Advanced search Help
Resource Type or Special Collection is CRS Reports
Clear all search criteria
Only 2/3! You are seeing results from the Public Collection, not the complete Full Collection. Sign in to search everything (see eligibility).
-
Iraq: U.S. Military Operations [Updated March 9, 2005]
"Iraq's chemical, biological, and nuclear weapons programs, together with Iraqi long-range missile development and support for al-Queda terrorism, were the primary justifications put forward for military action. On March 17, 2003, President Bush issued an ultimatum demanding that Saddam Hussein and his sons depart from Iraq within 48 hours. On March 19, offensive operations began with air strikes against Iraqi leadership positions. By April 15, after 27 days of operations, coalition forces were in relative control of all major Iraqi cities and Iraqi political and military leadership had disintegrated. On May 1, 2003, President Bush declared an end to major combat operations. There was no use of chemical or biological (CB) weapons, and no CB or nuclear weapons stockpiles or production facilities have been found. The major challenges to coalition forces are now quelling a persistent Iraqi resistance movement and training sufficient Iraqi forces to assume responsibility for the nations domestic security. Though initially denying that there was an organized resistance movement, DOD officials have now acknowledged there is regional/local organization, with apparently ample supplies of arms and funding."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Bowman, Steve
2005-03-09
-
Appropriations Subcommittee Structure: History of Changes from 1920-2005 [Updated March 9, 2005]
"This report details the evolution of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees' subcommittee structure from the 1920s to the present. In 1920, the House adopted a change in its rules to consolidate jurisdiction over all appropriations in the Appropriations Committee. After the enactment of the Budget and Accounting Act of 1921, the House reorganized its Appropriations Committee by establishing for the first time a set of subcommittees to consider appropriations bills based on the administrative organization of the executive branch. The Senate followed suit in1922, and the two chambers have continued under that basic organizational approach since that time."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Saturno, James
2005-03-09
-
European Views and Policies Toward the Middle East [Updated March 9, 2005]
From the Summary: "Many analysts assert that the United States and Europe share common vital interests in the Middle East: combating terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction; promoting Middle East peace and stability; ensuring a reliable flow of oil; and curtailing Islamic extremism. U.S. and European policies to promote these goals often differ considerably. Although the European governments are not monolithic in their opinions on the Middle East, European perspectives have been shaped over time by common elements unique to Europe's history and geo-strategic position. Many Europeans believe the Israeli-Palestinian conflict should be a priority. They view it as a key driver of terrorism, Islamic extremism, and political unrest among Europe's growing Muslim populations. In contrast, the U.S. Administration stresses that terrorism and weapons proliferation are the primary threats and must be pro-actively confronted; peace and stability in the region will not be possible until these twin threats are removed. A number of other factors, such as divergent perceptions of the appropriate role of the use of force and growing European Union (EU) ambitions to play a larger role on the world stage, also contribute to the policy gaps that have emerged."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Archick, Kristin
2005-03-09
-
Transportation Security: Issues for the 109th Congress [Updated March 8, 2005]
"The nation's air, land, and marine transportation systems are designed for accessibility and efficiency, two characteristics that make them highly vulnerable to terrorist attack. While hardening the transportation sector from terrorist attack is difficult, reasonable measures can be taken to deter terrorists. The focus of this issue brief is how best to construct and finance a system of deterrence, protection, and response that effectively reduces the possibility and consequences of another terrorist attack without unduly interfering with travel, commerce, and civil liberties. Aviation security has been a major focus of transportation security policy following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. In the aftermath of these attacks, the 107th Congress moved quickly to pass the Aviation and Transportation Security Act (ATSA; P.L. 107-71) creating the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and mandating a federalized workforce of security screeners to inspect airline passengers and their baggage. The Act gave the TSA broad authority to assess vulnerabilities in aviation security and take steps to mitigate these risks. The TSA's progress on aviation security has been the subject of considerable congressional oversight over the past three years. It is expected that aviation security policy and programs will continue to be of considerable interest in the 109th Congress. The volume of ridership and number of access points make it impractical to subject all rail passengers to the type of screening airline passengers undergo. Nevertheless, there are prudent steps that can be taken to reduce the risks, and consequences, of an attack. These include vulnerability assessments; emergency planning; and emergency response training and drilling of transit personnel, ideally in coordination with police, fire, and emergency medical personnel, as well as purchase of communication and safety equipment. Additional options include increasing the number of transit security personnel, installing video surveillance equipment in vehicles and stations, and conducting random inspections of platforms and trains using bomb-sniffing dogs."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Frittelli, John
2005-03-08
-
Taiwan: Recent Developments and U.S. Policy Choices [Updated March 8, 2005]
"Under the Bush Administration, U.S.- China-Taiwan relations have undergone a number of changes. Initially, the new Administration seemed to abandon the long-standing U.S. policy of 'strategic ambiguity' on Taiwan in favor of 'strategic clarity' that placed more emphasis on Taiwan's interests and less on PRC [People's Republic of China] concerns. Among other things, President Bush publicly stated that the United States would do 'whatever it takes' to help Taiwan's defense -- a position more supportive of Taiwan than had been articulated by previous U.S. presidents. In April 2001, the President also approved a substantial sale of U.S. weapons to Taiwan, including Kidd-class destroyers, anti-submarine P-3 'Orion' aircraft, and diesel submarines. The White House also was more accommodating to visits from Taiwan officials than previous U.S. Administrations, and permitted visits from Taiwan's president in 2001 and 2003, and from Taiwan's vice president and defense minister in 2002. […] Political trends in Taiwan have raised anxieties about its future and the implications for U.S. policy. Some are concerned that a continued emphasis on 'Taiwan identity' may lead to ethnic polarization and conflict. Others are concerned about the implications that these trends have for a possible declaration of Taiwan independence, which Beijing has vowed to 'pay any price' to prevent. In recent months, political developments in Taiwan appear to be causing the Bush Administration to dial back its earlier enthusiasm for supporting Taiwan. U.S. officials now appear to be balancing criticisms of the PRC military buildup opposite Taiwan with periodic cautions and warnings to the effect that U.S. support for Taiwan is not unconditional, but has limits. This issue brief tracking the situation in Taiwan will be updated as events warrant."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Dumbaugh, Kerry
2005-03-08
-
Nigeria in Political Transition [Updated March 8, 2005]
"Nigeria continues to make progress in strengthening its fragile democracy but faces serious economic challenges. Nigeria's population, now 133 million, is projected to grow to over 260 million by 2025. Nigeria remains relatively stable, although ethnic and religious clashes in some parts of the country have led to massive displacement of civilian populations. Thousands of civilians have been killed over the past several years and many more wounded in religious clashes. Under President Obasanjo, Nigeria has emerged has a major player in Africa. President Obasanjo took a leading role in the creation of the New Partnership for African Development (NEPAD) and the African Union (AU). He is the current Chairman of the AU. President Obasanjo also played key roles in facilitating the exile of Liberian President Charles Taylor. Nigeria is also facilitating negotiations between the government of Sudan and the Darfur rebels. In August 2003, Nigeria sent an estimated 1,500 troops to Liberia as part of a West African-led peacekeeping force."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Dagne, Theodore S.
2005-03-08
-
Dominican Republic: Political and Economic Conditions and Relations with the United States [Updated March 8, 2005]
"President Leonel Fernández of the Dominican Liberation Party (PLD), who served as president previously (1996-2000), took office on August 16, 2004. Press reports indicate that, seven months into his four-year term, President Fernández has restored some confidence in the Dominican economy. Since August 2004, the Dominican currency has risen 30% against the U.S. dollar and inflation has declined dramatically. The Fernández administration has struggled, however, to cope with rising crime rates and persistent electricity shortages. On December 28, 2004, President Fernández signed a bill repealing a Dominican tax on drinks containing high fructose corn syrup, a major U.S. product, that had threatened the country's chances of being included in the U.S.- Dominican Republic-Central American Free Trade Agreement (DR-CAFTA). On January 31, 2005, the IMF approved a new $670 million loan agreement with the Dominican Republic. For further information, see CRS Report RL32322, 'Central America and the Dominican Republic in the Context of the Free Trade Agreement' (DRCAFTA), coordinated by Larry Storrs. This report will be updated periodically."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Seelke, Clare Ribando
2005-03-08
-
Libya [Updated March 8, 2005]
"The United Nations Security Council passed three resolutions that placed sanctions on Libya until Libya surrendered for trial two men suspected of bombing Pan Am flight 103 in 1988 and French flight UTA 772 in 1989. Libya surrendered the two men on April 5, 1999, and the U.N. suspended the sanctions the same day. U.S. sanctions against Libya remain in place. Libyan-U.S. relations have been plagued by a series of incidents between U.S. and Libyan armed forces, Libyan policies of supporting terrorism, Libya's search for chemical and nuclear weapons, and Libyan meddling in other nations' internal affairs. Al-Qadhafi has proposed bilateral and multilateral unions with his neighbors and several other countries, and envisions himself as carrying on for Egypt's Nasir in unifying the Arab, Islamic, and African worlds. Libyan leader Muammar al-Qadhafi implemented a form of participatory democracy in Libya, where villages elect Peoples' Congresses, which in turn elect Peoples' Congresses for geographic regions and the central government. In addition, there are Peoples' Congresses representing industries or institutions, such as education, medicine, or broadcasting. Despite the presence and apparent activity of the Peoples' Congresses, it is clear that members of the Revolutionary Command Council, created after the 1969 coup, and their cohort continue to exercise great influence, perhaps dictatorial authority, over Libya. Libya's economy depends upon oil; current production is running at 1.4 million barrels per day of high quality crude, most of which is exported to Western Europe."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Mark, Clyde R.
2005-03-08
-
Federal Research and Development Funding: FY2006 [March 8, 2005]
"The Bush Administration has requested $132.2 billion in federal research and
development (R&D) funding for FY2006. This sum, represents a $505 million
increase over the FY2005 estimated funding level of $131.7 billion. In real dollars, total federal R&D would decline for the first time since FY1996. The proposed FY2006 R&D budget reflects the Administrations objective of constraining the growth of federal discretionary spending."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Bolkcom, Christopher C.
2005-03-08
-
Campaign Financing [March 8, 2005]
"Concerns over financing federal elections have become a seemingly perennial aspect of our political system, long centered on the enduring issues of high campaign costs and reliance on interest groups for needed campaign funds. Rising election costs had long fostered a sense in some quarters that spending was out of control, with too much time spent raising funds and elections 'bought and sold.' Debate had also focused on the role of interest groups in campaign funding, especially through political action committees (PACs). Differences in perceptions of the campaign finance system were compounded by the major parties' different approaches. Democrats tended to favor more regulation, with spending limits and public funding or benefits a part of past proposals. Republicans generally opposed such limits and public funding."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Cantor, Joseph E.
2005-03-08
-
Journalists' Privilege to Withhold Information in Judicial and Other Proceedings: State Shield Statutes
"Absent a statutory or constitutional recognition of journalistic privilege, a reporter may be compelled to testify in legal, administrative, or other governmental proceedings. To date, thirty-one states and the District of Columbia have recognized a journalists' privilege through enactment of press 'shield laws,' which protect the relationship between reporters, their source, and sometimes, the information that may be communicated in that relationship. The journalists' privilege is distinct from other recognized privileges, in that the privilege vests only with the journalist, not with the source of the information. This report briefly provides an overview of general trends among the states individual statutes. The remainder of this report sets forth the full text of the state shield statutes."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Cohen, Henry, 1949-; Lening, Carey
2005-03-08
-
Counterintelligence Reform at the Department of Energy: Policy Issues and Organizational Alternatives [Updated March 8, 2005]
From the Summary: "Troubled by reported lapses in security and counterintelligence (CI) at the Department of Energy (DOE), the Congress in 1999 established a semi-autonomous agency -- the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) -- to oversee DOE's national security-related programs (P.L. 106-65). Within NNSA, Congress created the Office of Defense Nuclear Counterintelligence to 'implement' CI policy at NNSA facilities. DOE retained a separate Office of Counterintelligence, which 'develops' CI policy for DOE and NNSA, but, implements it only at non-NNSA facilities. Though representing separate organizations, the two CI offices share resources and personnel for some programs. Although DOE has taken steps to strengthen CI practices, some observers have questioned whether the Department's bifurcated CI structure is the most effective in countering continuing efforts by foreign intelligence services, friendly and hostile, to target DOE and NNSA facilities."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Cumming, Alfred
2005-03-08
-
United States and Europe: Possible Options for U.S. Policy [Updated March 8, 2005]
From the Summary: "The United States and Europe share a long and intertwined history, replete with
many ups and downs. The modern transatlantic relationship was forged in the
aftermath of World War II to deter the Soviet threat and to promote security and
stability in Europe. NATO and the European Union (EU), the latest stage in a
process of European integration begun in the 1950s, are the two key pillars upon
which the U.S.-European partnership still rests. The U.S. Congress and successive
U.S. administrations have supported both organizations as means to nourish
democracy, foster reliable military allies, and create strong trading partners. Nevertheless, the transatlantic partnership has been fundamentally challenged
in recent years as numerous trade and foreign policy conflicts have emerged. The
crisis over Iraq is most notable, but the list of disagreements is wide and varied. It
includes the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the role of multilateral institutions and the
use of force, missile defense, the U.S. treatment of prisoners in Iraq and at
Guantánamo Bay, aircraft subsidies, and trade in genetically-modified food. These
disputes have been driven partly by leadership frictions and European perceptions of
U.S. unilateralism, and partly by structural issues -- different policy preferences for
managing threats, the U.S.-European defense capabilities gap, and the EU's political
evolution -- set in motion by the end of the Cold War and September 11. These
factors are also prompting some Americans and Europeans to question whether the
two sides of the Atlantic still share the same values and interests, and whether
enough commonality remains to make the partnership work.
This report assesses the present state of the U.S.-European relationship and the
reasons for current frictions. To stimulate debate and for the purposes of analysis,
it also offers a spectrum of possible options for U.S. policymakers in considering the
future shape of the political and strategic dimensions of the transatlantic partnership.
These selected options should be viewed as illustrative guideposts, however, rather
than definitive, exhaustive predictions or stark choices."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Archick, Kristin
2005-03-08
-
Voting in the Senate: Forms and Requirements [Updated March 7, 2005]
"Voting is among the most important public acts of individual Senators. For example, Senators recognize that their decisions often need to be explained to constituents who are interested in knowing why lawmakers voted as they did on various measures or matters. Party leaders, too, understand the importance of voting, for they often try to schedule votes during a time when they believe they can win senatorial support for their objectives. That Senators try never to miss votes is reflected in the high percentage of rollcall votes that they cast. On all recorded votes taken in the chamber, Senators, on average, cast votes over 95% of the time. There are three ways of voting in the Senate: voice, division, and yea and nay (also called rollcall or recorded) votes. Neither voice nor division votes are recognized in the rules of the Senate. Instead, they are permitted by precedent. Senate Rule XII outlines voting procedure in the chamber and explicitly identifies 'the yeas and nays.'."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Oleszek, Walter J.
2005-03-07
-
Lebanon [Updated March 7, 2005]
"The United States and Lebanon continue to enjoy good relations. Prominent current issues between the United States and Lebanon include progress toward a Lebanon-Israel peace treaty, U.S. aid to Lebanon, and Lebanon's capacity to stop Hizballah militia attacks on Israel. The United States supports Lebanon's independence and favored the end of Israeli and Syrian occupation of parts of Lebanon. Israel withdrew from southern Lebanon on May 23, 2000, and three recent withdrawals have reduced the Syrian military presence from 30,000 to 16,000. A large Lebanese-American community follows U.S.-Lebanon relations closely. Presidents Eisenhower and Reagan said the United States had 'vital' interests in Lebanon, but others might describe U.S. interests in Lebanon as less than vital. At the invitation of the Lebanese government, the United States intervened in Lebanon to defend Lebanese sovereignty in 1958 and 1982. In a Beirut terror bombing in October 1983, 241 U.S. armed forces personnel died. From 1987 until July 1997, the United States banned travel to Lebanon because of the threat of kidnapping and dangers from the ongoing civil war."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Mark, Clyde R.
2005-03-07
-
Iran: U.S. Concerns and Policy Responses [Updated March 7, 2005]
"The Bush Administration has pursued several avenues to attempt to contain or end the potential threat posed by Iran, at times pursuing limited engagement, and at other times leaning toward pursuing efforts to change Iran's regime. Some experts believe a potential crisis is looming over Iran's nuclear program because the Bush Administration is skeptical that efforts by several European allies to prevent a nuclear breakout by Iran will succeed. Some advocate military action against Iran's nuclear infrastructure, but others believes that a combination of diplomatic and economic rewards and punishment are the only viable options on the nuclear issue. U.S. sanctions currently in effect ban or strictly limit U.S. trade, aid, and investment in Iran and penalize foreign firms that invest in Iran's energy sector, but unilateral U.S. sanctions do not appear to have materially slowed Iran's WMD programs to date."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Katzman, Kenneth
2005-03-07
-
Egypt-United States Relations [March 7, 2005]
"U.S.-Egyptian relations are aimed at maintaining regional stability, improving bilateral relations, continuing military cooperation, and sustaining the March 1979 Egyptian- Israeli peace treaty. Experience gained from Egyptian-U.S. joint military exercises proved valuable in easing coordination during the February 1991 Desert Storm operation to reverse Iraqi aggression against Kuwait. Egypt is seen by U.S. policy makers as a leader and moderating influence among many Arab, African, Islamic, and Third World states. Among the current issues in U.S.-Egyptian relations are a shared concern about international terrorism. Egypt can claim some experience with the subject, having defeated domestic Islamic terrorists intent on overthrowing the Egyptian government. The two countries disagree over the speed and depth, but not the need for some of Egypt's economic reforms. Egypt and the United States agree on the importance of the Egyptian-Israeli peace treaty, the need to continue current Arab-Israel peace talks, and the need for regional stability. The two nations agree on Egypt's need to introduce democratic reforms in Egypt, although critics argue that Egypt is not moving quickly enough toward full democracy or in improving the human rights situation. The United States has provided Egypt with an annual average of over $2 billion in economic and military foreign assistance since 1979. The United States will reduce Economic Support Funds (ESF) to about $400 million per year by 2008 in keeping with a plan to reduce aid to Israel. The Administration requested $575 million in economic grants and $1.3 billion in military grants for FY2004 for Egypt."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Mark, Clyde R.
2005-03-07
-
Agricultural Biotechnology: Background and Recent Issues [March 7, 2005]
"Since the first genetically engineered (GE) crops (also called GM [genetically modified] crops, or GMOs, genetically modified organisms) became commercially available in the mid-1990s, U.S. soybean, cotton, and corn farmers have rapidly adopted them. As adoption has spread, there have been policy debates over the costs and benefits of GE products. Issues include the impacts of GE crops on the environment and food safety, and whether GE foods should be specially labeled. Underlying these issues is the question of whether U.S. regulation and oversight of biotechnology -- with responsibilities spread primarily among the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) -- remain appropriate, particularly as newer applications (e.g., biopharmaceuticals -- drugs manufactured with the use of GE crops or animals) emerge that did not exist when the current regulatory regime was established."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Becker, Geoffrey S.
2005-03-07
-
Israeli-United States Relations [Updated March 7, 2005]
"Israeli-U.S. relations are an important factor in U.S. policy in the Middle East, and Congress has placed considerable emphasis on the maintenance of a close and supportive relationship. The main vehicle for expressing support for Israel has been foreign aid; Israel currently receives about $3 billion per year in economic and military grants, refugee settlement assistance, and other aid. Congress has monitored aid closely along with other issues in bilateral relations, and its concerns have affected Administration's policies. U.S.-Israeli relations have evolved from an initial American policy of sympathy and support for the creation of a Jewish homeland in 1948 to an unusual partnership that links a small but militarily powerful Israel, dependent on the United States for its economic and military strength, with the U.S. superpower trying to balance competing interests in the region. Some in the United States question the levels of aid and general commitment to Israel, and argue that a U.S. bias toward Israel operates at the expense of improved U.S. relations with various Arab states. Others maintain that democratic Israel is a strategic ally; they further argue that U.S. relations with Israel strengthens the U.S. presence in the Middle East."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Mark, Clyde R.
2005-03-07
-
Israel: U.S. Foreign Assistance [March 7, 2005]
"Israel is not economically self-sufficient, and relies on foreign assistance and borrowing to maintain its economy. Since 1985, the United States has provided $3 billion in grants annually to Israel. Since 1976, Israel has been the largest annual recipient of U.S. foreign assistance, and is the largest cumulative recipient since World War II. In addition to U.S. assistance, it is estimated that Israel receives about $1 billion annually through philanthropy, an equal amount through short- and long- term commercial loans, and around $1 billion in Israel Bonds proceeds. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu told a joint session of Congress on July 10, 1996, that Israel would reduce its need for U.S. aid over the next four years. In January 1998, Finance Minister Neeman proposed eliminating the $1.2 billion economic aid and increasing the $1.8 billion in military aid by $60 million per year during a 10-year period beginning in the year 2000. The FY1999 through 2005 appropriations bills included cuts of $120 million in economic aid and an increases of $60 million in military aid for each year."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Mark, Clyde R.
2005-03-07
-
Homeland Security: Compendium of Recommendations Relevant to House Committee Organization and Analysis of Considerations for the House [Updated March 7, 2005]
"This report has been updated with an epilogue on the creation of a standing House Committee on Homeland Security in the 109th Congress. The original report was not changed; its summary follows: The 9/11 Commission and other commissions and think tanks studying homeland security recommended congressional committee reorganization to increase Congress's policy and oversight coordination. This report analyzes selected recommendations relevant to House committee reorganization. In the 108th Congress, the House created a Select Committee on Homeland Security, and charged it with studying the rules of the House with respect to the issue of homeland security. The select committee recommended a standing Committee on Homeland Security. This report digests the select committee's recommendations."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Koempel, Michael L.
2005-03-07
-
European Union Enlargement [Updated March 7, 2005]
From the Summary: "On May 1, 2004, 10 states joined the European Union (EU), enlarging the Union to 25 members. The EU views the enlargement process as an historic opportunity to promote stability in Europe and further the integration of the continent by peaceful means. In addition to the 10 new members (Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, and Slovenia), Bulgaria and Romania hope to accede to the EU by 2007. Turkey and Croatia are expected to begin accession negotiations in 2005 provided they fulfill certain political conditions. Macedonia has also applied for EU membership. This report will be updated as necessary. For additional information, see CRS [Congressional Research Service] Report RS21372, 'The European Union: Questions and Answers', and CRS Report RL32071, 'Turkey: Update on Selected Issues'."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Archick, Kristin
2005-03-07
-
European Union's 'Constitution' [March 7, 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. This new 'constitution' grew out of the 2002-2003 Convention on the Future of Europe and previous EU efforts to institute internal reforms ahead of the Union's expansion from 15 members to 25 in May 2004. The 'constitution' aims to enable a larger EU to operate effectively and prevent gridlock, but it must still be ratified by all member states before it enters into force. This report provides background information on the Convention and describes the EU 'constitution,' its key provisions, next steps, and possible implications for the U.S.-EU relationship. 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'."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Archick, Kristin
2005-03-07
-
European Union in 2005 and Beyond [Updated March 7, 2005]
From the Summary: "The European Union (EU) experienced significant changes in 2004 as it enlarged from 15 to 25 members and continued work on a new constitutional treaty to institute internal reforms and further EU political integration. In 2005, the EU is expected to build on these efforts and seek to implement several recent foreign policy and defense initiatives. This report describes the current status of the EU's 'constitution,' EU enlargement, the EU's evolving foreign and defense policies, 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.'"
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Archick, Kristin
2005-03-07
-
European Union: Questions and Answers [Updated March 7, 2005]
From the Summary: "This report provides answers to key questions related to the European Union (EU). It describes the EU's evolution, its 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. It will be updated as events warrant. For more information, see CRS [Congressional Research Service] Report RS21344, 'European Union Enlargement', and CRS Issue Brief IB10087, 'U.S.-European Union Trade Relations: Issues and Policy Challenges'."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Archick, Kristin
2005-03-07
-
Drug Trafficking and North Korea [Updated March 4, 2005]
"At least 50 documented incidents in more than 20 countries around the world, many involving arrest or detention of North Korean diplomats, link North Korea to drug trafficking. Such events, in the context of credible, but unproven, allegations of large scale state sponsorship of drug production and trafficking, raise important issues for the United States and its allies in combating international drug trafficking. The challenge to policy makers is how to pursue an effective counter drug policy and comply with U.S. law which may require cutting off aid to North Korea while pursuing other high-priority U.S. foreign policy objectives including: (1) limiting possession and production of weapons of mass destruction; (2) limiting ballistic missile production and export; (3) curbing terrorism, counterfeiting, and international crime; and (4) addressing humanitarian needs."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Perl, Raphael
2005-03-04
-
Mexico-United States Dialogue on Migration and Border Issues, 2001-2005 [Updated March 4, 2005]
"This report, which will be updated periodically, focuses on the interactions between Mexico and the United States on migration and border issues during the administrations of President George W. Bush and President Vicente Fox of Mexico. These discussions have been sustained despite less-than-expected progress following the terrorist attacks upon the United States in 2001 and disagreements over policy in Iraq in 2003. The discussions and agreements fall predominantly into three areas: (1) the bilateral migration talks, (2) the Partnership for Prosperity, and (3) the Border Partnership Agreement. These topics will be addressed in a trilateral fashion when Mexican President Fox and Canadian Prime Minister Martin meet with President Bush at his ranch in Crawford, Texas, on March 23, 2005."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Storrs, K. Larry (Keith Larry), 1937-
2005-03-04
-
Caspian Oil and Gas: Production and Prospects [March 4, 2005]
"There is a likelihood of relatively large reserves of crude oil and natural gas in the Caspian Sea region, and a consequent large increase in oil and natural gas production from that area. Because diversity of energy sources and energy security are considerations in Congressional deliberations on energy policy, this prospect could play a role in such discussions. However, there are obstacles to increases in Caspian Sea region production of oil and gas that may slow development. This report will be updated as events warrant."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Gelb, Bernard A.
2005-03-04
-
United States Aid to the Palestinians [March 4, 2005]
"United States economic assistance for the Palestinians has averaged about $85 million per year since Israel and the PLO [Palestine Liberation Organization] signed the 1993 Declaration of Principles. Congress wants to ensure that U.S. assistance is used for legitimate humanitarian projects and that no U.S. aid is diverted for military or terrorist use against Israel. 'United States Aid to the Palestinians' provides a description of the aid program and tables with annual amounts for the Palestinians. The report will be updated as necessary."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Mark, Clyde R.
2005-03-04
-
Financial Action Task Force: An Overview [March 4, 2005]
"The National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States, or the 9/11 Commission, recommended that tracking terrorist financing 'must remain front and center in U.S. counterterrorism efforts.' As part of these efforts, the United States plays a leading role in the Financial Action Task Force on Money Laundering (FATF). The independent, intergovernmental policy-making body was established by the 1989 G-7 Summit in Paris as a result of growing concerns among the Summit participants about the threat posed to the international banking system by money laundering. After September 11, 2001, the body expanded its role to include identifying sources and methods of terrorist financing and adopted eight Special Recommendations on terrorist financing to track terrorists' funds. This report provides an overview of the Task Force and of its progress to date in gaining broad international support for its Recommendations. This report will be updated as warranted by events."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Jackson, James K., 1949-
2005-03-04
