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U.S. Sanctions on Russia: An Overview [Updated March 23, 2020]
From the Document: "The United States has imposed sanctions on Russia in response to its invasion of Ukraine, election interference, other malicious cyber activities, human rights abuses, use of a chemical weapon, weapons proliferation, illicit trade with North Korea, and support to Syria and Venezuela. Sanctions against Russian persons (defined to include individuals, entities, vessels, and aircraft) may include blocking of assets subject to U.S. jurisdiction; limits on access to the U.S. financial system, including transactions involving U.S. individuals and businesses; and denial of entry into the United States. The United States also tightly controls exports to Russia's defense and energy sectors."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Rennack, Dianne E.; Welt, Cory
2020-03-23
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U.S. Assistance to Sub-Saharan Africa: An Overview [May 20, 2020]
From the Overview: "Congress authorizes, appropriates, and oversees U.S. assistance to sub-Saharan Africa ('Africa'), which received over a quarter of U.S. aid obligated in FY2018. Annual State Department- and U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)-administered assistance to Africa increased more than five-fold over the past two decades, primarily due to sizable increases in global health spending and more incremental growth in economic and security assistance. State Department and USAID-administered assistance allocated to African countries from FY2019 appropriations totaled roughly $7.1 billion. This does not include considerable U.S. assistance provided to Africa via global accounts, such as emergency humanitarian aid and certain kinds of development, security, and health aid. The United States channels additional funds to Africa through multilateral bodies, such as the United Nations and World Bank."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Husted, Tomas F.; Arieff, Alexis; Blanchard, Lauren Ploch . . .
2020-05-20
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Afghanistan: Background and U.S. Policy: In Brief [Updated June 25, 2020]
From the Summary: "Afghanistan was elevated as a significant U.S. foreign policy concern in 2001, when the United States, in response to the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, led a military campaign against Al Qaeda and the Taliban government that harbored and supported it. In the intervening 18 years, the United States has suffered around 2,400 military fatalities in Afghanistan (including four in combat in 2020 to date) and Congress has appropriated approximately $137 billion for reconstruction there.In that time, an elected Afghan government has replaced the Taliban, and most measures of human development have improved, although future prospects of those measures remain mixed. The fundamental objective of U.S. efforts in Afghanistan is 'preventing any further attacks on the United States by terrorists enjoying safe haven or support in Afghanistan,' according to the State Department's Integrated Country Strategy."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Thomas, Clayton (Analyst in Middle Eastern Affairs)
2020-06-25
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Mozambique: Politics, Economy, and U.S. Relations [Updated September 12, 2019]
From the Document: "Mozambique, a significant recipient of U.S. development assistance, is a southeastern African country nearly twice the size of California, with a population of 27.9 million people. It achieved rapid growth following a postindependence civil war (1977-1992), but faces a range of political, economic, and security challenges. These include a political scandal over state-guaranteed, allegedly corrupt bank loans received by state-owned firms, which created public debt that the government did not disclose to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This placed the country's relations with the IMF at risk and has had major negative repercussions for the economy, donor relations, and Mozambique's governance record. Other challenges include unmet development needs, a range of governance shortcomings, organized crime, an ongoing economic slump, and political conflict and violence involving both mainstream political actors and violent extremists. Mozambique is also recovering from two powerful cyclones that hit the country in March and April 2019 (addressed in CRS [Congressional Research Service] Report R45683, 'Cyclones Idai and Kenneth in Southeastern Africa: Humanitarian and Recovery Response in Brief')."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Cook, Nicolas
2019-09-12
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Advisory Memorandum on Ensuring Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers Ability to Work During the COVID-19 Response
From the Document: "The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) executes the Secretary of Homeland Security's authorities to secure critical infrastructure. Consistent with these authorities, CISA has developed, in collaboration with other federal agencies, State and local governments, and the private sector, an 'Essential Critical Infrastructure Workforce' advisory list. This list is intended to help State, local, tribal, territorial officials and organizations endeavor to protect their workers and communities as they continue to reopen in a phased approach, coupled with the need to ensure continuity of functions critical to public health and safety, as well as economic and national security. Decisions informed by this list should also take into consideration worker safety, workplace settings, as well as additional public health considerations based on the specific COVID-19-related concerns of particular jurisdictions."
United States. Department of Homeland Security. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency
Wales, Brandon
2020-12-16
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Moldova: Background and U.S. Policy [April 23, 2014]
"As a self-declared neutral country, Moldova does not seek NATO membership, but participates in NATO's Partnership for Peace (PFP) program. In June 2014, Moldova expects to sign an Association Agreement with the European Union (EU), which includes a free trade agreement, and closer cooperation in a wide variety of spheres. Moldova hopes to become a candidate for EU membership, although the EU is unlikely to accept Moldova in the foreseeable future, due to Moldova's poverty, the EU's own internal challenges, and possibly also due to concerns that it would set a precedent for the candidacy of other former Soviet states, such as Ukraine. The United States and Moldova have enjoyed good relations since the country's independence in 1991. In a signal of U.S. support, Secretary of State John Kerry visited Moldova on December 4, 2013, to congratulate the country on initialing its Association Agreement with the EU in Moldova. The United States and the EU are working to enhance market opportunities for wine and other Moldovan products in part in order to reduce the impact of current and possible future Russian embargoes. During a visit to Moldova on March 30, Assistant Secretary of State Victoria Nuland confirmed U.S. support for Moldova's path toward European integration and for continued U.S. aid for anti-corruption efforts, strengthening border security (for which Ms. Nuland announced an additional $10 million in U.S. aid), boosting Moldovan exports (including Moldovan wines), energy security, and other areas."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Woehrel, Steven J.
2014-04-23
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Mozambique: Politics, Economy, and U.S. Relations [Updated August 20, 2019]
From the Document: "U.S.-Mozambican ties are cordial and historically have centered on development cooperation. U.S. assistance, funded at an annual average of $452 million between FY2016 and FY2018, has focused primarily on health programs. Given recent events, U.S. engagement and aid may increasingly focus on the development of economic ties and security cooperation, notably to counter ASWJ [Al Sunnah wa Jama'ah], which is active in the area where large-scale gas processing development is underway. For many years, Mozambique received relatively limited congressional attention, but interest in the country may be growing; the country hosted congressional delegations in 2016 and 2018. U.S. humanitarian responses to the recent cyclones have also drawn congressional engagement. Developments in the country--including the rise of violent extremism and prospects for U.S. private-sector investment and U.S. bilateral aid program outcomes in a context in which state corruption poses substantial challenges--could attract increasing congressional attention in the coming years."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Cook, Nicolas
2019-08-20
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Mozambique: Politics, Economy, and U.S. Relations [July 18, 2019]
From the Summary: "U.S.-Mozambican ties are cordial and historically have centered on development cooperation. U.S. assistance, funded at an annual average of $452 million between FY2016 and FY2018, has focused primarily on health programs. Given recent events, U.S. engagement and aid may increasingly focus on the development of economic ties and security cooperation, notably to counter ASWJ [Al Sunnah wa Jama'ah], which is active in the area where large-scale gas processing development is underway. For many years, Mozambique received relatively limited congressional attention, but interest in the country may be growing; the country hosted congressional delegations in 2016 and 2018. U.S. humanitarian responses to the recent cyclones have also drawn congressional engagement. Developments in the country--including the rise of violent extremism and prospects for U.S. private sector investment and U.S. bilateral aid program outcomes in a context in which state corruption poses substantial challenges--could attract increasing congressional attention in the coming years."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Cook, Nicolas
2019-07-18
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Russia: Domestic Politics and Economy [September 9, 2020]
From the Introduction: "This report focuses on Russian domestic politics, the Russian economy, and related U.S. policy. It first addresses Russia's political structure, power dynamics, and recent developments. It next examines the political impact of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in Russia. It follows with sections on corruption and human rights, including related U.S. policy. Finally, it analyzes the Russian economy, including the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Russia's energy sector, and U.S.-Russian economic relations. Russian foreign and security relations and related U.S. policy is not within the scope of this report."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Welt, Cory; Nelson, Rebecca M.
2020-09-09
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Global Compact on Migration (GCM) and U.S. Policy [Updated September 1, 2020]
From the Document: "Congress has demonstrated ongoing interest in the global migration crisis, particularly with recent flows of migrants and refugees to the United States from Central America and Mexico. In 2019 an estimated 272 million international migrants formed roughly 3.5% of the world's population. Although not formally defined under international law, many experts generally agree that an 'international migrant' is someone who changes his or her country of usual residence, temporarily or permanently, and for a variety of reasons. The decision to move is usually made out of a choice related to livelihood, improved economic circumstances, or family ties. However, as discussed below, certain factors may force individuals to leave involuntarily."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Margesson, Rhoda
2020-09-01
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South Africa: Current Issues, Economy, and U.S. Relations [Updated September 17, 2020]
From the Summary: "South Africa, a majority black, multiracial country of nearly 60 million people, has cordial relations with the United States, notwithstanding periodic strains, and is the largest U.S. trade partner in Africa. President Cyril Ramaphosa took office in 2018, after a series of corruption scandals under the administration of his predecessor, Jacob Zuma. Zuma, elected in 2009, resigned under intense pressure in early 2018, shortly after then-Vice President Ramaphosa was elected to replace Zuma as leader of the African National Congress (ANC), South Africa's dominant party. The ANC has held a parliamentary majority since the first universal suffrage elections in 1994, which marked the end of apartheid, a system of codified state racial bias favoring whites, but is facing headwinds. In the last general elections, in May 2019, it earned 57.5% of the vote--its lowest margin ever."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Cook, Nicolas
2020-09-17
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Maritime Territorial and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) Disputes Involving China: Issues for Congress [September 18, 2015]
"China's actions for asserting and defending its maritime territorial and exclusive economic zone (EEZ) claims in the East China (ECS) and South China Sea (SCS), particularly since late 2013, have heightened concerns among observers that China may be seeking to dominate or gain control of its near-seas region, meaning the ECS, the SCS, and the Yellow Sea. Chinese domination over or control of this region could substantially affect U.S. strategic, political, and economic interests in the Asia-Pacific region and elsewhere. China is a party to multiple territorial disputes in the SCS and ECS, including, in particular, disputes over the Paracel Islands, Spratly Islands, and Scarborough Shoal in the SCS, and the Senkaku Islands in the ECS. China depicts its territorial claims in the SCS using the so-called map of the nine-dash line that appears to enclose an area covering roughly 90% of the SCS. Some observers characterize China's approach for asserting and defending its territorial claims in the ECS and SCS as a 'salami-slicing' strategy that employs a series of incremental actions, none of which by itself is a 'casus belli', to gradually change the status quo in China's favor. In addition to territorial disputes in the SCS and ECS, China is involved in a dispute, particularly with the United States, over whether China has a right under international law to regulate the activities of foreign military forces operating within China's EEZ. The dispute appears to be at the heart of incidents between Chinese and U.S. ships and aircraft in international waters and airspace in 2001, 2002, 2009, 2013, and 2014."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
O'Rourke, Ronald
2015-09-18
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Latin America and the Caribbean: U.S. Policy and Issues in the 116th Congress [Updated January 7, 2021]
From the Summary: "The United States maintains strong linkages with neighboring Latin America and the Caribbean based on geographic proximity and diverse U.S. interests, including economic, political, and security concerns. The United States is a major trading partner and source of foreign investment for many countries in the region, with free-trade agreements enhancing economic linkages with 11 countries. The region is a large source of U.S. immigration, both legal and illegal; proximity and economic and security conditions are major factors driving migration. Curbing the flow of illicit drugs has been a key component of U.S. relations with the region for more than four decades and currently involves close security cooperation with Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. U.S. support for democracy and human rights in the region has been long-standing, with current focus on Cuba, Nicaragua, and Venezuela. Overall, although the region has made significant advances over the past four decades in terms of both political and economic development, notable challenges remain and some countries have experienced major setbacks, most prominently Venezuela. The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has had widespread economic, social, and political effects in the region. By the end of 2020, the region reported over 507,000 deaths (almost 28% of deaths worldwide)."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.; Beittel, June S.; Meyer, Peter J. . . .
2021-01-07
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Maritime Territorial and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) Disputes Involving China: Issues for Congress [August 28, 2015]
"China's actions for asserting and defending its maritime territorial and exclusive economic zone (EEZ) claims in the East China (ECS) and South China Sea (SCS), particularly since late 2013, have heightened concerns among observers that China may be seeking to dominate or gain control of its near-seas region, meaning the ECS, the SCS, and the Yellow Sea. Chinese domination over or control of this region could substantially affect U.S. strategic, political, and economic interests in the Asia-Pacific region and elsewhere. China is a party to multiple territorial disputes in the SCS and ECS, including, in particular, disputes over the Paracel Islands, Spratly Islands, and Scarborough Shoal in the SCS, and the Senkaku Islands in the ECS. China depicts its territorial claims in the SCS using the so-called map of the nine-dash line that appears to enclose an area covering roughly 90% of the SCS. Some observers characterize China's approach for asserting and defending its territorial claims in the ECS and SCS as a 'salami-slicing' strategy that employs a series of incremental actions, none of which by itself is a 'casus belli', to gradually change the status quo in China's favor."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
O'Rourke, Ronald
2015-08-28
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Maritime Territorial and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) Disputes Involving China: Issues for Congress [August 7, 2015]
"China's actions for asserting and defending its maritime territorial and exclusive economic zone (EEZ) claims in the East China (ECS) and South China Sea (SCS), particularly since late 2013, have heightened concerns among observers that China may be seeking to dominate or gain control of its near-seas region, meaning the ECS, the SCS, and the Yellow Sea. Chinese domination over or control of this region could substantially affect U.S. strategic, political, and economic interests in the Asia-Pacific region and elsewhere. [...] In addition to territorial disputes in the SCS and ECS, China is involved in a dispute, particularly with the United States, over whether China has a right under international law to regulate the activities of foreign military forces operating within China's EEZ. The dispute appears to be at the heart of incidents between Chinese and U.S. ships and aircraft in international waters and airspace in 2001, 2002, 2009, 2013, and 2014. [...] China's actions for asserting and defending its maritime territorial and EEZ claims in the ECS and SCS raise several potential policy and oversight issues for Congress, including whether the United States has an adequate strategy for countering China's 'salami-slicing' strategy, whether the United States has taken adequate actions to reduce the risk that the United States might be drawn into a crisis or conflict over a territorial dispute involving China, and whether the United States should become a party to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
O'Rourke, Ronald
2015-08-07
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Mexico: Background and U.S. Relations [March 30, 2016]
"Congress has maintained significant interest in neighboring Mexico, a close ally and top trade partner. President Enrique Peña Nieto of the centrist Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) assumed the Mexican presidency on December 1, 2012, after 12 years of rule by the conservative National Action Party (PAN). Peña Nieto enacted structural reforms during his first year in office but has struggled to address human rights abuses, corruption, and impunity. His government's security record has been turbulent; it has included the capture, escape, and subsequent recapture of Joaquín 'El Chapo' Guzmán--head of the powerful Sinaloa criminal organization. President Peña Nieto's first three years in office brought mixed results for Mexico. During 2013, Peña Nieto's 'Pact for Mexico' agreement with the PAN and the leftist Party of the Democratic Revolution (PRD) facilitated the passage of education, telecommunications, and energy reforms. Implementation of the aforementioned reforms has occurred over the course of the past two years, but low oil prices have caused Mexico's state oil company to record huge losses, prompted currency depreciation, and necessitated steep budget cuts. Advances in implementing a new criminal justice system have been overshadowed by an increase in homicides in 2015 and the government's inability to resolve emblematic cases, such as the 43 students who were forcibly abducted--and likely murdered--in Guerrero in September 2014."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Seelke, Clare Ribando
2016-03-30
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Mexico: Background and U.S. Relations [January 30, 2014]
"Congress has maintained a strong interest in Mexico, a top trade partner and energy supplier, with which the United States shares a nearly 2,000 mile border and strong cultural and historical ties. Economically, the United States and Mexico are heavily interdependent, and the U.S. economy could benefit if Mexico is able to boost its growth rates by successfully implementing the historic reforms enacted in 2013. Similarly, security conditions in Mexico affect U.S. national security, particularly along the U.S.-Mexico border. Congress may closely monitor whether the reduction in organized-crime related violence that Mexico has experienced since 2012 can be sustained without jeopardizing bilateral efforts against transnational organized crime. Maintaining strong bilateral cooperation on these and other issues, while also ensuring that U.S. interests are protected, are likely to be of interest during the second session of the 113th Congress. This report provides an overview of political and economic conditions in Mexico followed by assessments of some key issues of congressional interest in Mexico: migration, trade, security, human rights, energy, and water issues. The report summarizes legislative action that has occurred related to these topics and refers to other CRS [Congressional Research Service] products and experts that can be consulted for further information. It will be updated to address major developments in Mexico and in Mexican-U.S. relations that are of interest to Congress."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Seelke, Clare Ribando
2014-01-30
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Department of Homeland Security Privacy Office: 2017 Data Mining Report to Congress
From the Foreword: "I am pleased to present the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) 2017 Data Mining Report to Congress. The Federal Agency Data Mining Reporting Act of 2007, 42 U.S.C. § 2000ee-3, requires DHS to report annually to Congress on DHS activities that meet the Act's definition of data mining. For each identified activity, the Act requires DHS to provide the following: (1) a thorough description of the activity and the technology and methodology used; (2) the sources of data used; (3) an analysis of the activity's efficacy; (4) the legal authorities supporting the activity; and (5) an analysis of the activity's impact on privacy and the protections in place to protect privacy. This is the twelfth comprehensive DHS Data Mining Report and the tenth report prepared pursuant to the Act. Two annexes to this report, which include Law Enforcement Sensitive information and Sensitive Security Information, are being provided separately to Congress as required by the Act. With the creation of DHS, Congress authorized the Department to engage in data mining and the use of other analytical tools in furtherance of Departmental goals and objectives. Consistent with the rigorous compliance process it applies to all DHS programs and systems, the DHS Privacy Office works closely with the programs discussed in this report to ensure that they employ data mining in a manner that both supports the Department's mission to protect the homeland and protects privacy."
United States. Department of Homeland Security
2018-10
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Peacekeeping and Conflict Transitions: Background and Congressional Action on Civilian Capabilities [April 13, 2005]
"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 inter-agency 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.
2005-04-13
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Peacekeeping/Stabilization and Conflict Transitions: Background and Congressional Action on the Civilian Response/Reserve Corps and other Civilian Stabilization and Reconstruction Capabilities [July 23, 2009]
"The 111th Congress will face a number of issues regarding the development of civilian capabilities to carry out stabilization and reconstruction activities. In September 2008, Congress passed the Reconstruction and Stabilization Civilian Management Act, 2008, as Title XVI of the Duncan Hunter National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009 (S. 3001, P.L. 110-417, signed into law October 14, 2008). This legislation codified the existence and functions of the State Department Office of the Coordinator for Reconstruction and Stabilization (S/CRS) and authorized new operational capabilities within the State Department, a Civilian Response Corps of government employees with an active and a standby component, and a Civilian Reserve Corps. S/CRS was established in 2004 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 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, as is fielding the appropriate civilian personnel."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Serafino, Nina M.
2009-07-23
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Peacekeeping/Stabilization and Conflict Transitions: Background and Congressional Action on the Civilian Response/Reserve Corps and other Civilian Stabilization and Reconstruction Capabilities [June 16, 2009]
"The 111th Congress will face a number of issues regarding the development of civilian capabilities to carry out stabilization and reconstruction activities. In September 2008, Congress passed the Reconstruction and Stabilization Civilian Management Act, 2008, as Title XVI of the Duncan Hunter National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009 (S. 3001, P.L. 110-417, signed into law October 14, 2008). This legislation codified the existence and functions of the State Department Office of the Coordinator for Reconstruction and Stabilization (S/CRS) and authorized new operational capabilities within the State Department, a Civilian Response Corps of government employees with an active and a standby component, and a Civilian Reserve Corps. S/CRS was established in 2004 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 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, as is fielding the appropriate civilian personnel."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Serafino, Nina M.
2009-06-16
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Peacekeeping/Stabilization and Conflict Transitions: Background and Congressional Action on the Civilian Response/Reserve Corps and other Civilian Stabilization and Reconstruction Capabilities [May 22, 2009]
"The 111th Congress will face a number of issues regarding the development of civilian capabilities to carry out stabilization and reconstruction activities. In September 2008, Congress passed the Reconstruction and Stabilization Civilian Management Act, 2008, as Title XVI of the Duncan Hunter National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009 (S. 3001, P.L. 110-417, signed into law October 14, 2008). This legislation codified the existence and functions of the State Department Office of the Coordinator for Reconstruction and Stabilization (S/CRS) and authorized new operational capabilities within the State Department, a Civilian Response Corps of government employees with an active and a standby component, and a Civilian Reserve Corps. S/CRS was established in 2004 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 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, as is fielding the appropriate civilian personnel."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Serafino, Nina M.
2009-05-22
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Peacekeeping/Stabilization and Conflict Transitions: Background and Congressional Action on the Civilian Response/Reserve Corps and other Civilian Stabilization and Reconstruction Capabilities [February 5, 2009]
"The 111th Congress will face a number of issues regarding the development of civilian capabilities to carry out stabilization and reconstruction activities. In September 2008, Congress passed the Reconstruction and Stabilization Civilian Management Act, 2008, as Title XVI of the Duncan Hunter National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009 (S. 3001, P.L. 110-417, signed into law October 14, 2008). This legislation codified the existence and functions of the State Department Office of the Coordinator for Reconstruction and Stabilization (S/CRS) and authorized new operational capabilities within the State Department, a Civilian Response Corps of government employees with an active and a standby component, and a Civilian Reserve Corps. [...]. Since July 2004, S/CRS has worked to establish the basic concepts, mechanisms, and capabilities necessary to carry out such operations. [...]. In June 2008, Congress specifically provided $75 million for S/CRS and USAID S&R activities, including the establishment and implementation of the civilian response capabilities, in the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2008 (H.R. 4642, P.L. 110-252). Among the issues that the Congress will face regarding the development of civilian capabilities are the level of staffing and funding for S/CRS, and the means to develop, support, maintain, and deploy the civilian response and reserve corps. These initiatives were intended to enhance the United States' ability to function effectively on the world scene in the environment created by the terrorist attacks on the United States of September 11, 2001 (9/11)."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Serafino, Nina M.
2009-02-05
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Peacekeeping/Stabilization and Conflict Transitions: Background and Congressional Action on the Civilian Response/Reserve Corps and Other Civilian Stabilization and Reconstruction Capabilities [March 4, 2011]
"The 112th Congress may face a number of issues regarding the development of civilian capabilities to carry out stabilization and reconstruction activities. In September 2008, Congress passed the Reconstruction and Stabilization Civilian Management Act, 2008, as Title XVI of the Duncan Hunter National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009 (S. 3001, P.L. 110-417, signed into law October 14, 2008). This legislation codified the existence and functions of the State Department Office of the Coordinator for Reconstruction and Stabilization (S/CRS) and authorized new operational capabilities within the State Department, a Civilian Response Corps (CRC) of government employees with an active and a standby component, and a reserve component. S/CRS slowly expanded, and the creation of the active and standby response components is in progress. Nevertheless, some members have argued for changes. [...] For FY2012, the Obama Administration requests $92.2 million for Conflict Stabilization Operations and $75 million for the USAID [United States Agency for International Development] Complex Crisis Fund. Its proposal for a new, joint State Department-Department of Defense (DOD) Global Security Contingency Fund, with $50 million contributed by each department and a DOD transfer authority of $450 million, may play into consideration of the request. The 112th Congress's consideration of the terms of future FY2011 funding, particularly if based on the FY2008 budget level, may affect the future of S/CRS and the CRC. The FY2008 funding was considerably below the FY2010-FY2011 level, and was appropriated as supplemental, not regular, appropriations. This report will be updated as events warrant."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Serafino, Nina M.
2011-03-04
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Peacekeeping/Stabilization and Conflict Transitions: Background and Congressional Action on the Civilian Response/Reserve Corps and other Civilian Stabilization and Reconstruction Capabilities [February 2, 2011]
"The 112th Congress faces a number of issues regarding the development of civilian capabilities to carry out stabilization and reconstruction activities. In September 2008, Congress passed the Reconstruction and Stabilization Civilian Management Act, 2008, as Title XVI of the Duncan Hunter National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009 (S. 3001, P.L. 110-417, signed into law October 14, 2008). This legislation codified the existence and functions of the State Department Office of the Coordinator for Reconstruction and Stabilization (S/CRS) and authorized new operational capabilities within the State Department, a Civilian Response Corps (CRC) of government employees with an active and a standby component, and a reserve component. Over the next several years, S/CRS was slowly expanded, and the creation of the active and standby response components is in progress. Nevertheless, some Members have argued for changes. S/CRS was established in 2004 to address long-standing 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 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, as is fielding the appropriate civilian personnel."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Serafino, Nina M.
2011-02-02
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Peacekeeping/Stabilization and Conflict Transitions: Background and Congressional Action on the Civilian Response/Reserve Corps and other Civilian Stabilization and Reconstruction Capabilities [February 17, 2010]
"The second session of the 111th Congress faces a number of issues regarding the development of civilian capabilities to carry out stabilization and reconstruction activities. In September 2008, Congress passed the Reconstruction and Stabilization Civilian Management Act, 2008, as Title XVI of the Duncan Hunter National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009 (S. 3001, P.L. 110-417, signed into law October 14, 2008). This legislation codified the existence and functions of the State Department Office of the Coordinator for Reconstruction and Stabilization (S/CRS) and authorized new operational capabilities within the State Department, a Civilian Response Corps (CRC) of government employees with an active and a standby component, and a reserve component. Although the establishment of active and standby units began under the Bush Administration, Congress has yet to fund the reserve component. The first session of the 111th Congress created a new fund to support Corps deployments, but the second session faces questions about the appropriate funding level for it."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Serafino, Nina M.
2010-02-17
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Peacekeeping/Stabilization and Conflict Transitions: Background and Congressional Action on the Civilian Response/Reserve Corps and other Civilian Stabilization and Reconstruction Capabilities [October 2, 2012]
"In November 2011, the Obama Administration announced the creation of a new State Department Bureau of Conflict and Stabilization Operations (CSO) to provide the institutional focus for policy and 'operational solutions' to prevent, respond to, and stabilize crises in priority states. This bureau integrates the former Office of the Coordinator for Reconstruction and Stabilization (S/CRS). In December 2011, the Administration nominated Frederick D. Barton to two posts: the Assistant Secretary for Conflict and Stabilization Operations and the Coordinator for Reconstruction and Stabilization. The second session of the 112th Congress may wish to follow the progress of the CSO Bureau in furthering the work of S/CRS as part of appropriations and oversight functions. […] The 111th Congress provided funding to expand the active and standby units, but not the civilian reserve. The 111th Congress also established a new USAID [United States Agency for International Development] Complex Crises Fund (CCF) to support programs and activities responding to emerging or unforeseen complex crises abroad. The 112th Congress continued to fund S/CRS and its successor, the CSO Bureau, as well as the CCF, although at reduced levels. This report does not cover events since the formation of the CSO Bureau. It will not be updated."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Serafino, Nina M.
2012-10-02
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Peacekeeping/Stabilization and Conflict Transitions: Background and Congressional Action on the Civilian Response/Reserve Corps and Other Civilian Stabilization and Reconstruction Capabilities [Updated September 18, 2008]
"The State Department's Office of the Coordinator for Reconstruction and Stabilization (S/CRS) was established in 2004 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 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, as is fielding the appropriate civilian personnel. In his January 23, 2007, State of the Union address, President Bush called for Congress to work with his Administration 'to design and establish a volunteer Civilian Reserve Corps.' Included in the Administration's February 4, 2008, budget request for FY2009 is a $248.6 million Civilian Stabilization Initiative that seeks to establish that corps."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Serafino, Nina M.; Weiss, Martin A.
2008-09-18
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Peacekeeping/Stabilization and Conflict Transitions: Background and Congressional Action on the Civilian Response/Reserve Corps and Other Civilian Stabilization and Reconstruction Capabilities [January 12, 2012]
"In November 2011, the Obama Administration announced the creation of a new State Department Bureau of Conflict and Stabilization Operations [CSO] to provide the institutional focus for policy and 'operational solutions' to prevent, respond to, and stabilize crises in priority states. This bureau integrates the former Office of the Coordinator for Reconstruction and Stabilization (S/CRS). In December 2011, the Administration nominated Frederick D. Barton to two posts: the Assistant Secretary for Conflict and Stabilization Operations and the Coordinator for Reconstruction and Stabilization. The second session of the 112th Congress may wish to follow the progress of the CSO Bureau in furthering the work of S/CRS as part of appropriations and oversight functions. [...] The Obama Administration proceeded with plans and funding requests to develop S/CRS and its operational arm, the CRC. The 111th Congress provided funding to expand the active and standby units, but not the civilian reserve. The 111th Congress also established a new USAID [United States Agency for International Development] Complex Crises Fund (CCF) to support programs and activities responding to emerging or unforeseen complex crises abroad. The first session of the 112th Congress provided considerably less funding for Civilian Stabilization Operations (funds for S/CRS, the CRC [Civilian Response Corps], and related USAID activities) and USAID's CCF than the Administration requested. For FY2012, the Obama Administration requested $92.2 million for Conflict Stabilization Operations and $75 million for the CCF. The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2012 (P.L. 112-74), provided $8.5 million for Conflict Stabilization Operations and did not fund the USAID CCF. The extent to which this reduction will affect the operations of the new CSO bureau is unclear, however, as the bureau conceivably could draw on funds from other State Department accounts."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Serafino, Nina M.
2012-01-12
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Peacekeeping and Conflict Transitions: Background and Congressional Action on Civilian Capabilities [Updated January 30, 2008]
"The State Department's Office of the Coordinator for Reconstruction and Stabilization (S/CRS) was established 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 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, as is fielding the appropriate civilian personnel. President Bush referred to the latter in his January 23, 2007 State of the Union address, calling for Congress to work with the Administration "to design and establish a volunteer Civilian Reserve Corps." As in the various iterations of the Lugar-Biden legislation, these mechanisms consist of (1) a discretionary Conflict Response Fund and (2) some variation of a response corps that would include an active force of federal employees, a standby force, and a large civilian reserve of individuals (other than currently employed federal employees) with the skills necessary for stabilization and reconstruction, analogous to the military reserve, as mentioned in the President's 2007 State of the Union address."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Serafino, Nina M.; Weiss, Martin A.
2008-01-30
