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Human Rights in China and U.S. Policy: Issues for the 113th Congress [March 15, 2013]

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"This report examines human rights issues in the People's Republic of China (PRC), including ongoing rights abuses, legal reforms, and the development of civil society. Major events of the past year include the PRC leadership transition, the Wukan protests over land expropriation, the negotiations that allowed legal advocate Chen Guangcheng to leave China, and the Tibetan self-immolations. Ongoing human rights problems include excessive use of force by public security forces, unlawful detention, torture of detainees, arbitrary use of state security laws against political dissidents and ethnic groups, coercive family planning practices, persecution of unsanctioned religious activity, state control of information, and mistreatment of North Korean refugees. Tibetans, Uighur Muslims, and Falun Gong adherents continue to receive especially harsh treatment. For additional information and policy options, see CRS [Congressional Research Service] Report R41007, 'Understanding China's Political System', by Susan V. Lawrence and Michael F. Martin, and the U.S. Department of State's 'Country Reports on Human Rights Practices for 2011.'"

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-

2013-03-15
Human Rights in China and U.S. Policy [July 18, 2011]

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"This report examines human rights conditions in China, including the 2011 crackdown on rights activists and dissent; ongoing human rights abuses; recent PRC [People's Republic of China] efforts to protect human rights; and the development of civil society. Ongoing human rights problems in China include the excessive use of violence by public security forces, unlawful detention, torture of detainees, arbitrary use of state security laws against political dissidents, coercive family planning policies, state control of information, and religious and ethnic persecution. Tibetans, Uighur Muslims, and Falun Gong adherents have been singled out for especially harsh treatment. For additional, comprehensive information about human rights conditions in China, see the Congressional- Executive Commission on China, 'Annual Report 2010', and the U.S. Department of State, '2010 Human Rights Report: China'. [...] The United States government has developed a comprehensive array of policy tools aimed toward promoting democracy, human rights, and the rule of law in China, but their effects have been felt primarily along the margins of the PRC political system. U.S. government efforts to promote human rights in China have included sanctions; openly criticizing PRC human rights policies and calling for the release of political prisoners; bilateral dialogue; 'quiet diplomacy;' and hearings and investigations. The U.S. Congress has appropriated funding for democracy, human rights, rule of law, environmental, and other programs in China, including Tibet, and supported Internet freedom and public diplomacy efforts aimed at the PRC. Some policy makers contend that U.S. engagement with China has failed to produce meaningful political reform and improvements in human rights conditions. Other experts argue that engagement has helped to advance economic and social change in China, to develop social and legal foundations for democracy and human rights, and to open channels through which to directly communicate U.S. concerns."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-

2011-07-18
U.S. Foreign Aid to East and South Asia: Selected Recipients [Updated May 1, 2008]

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"This report analyzes annual budget justifications and legislation for foreign operations appropriations and discusses U.S. foreign aid trends, programs, and restrictions in 16 East Asian and South Asian countries. This report does not cover aid to Pacific Island nations, North Korea, and Afghanistan. Since the war on terrorism began in 2001 and the Millennium Challenge Account (MCA) and Global HIV/AIDS Initiative (GHAI) were launched in 2004, the United States has increased foreign aid spending dramatically in some regions, including East and South Asia. The United States has raised military, economic, and development assistance primarily for counterterrorism objectives in the East Asia- Pacific (EAP) and South Asia regions, with Pakistan, India, the Philippines, and Indonesia receiving the bulk of the increases. In 2007, the Bush Administration restructured U.S. foreign aid programs to better serve the goal of transformational development, which places greater emphasis on U.S. security and democracy building as the chief goals of foreign aid. […]. This report will be updated periodically to reflect new data."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-

2008-05-01
U.S. Foreign Aid to East and South Asia: Selected Recipients [Updated February 25, 2008]

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"This report analyzes annual budget justifications and legislation for foreign operations appropriations and discusses U.S. foreign aid trends, programs, and restrictions in 16 East Asian and South Asian countries. It does not cover aid to Pacific Island nations, North Korea, and Afghanistan. Country tables do not include assistance from U.S. State Department programs funded outside the foreign operations budget, such as educational and cultural exchange programs, and assistance from other departments and agencies. Since the war on terrorism began in 2001 and the Millennium Challenge Account (MCA) and Global HIV/AIDS Initiative (GHAI) were launched in 2004, the United States has increased foreign aid spending dramatically in some regions, including East and South Asia. The United States has raised military, economic, and development assistance primarily for counterterrorism objectives in the East Asia- Pacific (EAP) and South Asia regions, with Pakistan, India, the Philippines, and Indonesia receiving the bulk of the increases. In 2007, the Bush Administration restructured U.S. foreign aid programs to better serve the goal of transformational development, which places greater emphasis on U.S. security and democracy building as the chief goals of foreign aid."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-

2008-02-25
U.S. Foreign Aid to East and South Asia: Selected Recipients [Updated May 16, 2008]

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This is an updated CRS report which discuses United States foreign aid operations in East and South Asia. More specifically, this report "analyzes annual budget justifications and legislation for foreign operations appropriations and discusses U.S. foreign aid trends, programs, and restrictions in 16 East Asian and South Asian countries. It does not cover aid to Pacific Island nations, North Korea, and Afghanistan. Country tables do not include assistance from U.S. State Department programs funded outside the foreign operations budget, such as educational and cultural exchange programs, and assistance from other departments and agencies. Since the war on terrorism began in 2001 and the Millennium Challenge Account [MCA] and Global HIV/AIDS Initiative [GHAI] were launched in 2004, the United States has increased foreign aid spending dramatically in some regions, including East and South Asia. The United States has raised military, economic, and development assistance primarily for counterterrorism objectives in the East Asia- Pacific [EAP] and South Asia regions, with Pakistan, India, the Philippines, and Indonesia receiving the bulk of the increases. In 2007, the Bush Administration restructured U.S. foreign aid programs to better serve the goal of transformational development, which places greater emphasis on U.S. security and democracy building as the chief goals of foreign aid." Furthermore, in terms of current foreign aid, "the FY2008 budget for the East Asian countries that are covered in this report represented a slight increase compared to FY2007. The FY2008 budget raised assistance to South Asian countries by 8%, according to estimates."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-

2008-05-16
U.S. Foreign Aid to East and South Asia: Selected Recipients [Updated August 22, 2007]

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"This report analyzes annual budget justifications and legislation for foreign operations and discusses U.S. foreign aid trends, programs, and restrictions in 16 East Asian and South Asian countries. This report does not cover aid to Pacific Island nations, North Korea, and Afghanistan. Since the war on terrorism began in 2001 and the Millennium Challenge Account (MCA) and Global HIV/AIDS Initiative (GHAI) were launched in 2004, the United States has increased foreign aid spending dramatically in some regions. The United States has raised military, economic, and development assistance primarily for counterterrorism objectives in the East Asia-Pacific (EAP) and South Asia regions, with Pakistan, India, the Philippines, and Indonesia receiving the bulk of the increases. Average annual funding for the EAP region (excluding North Korea) during 2002-2006 was $494 million compared to $368 million in 2001. Annual foreign aid spending for South Asia (excluding Afghanistan) during 2002-2006 averaged $953 million compared to $201 million in 2001. The new Strategic Framework for U.S. Foreign Assistance groups foreign aid objectives into five categories as part of the Bush Administration's overarching goal of transformational diplomacy: peace and security; governing justly and democratically; investing in people; economic growth; and humanitarian assistance. Counterterrorism efforts, democracy building, and the MCA are major, complimentary components of the Administration's foreign aid policy, which promotes good governance as a crucial condition for both development and global security. The United States has restricted foreign assistance to many countries in East and South Asia in order to encourage democracy."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-

2007-08-22
Southwest Pacific: U.S. Interests and China's Growing Influence [July 6, 2007]

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"This report focuses on the 14 sovereign nations of the Southwest Pacific, or Pacific Islands region, and the major external powers (the United States, Australia, New Zealand, France, Japan, and China). It provides an explanation of the region's main geographical, political, and economic characteristics and discusses United States interests in the Pacific and the increased influence of China, which has become a growing force in the region. The report describes policy options as considered at the Pacific Islands Conference of Leaders, held in Washington, DC, in March 2007. Although small in total population (approximately 8 million) and relatively low in economic development, the Southwest Pacific is strategically important. The United States plays an overarching security role in the region, but it is not the only provider of security, nor the principal source of foreign aid. It has relied upon Australia and New Zealand to help promote development and maintain political stability in the region. Key components of U.S. engagement in the Pacific include its territories (Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and American Samoa), the Freely Associated States (Marshall Islands, Micronesia, and Palau), military bases on Guam and Kwajalein atoll (Marshall Islands), and relatively limited aid and economic programs. Some experts argue that U.S. involvement in the Southwest Pacific has waned since the end of the Cold War, leaving a power vacuum, and that the United States should pay greater attention to the region and its problems."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-; Vaughn, Bruce, 1963-

2007-07-06
Cambodia: Background and U.S. Relations [Updated July 18, 2007]

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"The United States and Cambodia maintain strong ties through aid and trade. Despite foreign aid restrictions, Cambodia is the third largest recipient of United States assistance in Southeast Asia after Indonesia and the Philippines. Most U.S. assistance has been channeled through the many non-governmental organizations that are active in the country. The United States is the largest overseas market for Cambodian goods, mostly textiles and apparel. With the termination of quotas on textiles by WTO member states in 2005, Cambodian exports are threatened by competition from China. Cambodia and other least developed countries (LDCs) are pressing the United States to grant their garment exports preferential treatment. Cambodia has made some notable progress, with outside help, in controlling the spread of infectious diseases, such as HIV/AIDS and avian flu, holding elections that are at least procedurally democratic, nurturing a civil society, engaging in counterterrorism efforts, and developing its economy. A number of significant problems remain, however. Weak legal and financial institutions, corruption, political uncertainty, and the autocratic tendencies of Prime Minister Hun Sen have discouraged foreign investment and strained U.S.-Cambodian relations. This report provides historical context, discusses political and economic developments in Cambodia, and raises policy issues regarding U.S.-Cambodian relations. These issues include U.S. foreign assistance to Cambodia, HIV/AIDS, human rights, terrorism, bilateral trade, the Khmer Rouge tribunal, and Cambodia's relations with China. This report will be updated periodically."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-

2007-07-18
Social Unrest in China [Updated June 12, 2006]

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"In the past few years, the People's Republic of China (PRC) has experienced rising social unrest, including protests, demonstrations, picketing, and group petitioning. According to PRC official sources, 'public order disturbances' grew by nearly 50% from 58,000 incidents in 2003 to 87,000 in 2005. Although political observers have described social unrest among farmers and workers since the early 1990s, recent protest activities have been broader in scope, larger in average size, greater in frequency, and more brash than those of a decade ago. Fears of greater unrest have triggered debates with the Communist Party leadership about the pace of economic reforms and the proper way to respond to protesters. Workers in state-owned enterprises and the special economic zones producing goods for export, peasants and urban residents who have lost their farmland or homes to development projects, and others have engaged in mass protests, some of them violent, often after having exhausted legal channels for resolving grievances. A December 2005 clash between villagers and police in Dongzhou village, southeastern Guangdong province, in which 3-20 villagers were killed, has became a symbol of the depth of anger of those with grievances and the inability of Chinese administrative, legal, and political institutions to resolve disputes peacefully. U.S. interests regarding social unrest in China include human rights concerns, ongoing U.S.-funded democracy and rule-of-law programs in the country, the effects of social unrest on U.S. investments in China, and the effects on PRC foreign policy."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-

2006-06-12
U.S. Foreign Aid to East and South Asia: Selected Recipients [Updated August 27, 2006]

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"Since the war on terrorism began in 2001, and the Bush Administration's Millennium Challenge Account (MCA) and Global HIV/AIDS Initiative (GHAI) were initiated in 2004, the United States has increased foreign aid spending dramatically in some regions. The United States has raised military, economic, and development assistance primarily for anti-terrorism objectives in the East Asia- Pacific (EAP) and South Asia regions, with Pakistan, India, the Philippines, and Indonesia receiving the bulk of the increases. Average annual funding for the EAP region (excluding North Korea) during 2002-2006 was $494 million compared to $368 million in 2001. Annual foreign aid spending for South Asia (excluding Afghanistan) during 2002-2006 averaged $953 million compared to $201 million in 2001. The United States government has acknowledged other aid recipients, particularly Malaysia, Mongolia, and Thailand, for cooperating with global counterterrorism efforts and for making progress in developing their economies and democratic institutions. As such, the United States acts to advance U.S. foreign policy and national security goals and respond to global development and humanitarian needs through its foreign assistance programs. This report analyzes annual budget justifications and legislation for foreign operations and discusses U.S. foreign aid trends, programs, and restrictions in 16 East Asian and South Asian countries. This report does not cover aid to Pacific Island nations, North Korea, and Afghanistan."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-

2006-08-27
Cambodia: Background and U.S. Relations [Updated October 4, 2007]

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"The United States and Cambodia maintain strong ties through aid and trade. Despite foreign aid restrictions, Cambodia is the third largest recipient of United States assistance in Southeast Asia after Indonesia and the Philippines. Most U.S. assistance has been channeled through the many non-governmental organizations that are active in the country. The United States is the largest overseas market for Cambodian goods, mostly textiles and apparel. With the termination of quotas on textiles by WTO member states in 2005, Cambodian exports are threatened by competition from China. Cambodia and other least developed countries (LDCs) are pressing the United States to grant their garment exports preferential treatment. Cambodia has made some notable progress, with outside help, in controlling the spread of infectious diseases, such as HIV/AIDS and avian flu, holding elections that are at least procedurally democratic, nurturing a civil society, engaging in counterterrorism efforts, and developing its economy. A number of significant problems remain, however. Weak legal and financial institutions, corruption, political uncertainty, and the autocratic tendencies of Prime Minister Hun Sen have discouraged foreign investment and strained U.S.-Cambodian relations. This report provides historical context, discusses political and economic developments in Cambodia, and raises policy issues regarding U.S.-Cambodian relations. These issues include U.S. foreign assistance to Cambodia, HIV/AIDS, human rights, terrorism, bilateral trade, the Khmer Rouge tribunal, and Cambodia's relations with China. This report will be updated periodically."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-

2007-10-04
U.S. Foreign Aid to East and South Asia: Selected Recipients [Updated January 25, 2008]

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"This report analyzes annual budget justifications and legislation for foreign operations appropriations and discusses U.S. foreign aid trends, programs, and restrictions in 16 East Asian and South Asian countries. This report does not cover aid to Pacific Island nations, North Korea, and Afghanistan. Since the war on terrorism began in 2001 and the Millennium Challenge Account (MCA) and Global HIV/AIDS Initiative (GHAI) were launched in 2004, the United States has increased foreign aid spending dramatically in some regions, including East and South Asia. The United States has raised military, economic, and development assistance primarily for counterterrorism objectives in the East Asia- Pacific (EAP) and South Asia regions, with Pakistan, India, the Philippines, and Indonesia receiving the bulk of the increases. In 2007, the Bush Administration restructured U.S. foreign aid programs to better serve the goal of transformational development, which places greater emphasis on U.S. security and democracy building as the chief goals of foreign aid. […]. This report will be updated periodically to reflect new data."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-

2008-01-25
China's 'Soft Power' in Southeast Asia [January 4, 2008]

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"China's growing use of 'soft power' in Southeast Asia-non-military inducements including culture, diplomacy, foreign aid, trade, and investment-has presented new challenges to U.S. foreign policy. By downplaying many conflicting interests and working collaboratively with countries and regional organizations on such issues as territorial disputes and trade, Beijing has largely allayed Southeast Asian concerns that China poses a military or economic threat. China's diplomatic engagement, compared to the perceived waning or limited attention by the United States, has earned the country greater respect in the region. Its rise as a major foreign aid provider and market for Southeast Asian goods has also enhanced its relations with Southeast Asian states. Many analysts contend that China's growing influence may come at the expense of U.S. power and influence in the region. This report provides evidence and analysis of China's soft power in Southeast Asia. It does not discuss the considerable U.S. military presence in the region. The report describes China's evolving diplomacy and more active role in regional organizations such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Although China's foreign aid to Southeast Asia, as in other regions, is difficult to quantify and includes a broader range of economic assistance than official development assistance (ODA) offered by major industrialized nations, it is believed to be relatively large. China is considered to be the 'primary economic patron' of the small but strategically important nations of Burma, Cambodia, and Laos, and also provides considerable economic aid to Indonesia and the Philippines."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-; Morrison, Wayne M.; Vaughn, Bruce, 1963-

2008-01-04
Laos: Background and U.S. Relations [January 7, 2008]

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"The United States and the Lao People's Democratic Republic (LPDR) cooperate in important areas despite disagreements regarding human rights policies in Laos and the LPDR's strong ties with China and Vietnam. Areas of U.S.-Laos cooperation include: the recovery of Americans missing in action (MIAs), counter-narcotics efforts, the removal of land mines, and avian flu. The United States provides relatively little foreign assistance to Laos. Total U.S. assistance to Laos in FY2007 was estimated to be $4.8 million compared to $4.3 million in 2006. Most U.S. aid has focused on counter-narcotics and de-mining efforts. Funding for de-mining efforts declined in 2007 and is likely to decrease further in 2008. New aid program areas include public health, economic development, judicial reform, and civil society. The United States government remains concerned about the plight of former and remaining Hmong insurgents and their families, with ties to the U.S.-backed Hmong guerilla army of the Vietnam War period, who now number some 2,000-3,000 persons. […]. Social and economic conditions in Laos reportedly have improved in some areas. The country was upgraded to Tier 2 on the U.S. State Department's trafficking in persons list (2007) for making significant efforts to curtail trafficking, although significant problems remain. Religious freedom reportedly has improved, particularly in urban areas. Opium production and use have dropped dramatically since 1998. The country reportedly has made progress in deepening economic reforms as it prepares to apply for membership in the World Trade Organization (WTO). This report will be updated as warranted."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-

2008-01-07
Laos: Background and U.S. Relations [Updated February 5, 2007]

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"For several years, U.S.-Laos relations were dominated by the debate over whether to grant normal trade relations status to Laos. On November 19, 2004, Congress approved legislation that granted nondiscriminatory treatment to the products of Laos. The Lao government's alleged poor treatment of former CIA-trained Hmong guerillas was a key factor in the debate and remains a point of contention between the two countries. The United States and Laos cooperate in important areas, including recovering remains of Americans missing in action (MIAs) from the Vietnam War, counter-narcotics and de-mining efforts. "

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-

2007-02-05
Cambodia: Background and U.S. Relations [January 3, 2007]

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"Major U.S. goals in Cambodia include promoting good governance, democracy, and human rights, reducing the threat of terrorism, facilitating trade, and bringing Khmer Rouge leaders to justice. Several bills introduced in the 109th Congress reflected human rights concerns regarding Cambodia. The United States has prohibited many forms of assistance to the Central Government of Cambodia following Prime Minister Hun Sen's unlawful seizure of power in 1997. The United States has also withheld assistance for the Khmer Rouge tribunal, set up to try leaders of the Communist Party of Kampuchea for crimes against humanity, unless standards of judicial independence and fairness are met. Despite foreign aid restrictions, Cambodia remains the third largest recipient of United States assistance in Southeast Asia after Indonesia and the Philippines, much of it channeled through non-governmental organizations. The United States is the largest overseas market for Cambodian goods, mostly textiles and apparel. With the termination of quotas on textiles by WTO member states in 2005, Cambodian exports are threatened by competition from China. Cambodia and other least developed countries (LDCs) are pressing the United States to grant their garment exports preferential treatment. This report provides historical context, discusses political and economic developments in Cambodia, and raises policy issues regarding U.S.-Cambodian relations. These issues include U.S. foreign assistance to Cambodia, HIV/AIDS, human rights, terrorism, bilateral trade, the Khmer Rouge tribunal, and Cambodia's relations with China. This report will be updated periodically."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-

2007-01-03
U.S. Foreign Aid to East and South Asia: Selected Recipients [Updated January 3, 2007]

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"The Bush Administration has emphasized using foreign aid to promote democracy which it sees as advancing global development and U.S. strategic interests. The United States restricts foreign assistance to many countries in East and South Asia in order to encourage democracy or discourage the spread of nuclear weapons capabilities. Several countries in Asia - including Burma, Cambodia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Pakistan - face constraints or conditions on U.S. bilateral assistance because of past or ongoing human rights violations. In 2005, the Bush Administration resumed full military assistance to Indonesia, based upon the satisfaction of legislative conditions and national security grounds. The FY2006 foreign operations appropriations measure renewed the President's waiver authority on coup-related sanctions against Pakistan. The President certified the waiver on February 8, 2006, thus making U.S. foreign assistance available to Pakistan for another year."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-

2007-01-03
U.S. Foreign Aid to East and South Asia: Selected Recipients [June 15, 2007]

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"This report analyzes annual budget justifications and legislation for foreign operations and discusses U.S. foreign aid trends, programs, and restrictions in 16 East Asian and South Asian countries. This report does not cover aid to Pacific Island nations, North Korea, and Afghanistan. Since the war on terrorism began in 2001 and the Millennium Challenge Account (MCA) and Global HIV/AIDS Initiative (GHAI) were launched in 2004, the United States has increased foreign aid spending dramatically in some regions. The United States has raised military, economic, and development assistance primarily for counterterrorism objectives in the East Asia-Pacific (EAP) and South Asia regions, with Pakistan, India, the Philippines, and Indonesia receiving the bulk of the increases. Average annual funding for the EAP region (excluding North Korea) during 2002-2006 was $494 million compared to $368 million in 2001. Annual foreign aid spending for South Asia (excluding Afghanistan) during 2002-2006 averaged $953 million compared to $201 million in 2001. The United States has acknowledged other aid recipients, particularly Malaysia and Mongolia, for cooperating with global counter-terrorism efforts and for making progress in developing their economies and democratic institutions. […] Due to the late enactment of the Continuing Appropriations Resolution for FY2007, support for many foreign operations programs in FY2007 have not yet been specified, but can be expected to remain near FY2006 levels. Estimated country allocations are expected later in 2007. This report includes requested funding from the FY2008 Congressional Budget Justification for Foreign Operations."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-

2007-06-15
China and Falun Gong [May 25, 2006]

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"In 1999, the 'Falun Gong' movement gave rise to the largest and most protracted public demonstrations in China since the democracy movement of a decade earlier. The People's Republic of China (PRC) government, fearful of a political challenge and the spread of social unrest, outlawed Falun Gong and carried out an intensive, comprehensive, and unforgiving campaign against the movement. Since 2003, Falun Gong has been largely suppressed or pushed deep underground in China while it has thrived in overseas Chinese communities and Hong Kong. The spiritual exercise group has become highly visible in the United States since 1999, staging demonstrations, distributing flyers, and sponsoring cultural events. In addition, Falun Gong followers are affiliated with several mass media outlets. Despite the group's tenacity and political activities overseas, it has not formed the basis of a dissident movement encompassing other social and political groups from China. [...] Since 1999, some Members of the United States Congress have made many public pronouncements and introduced several resolutions in support of Falun Gong and criticizing China's human rights record. In the 109th Congress, H.Res. 608, introduced on December 14, 2005, would condemn the 'escalating levels of religious persecution' in China, including the 'brutal campaign to eradicate Falun Gong.' H.Res. 794, introduced on May 3, 2006, would call upon the PRC to end its most egregious human rights abuses, including the persecution of Falun Gong. In January 2006, U.S. citizen Charles Li was released from a PRC prison after serving a three-year term for 'intending to sabotage' broadcasting equipment in China on behalf of Falun Gong."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-

2006-05-25
U.S. Assistance Programs in China [May 11, 2012]

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"This report examines U.S. foreign assistance activities in the People's Republic of China (PRC), including U.S. Department of State and U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) programming, foreign operations appropriations, policy history, and legislative background. International programs supported by U.S. departments and agencies other than the Department of State and USAID are not covered in this report. U.S. foreign assistance efforts in the PRC aim to promote human rights, democracy, the rule of law, and environmental conservation in China and Tibet and to support Tibetan livelihoods and culture. The United States Congress has played a leading role in initiating programs and determining funding levels for these objectives. Congressionally mandated rule of law, civil society, public participation, and related programs together constitute an important component of U.S. human rights policy towards China. According to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, the United States is the largest provider of 'government and civil society' programming among major bilateral foreign aid donors."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-

2012-05-11
U.S. Foreign Aid to East and South Asia: Selected Recipients [April 10, 2002]

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"The U.S. war on terrorism has given new impetus to U.S. aid to Asia. In addition to the goals of alleviating poverty, encouraging democratic social and political forces, fostering economic growth and stability, and cultivating bilateral relations in Asia, since September 2001, the United States has redoubled its efforts in fighting terrorism in parts of the region. This report discusses changing U.S. aid programs for 16 East Asian and South Asian countries."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-

2002-04-10
China's Trade with the United States and the World [Updated January 4, 2007]

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"As imports from the People's Republic of China (PRC) have surged in recent years, posing a threat to some U.S. industries and manufacturing employment, Congress has begun to focus on not only access to the Chinese market and intellectual property rights (IPO) protection, but also the mounting U.S. trade deficit with China as well as allegations that China is selling its products on the international market at below cost (dumping), engaging in 'currency manipulation,' and exploiting its workers. Members of the 109th Congress have introduced several bills that would impose trade sanctions on China for not revaluing its currency or for engaging in other acts of unfair trade, while the Bush Administration has imposed anti-dumping duties and safeguards against some PRC products and pressured China to revalue its currency and remove non-tariff trade barriers."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-; Nanto, Dick Kazuyuki

2007-01-04
China's Trade with the United States and the World [May 3, 2002]

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"This report provides basic data and analysis of China's international trade with the United States and with the world. The purpose of this report is both to provide actual data and charts of China's merchandise trade, to highlight certain trends in the trade flows, and to briefly discuss policy options. Both Chinese and trading partner data are presented for China's trade with the United States, Japan, and the European Union. Charts showing import trends by sector for the United States highlight China's growing market shares in many industries and also show import shares for Japan, Canada, Mexico, the European Union, and ASEAN (Association for Southeast Asian Nations). Data on foreign direct investment in China also are included."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-; Nanto, Dick Kazuyuki

2002-05-03
U.S.-China Diplomacy Over Chinese Legal Advocate Chen Guangcheng [May 29, 2012]

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"The case of blind Chinese legal advocate Chen Guangcheng, who escaped from illegal house arrest in China's Shandong Province on April 20, 2012, and made his way to Beijing, the United States Embassy, and, ultimately, the United States, has generated strong congressional interest. While Chen was still in China, some Members questioned whether the U.S. State Department had done enough to ensure Chen's safety, with criticism focused on the State Department's decision to escort Chen from the Embassy to a Beijing hospital on May 2, 2012, and its willingness to accept verbal assurances from the Chinese government that it would ensure a 'safe environment' for Chen in China. With Chen now in the United States, remaining issues for the Administration and Congress include the fate of the family members, supporters, and friends back in China who helped him escape. […] This report begins by examining implications of the Chen case for the place of human rights in U.S.-China relations. It then discusses why Beijing may have been willing to negotiate with the United States at all over the fate of a Chinese citizen inside China. The report highlights the remaining issues in the case, details the understandings reached between the two governments, and then provides background on Chen Guangcheng and a list of his family and other associates in China who may be at risk. The report includes a map showing Chen's home district and Beijing, the city to which he escaped. It also includes a timeline of developments in the case from April 20, 2012, until May 19, 2012, based upon information available at the time of publication."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lawrence, Susan V.; Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-

2012-05-29
Laos: Background and U.S. Relations [Updated January 4, 2010]

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"Laos, one of the poorest countries in Asia, has made some notable political, social, and economic progress in recent years. Religious freedom reportedly has improved, particularly in urban areas. In 2009, the LPDR [Laos People's Democratic Republic] ratified the United Nations International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and promulgated a legal framework for non-governmental organizations. Opium production and use have dropped dramatically since 1998. Between 1988 and 2008, the economy grew by over 6% per year, with the exception of 1997-1998 due to the Asian Financial Crisis. Meanwhile, U.S.-Laos trade has grown rapidly, albeit from a low base. In 2008, total trade between Laos and the United States was valued at $60 million compared to $15 million in 2006. The government has implemented market-oriented reforms, but progress has been slow. Major U.S. policy considerations include urging the Lao government to accept independent, international monitoring of the resettlement of former Lao-Hmong insurgents and Hmong returnees from Thailand; urging the Thai government not to forcibly repatriate Hmong determined to be political refugees; increasing assistance for de-mining activities in Laos; granting trade preferences or tariff relief for Lao products, particularly garments; and developing programs for sustainable management of the Mekong River."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-

2010-01-04
China's Trade with the United States and the World [Updated August 18, 2006]

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"China runs a trade surplus with the world's three major economic centers -- the United States, the European Union, and Japan. Since 2000, the United States has incurred its largest bilateral trade deficit with China ($201 billion in 2005, a 25% rise over 2004). In 2003, China replaced Mexico as the second largest source of imports for the United States. China's share of U.S. imports was 14.6% in 2005, although this proportion still falls short of Japan's 18% of the early 1990s. The United States is China's largest overseas market and second largest source of foreign direct investment on a cumulative basis. U.S. exports to China have been growing rapidly as well, although from a low base. In 2004, China replaced Germany and the United Kingdom to become the fourth largest market for U.S. goods. China is purchasing heavily from its Asian trading partners -- particularly precision machinery, electronic components, and raw materials for manufacturing. China is running trade deficits with Taiwan and South Korea and has become a major buyer of goods from Japan and Southeast Asia. […] This report provides a quantitative framework for policy considerations dealing with U.S. trade with China. It provides basic data and analysis of China's international trade with the United States and other countries. Since Chinese data differ considerably from those of its trading partners (because of how entrepot trade through Hong Kong is counted), data from both PRC [People's Republic of China] sources and those of its trading partners are presented. Charts showing import trends by sector for the United States highlight China's growing market shares in many industries and also show import shares for Japan, Canada, Mexico, the European Union, and the Association for Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). This report will be updated bi-annually."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-; Nanto, Dick Kazuyuki

2006-08-18
Human Rights in China and U.S. Policy: Issues for the 113th Congress [April 8, 2013]

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"This report examines human rights issues in the People's Republic of China (PRC), including ongoing rights abuses, legal reforms, and the development of civil society. Major events of the past year include the PRC leadership transition, the Wukan protests over land expropriation, the negotiations that allowed legal advocate Chen Guangcheng to leave China, and the Tibetan self-immolations. Ongoing human rights problems include excessive use of force by public security forces, unlawful detention, torture of detainees, arbitrary use of state security laws against political dissidents and ethnic groups, coercive family planning practices, persecution of unsanctioned religious activity, state control of information, and mistreatment of North Korean refugees. Tibetans, Uighur Muslims, and Falun Gong adherents continue to receive especially harsh treatment."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-

2013-04-08
U.S.-Funded Assistance Programs in China [May 18, 2007]

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"United States foreign operations appropriations for the People's Republic of China (PRC) primarily support democracy-related programs, particularly rule of law training, and support Tibetan communities. The U.S. Congress has played a leading role in providing funding for such programs, which has grown from $10 million in FY2002 to $23 million in FY2006. Major funding areas include legal training, legal aid, criminal defense, labor rights, and non-governmental organization (NGO) development in China, monitoring human rights conditions in the PRC from outside China, and preserving Tibetan culture."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-

2007-05-18
Human Rights in China and U.S. Policy: Issues for the 113th Congress [May 6, 2013]

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"This report examines human rights issues in the People's Republic of China (PRC), including ongoing rights abuses, legal reforms, and the development of civil society. Major events of the past year include the PRC leadership transition, the Wukan protests over land expropriation, the negotiations that allowed legal advocate Chen Guangcheng to leave China, and the Tibetan self-immolations. Ongoing human rights problems include excessive use of force by public security forces, unlawful detention, torture of detainees, arbitrary use of state security laws against political dissidents and ethnic groups, coercive family planning practices, persecution of unsanctioned religious activity, state control of information, and mistreatment of North Korean refugees. Tibetans, Uighur Muslims, and Falun Gong adherents continue to receive especially harsh treatment."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-

2013-05-06
U.S. Assistance Programs in China [May 9, 2013]

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"This report examines U.S. foreign assistance activities in the People's Republic of China (PRC), particularly U.S. Department of State and U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) programming, foreign operations appropriations, policy history, and legislative background. International programs supported by U.S. departments and agencies other than the Department of State and USAID are not covered in this report. U.S. foreign assistance efforts in the PRC aim to promote human rights, democracy, the rule of law, and environmental conservation in China (including Tibet) and to support Tibetan livelihoods and culture. The United States Congress has played a leading role in determining program priorities and funding levels for these objectives. Congressionally mandated rule of law, civil society, public participation, and related programs together constitute an important component of U.S. human rights policy toward China. According to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, the United States is the largest provider of 'government and civil society' programming among major bilateral foreign aid donors in China."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-

2013-05-09

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