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• Middle East Free Trade Area: Progress Report [Updated June 22, 2006]

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  "Since the Bush Administration first announced its trade initiative, it has made substantial progress in working with MEFTA [Middle East Free Trade Area] entities to support WTO [World Trade Organization] membership, and to develop TIFAs [trade investment framework agreements], BITs [bilateral investment treaties], and FTAs [free trade agreements] and progress along the steps outlined above. Since the beginning of 2003: Saudi Arabia has joined the WTO, and Iraq, Iran, Lebanon, Yemen, and Algeria are negotiating accession. In addition, TIFAS have been completed with seven countries: Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Yemen, Qatar, and Iraq, bringing the total to 12. Other TIFA partners are Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia. BITs have been completed with one country, Jordan, bringing the total to five. Other BIT partners are Bahrain, Egypt, Morocco, and Tunisia. Finally, a bilateral free trade agreement has been implemented with Jordan, Israel, Morocco, and Bahrain; signed with Oman (January 19, 2006); and is under negotiation with the United Arab Emirates. This brings the number of MEFTA FTAs to four implemented, one awaiting congressional action, and one under negotiation. FTA negotiations underway with Egypt have been suspended over human rights issues."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Bolle, Mary Jane

  2006-06-22
• Pakistan-U.S. Relations [June 21, 2006]

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  "A stable, democratic, economically thriving Pakistan is considered vital to U.S. interests. U.S. concerns regarding Pakistan include regional terrorism; Pakistan- Afghanistan relations; weapons proliferation; the ongoing Kashmir problem and Pakistan-India tensions; human rights protection; and economic development. A U.S.-Pakistan relationship marked by periods of both cooperation and discord was transformed by the September 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States and the ensuing enlistment of Pakistan as a key ally in U.S.-led counterterrorism efforts. Top U.S. officials regularly praise Islamabad for its ongoing cooperation, although doubts exist about Islamabad's commitment to some core U.S. interests. Pakistan is identified as a base for terrorist groups and their supporters operating in Kashmir, India, and Afghanistan. Since late 2003, Pakistan's army has been conducting unprecedented counterterrorism operations in the country's western tribal areas."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Kronstadt, K. Alan

  2006-06-21
• Maritime Security and the Strait of Malacca: A Strategic Analysis

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  "The Strait of Malacca in Southeast Asia is one of the world's most important waterways. But piracy, terrorism, and instability within the region have prompted representatives of global commerce to consider this strait dangerous to shipping. Any major incident could restrict navigation in these waters and have a negative impact on global trade and economies, in particular the economies of Pacific nations. National, regional, and international agreements and initiatives have attempted to address this situation with varying degrees of success. The United States, through the U.S. Pacific Command has proposed the Regional Maritime Security Initiative (RMSI) to provide a clear set of requirements and capabilities that address maritime security within the region. The RMSI framework correctly identifies the four critical elements necessary for maritime security within the strait. National and international dynamics impact the ability for any and all of these initiatives to achieve success."

  U.S. Army Command and General Staff College

  Davis, Joel D., B.S.

  2006-06-16
• Trade Negotiations During the 109th Congress [June 15, 2006]

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  "For over 50 years, U.S. trade officials have negotiated multilateral trade agreements to achieve lower trade barriers and rules to cover international trade. During the 108th Congress, U.S. officials negotiated and Congress approved four bilateral free-trade agreements with Australia, Chile, Morocco, and Singapore. The Bush Administration is making bilateral and regional free-trade agreements more important elements of its trade policy. The multilateral arena is no longer the only means, or perhaps even the principal means, by which the United States is pursuing liberalized trade. Trade agreements are negotiated by the executive branch, although Congress has the ultimate Constitutional authority to regulate interstate and foreign commerce. Trade promotion authority (TPA) requires that the President consult with and advise Congress throughout the negotiating process. After the executive branch signs an agreement, Congress may consider implementing legislation if any statutory changes are required under the agreement. There is no deadline for submission of the legislation, but once a bill is submitted, TPA requires a final vote within 90 legislative days."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Fergusson, Ian F.

  2006-06-15
• U.S.-Vietnam Relations: Background and Issues for Congress [Updated June 14, 2006]

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  "After communist North Vietnam's victory over U.S.-backed South Vietnam in 1975, U.S.-Vietnam relations remained essentially frozen for over 15 years. Since then, bilateral ties have expanded remarkably, to the point where the relationship in many ways has been virtually normalized. Congress has played a significant role in this process. Each step in improving bilateral ties has brought controversy, albeit at diminishing levels. Some argue that improvements in bilateral relations should be conditioned upon Hanoi improving its record on human and religious rights, particularly in the Central Highlands region. Opposition to the pace and scope of normalization also has come from groups arguing that Vietnam has not done enough to account for U.S. Prisoners of War/Missing in Action from the Vietnam War, though this argument has diminished markedly in recent years. Interests favoring normalization have included those reflecting a strong U.S. business interest in Vietnam's reforming economy and American strategic interests in integrating Vietnam more fully into East Asia and in expanding cooperation with a country that has an ambivalent relationship with China."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Manyin, Mark E.

  2006-06-14
• Proposed U.S.-Oman Free Trade Agreement [Updated June 12, 2006]

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  "In aiming to fight terrorism with trade, the United States has negotiated and the President signed on January 19, 2006, the U.S.'s fifth bilateral free trade agreement (FTA) in the proposed 20-entity Middle-East-Free Trade Area (MEFTA). This proposed FTA is with Oman. Other U.S.-FTAs are with Israel, Jordan, Morocco, and Bahrain. A sixth is being negotiated with the United Arab Emirates. Oman is a small oil-exporting U.S. trade partner that has been supportive of U.S. policies in the Middle East and is strategically located at the mouth of the Persian Gulf. Because its oil reserves could be exhausted within 15-20 years, Oman is trying to liberalize and diversify its trade regime beyond oil and gas to provide economic opportunities for its fast growing workforce. Supporters of the agreement typically cite political and economic reasons. Opponents typically point to labor and human rights issues. The proposed FTA with Oman is similar to other MEFTA FTAs and has three basic parts: new tariff schedules, broad commitments to open markets and provisions to support those commitments, and protections for labor and the environment. It would provide immediate duty-free access for almost all consumer and industrial goods, with special provisions for agriculture and textiles and apparel."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Bolle, Mary Jane

  2006-06-12
• El Salvador: Political, Economic, and Social Conditions and Relations with the United States [Updated June 8, 2006]

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  From the Summary: "Tony Saca, a businessman from the conservative National Republican Alliance (ARENA) party, was inaugurated as president for a five-year term in June 2004. President Saca is seeking to restart the country's stagnating economy, pass legislation in a polarized political environment, and combat gang violence. His legislative agenda should face continuing opposition from the Farabundo Marti National Liberation Front (FMLN), which recovered seats it had lost due to defections in 2005 in the March 2006 legislative elections. ARENA also increased its representation in the legislature, but lacks a majority and will continue to have to rely on support from small parties to enact President Saca's agenda. In 2005, despite its tough anti-gang legislation, El Salvador posted a murder rate of 15 people per day, the highest in the hemisphere. In February 2006, the Bush Administration extended the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) of eligible Salvadoran migrants living in the United States until September 9, 2007. On March 1, 2006, El Salvador became the first country in the region to implement the Dominican Republic-Central America-United States Free Trade Agreement (DRCAFTA) with the United States. This report will be updated periodically."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Seelke, Clare Ribando

  2006-06-08
• Can We Leverage China to Reduce U.S. Burden in Asia

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  "The relationship between China and the United States will most likely determine the global economic and political landscape for the twenty-first Century. China and the United States are finding new common ground and deepening their cooperation on issues of UN reform, international anti-terrorist campaign, non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, controlling regional conflicts especially in Asia, and keeping a stable supply of petroleum and other energy resources. The two countries' demands on each other are headed for a balance. China's relations with Asian countries are now entering a new era and are expanding in all directions. The modernization and economic growth of China and its impact on Asia creates a complex situation for the U.S., but cooperation must be the underlining strategy in dealing with China to create a win-win situation and avoid conflict. This project will compare the contrasting policies and strategies of the United States and China revealing that the U.S. can leverage this new China to its advantage to reduce U.S. military and economic burden in Asia."

  Army War College (U.S.)

  Crockett, Harvey L.

  2006-06-07
• International Population Assistance and Family Planning Programs: Issues for Congress [June 6, 2006]

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  "Since 1965, United States policy has supported international population planning based on principles of volunteerism and informed choice that gives participants access to information on all methods of birth control. This policy, however, has generated contentious debate for over two decades, resulting in frequent clarification and modification of U.S. international family planning programs. In 1984, controversy arose over U.S. population aid policy when the Reagan Administration introduced restrictions, which became known as the 'Mexico City policy.' (Opponents of the policy also refer to it as the 'Global Gag Rule.') The Mexico City policy denied U.S. funds to foreign non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that perform or promote abortion as a method of family planning, regardless of whether the money came from the U.S. government. Presidents Reagan and Bush also banned grants to the U.N. Population Fund (UNFPA) because of its program in China, where coercive practices have been used. President Clinton resumed UNFPA funding and repealed the Mexico City policy in 1993. President George W. Bush, however, re-applied the Mexico City restrictions. Following a State Department investigation of family planning programs in China, the Administration suspended U.S. contributions to UNFPA on July 22, 2002, citing violations of the 'Kemp-Kasten' amendment. This provision bans U.S. assistance to organizations that support or participate in the management of coercive family planning programs. The suspension of U.S. contributions to UNFPA has continued through FY2005."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Nowels, Larry Q.; Veillette, Connie

  2006-06-06
• Central Asia: Regional Developments and Implications for U.S. Interests [June 5, 2006]

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  "On June 2, 2006, Kyrgyz authorities announced that two days of talks with a visiting U.S. delegation on the status of the U.S.-led coalition airbase at Manas had gone well and would be continued. In light of this progress, Kyrgyz President Kurmanbek Bakiyev lifted a warning that the base might be closed if the United States did not agree by June 1 on higher lease payments. The European Union warned the Kyrgyz government on May 2 that 'there are worrying indications that circles connected with organized crime are attempting to gain influence over political life and state institutions' and urged the government to combat this growing crime and political violence. The U.S. Ambassador on April 17 also had raised concerns that crime and corruption increasingly threaten Kyrgyzstan's stability. Days before, there had been an assassination attempt against democracy and human rights advocate Edil Baysalov, after he had met with visiting U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Richard Boucher and reportedly warned him that democratization in Kyrgyzstan was faltering. According to a report issued by the non-governmental organization Global Witness in late April 2006, Turkmen President Saparamurad Niyazov personally controls a vast portion of the wealth generated from natural gas exports. The report also raises concerns about the involvement of alleged organized crime groups in the export business and urges the European Union to limit trade ties with Turkmenistan."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Nichol, James P.

  2006-06-05
• Brazil-U.S. Relations [June 5, 2006]

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  "In January 2003, President Luis Inácio 'Lula' da Silva, of the leftist Workers' Party (PT), began a four-year term as President of Brazil. Despite winning on a leftist platform, President Lula has maintained the orthodox economic policies associated with his predecessor, even surpassing fiscal and monetary targets. Inflation and interest rates have been on a downward trend, Brazil's credit rating has improved, but economic growth remains modest (2.3% in 2005). In 2003, President Lula gained congressional approval of social security and tax reforms and in 2004 a new law to increase private investment in public infrastructure projects. Despite these achievements, legislative progress stalled in 2005, and President Lula has been criticized for failing to develop effective social programs to address Brazil's persistent problems concerning land redistribution, social inequality, and crime."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Seelke, Clare Ribando

  2006-06-05
• Peacekeeping and Conflict Transitions: Background and Congressional Action on Civilian Capabilities [Updated June 2, 2006]

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  "The State Department's new Office of the Coordinator for Reconstruction and Stabilization (S/CRS) is intended to address longstanding concerns, both within Congress and the broader foreign policy community, over the perceived lack of the appropriate capabilities and processes to deal with transitions from conflict to sustainable stability. These capabilities and procedures include adequate planning mechanisms for stabilization and reconstruction operations, efficient interagency coordination structures and procedures in carrying out such tasks, and appropriate civilian personnel for many of the non-military tasks required. Effectively distributing resources among the various executive branch actors, maintaining clear lines of authority and jurisdiction, and balancing short- and long-term objectives are major challenges for designing, planning, and conducting post-conflict operations."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Serafino, Nina M.; Weiss, Martin A.

  2006-06-02
• Aerially Deployed Real-Time Targeting Sensor Net

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  "This thesis focuses on developing and analyzing a model for an aerially deployed real-time targeting sensor net to close the current gap that exists between the potential technological-doctrinal capability within society and that of the military. It outlines current real-time targeting need due to the decomposition of warfare after the fall of the Soviet Union, and portrays the targeting discrepancies in the Global War on Terror. From end-user surveys requirements are layed out for a system of systems to meet targeting needs. A feasible solution consisting of a system architecture anchored in existing commercial off the shelf technology is proposed to meet the discrete deliverables necessary to accomplish targeting goals to deal with asymmetric threats in opaque environments."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)

  Diamond, Scott A.

  2006-06
• Test and Evaluation of MeshDynamics 802.11: Multi-Radio Mesh Modules in Support of Coalition Riverine Operations

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  "The Coalition Operating Area Surveillance and Targeting System (COASTS) program is a joint project between the Naval Postgraduate School and the Royal Thai Armed Forces (RTARF). The program focuses its research on command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (C4ISR) uses for commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS), state-of-the-art, rapidly scaleable airborne and ground communications equipment, including various wireless network technologies. This research is being conducted in partnership with the RTAF to develop a network and associated devices and applications that potentially may help suppress drug trafficking in the northern Thailand border regions. Commensurately, the U.S. Navy is taking the Global War on Terror (GWOT) lead in coalition Maritime Security Operations and riverine warfare operations. With formation of the new Naval Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC), and its new Riverine Warfare Group, the Navy's role takes effect starting in January 2007, and could benefit from this research. This thesis focuses on testing and evaluating the overall performance of the MeshDynamics Multiple-Radio Mesh Modules, operating in the 802.11 wireless frequency spectrum. These modules are key building blocks of meshed networks that provide coverage over an area where riverine and coastal operations are being conducted. The network provides an information source and communications backbone for maritime, ground, and air assets."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)

  Russo, Joseph Anthony

  2006-06
• Sea Piracy in Southeast Asia: Implications for Countering Maritime Terrorism in the United States

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  "Sea piracy has infested the seven seas throughout history. In modern times, the United States has paid little attention to piracy because the nation's isolated vastness has protected the shipping industry from maritime crime. But the events of 9/11 have changed the lens through which America views security. This thesis investigates modern day piracy and links between piracy and terrorism in order to determine implications for U.S. maritime security strategy. Specifically, the maritime environment in Southeast Asia and associated maritime security policies are researched because a sizable proportion of the world's sea piracy occurs in that region. U.S. maritime security policy is also evaluated."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)

  Geragotelis, John M.

  2006-06
• Test and Evaluation of a Prototyped Sensor-Camera Network for Persistent Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance in Support of Tactical Coalition Networking Environments

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  "This thesis investigated the feasibility of deploying an integrated sensor-camera network in military and law enforcement applications. The system was built using entirely commercial-off-the-shelf technologies. The prototype used the unattended ground sensors combined with digital video surveillance cameras to provide accurate real-time situational awareness, persistent intelligence and remote security. A robust testing and evaluation plan was created to measure the system's performance based on specific metrics. The tests focused primarily on the capabilities of the sensor aspect of the network. Tests were conducted to determine the maximum detection range, probabilities of detection, maximum communications range, and battery life. Mathematical models were created to assist network planners. Additionally, the prototyped system was tested through field exercises as part of the Naval Postgraduate School's Coalition Operating Area Surveillance and Targeting System field demonstrations in California and northern Thailand. Although the sensing capabilities exceeded the minimum metrics, the system was not suitable for use in military applications. However, the prototyped network would work well in less demanding law enforcement environments. Additionally, the feasibility and the need to develop an integrated sensor-camera network were demonstrated."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)

  Chesnut, Michael R.

  2006-06
• Unconventional Counter-Insurgency in Afghanistan

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  "Immediately following the attacks of September 11, 2001, a small number of U.S. Army Special Forces (USSF) invaded the Al Qaeda safe haven of Afghanistan. USSF A-teams, operating with almost total independence, conducted highly successful Unconventional Warfare 'through, with, and by' the indigenous Afghan militias of the Northern Alliance. The USSF and their indigenous Afghan armies rapidly deposed the Taliban regime and denied the Al Qaeda terrorists their training and support areas within Afghanistan. The momentum of the initial success achieved by USSF during 2001-2002, however, has been dramatically overshadowed by the inability of follow-on U.S. forces to establish long-term stability in the post-Taliban Afghanistan. Since 2002, the conventional U.S./Coalition forces, which replaced Army USSF as the main U.S. counterinsurgency (COIN) forces, have thus far failed to defeat the re-emerging Taliban/Al Qaeda threat. In fact, 2005 has been the most violent year-to-date for U.S./Coalition forces serving in Afghanistan with 239 U.S. casualties, and President Hamid Karzai's central Afghan government exhibiting little control outside its major cities. This trend continues in 2006. In this thesis we question the current U.S./Coalition campaign plan, which places emphasis on conventional military forces, not USSF, as the main effort COIN force in Operation Enduring Freedom. We propose an alternative Unconventional COIN model which focuses on population control instead of 'clear and sweep operations', Afghan constabulary-style forces instead of conventional Afghan National Army troops, the importance of 'grassroots' intelligence collection at the village level, and the employment of USSF advisors instead of conventional U.S. infantry troops."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)

  Dyke, John R.; Crisafulli, John R.

  2006-06
• Attorney General's Annual Report to Congress on U.S. Government Activities to Combat Trafficking in Persons Fiscal Year 2005

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  "This report was mandated to provide information on the following U.S. government activities to combat trafficking in persons: The number of persons in the United States who received benefits or other services under section 107(b) of the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA); The number of persons who had been granted 'continued presence' in the United States under TVPA section 107(c)(3) during the previous Fiscal Year; The number of persons who applied for, had been granted, or had been denied T non-immigrant status or otherwise provided status under sections of the Immigration and Nationality Act during the previous Fiscal Year; The amount, recipient, and purpose of each grant issued by any federal agency to carry out the purposes of sections 106 and 107 of the Act, or section 134 of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, during the previous Fiscal Year; The nature of training conducted pursuant to section 107(c)(4) during the previous Fiscal Year; and The activities undertaken by the Senior Policy Operating Group ('SPOG') on Trafficking in Persons to carry out its responsibilities under section 105(f) of the TVPRA during the previous Fiscal Year. This report, the third required under the TVPRA, is submitted to Congress in compliance with that directive. It details U.S. government activities to combat TIP during Fiscal Year 2005 ('FY05'), with a focus on the categories above."

  United States. Department of Justice

  2006-06
• Trafficking in Persons Report, June 2006

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  "This Report is the sixth annual Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report. It is intended to raise global awareness, to highlight the growing efforts of the international community to combat human trafficking and to encourage foreign governments to take effective actions to counter all forms of trafficking in persons. The Report has increasingly focused the efforts of a growing community of nations on sharing information and partnering in new and important ways. In assessing foreign governments' efforts, the TIP Report highlights the 'three P's'- prosecution, protection, and prevention. But a victim-centered approach to trafficking requires us equally to address the 'three R's'- rescue, rehabilitation, and reintegration. The U.S. law that guides these efforts, the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA) of 2000, as amended, makes clear from the outset that the purpose of combating human trafficking is to ensure just and effective punishment of traffickers, to protect their victims, and to prevent trafficking from occurring."

  United States. Department of State

  2006-06
• India-U.S. Relations [Updated May 26, 2006]

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  "During President Bush's March visit to India- the first such trip by a U.S. President in six years- he and Prime Minister Singh issued a statement expressing mutual satisfaction with 'great progress' made in advancing the U.S.-India 'strategic partnership.' The statement, which reviewed bilateral efforts to expand ties in a number of key areas, notably announced 'successful completion of India's [nuclear facility] separation plan,' a reference to ongoing and complex negotiations related to President Bush's July 2005 vow to achieve 'full civilian nuclear energy cooperation with India.' The separation plan requires India to move 14 of its 22 reactors into permanent international oversight by the year 2014 and place all future civilian reactors under permanent safeguards. Shortly after, H.R. 4974 and S. 2429, to waive the application of certain requirements under the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 with respect to India, were, at the President's request, introduced in the House and Senate. Pending legislation also includes H.Con.Res. 318, which expresses concern regarding nuclear proliferation with respect to proposed full civilian nuclear cooperation with India."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Kronstadt, K. Alan

  2006-05-26
• Combing the Underworld: Identification of South East Asian Non-State Actor Proliferation Networks, Nodes, and Chokepoints

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  "The U.S. military, as with all U.S. Government agencies, shares the responsibility for countering proliferation efforts. Although numerous threats that face the United States have been identified, the systems through which the threats operate have not. Each region of the world, and indeed each country, has its own peculiarities. This paper asks the following question: How can the United States prepare to identify potential proliferation networks and chokepoints in Southeast Asia? This author proposes that a potential solution is a template that can be used as a starting point for identifying networks, chokepoints, and nodes. This template examines the interactions within a single country and expands to the regional level. It then ties in other regions to encompass the globe. The author focuses on Southeast Asia, using examples from a single country for the sample template. Southeast Asia has long been a hub for illicit commerce, smuggling, piracy, and corruption. Many of the networks for drug, money, arms, and human trafficking intersect and often overlay one another within this region. The lack of hard evidence that criminals are helping terrorists gain access to Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) may be an indicator that no one has looked closely enough at their possible linkages. As organizations and individuals attempt to market available WMD, it is likely that they will attempt to operate networks within countries and regions with pre-existing markets and routes for other illicit trade. Because of the openness of these markets and trafficking routes, Southeast Asia poses a major threat to all nations seeking to counter the proliferation of WMD to non-state actors. The United States needs a holistic template that includes networks for illicit trades in addition to terrorist networks. The proposed templates may not reveal existing networks, but they may identify the potential for network formation."

  U.S. Army Command and General Staff College. School of Advanced Military Studies

  Donahoe, Adrian A.

  2006-05-25
• H. Rept. 109-476: Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Bill, 2007, Report together with Additional Views to Accompany H.R. 5441, May 22, 2006

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  "The Committee on Appropriations submits the following report in explanation of the accompanying bill making appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2007. […] The accompanying bill contains recommendations for new budget (obligational) authority for fiscal year 2007 for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). […] The Committee recommends $32,080,000,000 in discretionary resources for the Department of Homeland Security, $1,065,353,000 above the amount proposed by the President and $1,822,300,000 above fiscal year 2006 revised enacted levels. For the second year in a row, the President has submitted a budget request for DHS that assumes the Committee will almost double the amount of aviation security fees it collects from airline passengers. This proposed fee increase funds critical areas within the Department, permitting the Secretary and President to say that the budget request for fiscal year 2007 contains an increase of $2.1 billion or six percent from the current year. But the truth is, excluding new user fees in order to make a fair comparison, the President's request is a one percent increase from the current fiscal year. As the Committee noted last year, it lacks jurisdiction to enact such a fee proposal. The Committee views this repeated attempt to artificially inflate DHS' budget as counterproductive and has reduced funding throughout the Department to make up for the gap in essential program funding created by this gimmick."

  United States. Government Printing Office

  2006-05-22
• Time to Put the Military on the Border

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  "The United States has been in a war on terrorism since the events of September 11, 2001. As a result, there are ever increasing concerns over the possibility of terrorists exploiting our porous southwest border. It is well documented that the U.S. Border Patrol is undermanned, under-equipped, and under-trained to deal with the increasing numbers of illegal immigrants, escalating violent gang activity, and in the increasing incidents of questionable activity by the Mexican military. This paper will seek to discover through a discussion of the relevance of the Posse Comitatus Act, analysis of the growing threat on our southwestern border, the impact of placing the military on the border, and current counterargument, just how serious an issue the security of our southwestern border has become. The paper will conclude by advocating for a change in our border control policy that allows greater discretion to man the border with the U.S. Military to ensure the continued safety and sovereignty of our nation."

  Naval War College (U.S.). Joint Military Operations Department

  Deforge, Robert D.

  2006-05-16
• Immigration Policy on Expedited Removal of Aliens [Updated May 15, 2006]

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  "Expedited removal, an immigration enforcement strategy originally conceived to operate at the borders and ports of entry, is being expanded, raising a set of policy, resource, and logistical questions. Expedited removal is a provision under which an alien who lacks proper documentation or has committed fraud or willful misrepresentation of facts may be removed from the United States without any further hearings or review, unless the alien indicates a fear of persecution. Congress added expedited removal to the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) in 1996, making it mandatory for arriving aliens, and giving the Attorney General the option of applying it to aliens in the interior of the country who have not been admitted or paroled into the United States and who cannot affirmatively show that they have been physically present in the United States continuously for two years. Until recently, expedited removal was only applied to aliens at ports of entry."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Wasem, Ruth Ellen; Siskin, Alison

  2006-05-15
• Central Asia: Regional Developments and Implications for U.S. Interests [Updated May 12, 2006]

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  "After the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, the United States recognized the independence of all the former Central Asian republics, supported their admission into Western organizations, and elicited Turkish support to counter Iranian influence in the region. Congress was at the forefront in urging the formation of coherent U.S. policies for aiding these and other Eurasian states of the former Soviet Union. Soon after the terrorist attacks on America on September 11, 2001, all the Central Asian states offered overflight and other support to coalition anti-terrorist efforts in Afghanistan. Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan hosted coalition troops and provided access to airbases. In 2003, Uzbekistan endorsed coalition military action in Iraq and Kazakhstan provided about two dozen troops for rebuilding. After September 11, 2001, U.S. policy emphasized bolstering the security of the Central Asian states to help them combat terrorism, proliferation, and arms trafficking. Other strategic interests include internal reforms (democratization, free markets, and human rights) and energy development. Administration policy also aims to integrate these states into the international community so that they follow responsible security and other policies, and to discourage the growth of xenophobic, fundamentalist, and anti-Western orientations that threaten peace and stability."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Nichol, James P.

  2006-05-12
• Terrorism and National Security: Issues and Trends [Updated May 10, 2006]

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  "The Bush Administration has made bilateral and regional free-trade agreements (FTAs) more important elements of U.S. trade policy, a strategy known as 'competitive liberalization.' This strategy, it argues, will push forward trade liberalization simultaneously on bilateral, regional and multilateral fronts. It is meant to spur trade negotiations by liberalizing trade with countries willing to join FTAs, and to pressure other countries to negotiate multilaterally. Critics contend, however, that the accent on regional and bilateral negotiations undermines the multilateral forum and increases the risk of trade diversion away from competitive countries not in the trade bloc. The controversial CAFTA (Central American Free Trade Agreement) -- an agreement signed with the five countries of the Central American Common Market (CACM) and the Dominican Republic -- was passed by the House on July 28, 2005, by a vote of 217- 215. Later in the day, the Senate approved the House version of the legislation to implement CAFTA, and President Bush signed it on August 2 (P.L. 109-53). In December 2005, Congress approved implementing legislation for the Bahrain FTA and President Bush signed the legislation of January 11, 2006 (P.L. 109-169). The United States is participating in several other regional and bilateral trade negotiations. Agreements were concluded and became effective during the 108th Congress with Australia, Chile, and Singapore. Also during the 108th Congress, an agreement with Morocco was approved, but it did not take effect until January 1, 2006. Negotiations are underway with Panama, Thailand, three Andean nations (Colombia, Peru, and Ecuador), and the United Arab Emirates. Negotiations have recently concluded with Peru, Colombia, and Oman. USTR announced the launch of FTA negotiations with South Korea on February 3, 2006, and with Malaysia on March 8. Several other trade initiatives are under discussion, including a U.S.-Middle East FTA and an FTA with countries in southeast Asia."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Fergusson, Ian F.

  2006-05-10
• Homeland Security Department: FY2007 Appropriations [May 10, 2006]

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  "This report describes the FY2007 appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The Administration requested a net appropriation of $32.0 billion in net budget authority for FY2007, of which $31.0 billion is discretionary budget authority, and $1 billion is mandatory budget authority. The President's request for appropriations includes the following break out of net budget authority for the four titles of the DHS appropriation bill: (I) Departmental Management and Operations, $1,074 million; (II) Security, Enforcement and Investigations, $22,671 million; (III) Preparedness and Response, $6,385 million; and (IV) Research and Development, Training, Assessments, and Services, $1,965 million. The requested net appropriation for major components of the department includes the following: $6,574 million for Customs and Border Protection (CBP); $3,928 million for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE); $2,323 million for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA); $8,181 million for the U.S. Coast Guard; $1,265 million for the Secret Service; $3,420 million for the Preparedness Directorate; $2,964 million for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA); $182 million for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS); and $1,002 million for the Science and Technology Directorate (S&T)."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Lake, Jennifer E.; Nunez-Neto, Blas

  2006-05-10
• Pakistan-U.S. Relations [Updated May 9, 2006]

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  "A stable, democratic, economically thriving Pakistan is considered vital to U.S. interests in Asia. Key U.S. concerns regarding Pakistan include regional terrorism; Pakistan- Afghanistan relations; weapons proliferation; the ongoing Kashmir problem and Pakistan- India tensions; human rights protection; and economic development. A U.S.-Pakistan relationship marked by periods of both cooperation and discord was transformed by the September 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States and the ensuing enlistment of Pakistan as a pivotal ally in U.S.-led counterterrorism efforts. Top U.S. officials regularly praise Islamabad for its ongoing cooperation, although doubts exist about Islamabad's commitment to some core U.S. interests. Pakistan is identified as a base for terrorist groups and their supporters operating in Kashmir, India, and Afghanistan. Since late 2003, Pakistan's army has been conducting unprecedented counterterrorism operations in traditionally autonomous western tribal areas. A potential Pakistan-India nuclear arms race has been the focus of U.S. nonproliferation efforts in South Asia. Attention to this issue intensified following nuclear tests by both countries in May 1998. The tests triggered restrictions on U.S. aid to both countries (remaining nuclear-related sanctions on Pakistan were waived in October 2001). Pakistan and India have fought three wars since 1947. Recently, the United States has been troubled by evidence of 'onward' proliferation of Pakistani nuclear technology to third parties, including North Korea, Iran, and Libya. Such evidence became stark in February 2004."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Kronstadt, K. Alan

  2006-05-09
• United States Commission on International Religious Freedom: Annual Report 2006

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  "The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom was created by Congress to advocate within U.S. policy a prominent place for the promotion of religious freedom and other freedoms throughout the world. Now in its seventh year of operation, the Commission is drawing the attention of the policy community to the growing strategic importance of the protection of religious freedom to U.S. national interests, raising greater public awareness as to why religious freedom is a critical component of how countries treat their own people and deal with the world around them, and working with Members of Congress in a truly bipartisan effort to promote religious freedom abroad. [...] This annual report of the Commission provides a comprehensive review of the Commission's activities--its findings, recommendations, and achievements--during the past year to promote the universal right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion or belief. This report describes conditions for religious freedom and inter-related human rights in the countries of concern to the Commission, highlights key findings, reports on the actions the Commission has taken to raise the public's awareness of persistent religious freedom violations, refers to the Commission's efforts to keep Congress informed of religious freedom conditions throughout the world, and presents the Commission's U.S. policy recommendations to ensure that the promotion of freedom of religion or belief becomes a more integral part of U.S. foreign policy."

  United States Commission on International Religious Freedom

  2006-05
• Identification - Friend or Foe? The Strategic Uses and Future Implications of the Revolutionary New ID Technologies

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  From the thesis abstract: "Recent developments in identification (ID) technologies are likely to have a revolutionary impact on American society and the manner by which it wages war. The good news is that broader and more creative use of the new ID technologies could enable coalition forces to achieve dramatic victories in the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) by targeting directly and effectively a critical requirement of most insurgencies: the insurgents' anonymity. The bad news is that these same technologies may be inherently inimical to the future of privacy and American civil liberties. They could transform our nation and others into surveillance societies concentrating in the hands of central governments levers of control without parallel in human history. How to reconcile American interests and values with the imperative to bend every element of national power in their defense is the central paradox of the GWOT. Are the new ID technologies useful means to the important end of securing the United States against potentially cataclysmic attacks or will they subvert the very interests and values at the core of all we seek to defend?"

  Army War College (U.S.)

  Pruett, Richard K.

  2006-04-26