  It is also vital given the significant uptick in cyberattacks in the country.

Report by Daniel F. Runde, Leah Kieff, and Thomas Bryja — December 4, 2024

Retooling U.S. Trade to Meet the China Challenge: GSP Matters

The four-year lapse of the General Systems of Preference program, a cornerstone of U.S. trade policy, has allowed China to grow its political and economic influence in the Global South. Congressional reauthorization is crucial to combat China’s development offensive.

Commentary by Daniel F. Runde, Thomas Bryja, and Meredith Broadbent — November 4, 2024

Moldova’s Energy Future

Russia has attempted to exert influence over Moldova through manipulating or threatening to manipulate energy prices and flows, and until recently, Moldova’s long-standing efforts to develop and reform its energy sector have produced minimal results.

Report by Daniel F. Runde, Leah Kieff, and Thomas Bryja — October 11, 2024