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National Counterterrorism Center: Implementation Challenges and Issues for Congress [March 16, 2005]
"The purpose of this report is to outline the commonalities and potential differences between EO 13354 and P.L. 108-458, as these conceptual differences could be meaningful in the implementation process of P.L. 108-458 and/or should the issue of intelligence reform be re-visited by the 109th Congress. The report examines some aspects of the law related to the NCTC, including the relationship between the NCTC's Director and the Director of National Intelligence (DNI), which may have implications related to policy and implementation of an effective and efficient nationally coordinated counterterrorism function. Moreover, the report examines several issues that may be of interest to Congress as the NCTC matures and evolves, including potential civil liberties implications of collocating operational elements of the traditional foreign intelligence and domestic intelligence entities of the U.S. Intelligence Community. While the appointment and confirmation of a DNI may resolve some of the uncertainty regarding the NCTC, the NCTC is only one of a myriad of complex issues that will be competing for the time and attention of the recently nominated DNI."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Masse, Todd
2005-03-16
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9/11 Commission and a National Counterterrorism Center: Issues and Options for Congress [Updated October 22, 2004]
"The National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States (hereafter 9/11 Commission) issued its 'Final Report' in July 2004. As one of its 41 recommendations, the 9/11 Commission recommended the creation of a National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC). As proposed by the commission, an NCTC would have two primary functions - intelligence and joint operational planning. The director of an NCTC would be appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, and would report to the commission's proposed new National Intelligence director. On August 27, 2004, the President signed an executive order establishing the NCTC. Legislatively, there are numerous bills which have proposes the codification of an NCTC. This report, which will be updated, examines a number of issues as Congress considers codification of an NCTC. One issue is whether the centralization remedy the commission has recommended fits the problems associated specifically with the 9/11 intelligence failure and, perhaps more broadly, the systemic maladies affecting the Intelligence Community. While some say centralization is a remedy for lack of intelligence coordination, particularly across the foreign/domestic divide, others say it may have an unintended effect of creating a 'Groupthink' bias, or an inclination of groups working under pressure to bolster information which supports the group's perceived conclusion, while discounting contradictory information."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Masse, Todd
2004-10-22
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Algeria: Current Issues [July 3, 2008]
"The situation in Algeria is fluid. President Abdelaziz Bouteflika was reelected in 2004 with some manipulation of the political process but without blatant fraud. The voice of the military, the most significant political force since independence, has been muted. Yet, low voter turnout in the May 2007 parliamentary election indicated lack of public faith in the political system. Domestic terrorism persists and Algerians continue to be linked to terror abroad. The U.S. State Departments lists the two Algerian groups as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs). Terrorism provides a rationale for Algeria's uneven human rights record. Oil and gas revenues are growing, but social investment lags. Bouteflika has energized foreign policy and broadened cooperation with the United States. This report will be updated if warranted. See also CRS [Congressional Research Service] Report RS20962, 'Western Sahara: Status of Settlement Efforts.'"
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Migdalovitz, Carol
2008-07-03
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Algeria: Current Issues [April 16, 2009]
"The situation in Algeria is fluid. Parliament passed a constitutional amendment abolishing term limits, allowing President Abdelaziz Bouteflika to be reelected for a third term in April 2009. The voice of the military, the most significant political force since independence, has been muted. Low voter turnout in the May 2007 parliamentary election may have indicated lack of public faith in the political system, and so the authorities specifically boasted a higher turnout in the 2009 presidential election. Domestic terrorism persists and Algerians continue to be linked to terror abroad. The U.S. State Departments lists the two Algerian groups as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs). The most notorious is Al Qaeda in the Land of the Islamic Maghreb (AQLIM), which pledged allegiance to Al Qaeda. Terrorism provides a rationale for Algeria's uneven human rights record. Oil and gas revenues have grown markedly, but public investment has yet to remedy the country's many socioeconomic ills. Bouteflika has energized foreign policy and broadened cooperation with the United States. This report will be updated if warranted."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Migdalovitz, Carol
2009-04-16
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Organized Crime in the United States: Trends and Issues for Congress [December 22, 2010]
"On the national security front, experts and policymakers have expressed concern over a possible nexus between organized crime and terrorism. Despite the difference in motivation for organized crime (profit) and terrorism (ideology), the linking element for the two is money. Terrorists may potentially obtain funding for their operations from partnering directly with organized crime groups or modeling their profitable criminal acts. Even if organized crime groups and terrorist organizations do not form long-term alliances, the possibility of short-term business alliances may be of concern to policymakers. In light of these developments, several possible issues for Congress arise. One issue centers on whether the evolving nature of organized crime requires new enforcement tools. Some policymakers have suggested that current laws may not be effective at countering present threats from organized crime. As organized criminals threaten American society from both within and outside U.S. borders, should Congress expand law enforcement's extraterritorial jurisdiction to investigate and prosecute these criminals, and to what extent should Congress encourage multilateral--both domestic and international--crime fighting efforts? Another possible issue for Congress concerns whether the resources that the federal government allocates to organized crime matters are adequate and appropriately allocated to counter the threats organized crime poses. Following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, national priorities and federal resources shifted away from more traditional crime fighting--including that of organized crime--toward counterterrorism and counterintelligence. For instance, the number of federal agents actually working on organized crime matters and the number of organized crime cases opened in FY2004 decreased relative to levels before September 11, 2001."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Finklea, Kristin M.
2010-12-22
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U.S. Footprint on the Arabian Peninsula: Can We Avoid a Repeat of the Pullout from Saudi Arabia?
"This thesis seeks to identify a means for achieving equilibrium between the U.S. requirements for military presence in the Persian Gulf and increasingly negative domestic perceptions of U.S. foreign policies from the societies, religious establishments, and governing bodies of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states. Only by calibrating U.S. military presence with host GCC nation perceptions, can the United States support its national interests and foreign policies in the region. The costs and benefits of the U.S. footprint in three critical GCC countries allow U.S. policymakers to examine the undesirable withdrawal of most U.S. military forces from Saudi Arabia in 2003, the comparatively successful U.S.-Bahrain bilateral security arrangement, and the potential to establish a substantive U.S. basing structure in Oman. This understanding is fundamental to the United States' ability to protect trade, continue prosecuting the Global War on Terrorism, promote democracy, and cultivate stability from within the region."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Marone, David Paul, Jr.
2009-12
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Pakistan-U.S. Relations: A Summary [May 16, 2011]
"This report summarizes important recent developments in Pakistan and in Pakistan-U.S. relations. These include high-profile political assassinations earlier in 2011, the Raymond Davis affair involving a CIA operative accused of murder in the city of Lahore, and the May killing of Osama bin Laden in the military cantonment city of Abbottabad, among others. Obama Administration engagement with Pakistan has been seriously disrupted by recent events. A brief analysis of the current state of Pakistan-U.S. relations illuminates the main areas of contention and uncertainty. Vital U.S. interests related to links between Pakistan and indigenous American terrorism, Islamist militancy in Pakistan and Islamabad's policies toward the Afghan insurgency, Pakistan's relations with historic rival India, nuclear weapons proliferation and security, and the troubled status of Pakistan's domestic setting are reviewed. Ongoing human rights concerns are briefly summarized, and the report closes with discussion of U.S. foreign assistance to Pakistan. [...] The May 2011 revelation that Al Qaeda founder Osama bin Laden had enjoyed apparently years-long and relatively comfortable refuge inside Pakistan has led to intensive U.S. government scrutiny of the now deeply troubled bilateral relationship, and has sparked much congressional questioning of the wisdom of existing U.S. foreign assistance programs to a government and nation that may not have the intention and/or capacity to be an effective U.S. partner. Pakistan is among the leading recipients of U.S. aid both in FY2010 and in the post-9/11 period, having been appropriated more than $20 billion in assistance and military reimbursements since 2001. With anti-American sentiments and xenophobic conspiracy theories remaining rife among ordinary Pakistanis, persistent economic travails and a precarious political setting combine to present serious challenges to U.S. decision makers."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Kronstadt, K. Alan
2011-05-16
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On Killing al-Zarqawi - Does United States Policy Know Its Tool in the War on Terror?
"Much of the media-pundit and popular analysis that has followed the death of al Qaeda leader Abu Musab al-Zarqawi has focused on how his death will affect the outcome of the war in Iraq. However, the emphasis on outcome is not the right approach. Al-Zarqawi's death serves a greater strategic purpose both in the war in Iraq and in the larger war on terror, when viewed as process rather than as outcome. From the premise that al-Zarqawi's death leaves the Iraqi insurgency and al Qaeda intact and capable of continuing to fight, the questions for the United States become: Does his death advance United States policy in the war in Iraq, and the overall war on terror? How successful is the United States in disrupting the processes of the Iraqi Insurgency and of al Qaeda? As a corollary, what are the domestic implications? This article argues that the answers perhaps can be found in the tools of policy that are available to the United States."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Reed, Donald J.
2006-07
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Combating Terrorism: Analysis of Federal Counterterrorist Exercises, Briefing Report to Congressional Committees
Terrorist attacks against U.S. personnel and interests domestically and abroad underscore the need for effective U.S. efforts to combat terrorism. U.S. policy and implementing guidelines call for robust, tailored, and rapidly deployable interagency teams to conduct well-coordinated and highly integrated operations. Federal agencies enhance their ability to respond to terrorist attacks by conducting exercises that train key personnel and test response teams. GAO recently briefed congressional staff on the numbers, the scenarios, and the participants involved in federal counterterrorism exercises done from June 1995 to June 1998. This report summarizes those briefings.
United States. General Accounting Office
1999-06-25
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Presidential Decision Directive 39: U.S. Policy on Counterterrorism
Presidential Directive 39 explains the U.S. policy on terrorism. "It is the policy of the United States to deter, defeat and respond vigorously to all terrorist attacks on our territory and against our citizens, or facilities, whether they occur domestically, in international waters or airspace or on foreign territory. The United States regards all such terrorism as a potential threat to national security as well as a criminal act and will apply all appropriate means to combat it."
United States. White House Office
Clinton, Bill, 1946-
1995-06-21
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H. Rept. 108-724, Part 1: 9/11 Recommendations Implementation Act, Report together with Additional and Dissenting Views to Accompany H.R. 10, October 4, 2004
"The Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, to whom was referred the bill (H.R. 10) to provide for reform of the intelligence community, terrorism prevention and prosecution, border security, and international cooperation and coordination, and for other purposes, having considered the same, report favorably thereon with an amendment and recommend that the bill as amended do pass. H.R. 10, the '9/11 Recommendations Implementation Act,' will help fulfill the constitutional responsibility of the Federal Government by improving the security of the United States by strengthening the organizations and authorities of the United States Intelligence Community. The '9/11 Recommendations Implementation Act' will provide for Intelligence Community and other government agency reform, improve terrorism prevention and prosecution, increase border security, and enhance international cooperation and coordination. The overall goals of this legislation are to prevent terrorist attacks against the United States and its interests and to better position our vital Intelligence Community to meet the global threats of the future. This is historic legislation the Committee believes should be supported in the bipartisan manner in which it is intended. Title I of this Act provides for Intelligence Community reform through the establishment of a strong National Intelligence Director with improved authority to manage and coordinate the Intelligence Community. The National Intelligence Director will serve as the head of the Intelligence Community and as the principal advisor on intelligence matters to the President. The NID's primary responsibility will be to coordinate the efforts of foreign and domestic intelligence functions."
United States. Government Printing Office
2004-10-04
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Presidential Decision Directive 39: U.S. Policy on Counterterrorism [Audio]
This is an audio recording of the text of Presidential Decision Directive 39. Presidential Directive 39 explains the U.S. policy on terrorism. "It is the policy of the United States to deter, defeat and respond vigorously to all terrorist attacks on our territory and against our citizens, or facilities, whether they occur domestically, in international waters or airspace or on foreign territory. The United States regards all such terrorism as a potential threat to national security as well as a criminal act and will apply all appropriate means to combat it."
United States. White House Office
1995-06-21
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Homeland Security and the United States Army
"The United States Army, Army National Guard, and Army Reserve are not involved enough in Homeland Security because our armed forces are overly committed to the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT). After successful terrorist attacks on 9/11, the Bush administration created the Department of Homeland Security, and the United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) as the civilian and military arms of the government charged with detecting, preventing, and deterring any domestic threats to the United States with an emphasis on terrorism. USNORTHCOM is primarily a headquarters command and does not maintain the active duty assets needed to fulfill various mission requirements. The global commitments by the active Army, Army National Guard, and Army Reserves to GWOT, both directly and indirectly, have not left enough units available to support USNORTHCOM's efforts."
US Army Sergeants Major Academy
Latter, Thomas J.; Stanley, Jon R.; Berkley, Adrianne D.
2007-11-27
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France: Factors Shaping Foreign Policy, and Issues in U.S.-French Relations [Updated January 17, 2008]
"The factors that shape French foreign policy have changed since the end of the Cold War. The perspectives of France and the United States have diverged in some cases. More core interests remain similar. Both countries' governments have embraced the opportunity to build stability in Europe through an expanded European Union and NATO. Each has recognized that terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction are the most important threats to their security today. […]. Trade and investment ties between the United States and France are extensive, and provide each government a large stake in the vitality and openness of their respective economies. Through trade in goods and services, and, most importantly, through foreign direct investment, the economies of France and the United States have become increasingly integrated. Other areas of complementarity include the Balkans peace operations, the fight against terrorism, and the stabilization of Afghanistan and Lebanon -- all challenges where France has played a central role. A major split occurred over Iraq, however, with many countries either supporting or independently sharing French ideas of greater international involvement. Developments in the Middle East affect French foreign and domestic policy. France has a long history of involvement in the region, and a population of 5-6 million Muslims. Paris believes that resolution of the Arab-Israeli conflict is key to bringing peace to the region. Surges in violence in the Middle East have led to anti- Semitic acts in France, mostly undertaken by young Muslims."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Gallis, Paul E.
2008-01-17
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Assessment of the Fiscal Year 1997 Department of Defense Budget and Program Activities for Domestic Defense Against Weapons of Mass Destruction
This thesis examines Department of Defense involvement in U.S. preparedness to manage the consequences of a nuclear, radiological, biological, or chemical terrorist attack against its cities. It analyzes the establishment and implementation of the Defense Against Weapons of Mass Destruction Act of 1996 which directed the Department of Defense to assist in the training of state and local emergency response agencies involved in consequence management activities. The historical analysis focuses on the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction since the dissolution of the Soviet Union, major terrorist incidents since 1993, international standards, and legislative and executive efforts undertaken to combat terrorism up to 1996. The $150 million Nunn Lugar Domenici amendment to the FY-97 National Defense Authorization Bill is examined in detail from introduction on the Senate floor to eventual passage and enactment. Problems and policy issues associated with resourcing and implementing the resulting Domestic Preparedness Program are treated. Although the DoD was given responsibility for implementing city training, an interagency effort ensued involving the Public Health Service, Environmental Protection Agency, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Energy, and others. Potential weaknesses may materialize due to several characteristics of the Domestic Preparedness Program, including its novelty and uniqueness, the unorthodox legislative process by which it was established, and its complex organizational structure and temporary nature.
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Guenther, Glenn R.
1997-12
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Combating Terrorism: Implementation and Status of the Department of Defense Domestic Preparedness Program, Hearing Before the Subcommittee on National Security, International Affairs, and Criminal Justice of the Committee on Government Reform and Oversight, House of Representatives, One Hundred Fifth Congress, Second Session, October 2, 1998
This the October 2, 1998 hearing on "Combating Terrorism: Implementation and Status of the Department of Defense Domestic Preparedness Program," held before the U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee on National Security, International Affairs, and Criminal Justice of the Committee on Government Reform and Oversight. From the opening statement of Mark E. Souder: "Good morning. The subcommittee on National Security, International Affairs, and Criminal Justice will come to order. In light of the perceived increase in the probability of a terrorist attack on American soil involving weapons of mass destruction, today the subcommittee will examine several aspects of the Department of Defense Domestic Preparedness Program. Commonly referred to as the Nunn-Lugar-Domenici plan, it is designed to prepare local government authorities, such as police, fire, and emergency services personnel for a terrorist incident involving a chemical, biological, or nuclear weapon." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Robert M. Blitzer, Michael J. Dalich, Charles L. Cragin, James Q. Roberts, Robert Knouss, Richard Davis, Davi D'Agostino, Larry C. Johnson, Frank J. Cilluffo, Frederick H. Nesbitt, and Dennis J. Hastert.
United States. Government Printing Office
1999
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Terrorism in the United States 1996
"United States soil was the site of three terrorist incidents during 1996. The pipe bomb explosion during the Summer Olympic Games in Centennial Olympic Park that killed two and the robberies and bombings carried out in April and July 1996 by members of a group known as the Phineas Priesthood underscored the ever-present threat that exists from individuals determined to use violence to advance particular causes. The FBI successfully prevented five planned acts of domestic terrorism in 1996. These preventions thwarted attacks on law enforcement officials, prevented planned bombings of federal buildings, and halted plots to destroy domestic infrastructure. The explosion of TWA Flight 800 over the Atlantic Ocean near Long Island, New York, on July 17, 1996, resulted in initial speculation that a terrorist attack may have been the cause and served to highlight the potential danger terrorists pose to U.S. civil aviation. The FBI, along with the National Transportation Safety Board, devoted significant resources to the criminal investigation throughout 1996. Evidence did not implicate a criminal or terrorist act by year's-end."
United States. Federal Bureau of Investigation
1996
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TOPOFF Exercise Planning Conference Final Report
This is the final report of the TOPOFF [Top Officials] Exercise Planning Conference. From the document: "The threat of terrorism involving the use of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) has increasingly attracted the attention of planners and emergency managers in this nation and around the world. The tragic litany -- World Trade Center, Tokyo Subway, Oklahoma City -- is far too familiar, and the potential consequences far too grave, not to command the most urgent efforts of government at all levels. While tremendous progress has been made through initiatives such as the Domestic Preparedness Program, the Federal Bureau of Investigation's WMD Coordinators, and the Public Health Service Metropolitan Medical Response System, more remains to be done. In early 1999, the United States Congress ordered the Department of Justice to conduct an exercise 'with the participation of all key personnel who would participate in the consequence management of [an actual chemical, biological, or cyber] terrorist event.'1 The exercise, to be call TOPOFF (for 'Top Officials') is intended to realistically test the Federal, State and local response and management systems. To achieve that end, the Attorney General directed the Office of Justice Programs, Office for State and Local Domestic Preparedness Support (OSLDPS) to convene a meeting of emergency response planners and practitioners from across the nation to develop objectives for use in designing such an exercise. The participants in the meeting, held May 20-21, 1999 in Chantilly, Virginia, were invited from jurisdictions large and small representing a broad range of responder disciplines."
United States. Office of Justice Programs. Office for State and Local Domestic Preparedness Support
1999
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Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP), Volume I: HSEEP Overview and Exercise Program Management [March 2006]
"Following the domestic terrorist attacks in 1995 and 2001 and the establishment of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in 2002, homeland security professionals at all levels of government and in all types of communities have prepared to prevent, protect against, respond to, and recover from a variety of threats to public safety. Exercises play a crucial role in preparedness, providing opportunities for emergency responders and homeland security officials to practice and assess their collective capabilities. The DHS Preparedness Directorate's Office of Grants and Training (G&T)- formerly the Office for Domestic Preparedness- is responsible for updating and disseminating the HSEEP reference volumes on behalf of DHS. The purpose of the Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP) is to provide common exercise policy and program guidance that constitutes a national standard for homeland security exercises. HSEEP includes consistent terminology that can be used by all exercise planners, regardless of the nature and composition of their sponsoring agency or organization. The volumes also provide tools to help exercise managers plan, conduct, and evaluate exercises to improve overall preparedness. HSEEP reflects lessons learned and best practices of existing exercise programs and can be adapted to a variety of scenarios and incidents (e.g., natural disasters, terrorism, technological disasters). The HSEEP reference volumes integrate language and concepts from the National Response Plan (NRP), the National Incident Management System (NIMS), the National Preparedness Goal, the Universal Task List (UTL), the Target Capabilities List (TCL), existing exercise programs, and prevention and response protocols from all levels of government. In the spirit of NIMS, all efforts should be made to ensure consistent use of the terminology and processes described in HSEEP."
United States. Department of Homeland Security
2006-03
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Readout Of Secretary Johnson's Meeting With Republic Of Korea Minister Of Public Safety And Security Park [March 23, 2016]
On March 23, the Department of Homeland Security issued the following press release: "WASHINGTON-- Today, Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Deputy Administrator Joe Nimmich, Coast Guard Rear Admiral Mark Butt, and DHS Assistant Secretary for International Affairs and Chief Diplomatic Officer Alan Bersin met with Republic of Korea Minister of Public Safety and Security Park Inyong to discuss a range of shared homeland security-related issues, including critical infrastructure protection, counterterrorism cooperation, and lessons learned on disaster management and preparedness. Secretary Johnson and Minister Park discussed the importance of domestic information sharing and coordination to prepare for and respond to disasters, including terrorist incidents. The two sides also shared lessons learned regarding effective communication with domestic stakeholders as well as means to foster unity of effort among government agencies. Both sides committed to continue dialogue and cooperation. Secretary Johnson and Minister Park emphasized opportunities for increased cooperation on emergency preparedness and management, especially between U.S. Coast Guard, FEMA, and the Republic of Korea Ministry of Public Safety and Security. Secretary Johnson underscored the Department's willingness to provide training and support to enhance international partners' emergency management capabilities while strengthening bilateral relationships."
United States. Department of Homeland Security. Press Office
2016-03-23
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Examining the Impact of Equipment Shortages on the National Guard's Readiness for Homeland Security, Hearing Before the Subcommittee on Management, Investigations, and Oversight of the Committee on Homeland Security, House of Representatives, One Hundred Tenth Congress, First Session, May 24, 2007
From the opening statement of Christopher P. Carney: "The subcommittee is meeting today to receive testimony on examining the impact of equipment shortages on the National Guard's readiness for homeland security missions. [...] In nearly every major large-scale events or natural disaster that has occurred stateside, Guard soldiers are a welcome sight for those in need. They are able to bring the incredible capabilities of our military to assist in the rescue of our citizens and the recovery of our communities. Unfortunately, National Guard readiness has been compromised by rotations abroad, most notably as part of the global war on terror. It is standard operating procedure for units to deploy with their equipment. [...] While equipment readiness was not 100 percent pre-9/11, it has plummeted in the years since. Today the Guard has roughly 50 percent readiness. Unfortunately, we have already seen these numbers translate when it comes to domestic deployments. Our Guard members are ready and willing to respond to domestic events, but in some cases, are simply unable to do so. [...] I look forward to hearing from the distinguished witnesses who agreed to join us today. And I hope that Congress can work to find some solutions to these readiness issues." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Christopher P. Carney, Mike Rogers, Bennie G. Thompson, Yvette D. Clarke, Ed Perlmutter, H. Steven Blum, C. Mark Bowen, Robert P. French, and Roger P. Lempke.
United States. Government Printing Office
2009
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Office for Domestic Preparedness Overview Briefing
This document gives an overview of the duties assigned to the Office for Domestic Preparedness (ODP). The primary responsibility of ODP is to build and sustain the preparedness of the United States to reduce vulnerabilities, prevent, respond to and recover from acts of terrorism.
United States. Department of Homeland Security. Office for Domestic Preparedness
Mitchell, Andrew T.
2003-09-08
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Fiscal Year 2005 Port Security Grant Program: Program Guidelines and Application Kit
"The Department of Homeland Security's Port Security Grant Program is an important component of a larger, coordinated Administration program to strengthen America's critical infrastructure. The framework for these efforts is set out in a series of Homeland Security Presidential Directives (HSPD's), the National Preparedness Goal and its associated work products, and the National Infrastructure Protection Plan. HSPD-8 establishes policies to strengthen the preparedness of the United States to prevent and respond to threatened or actual domestic terrorist attacks, major disasters and other emergencies by requiring a National Preparedness Goal, establishing mechanisms for improved delivery of federal preparedness assistance to state and local governments and outlining actions to strengthen preparedness capabilities of federal, state, and local entities. The National Preparedness Goal establishes the requirement for federal, state, local and tribal entities to achieve and sustain nationally accepted risk based target levels of capability for prevention, preparedness, response and recovery for major events, especially terrorism. The target levels of capability are based upon National Planning Scenarios, a Universal Task List, and a Target Capabilities List. ODP has developed detailed National Preparedness Guidance in coordination with federal, state, local and tribal entities. This guidance describes the National Preparedness Goal, as well as target levels of capability and national priorities."
United States. Department of Homeland Security. Office of State and Local Government Coordination & Preparedness
2005
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Creating a Mix of Spooks and Suits: A New Role for Intelligence
The devastating events of 11 September 2001 demonstrated the United States no longer enjoys a sense of invulnerability to attacks on American soil. On 25 November 2002, President Bush signed legislation creating the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The new department's strategic objectives include: 1) preventing terrorist attacks within the United States, 2) reducing America's vulnerability to terrorism, and 3) minimize the damage and recover from the attacks that do occur. Intelligence will play a critical role in preventing future terrorist attacks against America's homeland. A major component of the new DHS requires a dedicated effort to monitoring, analyzing, and utilizing intelligence about domestic threats to national security. This thesis defines, describes, and advocates the role of intelligence in the proposed DHS. The role of intelligence in the new DHS is twofold: 1) a process for the intergovernmental coordination of agencies involved in homeland security, and 2) a tailored, all-source fusion product to support DHS decision makers. Defining the role of intelligence in the DHS and creating the means to accomplish this new role for intelligence is no easy task. Once defined, this thesis focuses on how DHS can accomplish this new role for intelligence. The thesis concludes with recommendations for how the transition team tasked with creating an information and analysis assessment center within DHS. DHS policymakers must focus on creating an internal intelligence organizational structure, manage the country's domestic intelligence process, establish an information-sharing network, incorporate the use of open source information (OSINT), and ensure analytical quality within the new department.
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Moyer, Shawn P.
2003-03
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Challenges of an Operationalized National Guard and a Militia Alternative
From the thesis abstract: "The National Guard contributes nearly half of the total combat forces currently employed in both Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom and a majority of Operation Noble Eagle. The Department of Defense must acknowledge this increasingly unsustainable pace and toll of domestic and overseas tasking for the National Guard as the Guard attempts to fulfill its statutory requirements under Titles 10 and 32 of United States Code. The thesis of this paper is that the National Guard can not adequately support the dual status requirements of the states and the nation as an operationalized reserve engaged in the War on Terror and that reconstituting a traditional militia construct would provide the nation an affordable, legal, adequately trained and equipped citizenry which is relevant to the state governors and USNORTHCOM [United States Northern Command] for employment in domestic and defensive crises. A dedicated and properly resourced traditional militia would permit the continued employment of the Air and Army National Guard as vital operational reserve forces to the active duty forces supporting the Geographic Combatant Commands' overseas military combat and contingency operations. Such an institution would give members of the All Volunteer Force several new enlistment options in their decision to serve the nation. "
Joint Forces Staff College (U.S.). Joint Advanced Warfighting School; National Defense University
Gelinas, D. E.
2008-04-14
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Small Bomb Disposal Robot -- Vanguard MKII-T: Project Summary
"The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Office of State and Local Government Coordination and Preparedness (DHS SLGCP) tasked the Technical Support Working Group (TSWG) Operational Analysis (OA) Team to provide expertise and analysis on small bomb-disposal robots. For this project, the small bomb-disposal robot is defined as a robot weighing less than 400 lbs. In support of this assignment, TSWG developed a standardized process by which small robots are assessed according to user-defined requirements under operationally and tactically relevant conditions typically encountered by the responder community. In developing their assessment project, the TSWG OA Team evaluated the robotic system by allowing participants to deploy the robot in response to operational scenarios, which are common and well documented in actual bomb squad response reports. In addition, they identified tasks common to law enforcement and fire department bomb technicians requiring access to and defeating an improvised explosive device (IED). These tasks were inclusive of arrival, set up of robotic system, and access to the target, as well as employment of render safe procedures. The increased threat of terrorism, both domestic and international, presents a real challenge for bomb technicians. Domestic terrorists have proven to be innovative, with threats ranging from standard pipe bombs to the large scale Vehicle Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIED) as seen in the Oklahoma City bombing. On the International front, terrorist groups like Al Qaida introduce the potential for complex IEDs, radio controlled devices, as well as the use of secondary devices used to kill bomb technicians. As a result, civilian bomb squads continue to have an increased need for robotics."
United States. Federal Emergency Management Agency
2005-03
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Office of Domestic Preparedness Emergency Responder Guidelines - 2002
To help provide America's response community with a baseline understanding of the training necessary to effectively and safely respond to an act of terrorism involving the use of WMD, the ODP [Office of Domestic Preparedness] has prepared these Emergency Responder Guidelines. These Guidelines are offered not as definitive or official regulations, but rather as the informed advice of subject-matter experts from both the private and public sectors. Although not official regulations, they have been written in concert with existing codes and standards of agencies, such as the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) and Federal regulatory agencies such as the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). These Guidelines are intended to be a tool for first responders seeking to improve their training and master their craft, reflecting a step-by-step progression from Awareness through Performance to Planning and Management. These Guidelines also may be used by course developers and trainers looking for a common ground with training programs in other jurisdictions. LLIS Core Capability: Emergency Management
United States. Office of Justice Programs. Office for Domestic Preparedness
2002-08-01?
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Homeland Security Preparedness Technical Assistance Program (HSPTAP)
"The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Office for Domestic Preparedness (ODP) is pleased to announce the Homeland Security Preparedness Technical Assistance Program (HSPTAP). HSPTAP provides direct assistance to State and local jurisdictions to improve their ability to prevent, respond to, and recover from threats or acts of terrorism involving chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive (CBRNE) weapons. A primary objective of the program is to enhance the capacity of State and local jurisdictions, as well as special needs jurisdictions such as port authorities and mass transit agencies, to develop, plan, and implement effective strategies for CBRNE preparedness. Through HSPTAP, technical assistance (TA) may be provided to State and local governments, law enforcement, fire, hazardous materials, and other community agencies that have CBRNE preparedness responsibilities. All TA services are available to eligible recipients at no charge as ODP will cover the cost of providing the technical expertise, travel, and related expenses."
United States. Department of Homeland Security. Office for Domestic Preparedness
Mencer, Constance Suzanne, 1947-
2004-08-09
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State Homeland Security Assessment and Strategy Program: Urban Area Jurisdiction Handbook
"The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Office for Domestic Preparedness (ODP) has refined the State Homeland Security Assessment and Strategy (SHSAS) process that was originally established in Fiscal Year (FY) 1999 to assess threats, vulnerabilities, capabilities, and needs related to preparedness for weapons of mass destruction terrorism incidents at the state and local level. The FY 2003 ODP SHSAS process will allow state and local urban area jurisdictions to update their assessment data to reflect post-September 11, 2001, realities, as well as to identify progress on the priorities outlined in their initial homeland security strategies. As identified in the National Strategy for Homeland Security, the challenge in securing the nation from terrorist attacks is 'to develop interconnected and complementary systems that are reinforcing rather than duplicative and that ensure essential requirements are met.'"
United States. Department of Homeland Security. Office for Domestic Preparedness
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Assessing the Efficacy of Capital Punishment in the War on Terror Through the Lenses of History, Law, and Theory
From the thesis abstract: "Prior to President Obama halting all ongoing military commissions, the United States charged six Guantanamo Bay prisoners with capital crimes. Further, his latest policy directive for new military commission rules has not excluded the death penalty as punishment. Application of the death penalty for convicted terrorists will draw worldwide attention. President Obama's decision to approve or disapprove a capital sentence has both domestic and international implications. Not only will application of the death penalty draw international attention, and possibly international ire, it will prove problematic because of competing issues related to strategic communication, international expectations, domestic desires, and the overall effort in fighting global terrorism. In President Obama's early days in office, he has put great emphasis on the American identity in the international arena and on using the American identity to build relationships with other nations. Therefore, the constructivist approach to international relations is an effective tool for evaluating President Obama's decisions during the punishment phase of military commissions. Using constructivism to frame his overarching decision, an examination of history, identity, law, and strategic communication help complete the examination of his strategic outlook. This paper provides a description of the international relations approach of constructivism as the theoretical basis for the author's evaluation. The application of this approach requires a combination of history, philosophy, and law. In essence, this approach presupposes that American national identity, as manifested through President Obama and his administration, will explain the decision whether or not to use capital punishment against terrorists and of the potential positive and negative consequences of this decision based on group identities. Because the factors that define, shape and describe a national identity are nearly infinite, this paper focuses on a broader historical, legal, and cultural analysis to measure the efficacy of using capital punishment against convicted terrorists. The author's analysis leads her to conclude that President Obama will approve a capital sentence handed down to convicted terrorists from a military commission."
U.S. Army Command and General Staff College. School of Advanced Military Studies
Bohrer, Mandi L.
2009-09-08
