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Shocking Truth About North Korean Tyranny, Hearing Before the Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific of the Committee on Foreign Affairs, House of Representatives, One Hundred Thirteenth Congress, Second Session, March 26, 2014
This is from the March 26, 2014 hearing on "The Shocking Truth about North Korean Tyranny" held before the Committee on Foreign Affairs. From the opening statement of Steve Chabot: "Today, I am announcing that the committee plans to consider bipartisan sanctions legislation against North Korea which I authored in May of this year. My legislation targets the regime where it is most vulnerable, in the pocketbook, and it will prevent Kim Jong-un from assessing or accessing, having the ability to use that hard currency that he needs in order to pay his generals. H.R. 1771 now has over 130 cosponsors, and it will go a long way toward bankrupting the regime in North Korea. It is important that we wake up to the reality that North Korea is not interested in reform. Frankly, that's not - denuclearization does not drive their calculus. And, thus, I urge the administration to work with this committee so that the people of North Korea can finally have an opportunity to live without fear, to have an existence without abuse. And I've long been involved in shining the spotlight on the horrific human rights abuses in North Korea. I've had many, many, many trips to that part of the world and spoken with so many defectors about their particular circumstances. I've had people show me the scars on their bodies from when they tortured in North Korea. I co-chair the International Parliamentarians Coalition for North Korean Refugees and Human Rights, and I can say that the Committee of Inquiry Report on North Korea offers one of the most comprehensive accountings of human rights abuses in that country." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Grace Jo, Greg Scarlatoiu, and Bruce Klingner.
United States. Government Printing Office
2014
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Viewpoints in Homeland Defense and Security: FEMA Goal of a Culture of Preparedness [video]
From the Video Description: "In this NPS-CHDS [Naval Postgraduate School Center for Homeland Defense and Security] Viewpoints, FEMA Deputy Administrator for National Preparedness Daniel Kaniewski elaborates on three major priorities in the recently released FEMA Strategic Plan 2018-2022. The plan reflects FEMA's goal of a Culture of Preparedness in which survivors know what actions to take themselves in the aftermath of a disaster; enhancing the agency's catastrophic readiness while empowering state, local, tribal and territorial governments to manage smaller disasters; reducing the complexity of FEMA's relief programs." The duration of the video is 10 minutes and 39 seconds.
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Kaniewski, Daniel
2018-03-26
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MMWR Early Release: Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, April 26, 2022: Seroprevalence of Infection-Induced SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies -- United States, September 2021-February 2022
The Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) Series is prepared by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). [It] is the agency's primary vehicle for scientific publication of timely, reliable, authoritative, accurate, objective, and useful public health information and recommendations. This Early Release issue of MMWR contains the following article: "Seroprevalence of Infection-Induced SARS-CoV-2 [severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2] Antibodies -- United States, September 2021-February 2022." Notifiable Diseases and Mortality Tables from MMWR can be accessed at the following link [http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/index2022.html].
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (U.S.)
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Charting the Course for American Nuclear Technology: Evaluating the Department of Energy's Nuclear Energy Research and Development Roadmap: Hearing Before the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Science and Technology, One Hundred Eleventh Congress, Second Session, May 19, 2010
From the statement of Ralph M. Hall: "While much of the 'nuclear revival' involves licensing and building more reactors using existing light water reactor technology, there are a host of longer-term activities that must also be pursued. First and foremost among these are (1) dealing with the management of spent nuclear fuel, and (2) supporting R&D to facilitate advances and licensing of new reactor designs and to extend the life of the existing reactor fleet. With respect to waste management, I have been very clear about my objections to the Administration's attempts to shut down the Yucca Mountain Project, particularly given that the cancellation was done without serious consideration of alternative options. The Federal Government is legally obligated to deal with this waste, and the current absence of a path forward threatens to jeopardize growing public support for expanding nuclear power while increasing taxpayer liabilities. This needs to be addressed as soon as possible." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Bart Gordon, Chairman; Warren F. Miller, Assistant Secretary for Nuclear Energy, U.S. Department of Energy; Christofer Mowry, President and CEO, Babcock & Wilcox Nuclear Energy, Inc.; Charles Ferguson, President, Federation of American Scientists; Mark Peters, Deputy Director for Programs, Argonne National Laboratory; Thomas L. Sanders, President, American Nuclear Society; and Gary M. Krellenstein, Managing Director, Tax Exempt Capital Markets, JP Morgan Chase & Co.
United States. Congress. House. Committee on Science and Technology (2007-2011)
2010
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Viewpoints in Homeland Defense and Security: Mobile Education Seminars [video]
From the Video Description: "In this Viewpoints, NPS-CHDS [Naval Postgraduate School Center for Homeland Defense and Security] Strategic Communications Director Heather Issvoran speaks with Stan McKinney, Director of Mobile Education Programs, about the Executive Education Seminars delivered by the Mobile Education Team (MET). The MET program was established in 2003 to address the emerging threats faced by governors, mayors of urban areas and their teams following 9/11. More than 400 seminars have been conducted by the team. The seminars are tailored to the needs of the specific locality involved. The program has a roster of about 30 subject matter experts covering the gamut of the homeland security enterprise." The duration of the video is 7 minutes and 54 seconds.
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Issvoran, Heather; McKinney, Stan M.
2017-11-07
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European Unions Arms Embargo on China: Implications and Options for U.S. Policy [Updated May 27, 2005]
From the Document: "The European Union (EU) is considering lifting its arms embargo on China, which was imposed in response to the June 1989 Tiananmen Crackdown. France, Germany, and other EU members claim that the embargo hinders the development of a 'strategic partnership' with China. The Bush Administration and Members of Congress strongly oppose an end to the EU's arms embargo and urge stronger arms export controls. The United States contends that engagement with China need not send the wrong signals on China's human rights record and military buildup that threatens a peaceful resolution of Taiwan and other Asian issues [...] Overall, there are two sets of questions for Congress in examining U.S. policy toward the fate of the EU's arms embargo on China. What are the implications for U.S. interests in trans-Atlantic relations and China? If U.S. interests are adversely affected, what are some options for Congress to discourage the EU from lifting its arms embargo on China and, if it is lifted, to protect U.S. national security interests in both Asia and Europe? Issues raised by these questions are the subject of this CRS [Congressional Research Service] Report. This report will be updated as warranted."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Grimmett, Richard F.; Kan, Shirley; Archick, Kristin
2005-05-27
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United Kingdom: Issues for the United States [September 23, 2005]
"This report assesses the current state of U.S.-UK relations. It examines the pressures confronting London as it attempts to balance its interests between the United States and the EU, and the prospects for the future of the U.S.-UK partnership. It also describes UK views on political, security, and economic issues of particular importance to the United States, and their implications for U.S. policy. This report will be updated as needed. For information on broader transatlantic relations, see CRS Report RL32577, 'The United States and Europe: Possible Options for U.S. Policy, by Kristin Archick."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Archick, Kristin
2005-09-23
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NATO and the European Union [Updated January 3, 2006]
"Since the end of the Cold War, both NATO and the European Union (EU) have evolved along with Europe's changed strategic landscape. While NATO's collective defense guarantee remains at the core of the alliance, members have also sought to redefine its mission as new security challenges have emerged on Europe's periphery and beyond. At the same time, EU members have taken steps toward political integration with decisions to develop a common foreign policy and a defense arm to improve EU member states abilities to manage security crises, such as those that engulfed the Balkans in the 1990s. The evolution of NATO and the EU, however, has generated some friction between the United States and several of its allies over the security responsibilities of the two organizations. U.S.-European differences center around threat assessment, defense institutions, and military capabilities. Successive U.S. administrations and the U.S. Congress have called for enhanced European defense capabilities to enable the allies to better share the security burden, and to ensure that NATO's post-Cold War mission embraces combating terrorism and countering the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. U.S. policymakers, backed by Congress, support EU efforts to develop a European Security and Defense Policy (ESDP) provided that it remains tied to NATO and does not threaten the transatlantic relationship."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Gallis, Paul E.; Archick, Kristin
2006-01-03
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European Union in 2006 and Beyond [Updated December 27, 2005]
"The European Union (EU) has experienced significant changes over the last few years. The EU has enlarged from 15 to 25 members and has been working to implement a new constitutional treaty to institute internal reforms and further political integration. The EU has also taken steps toward developing a common foreign policy and defense arm. This report describes the current status of the EU's constitutional treaty, EU enlargement, the EU's evolving foreign and defense policies, and possible implications for U.S.-EU relations."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Archick, Kristin
2005-12-27
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Cybercrime: The Council of Europe Convention [Updated December 1, 2005]
From the Summary: "Forty-two countries, including the United States, have signed the Council of Europe's Convention on Cybercrime of November 2001. The Convention seeks to better combat cybercrime by harmonizing national laws, improving investigative abilities, and boosting international cooperation. Supporters argue that the Convention will enhance deterrence, while critics counter it will have little effect without participation by countries in which cybercriminals operate freely. Others warn it will endanger privacy and civil liberties. This report will be updated as events warrant."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Archick, Kristin
2005-12-01
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Europe and Counterterrorism: Strengthening Police and Judicial Cooperation [Updated September 16, 2003] - Appendix A [audio]
"The September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States have given new momentum to European Union (EU) initiatives to combat terrorism and other crossborder crimes such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, and financial fraud. For many years, EU efforts to address such challenges were hampered by national sovereignty concerns, insufficient resources, and a lack of trust among law enforcement agencies. However, the terrorist attacks and the subsequent revelation of Al Qaeda cells in Europe changed this status quo as it became increasingly evident that the EU's open borders and different legal systems allow terrorists and other criminals to move around easily and evade arrest and prosecution. Thus, EU officials have renewed their efforts to harmonize national laws and bring down traditional barriers among member states' police, intelligence, and judicial authorities. As part of this initiative, the EU is also seeking to enhance ongoing cooperation with U.S. law enforcement and judicial authorities so that information can be meaningfully shared and suspects apprehended expeditiously.' Appendix A provides key EU initiatives to improve police and judicial cooperation and combat terrorism. QuickTime is required to listen to this file on your computer. Click here to download QuickTime 7: http://www.apple.com/quicktime/download/win.html"
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Archick, Kristin
2003-09-16
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Europe and Counterterrorism: Strengthening Police and Judicial Cooperation [Updated September 16, 2003] [audio]
"The September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States have given new momentum to European Union (EU) initiatives to combat terrorism and other crossborder crimes such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, and financial fraud. For many years, EU efforts to address such challenges were hampered by national sovereignty concerns, insufficient resources, and a lack of trust among law enforcement agencies. However, the terrorist attacks and the subsequent revelation of Al Qaeda cells in Europe changed this status quo as it became increasingly evident that the EU's open borders and different legal systems allow terrorists and other criminals to move around easily and evade arrest and prosecution. Thus, EU officials have renewed their efforts to harmonize national laws and bring down traditional barriers among member states' police, intelligence, and judicial authorities. As part of this initiative, the EU is also seeking to enhance ongoing cooperation with U.S. law enforcement and judicial authorities so that information can be meaningfully shared and suspects apprehended expeditiously.' QuickTime is required to listen to this file on your computer. Click here to download QuickTime 7: http://www.apple.com/quicktime/download/win.html"
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Archick, Kristin
2003-09-16
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U.S.-EU Cooperation Against Terrorism [May 2, 2011]
"The September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks gave new momentum to European Union (EU) initiatives to combat terrorism and improve police, judicial, and intelligence cooperation among its member states. Since the 2001 attacks, the EU has sought to speed up its efforts to harmonize national laws and bring down barriers among member states' law enforcement authorities so that information can be meaningfully shared and suspects apprehended expeditiously. Among other steps, the EU has established a common definition of terrorism and a common list of terrorist groups, an EU arrest warrant, enhanced tools to stem terrorist financing, and new measures to strengthen external EU border controls and improve aviation security. [...] Despite U.S.-EU strides to foster closer counterterrorism and law enforcement cooperation, some challenges remain. Data privacy has been and continues to be a key sticking point. In February 2010, the European Parliament (EP) rejected a U.S.-EU agreement--known as the SWIFT accord--that would have continued allowing U.S. authorities access to financial data stored in Europe to help combat terrorism on the grounds that it did not contain sufficient protections to safeguard the personal data and privacy rights of EU citizens. [...] This report examines the evolution of U.S.-EU counterterrorism cooperation and the ongoing challenges that may be of interest in the 112th Congress. For additional background, also see CRS Report RL31509, Europe and Counterterrorism: Strengthening Police and Judicial Cooperation, by Kristin Archick."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Archick, Kristin
2011-05-02
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U.S.-EU Cooperation against Terrorism [July 9, 2010]
"The September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks gave new momentum to European Union (EU) initiatives to combat terrorism and improve police, judicial, and intelligence cooperation among its member states. Since the 2001 attacks, the EU has sought to speed up its efforts to harmonize national laws and bring down barriers among member states' law enforcement authorities so that information can be meaningfully shared and suspects apprehended expeditiously. Among other steps, the EU has established a common definition of terrorism and a common list of terrorist groups, an EU arrest warrant, enhanced tools to stem terrorist financing, and new measures to strengthen external EU border controls and improve aviation security. [...] Nevertheless, both the United States and the EU appear committed to fostering closer cooperation in the areas of counterterrorism and other homeland security issues. Congressional decisions related to improving border controls and transport security, in particular, may affect how future U.S.-EU cooperation evolves. In addition, given the European Parliament's growing influence in many of these policy areas, Members of Congress may be able to help shape Parliament's views and responses through ongoing contacts and the existing Transatlantic Legislators' Dialogue (TLD). This report examines the evolution of U.S.-EU counterterrorism cooperation and the ongoing challenges that may be of interest in the 111th Congress."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Archick, Kristin
2010-07-09
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Northern Ireland: The Peace Process [May 28, 2010]
"Since 1969, over 3,500 people have died as a result of political violence in Northern Ireland, which is a part of the United Kingdom. The conflict, which has its origins in the 1921 division of Ireland, has reflected a struggle between different national, cultural, and religious identities. The Protestant majority (53%) in Northern Ireland defines itself as British and largely supports continued incorporation in the UK (unionists). The Catholic minority (44%) considers itself Irish, and many Catholics desire a united Ireland (nationalists). For years, the British and Irish governments sought to facilitate a political settlement. After many ups and downs, the two governments and the Northern Ireland political parties participating in the peace talks announced an agreement on April 10, 1998. The resulting Good Friday Agreement (also known as the Belfast Agreement) called for devolved government--the transfer of power from London to Belfast--with a Northern Ireland Assembly and Executive Committee in which unionist and nationalist parties would share power. The agreement also contained provisions on decommissioning (disarmament), policing, human rights, UK security normalization (demilitarization), and the status of prisoners."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Archick, Kristin
2010-05-28
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China and the Terror War
This Naval War College Point Paper was prepared in response to the terrorist attacks on the United States on September 11, 2001. The Naval War College commissioned more than thirty papers addressing strategy and policy, operational concepts, and national security decision making related to the terror war. These papers were intended as contributions to U.S. national security policy deliberations, and to assist the U.S. Navy as it planned its response to future terrorist threats. The purpose of this Point Paper was "to assess China's responses to the terror war and the opportunities for and limitations of U.S.-Chinese collaboration to combat the terrorist threat. It provides a brief background and discusses what explains China's initial reactions to September 11, what the Chinese see as the potential downsides to supporting U.S. policy, and what have been the net gains for both countries of Chinese support for the terror war.
Navy Warfare Development Command (U.S.)
Goldstein, Lyle; Pollack, Jonathan D.; Elleman, Bruce A., 1959-
2002-01-04
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Central Asia and the Terror War
This Naval War College Point Paper was prepared in response to the terrorist attacks on the United States on September 11, 2001. The Naval War College commissioned more than thirty papers addressing strategy and policy, operational concepts, and national security decision making related to the terror war. These papers were intended as contributions to U.S. national security policy deliberations, and to assist the U.S. Navy as it planned its response to future terrorist threats. The purpose of this Point Paper was "to explore the role of the newly independent states (NIS) of Central Asia (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan) in the war on terror." It gives a brief background and discusses how the NIS of Central Asia have contributed to the anti-terror coalition and the risks and costs of the involvement.
Navy Warfare Development Command (U.S.)
Goldstein, Lyle
2002-05-01
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European Union Enlargement [Updated July 3, 2008]
From the Summary: "The European Union (EU) views the enlargement process as a historic opportunity to promote stability and prosperity in Europe. On January 1, 2007, Bulgaria and Romania joined the EU, enlarging the Union to 27 countries. The EU's previous enlargement in May 2004 brought in Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, and Slovenia. In 2005, the EU agreed to open accession negotiations with Turkey and Croatia, and named Macedonia as an official EU candidate; in December 2006, the EU partially suspended talks with Turkey over ongoing disputes over Cyprus. Although the EU maintains that the enlargement door remains open, 'enlargement fatigue' has become a serious issue in Europe and some experts believe that EU enlargement may be reaching its limits. The status of EU enlargement is one of many transatlantic issues likely to be of interest to the second session of the 110th Congress. This report will be updated as necessary. See also CRS [Congressional Research Service] Report RS21372, 'The European Union: Questions and Answers', by Kristin Archick."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Archick, Kristin
2008-07-03
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United States and Europe: Current Issues [July 2, 2008]
"The United States and Europe share a long and intertwined history. Both sides of the Atlantic face a common set of international concerns, have few other comparable partners, and share a deep economic relationship. Despite much improvement in overall relations since the divisive debate over Iraq policy, several foreign policy and trade disputes remain. This report examines the current state of the transatlantic relationship and key issues that may have implications for U.S. interests in the second session of the 110th Congress. It will be updated as events warrant. Also see CRS Report RL32577, 'The United States and Europe: Possible Options for U.S. Policy', by Kristin Archick."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Archick, Kristin
2008-07-02
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European Union's Reform Process: The Lisbon Treaty [July 3, 2008]
From the Document: "In December 2007, leaders of the European Union (EU) signed the Lisbon Treaty, which seeks to reform the EU's governing institutions and decisionmaking processes to enable a larger EU to operate more effectively. This new treaty represents the latest stage in a reform process begun in 2002 and essentially replaces the proposed EU 'constitution' that foundered after French and Dutch voters rejected it in referendums in 2005. In order to avoid such risky public referendums on the Lisbon Treaty, all EU member states except Ireland decided to ratify the new treaty through their parliaments; Irish law, however, required that the treaty be ratified through a public vote. In June 2008, Irish voters rejected the Lisbon Treaty, and have thrown its future into doubt. This report provides background information on EU reform efforts and possible implications for U.S.-EU relations that may be of interest in the second session of the 110th Congress. It will be updated as events warrant. Also see CRS Report RS21344, 'European Union Enlargement', by Kristin Archick."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Archick, Kristin
2008-07-03
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European Union's Constitution [December 27, 2005]
From the Document: "In June 2004, the European Union (EU) concluded work on a constitutional treaty that contains changes to the EU's governing institutions and decision-making processes. Commonly referred to as the 'constitution,' this new treaty aims to institute internal reforms to enable a larger EU to operate effectively and prevent gridlock, but it must be ratified by all member states to enter into force. The future of the EU's constitution, however, has been thrown in doubt after French and Dutch voters rejected it in separate referenda in May and June 2005. This report provides background information on the constitution, its key provisions, the current crisis, and possible implications for U.S.-EU relations. It will be updated as events warrant. For more information, see CRS Report RS21372, 'The European Union: Questions and Answers'; and CRS Report RS21344, 'European Union Enlargement', both by Kristin Archick."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Archick, Kristin
2005-12-27
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Northern Ireland: The Peace Process [December 29, 2005]
"For years, the British and Irish governments sought to facilitate a peaceful settlement to the conflict in Northern Ireland. After many ups and downs, the two governments and the eight parties participating in peace talks announced an agreement on April 10, 1998. However, the implementation of the resulting Good Friday Agreement continues to be difficult. This report will be updated as events warrant."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Archick, Kristin
2005-12-29
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European Union: Questions and Answers [Updated July 3, 2008]
From the Summary: "This report describes the European Union (EU), its evolution, governing institutions, trade policy, and efforts to forge common foreign and defense policies. The report also addresses the EU-U.S. and EU-NATO relationships, which may be of interest to the second session of the 110th Congress. It will be updated as events warrant. For more information, see CRS [Congressional Research Service] Report RS21344, 'European Union Enlargement', by Kristin Archick, and CRS Report RL34381, 'European Union-U.S. Trade and Investment Relations: Key Issues', coordinated by Raymond Ahearn."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Archick, Kristin
2008-07-03
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European Parliament [Updated July 3, 2008]
From the Summary: "The 785-member, directly elected European Parliament (EP) is a key institution of the 27-member European Union (EU). Once limited to being a consultative assembly, the EP has accumulated more power over time. Currently, it plays a role in the EU's legislative and budgeting processes, and exercises general supervision over other EU bodies. Ties between the EP and the U.S. Congress are long-standing, and EP-Congressional exchanges are expected to continue in the second session of the 110th Congress. This report will be updated as events warrant. Also see CRS [Congressional Research Service] Report RS21372, 'The European Union: Questions and Answers', by Kristin Archick."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Archick, Kristin
2008-07-03
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European Parliament [Updated April 6, 2005]
From the Summary: "The 732-member, directly-elected European Parliament (EP) is a key institution of the 25-member European Union (EU). Once limited to being a consultative assembly, the EP has accumulated more power over time. Currently, it plays a role in the EU's legislative and budgeting processes, and exercises general supervision over other EU bodies. The EP continues to face several challenges, however, especially in relation to its democratic legitimacy and operational costs. The most recent EP elections were held in June 2004. This report will be updated as events warrant. For more information, also see CRS [Congressional Research Service] Report RS21372, 'The European Union: Questions and Answers'."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Archick, Kristin
2005-04-06
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U.S. Congress and the European Parliament: Evolving Transatlantic Legislative Cooperation [July 12, 2012]
"The United States and the European Union (EU) share an extensive, dynamic, and for many a mutually beneficial political and economic partnership. A growing element of that relationship is the role that the U.S. Congress and the European Parliament (EP)--a key EU institution--have begun to play, including in areas ranging from foreign and economic policy to regulatory reform. Proponents of establishing closer relations between the U.S. Congress and the EP point to the Parliament's growing influence as a result of the EU's Lisbon Treaty, which took effect in December 2009. The Lisbon Treaty has increased the relative power of the EP within the EU, and in some cases, with significant implications for U.S. interests. Consequently, some officials and experts on both sides of the Atlantic have asked whether it would be beneficial for Congress and the EP to strengthen institutional ties further and to explore the possibility of coordinating efforts to develop more complementary approaches to policies in areas of mutual interest. […] This report provides background on the Congress--EP relationship and the role of the TLD [Transatlantic Legislators' Dialogue]. It also explores potential future options should an effort to strengthen ties between the two bodies gain momentum."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Archick, Kristin; Morelli, Vincent L.
2012-07-12
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U.S.-EU Cooperation Against Terrorism [October 3, 2012]
"The September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States, and subsequent deadly incidents in Europe such as the Madrid and London bombings in 2004 and 2005, gave new momentum to European Union (EU) initiatives to combat terrorism and improve police, judicial, and intelligence cooperation among its current 27 member states. Over the last decade, the EU has sought to speed up its efforts to harmonize national laws and bring down barriers among member states' law enforcement authorities so that information can be meaningfully shared and suspects apprehended expeditiously. Among other steps, the EU has established a common definition of terrorism and a common list of terrorist groups, an EU arrest warrant, enhanced tools to stem terrorist financing, and new measures to strengthen external EU border controls and improve aviation security. As part of its drive to bolster its counterterrorism capabilities, the EU has also made promoting cooperation with the United States a top priority. Washington has largely welcomed these efforts, recognizing that they may help root out terrorist cells both in Europe and elsewhere, and prevent future attacks against the United States or its interests abroad. […] U.S.-EU cooperation against terrorism has led to a new dynamic in U.S.-EU relations by fostering dialogue on law enforcement and homeland security issues previously reserved for bilateral discussions. Nevertheless, some challenges persist in fostering closer U.S.-EU cooperation in these fields. [...] This report examines the evolution of U.S.-EU counterterrorism cooperation and the ongoing challenges that may be of interest in the 112th Congress."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Archick, Kristin
2012-10-03
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Northern Ireland: The Peace Process [October 17, 2011]
"Since 1969, over 3,500 people have died as a result of political violence in Northern Ireland, which is a part of the United Kingdom. The conflict, which has its origins in the 1921 division of Ireland, has reflected a struggle between different national, cultural, and religious identities. The Protestant majority (53%) in Northern Ireland defines itself as British and largely supports continued incorporation in the UK (unionists). The Catholic minority (44%) considers itself Irish, and many Catholics desire a united Ireland (nationalists). […] In 2008, the DUP [Democratic Unionist Party] and Sinn Fein clashed over the outstanding issue of transferring authority for policing and justice affairs from London to Belfast. Given the sensitive nature of this portfolio, the parties had been unable to agree on its devolution at the time of the signing of the Good Friday Agreement. After protracted negotiations, the parties reached a deal in February 2010 paving the way for the devolution of police and justice powers in April 2010. Successive U.S. administrations and many Members of Congress have actively supported the Northern Ireland peace process. The United States provided development aid through the International Fund for Ireland (IFI) between 1986 and 2010. In recent years, congressional hearings have focused on the peace process, police reforms, and the status of public inquiries into several murders in Northern Ireland in which collusion between the security forces and paramilitary groups is suspected. Many such issues related to Northern Ireland, including the future of the IFI, may continue to be of interest in the 112th Congress."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Archick, Kristin
2011-10-17
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Islamist Extremism in Europe [January 6, 2006]
From the Summary: "Although the vast majority of Muslims in Europe are not involved in radical activities, Islamist extremists and vocal fringe communities that advocate terrorism exist and reportedly have provided cover for terrorist cells. Germany and Spain were identified as key logistical and planning bases for the September 11, 2001, attacks on the United States. The March 2004 terrorist bombings in Madrid have been attributed to an Al Qaeda-inspired group of North Africans. And UK authorities are investigating suspected Al Qaeda support to the British perpetrators of the July 7, 2005, terrorist attacks on London. This report provides an overview of Islamist extremism in Europe, possible terrorist links, European responses, and implications for the United States. It will be updated as needed. See also CRS [Congressional Research Service] Report RL31612, 'European Counterterrorist Efforts: Political Will and Diverse Responses in the First Year after September 11', and CRS Report RL33166, 'Muslims in Europe: Integration in Selected Countries', by Paul Gallis."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Archick, Kristin; Rollins, John; Woehrel, Steven J.
2006-01-06
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U.S.-EU Cooperation Against Terrorism [January 24, 2006]
"The September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks gave new momentum to European Union (EU) initiatives to improve law enforcement cooperation against terrorism both among its 25 member states and with the United States. Washington has largely welcomed these efforts, recognizing that they may help root out terrorist cells and prevent future attacks. However, the United States and the EU continue to face several challenges as they seek to promote closer cooperation in the police, judicial, and border control fields. This report will be updated as needed. For more information, see CRS [Congressional Research Service] Report RL31509, 'Europe and Counterterrorism: Strengthening Police and Judicial Cooperation', by Kristin Archick."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Archick, Kristin
2006-01-24
