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Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia: Political Developments and Implications for U.S. Interests [Updated July 12, 2007]
"The United States recognized the independence of Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia when the former Soviet Union broke up at the end of 1991. The United States has fostered these states' ties with the West in part to end the dependence of these states on Russia for trade, security, and other relations. The United States has pursued close ties with Armenia to encourage its democratization and because of concerns by Armenian-Americans and others over its fate. Close ties with Georgia have evolved from U.S. contacts with its pro-Western leadership. The Bush Administration supports U.S. private investment in Azerbaijan's energy sector as a means of increasing the diversity of world energy suppliers and to encourage building multiple energy pipelines to world markets. The United States has been active in diplomatic efforts to end conflicts in the region, several of which remain unresolved. The FREEDOM Support Act of 1992 (P.L. 102-511) authorizes assistance to the Eurasian states for humanitarian needs, democratization, creation of market economies, trade and investment, and other purposes. Section 907 of the act prohibits most U.S. government-to-government aid to Azerbaijan until its ceases blockades and other offensive use of force against Armenia. In the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States, the Administration appealed for a national security waiver for Section 907, in consideration of Azerbaijan's support to the international coalition to combat terrorism. In December 2001, Congress approved foreign appropriations for FY2002 (P.L. 107-115) that granted the President authority to waive Section 907, renewable each calendar year under certain conditions."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Nichol, James P.
2007-07-12
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Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia: Political Developments and Implications for U.S. Interests [Updated April 5, 2007]
"The United States recognized the independence of Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia when the former Soviet Union broke up at the end of 1991. The United States has fostered these states' ties with the West in part to end the dependence of these states on Russia for trade, security, and other relations. The United States has pursued close ties with Armenia to encourage its democratization and because of concerns by Armenian-Americans and others over its fate. Close ties with Georgia have evolved from U.S. contacts with its pro-Western leadership. The Bush Administration supports U.S. private investment in Azerbaijan's energy sector as a means of increasing the diversity of world energy suppliers and to encourage building multiple energy pipelines to world markets. The United States has been active in diplomatic efforts to end conflicts in the region, several of which remain unresolved. […]Key issues in the 110th Congress regarding the South Caucasus are likely to focus on bolstering Georgia's democratization and security; Azerbaijan's energy development; and Armenia's independence and economic development. At the same time, concerns might include the status of democratization and human rights in Azerbaijan, the on-going Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict over the breakaway Nagorno Karabakh region, and threats posed to Georgia by ongoing separatism and Russian actions. Congress will likely scrutinize Armenia's and Georgia's reform progress as recipients of Millennium Challenge Account grants."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Nichol, James P.
2007-04-05
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Afghanistan: Post-War Governance, Security, and U.S. Policy [Updated November 1, 2007]
"Assessments of the U.S. effort to stabilize Afghanistan are mixed and subject to debate. The political transition was completed with the convening of a parliament in December 2005; a new constitution was adopted in January 2004, successful presidential elections were held on October 9, 2004, and parliamentary elections took place on September 18, 2005. The parliament has become an arena for factions that have fought each other for nearly three decades to debate and peacefully resolve differences. Afghan citizens are enjoying personal freedoms forbidden by the Taliban. Women are participating in economic and political life, including as ministers, provincial governors, and parliament leaders. However, the insurgency led by supporters of the Taliban movement and Al Qaeda continues to challenge U.S. and other NATO forces, particularly in the south. Contributing to the violence is popular frustration with lack of economic development, official corruption, and the failure to extend Afghan government authority into rural areas. Narcotics trafficking is resisting counter-measures and funding insurgent activity. The Afghan government and some U.S. officials blame Pakistan for failing to prevent Taliban commanders from operating from Pakistan, largely beyond the reach of U.S./NATO-led forces in Afghanistan. Yet, U.S. and NATO commanders pre-empted an anticipated 2007 'spring offensive' by the Taliban with an increase in force levels, accelerated reconstruction efforts, and combat operations. […] To help stabilize Afghanistan, the United States and partner countries are deploying a 41,000 troop NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) that now commands peacekeeping throughout Afghanistan, and running regional enclaves to secure reconstruction (Provincial Reconstruction Teams, PRTs), as well as building an Afghan National Army. […]"
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Katzman, Kenneth
2007-11-01
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Afghanistan: Post-War Governance, Security, and U.S. Policy [Updated October 2, 2007]
"Assessments of the U.S. effort to stabilize Afghanistan are mixed and subject to debate. The political transition was completed with the convening of a parliament in December 2005; a new constitution was adopted in January 2004, successful presidential elections were held on October 9, 2004, and parliamentary elections took place on September 18, 2005. The parliament has become an arena for factions that have fought each other for nearly three decades to debate and peacefully resolve differences. Afghan citizens are enjoying personal freedoms forbidden by the Taliban. Women are participating in economic and political life, including as ministers, provincial governors, and parliament leaders. Despite the national political progress, in 2006 and 2007 the insurgency led by supporters of the Taliban movement escalated after four years of relatively minor violence. Contributing to the renewed violence is popular frustration with lack of economic development, official corruption, and the failure to extend Afghan government authority into rural areas. […]. To help stabilize Afghanistan, the United States and partner countries are deploying a 41,000 troop NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) that now commands peacekeeping throughout Afghanistan, and running regional enclaves to secure reconstruction (Provincial Reconstruction Teams, PRTs), as well as building an Afghan National Army, Approximately 27,000 U.S. troops are in Afghanistan, of which all but about 12,000 are under NATO/ISAF command. To build security institutions and assist reconstruction, the United States has given Afghanistan over $21 billion since the fall of the Taliban, including funds to equip and train Afghan security forces. "
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Katzman, Kenneth
2007-10-02
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Afghanistan: Post-War Governance, Security, and U.S. Policy [Updated September 10, 2007]
"Assessments of the U.S. effort to stabilize Afghanistan are mixed. The political transition was completed with the convening of a parliament in December 2005, but since 2006 insurgent threats to Afghanistan's government have escalated. In the political process, a new constitution was adopted in January 2004, successful presidential elections were held on October 9, 2004, and parliamentary elections took place on September 18, 2005. The parliament has become an arena for factions that have fought each other for nearly three decades to debate and peacefully resolve differences. […] In 2006 and 2007, the insurgency led by remnants of the former Taliban regime has escalated after four years of relatively minor violence. Contributing to the renewed violence is popular frustration with lack of economic development, official corruption, and the failure to extend Afghan government authority into rural areas. […] U.S. and partner stabilization measures include strengthening the central government and its security forces. The United States and other countries are building an Afghan National Army, deploying a 39,000 troop NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) that now commands peacekeeping throughout Afghanistan, and running regional enclaves to secure reconstruction (Provincial Reconstruction Teams, PRTs). Approximately 27,000 U.S. troops are in Afghanistan, of which all but about 12,000 are under NATO/ISAF command. To build security institutions and assist reconstruction, the United States has given Afghanistan over $21 billion since the fall of the Taliban, including funds to equip and train Afghan security forces. Breakdowns are shown in the several tables at the end of this paper. Pending legislation, H.R. 2446, would reauthorize the Afghanistan Freedom Support Act of 2002."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Katzman, Kenneth
2007-09-10
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Afghanistan: Post-War Governance, Security, and U.S. Policy [Updated August 9, 2007]
"Assessments of the U.S. effort to stabilize Afghanistan are mixed. The political transition was completed with the convening of a parliament in December 2005, but since 2006 insurgent threats to Afghanistan's government have escalated. In the political process, a new constitution was adopted in January 2004, successful presidential elections were held on October 9, 2004, and parliamentary elections took place on September 18, 2005. The parliament has become an arena for factions that have fought each other for nearly three decades to debate and peacefully resolve differences. Afghan citizens are enjoying personal freedoms forbidden by the Taliban. Women are participating in economic and political life, including as ministers, provincial governors, and parliament leaders. The insurgency led by remnants of the former Taliban regime escalated after four years of minor Taliban militant activity. Contributing to the resurgence was popular frustration with lack of economic development, official corruption, and the failure to extend Afghan government authority into rural areas. Narcotics trafficking is resisting counter-measures and funding insurgent activity. The Afghan government and some U.S. officials blame Pakistan for failing to prevent Taliban commanders from operating from Pakistan, largely beyond the reach of U.S./NATO led forces in Afghanistan. U.S. and NATO commanders anticipated a Taliban 2007 'spring offensive' and moved to preempt it with an increase in force levels and accelerated reconstruction efforts, possibly contributing to a lower level-and changing texture-of combat than expected. However, the Taliban has responded by shifting toward the use of suicide bombings, kidnappings, and other tactics used by insurgents in Iraq."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Katzman, Kenneth
2007-08-09
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Afghanistan: Post-War Governance, Security, and U.S. Policy [Updated June 21, 2007]
"Afghanistan's political transition was completed with the convening of a parliament in December 2005, but since 2006 insurgent threats to Afghanistan's government have escalated to the point that some experts question the prospects for stabilizing Afghanistan. In the political process, a new constitution was adopted in January 2004, successful presidential elections were held on October 9, 2004, and parliamentary elections took place on September 18, 2005. The parliament has become an arena for factions that have fought each other for nearly three decades to debate and peacefully resolve differences. Afghan citizens are enjoying personal freedoms forbidden by the Taliban. Women are participating in economic and political life, including as ministers, provincial governors, and parliament leaders. The insurgency led by remnants of the former Taliban regime escalated in 2006, after four years of minor Taliban militant activity. Contributing to the resurgence was popular frustration with lack of economic development, official corruption, and the failure to extend Afghan government authority into rural areas. Narcotics trafficking is resisting counter-measures and funding insurgent activity. The Afghan government and some U.S. officials blame Pakistan for failing to prevent Taliban commanders from operating from Pakistan, beyond the reach of U.S./NATO-led forces in Afghanistan. U.S. and NATO commanders anticipated a Taliban 2007 'spring offensive' and moved to preempt it with an increase in force levels and accelerated reconstruction efforts, possibly contributing to a lower level-and changing texture-of violence than expected, thus far. U.S. and NATO forces have also killed a few key Taliban battlefield leaders in 2007."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Katzman, Kenneth
2007-06-21
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Afghanistan: Narcotics and U.S. Policy [Updated September 14, 2007]
"Opium poppy cultivation and drug trafficking have become significant negative factors in Afghanistan's fragile political and economic order over the last 25 years. Afghan, U.S., and coalition efforts to provide viable economic alternatives to poppy cultivation and to disrupt corruption and narco-terrorist linkages succeeded in reducing opium poppy cultivation in some areas during 2004 and 2005. However, escalating violence, particularly in Helmand, and widespread corruption fueled a surge in cultivation in 2006 and 2007, pushing opium output to all-time highs. […] President Bush personally stated in February 2007 that narcotics are 'a direct threat to a free future for Afghanistan' and warned that, 'the Taliban uses drug money to buy weapons ... and they pay Afghans to take up arms against the government.' […] In August 2007, the Administration unveiled plans to strengthen counternarcotics efforts through a renewed focus on promoting rural development, coordinating counterinsurgency and counternarcotics, and building political will. Members of the 110th Congress may be asked to consider options for further strengthening counternarcotics efforts. The Administration has requested $1.54 billion in regular and supplemental counternarcotics assistance and related defense funding for Afghanistan and surrounding countries for FY2007 and FY2008. In addition to describing the structure of the Afghan narcotics trade, this report provides current statistical information, profiles the narcotics trade's participants, explores narco-terrorist linkages, and reviews U.S. and international policy responses since late 2001. The report also considers current policy debates regarding the counternarcotics roles of the U.S. military, poppy eradication, alternative livelihoods, and funding issues for Congress."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Blanchard, Christopher M.
2007-09-14
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Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia: Political Developments and Implications for U.S. Interests [Updated September 20, 2007]
"The United States recognized the independence of Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia when the former Soviet Union broke up at the end of 1991. The United States has fostered these states' ties with the West in part to end the dependence of these states on Russia for trade, security, and other relations. […] The United States has been active in diplomatic efforts to end conflicts in the region, several of which remain unresolved. […] Key issues in the 110th Congress regarding the South Caucasus are likely to focus on bolstering Georgia's democratization and security; Azerbaijan's energy development; and Armenia's independence and economic development. At the same time, concerns might include the status of democratization and human rights in Azerbaijan, the on-going Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict over the breakaway Nagorno Karabakh region, and threats posed to Georgia by ongoing separatism and Russian actions. Congress will likely scrutinize Armenia's and Georgia's reform progress as recipients of Millennium Challenge Account grants. Some Members of Congress believe that the United States should provide greater attention to the region's increasing role as an east-west trade and security corridor linking the Black Sea and Caspian Sea regions. They urge greater U.S. aid and conflict resolution efforts to contain warfare, crime, smuggling, and Islamic extremism and to bolster the independence of the states. Others urge caution in adopting policies that will heavily involve the United States in a region beset by ethnic and civil conflicts."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Nichol, James P.
2007-09-20
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Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia: Political Developments and Implications for U.S. Interests [Updated August 31, 2007]
"The United States recognized the independence of Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia when the former Soviet Union broke up at the end of 1991. The United States has fostered these states' ties with the West in part to end the dependence of these states on Russia for trade, security, and other relations. The United States has pursued close ties with Armenia to encourage its democratization and because of concerns by Armenian-Americans and others over its fate. Close ties with Georgia have evolved from U.S. contacts with its pro-Western leadership. The Bush Administration supports U.S. private investment in Azerbaijan's energy sector as a means of increasing the diversity of world energy suppliers and to encourage building multiple energy pipelines to world markets. The United States has been active in diplomatic efforts to end conflicts in the region, several of which remain unresolved. The FREEDOM Support Act of 1992 (P.L. 102-511) authorizes assistance to the Eurasian states for humanitarian needs, democratization, creation of market economies, trade and investment, and other purposes. Section 907 of the act prohibits most U.S. government-to-government aid to Azerbaijan until its ceases blockades and other offensive use of force against Armenia. In the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States, the Administration appealed for a national security waiver for Section 907, in consideration of Azerbaijan's support to the international coalition to combat terrorism."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Nichol, James P.
2007-08-31
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Andean Counterdrug Initiative (ACI) and Related Funding Programs: FY2007 Assistance [Updated August 30, 2007]
"In February 2007, the 110th Congress finished consideration of FY2007 foreign operations appropriations legislation, held over from 2006, that provided foreign assistance to the Andean region. In addition to the Andean Counterdrug Initiative (ACI), Andean countries benefit from Foreign Military Financing (FMF), International Military Education and Training (IMET) funds, and other types of economic aid. Congress continued to express concern with the volume of drugs readily available in the United States and elsewhere in the world. The three largest producers of cocaine are Colombia, Bolivia, and Peru. Ninety percent of the cocaine in the United States originates in, or passes through, Colombia. The United States has made a significant commitment of funds and material support to help Colombia and the Andean region fight drug trafficking since the development of Plan Colombia in 1999. […] The FY2007 budget request, submitted to Congress on February 6, 2006, included a total of $721.5 million for ACI, an amount Congress approved in a continuing resolution. Congress did not complete work on the Foreign Operations bill in 2006, instead passing three continuing resolutions to maintain funding into 2007. The final bill, the FY2007 Continuing Resolution (H.J.Res. 20/P.L. 109-289, as amended by P.L. 110-5) was passed on February 15, 2007. For FY2006, Congress approved the Administration's request for $734.5 million in the Foreign Operations Appropriations Act (H.R. 3057/P.L. 109-102), although a 1% across-the-board rescission reduced it to $727.2 million."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Veillette, Connie
2007-08-30
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Afghanistan: Post-War Governance, Security, and U.S. Policy [Updated April 5, 2007]
"Afghanistan's political transition was completed with the convening of a parliament in December 2005, but in 2006 insurgent threats to Afghanistan's government escalated to the point that some experts are now questioning the success of U.S. stabilization efforts. In the political process, a new constitution was adopted in January 2004, successful presidential elections were held on October 9, 2004, and parliamentary elections took place on September 18, 2005. The parliament has become an arena for factions that have fought each other for nearly three decades to debate and peacefully resolve differences. Afghan citizens are enjoying personal freedoms forbidden by the Taliban. Women are participating in economic and political life, including as ministers, provincial governors, and parliament leaders. The insurgency led by remnants of the former Taliban regime escalated in 2006, after four years of minor Taliban militant activity. U.S. and NATO commanders anticipate a Taliban 2007 "spring offensive" and are moving to try to preempt it with an increase in force levels. Contributing to the Taliban resurgence has been popular frustration with lack of economic development, official corruption, and the failure to extend Afghan government authority into rural areas and provinces. In addition, narcotics trafficking is resisting counter-measures and feeding insurgent activity, and some militias remain active throughout the country. The Afghan government and some U.S. officials have blamed Pakistan for failing to prevent Taliban commanders from operating from Pakistan, beyond the reach of U.S./NATO forces in Afghanistan. "
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Katzman, Kenneth
2007-04-05
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Afghanistan: Post-War Governance, Security, and U.S. Policy [Updated March 31, 2005]
"Since the defeat of the Taliban, Afghanistan no longer serves as a safe base of operations for Al Qaeda. Afghan citizens are enjoying new personal freedoms that were forbidden under the Taliban, and women are participating in economic and political life, a point highlighted during First Lady Laura Bush's visit to Afghanistan on March 29, 2005. Political reconstruction is slowly following the route laid out by major Afghan factions and the international community during the U.S.-led war. A loya jirga (traditional Afghan assembly) adopted a new constitution on January 4, 2004. Presidential and parliamentary elections were to be held by June 2004, but security concerns and factional infighting caused the presidential elections to be postponed until October 9, 2004. Parliamentary and provincial elections are postponed until September 18, 2005, with district elections put off until 2006. The presidential elections were held amid high turnout and minimal violence; interim president Karzai was declared first-round winner on November 3, 2004. A new cabinet was sworn in December 27, 2004."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Katzman, Kenneth
2005-03-31
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Afghanistan: Post-War Governance, Security, and U.S. Policy [Updated May 18, 2007]
"Afghanistan's political transition was completed with the convening of a parliament in December 2005, but in 2006 insurgent threats to Afghanistan's government escalated to the point that some experts are questioning the success of U.S. stabilization efforts. In the political process, a new constitution was adopted in January 2004, successful presidential elections were held on October 9, 2004, and parliamentary elections took place on September 18, 2005. The parliament has become an arena for factions that have fought each other for nearly three decades to debate and peacefully resolve differences. Afghan citizens are enjoying personal freedoms forbidden by the Taliban. Women are participating in economic and political life, including as ministers, provincial governors, and parliament leaders."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Katzman, Kenneth
2007-05-18
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Afghanistan: Post-War Governance, Security, and U.S. Policy [Updated February 17, 2005]
"Afghanistan is stabilizing after more than 22 years of warfare, including a U.S.-led war that brought the current government to power. Successful presidential elections held on October 9, 2004 appear to be accelerating political and economic reconstruction. The report of the 9/11 Commission recommended a long-term commitment to a secure and stable Afghanistan. Legislation passed in December 2004 to implement those recommendations (P.L. 108-458) contains provision on Afghanistan, although most of these Commission's recommendations had already formed a major part of the U.S. policy framework for Afghanistan...Aside from a weakening but persistent Taliban insurgency, remaining obstacles to stability include the continued local authority of militias controlled by regional leaders and growing narcotics trafficking. U.S. stabilization measures focus on strengthening the central government and its security forces. The United States and other countries are building an Afghan National Army; deploying a multinational International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) to patrol Kabul and other cities; running regional enclaves to create secure conditions for reconstruction (Provincial
Reconstruction Teams, PRTs); and disarming militia fighters."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Katzman, Kenneth
2005-02-17
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Afghanistan: Post-War Governance, Security, and U.S. Policy [Updated February 14, 2007]
"Afghanistan's planned political transition was completed with the convening of a parliament in December 2005, but insurgent threats to Afghanistan's government persist. A new constitution was adopted in January 2004, and successful presidential elections were held on October 9, 2004, followed by parliamentary elections on September 18, 2005. This completes the post-Taliban political transition roadmap established at the December 2001 international conference in Bonn, Germany...U.S. stabilization measures focus on strengthening the central government and its security forces while combating insurgents. The United States and other countries are building an Afghan National Army; deploying a multinational International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) to patrol Kabul and other cities; and running regional enclaves to secure reconstruction (Provincial Reconstruction Teams, PRTs). Approximately 18,000 U.S. troops remain in Afghanistan to combat the Taliban-led insurgency, but the United States and NATO have agreed to shift more of the security burden to NATO during 2006. That transition will permit U.S. force levels to drop to a planned level of about 16,500 by mid-2006, although the reduction has raised concerns among Afghan officials that the U.S. commitment to Afghanistan is waning. To build security institutions and assist reconstruction, the United States gave Afghanistan about $4.35 billion in FY2005, including funds to equip and train Afghan security forces. Another $931 million is provided for in the conference report on the regular FY2006 aid appropriation (P.L. 109-102). In February, the Administration requested $1.1 billion in aid for FY2007 and about $2.5 billion in supplemental FY2006 funds, of which about $2.4 billion is to go to Afghan security force development and Defense Department counter-narcotics support efforts there."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Katzman, Kenneth
2007-02-14
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Afghanistan: Post-War Governance, Security, and U.S. Policy [Updated January 11, 2007]
"Afghanistan's political transition was completed with the convening of a parliament in December 2005, but in 2006 insurgent threats to Afghanistan's government escalated to the point that some experts were questioning the success of U.S. stabilization efforts. In the political process, a new constitution was adopted in January 2004, successful presidential elections were held on October 9, 2004, and parliamentary elections took place on September 18, 2005. The parliament has become an arena for factions that have fought each other for nearly three decades to debate and peacefully resolve differences. The insurgency led by remnants of the former Taliban regime escalated in 2006, after several years in which it appeared the Taliban were mostly defeated. Taliban fighters have been conducting large-scale attacks on coalition and Afghan security forces in several southern provinces, possibly assisted by popular frustration with slow reconstruction, official corruption, and the failure to extend Afghan government authority into rural areas and provinces. U.S. and partner stabilization measures focus on strengthening the central government and its security forces and on promoting reconstructing while combating the renewed insurgent challenge. To build security institutions and assist reconstruction, the United States gave Afghanistan about $4.35 billion in FY2005, including funds to equip and train Afghan security forces. Another approximately $3 billion was provided in FY2006. FY2007 appropriations add another approximately $2.6 billion, including security forces funding. This paper will be updated as warranted by major developments."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Katzman, Kenneth
2007-01-11
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Afghanistan: Post-War Governance, Security, and U.S. Policy [Updated December 5, 2006]
"Afghanistan's political transition was completed with the convening of a parliament in December 2005, but since then insurgent threats to Afghanistan's government have escalated to the point that some experts are questioning the future of U.S. stabilization efforts. In the political process, a new constitution was adopted in January 2004, successful presidential elections were held on October 9, 2004, and parliamentary elections took place on September 18, 2005. The parliament has become an arena for factions that have fought each other for nearly three decades to debate and peacefully resolve differences. Afghan citizens are enjoying new personal freedoms that were forbidden under the Taliban. Women are participating in economic and political life, including as ministers, provincial governors, and senior levels of the new parliament. The insurgency led by remnants of the former Taliban regime escalated in 2006, after several years in which it appeared the Taliban were mostly defeated. Taliban fighters have conducted several increasingly larger scale attacks on coalition and Afghan security forces in several southern provinces, possibly aided by popular frustration with slow reconstruction, official corruption, and the failure to extend Afghan government authority into rural areas and provinces. In addition, narcotics trafficking is resisting counter-measures, and independent militias remain throughout the country, although many have been disarmed."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Katzman, Kenneth
2006-12-05
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AIDS in Africa [Updated November 24, 2006]
"U.S. concern over AIDS in Africa grew in the 1980s, as the epidemic's severity became apparent. Legislation enacted in the 106th and the 107th Congresses increased funding for worldwide AIDS programs. P.L. 108-25, signed into law on May 27, 2003, authorized $15 billion over five years for international AIDS programs. President Bush announced his Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) in his 2003 State of the Union message. Twelve of 15 PEPFAR 'focus countries' are in Africa. Under the FY2007 budget request, the 12 countries would receive a 61% boost in AIDS-related aid, to $1.99 billion, under the State Department's Global HIV/AIDS Initiative account. Nonetheless, activists and others urge that more be done, given the scale of the African pandemic. This CRS report replaces CRS Issue Brief IB10050, AIDS in Africa, by Nicolas Cook. It will be updated as circumstances warrant."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Cook, Nicolas
2006-11-24
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Andean Counterdrug Initiative (ACI) and Related Funding Programs: FY2007 Assistance [Updated November 29, 2006]
"In 2006, Congress considered a number of issues relating to the Andean region and drug trafficking, including continued funding for the Andean Counterdrug Initiative (ACI) and conditions on U.S. assistance. In addition to ACI, Andean countries benefit from Foreign Military Financing (FMF), International Military Education and Training (IMET) funds, and other types of economic aid. Congress continues to express concern with the volume of drugs readily available in the United States and elsewhere in the world. The three largest producers of cocaine are Colombia, Bolivia, and Peru. Ninety percent of the cocaine in the United States originates in, or passes through, Colombia…The FY2007 budget request, submitted to Congress on February 6, 2006, included a total of $721.5 million for ACI. For FY2006, Congress approved the Administration's request for $734.5 million in the Foreign Operations Appropriations Act (H.R. 3057/P.L. 109-102), although a 1% across-the-board rescission reduced it to $727.2 million. For FY2007, the House and Senate Appropriations Committees largely approved the ACI request but, in the case of the House bill, restructured aid to Colombia. Congress did not complete its work on the Foreign Operations bill, instead passing three continuing resolutions to maintain funding into 2007. In 2005, the House passed a Foreign Relations Authorization Act (H.R. 2601) with several provisions relating to Colombia. The Senate did not finish consideration of its version (S. 600). The FY2006 National Defense Authorization Act (H.R. 1815, P.L. 109-163) authorized funds for Defense Department interdiction activities."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Veillette, Connie
2006-11-29
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Andean Regional Initiative (ARI): FY2003 Supplemental and FY2004 Assistance for Colombia and Neighbors [Updated August 27, 2003]
"In 2003, Congress is considering President Bush's requests for FY2004 and FY2003 supplemental assistance for Colombia and six regional neighbors in a continuation of the Andean Regional Initiative (ARI) launched in 2001. ARI was proposed as an expansion of Plan Colombia, developed by the Clinton Administration, with more funding for social and economic development programs for Colombia and its neighbors, who are affected by Colombia's struggle against guerrillas and drug traffickers. This included $34 million for the State Department's International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement account, $34 million for the Department of Defense's Drug Interdiction and Counter-Drug Activities account, and $37.1 million in Foreign Military Financing Program funds. The President submitted his FY2004 budget request to Congress on February 3, 2003, including $990.7 million for countries comprising the Andean Regional Initiative, including military funding for Colombia."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Veillette, Connie
2003-08-27
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Afghanistan: Narcotics and U.S. Policy [December 7, 2004]
"This report describes the structure and development of the narcotics trade in Afghanistan and explores its relevance to Afghan, U.S., and international security interests, including the 9/11 Commission's recommendation that the United States make a long term commitment to the stability and security of Afghanistan. The report provides current statistical information on the opium trade, profiles its various participants, explores alleged narco-terrorist linkages, and reviews the U.S. and international policy response since late 2001. The report also considers current policy debates regarding the role of the U.S. military in future counternarcotics operations in Afghanistan; planned opium poppy eradication; and funding issues for Congress. The report will be updated periodically."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Blanchard, Christopher M.
2004-12-07
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Andean Counterdrug Initiative (ACI) and Related Funding Programs: FY2005 Assistance [Updated December 9, 2004]
"In 2004, Congress considered a number of issues relating to the Andean region
and drug trafficking. The Administration requested $731 million for the Andean
Counterdrug Initiative for FY2005, and $114 million for economic assistance
programs. Congress also changed the level of U.S. military and civilian contractor
personnel allowed to be deployed in Colombia, in response to an Administration
request. Congress continues to express concern with the volume of drugs readily
available in the United States and elsewhere in the world. The three largest
producers of cocaine are Colombia, Bolivia, and Peru, with 90% of the cocaine in the
United States originating in, or passing through, Colombia. Regional security issues
have also come into sharper focus after the attacks of September 11, 2001.The United States has made a significant commitment of funds and material
support to help Colombia and the Andean region fight drug trafficking since the
development of Plan Colombia in 1999.
In the first session of the 108th Congress, the House passed and the Senate
considered the FY2004 Foreign Relations Authorization Act (H.R. 1950/S. 925) with
provisions relating to Colombia and drug interdiction programs in the Andean region.
The Senate Foreign Relations Committee reported out the FY2004 Foreign
Assistance Authorization Act (S. 1161/S.Rept. 108-56) with several modifications
on assistance to ACI countries. Neither of these bills received final approval.This report will be updated as events warrant."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Veillette, Connie
2004-12-09
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Andean Regional Initiative (ARI): FY2002 Assistance for Colombia and Neighbors [Updated February 14, 2002]
"In April and May 2001, the Bush Administration proposed $882.29 million in FY2002 economic and counter-narcotics assistance, as well as extension of trade preferences and other measures, for Colombia and regional neighbors in an initiative called the "Andean Regional Initiative" (ARI). Critics of the Andean Regional Initiative argue that it is a continuation of what they regard as the misguided approach of Plan Colombia assistance approved in 2000, with an overemphasis on military and counter-drug assistance, and with inadequate support for human rights and the peace process in Colombia. Supporters argue that it continues needed assistance to Colombia, while providing more support for regional neighbors and social and economic programs."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Serafino, Nina M.; Storrs, K. Larry (Keith Larry), 1937-
2002-02-14
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Appropriations for FY2005: Department of Homeland Security [Updated September 20, 2004]
"This report describes the FY2005 appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). It summarizes the President's FY2005 budget request for DHS programs submitted to Congress February 2, 2004, the amounts provided in H.R. 4567 (approved by the House June 18, 2004), and the amounts provided in H.R. 4567 (approved in the Senate on September 14, 2004 in lieu of S. 2537). The report includes tables that compare the FY2004 appropriations for the programs and activities of DHS, the President's FY2005 request, the congressional response to the request. The President's FY2005 Budget requests total appropriations of $32.6 billion for DHS. This represents a 7.7% increase over the FY2004 enacted amount of $30.3 billion. H.R. 4567 and S. 2567 recommend a total appropriation of $33.1 billion representing an increase of $500 million compared to the request, and a 9.2% increase compared to the FY2004 enacted level."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Lake, Jennifer E.; Nunez-Neto, Blas
2004-09-20
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Andean Regional Initiative (ARI): FY2002 Supplemental and FY2003 Assistance for Colombia and Neighbors [July 22, 2003]
"On February 4, 2002, President Bush submitted a FY2003 budget request that would provide $979.8 million for the Andean Regional Initiative (ARI), with $731 million in counternarcotics assistance under the Andean Counterdrug Initiative (ACI). This request included $537 million in ARI funding for Colombia, with $439 million in ACI funding and $98 million in Foreign Military Financing (FMF) to train and equip a Colombian army brigade to protect an oil pipeline in northeastern Colombia. On March 21, 2002, the Administration proposed an Emergency FY2002 Supplemental for counter-terrorism purposes that included a request for $4 million of State Department international narcotics control (INCLE) funding for Colombia police post support, $6 million of FMF funding for Colombia and $3 million for Ecuador for counter-terrorism equipment and training, and $25 million for counterkidnapping training in Colombia. Also included in the submission were requests to broaden the authorities of the Defense and State Departments to utilize FY2002 and FY2003 assistance and unexpended Plan Colombia assistance to support the Colombian government's 'unified campaign against narcotics trafficking, terrorist activities, and other threats to its national security.'"
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Serafino, Nina M.; Storrs, K. Larry (Keith Larry), 1937-
2003-07-22
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Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia: Political Developments and Implications for U.S. Interests [Updated August 13, 2008]
This CRS report discusses the political developments and implications for U.S. interests in the nations of Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia. The report begins by discussing the recent developments in the area, which includes the Russia-Georgia conflict and the response of the United States to this conflict. The report also discusses the policy concerns of the U.S. in relation to this region and also discusses the relationship between the United States and these three Caucasian states after September 11th and during the U.S.-led Operation Iraqi Freedom [OIF]. Finally, the report examines the U.S. involvement in the areas of aid, security assistance, trade and investment. The report wraps up by providing a list of Congressional legislation passed by the 110th Congress, which deals with these three South Caucasian nations.
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Nichol, James P.
2008-08-13
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Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia: Security Issues and Implications for U.S. Interests [Updated May 29, 2003]
"The South Caucasus region has been the most unstable in the former Soviet Union in terms of the numbers, intensity, and length of ethnic and civil conflicts.
Other emerging or full-blown security problems include crime, corruption, terrorism, the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and narcotics trafficking. The regional governments have worked to bolster their security by combating terrorism, limiting political dissent they view as threatening, revamping their armed forces, and seeking outside assistance and allies. Most in Congress have supported U.S. assistance to bolster independence and reforms in the South Caucasus, but questions remain about the suitability, scope, emphasis, and effectiveness of U.S. involvement. Congressional support for the security of Armenia and Nagorno Karabakh (NK; a breakaway region of Azerbaijan mostly populated by ethnic Armenians) led in 1992 to a ban on most U.S. government-to-government aid to Azerbaijan. Congress authorized a presidential waiver to the ban after the terrorist attacks on the United States on September 11, 2001, to facilitate U.S.-Azerbaijan anti-terrorism cooperation. Congressional support for U.S. engagement with the region was reflected in 'Silk Road Strategy' legislation in FY2000 (P.L.106-113) authorizing greater policy attention and aid for conflict amelioration, humanitarian needs, economic development, transport and communications, border control, democracy, and the creation of civil societies in the South Caucasus and Central Asia. Congress regularly has earmarked foreign aid to Armenia, funded a border and customs security program for Georgia, and upheld a South Caucasus funding category to encourage conflict resolution, provide for reconstruction assistance, and facilitate regional economic integration."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Nichol, James P.
2003-05-29
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Andean Regional Initiative (ARI): FY2003 Supplemental and FY2004 Assistance for Colombia and Neighbors [Updated January 30, 2004]
"In 2003, Congress considered President Bush's requests for FY2004 and FY2003 supplemental assistance for Colombia and six regional neighbors in a continuation of the Andean Regional Initiative (ARI) launched in 2001. ARI was proposed as an expansion of support for Plan Colombia, under the Clinton Administration, with more funding for social and economic development programs for Colombia and its neighbors, who are affected by Colombia's struggle against guerrillas and drug traffickers. From FY2000 through FY2003, Colombia and other ARI recipients have received more than $3 billion in U.S. funding. In early 2003, an FY2003 Emergency Wartime Supplemental bill (H.Rept. 108-76/P.L. 108-11) provided $105 million in additional assistance for the Andean Counterdrug Initiative and related programs. This included $34 million for the State Department's International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement account, $34 million for the Department of Defense's Drug Interdiction and Counter-Drug Activities account, and $37.1 million in Foreign Military Financing Program funds. The President submitted his FY2004 budget request to Congress on February 3, 2003, including $990.7 million for countries comprising the Andean Regional Initiative, including military funding for Colombia. Of the $990.7 million requested, $731 million is for the Andean Counterdrug Initiative, $133.5 million for the Foreign Military Financing Program, with the remainder of the overall figure in development, economic, and health programs."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Veillette, Connie; Storrs, K. Larry (Keith Larry), 1937-
2004-01-30
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Afghanistan: Current Issues and U.S. Policy [Update October 7, 2003]
"Afghanistan is a fragile state attempting, with U.S. help, to stabilize after more than 22 years of warfare, including a U.S.-led war that brought the current
government to power. Before the U.S. military campaign against the Taliban began
on October 7, 2001, Afghanistan had been mired in conflict since the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979. The Taliban ruled most of Afghanistan from 1996 until its collapse in December 2001 at the hands of the U.S.-led military campaign...Although with some difficulty, political reconstruction is following the route laid out by major Afghan factions and the international community during the U.S.-led war. OnDecember 5, 2001, majorAfghan factions,meeting underU.N auspices in Bonn, signed an agreement to form an interim government that ran Afghanistan until a traditional national assembly (loya jirga) was held June 11-19, 2002. The loya jirga delegates selected a new government to run Afghanistan for the next two years and approved Hamid Karzai, a Pashtun, to continue as leader for that time. Preparations are proceeding for a loya jirga to approve a new constitution (December 2003) and then national elections for the leadership and a parliament some time in 2004."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Katzman, Kenneth
2003-10-07
