Advanced search    Help

Clear all search criteria

Only 2/3! You are seeing results from the Public Collection, not the complete Full Collection. Sign in to search everything (see eligibility).

• CTC Sentinel [January 2021]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  This January 2021 issue of the U.S. Military Academy's Combating Terrorism Center (CTC) Sentinel features the following article: "Terrorism and Counterterrorism Challenges for the Biden Administration" by Bruce Hoffman and Jacob Ware. Other reports include "A View from the CT [counterterrorism] Foxhole: David Lasseter, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction" an interview by Stephen Hummel, Paul Cruickshank, and Don Rassler; "Afghanistan's Security Forces Versus the Taliban: A Net Assessment" by Jonathan Schroden; and "The April 2020 Islamic State Terror Plot Against U.S. and NATO Military Bases in Germany: The Tajik Connection" by Nodirbek Soliev.

  Combating Terrorism Center (U.S.)

  2021-01
• FY2010 Supplemental for Wars, Disaster Assistance, Haiti Relief, and Court Cases [May 12, 2010]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  From the Summary: "The Defense Department, the State Department, FEMA [Federal Emergency Management Agency], and the court plaintiffs have all cited deadlines in May and June for when funding is needed, but there appears to be some flexibility in these dates. Because DOD has already received 80% of its war funding, the supplemental monies may not be needed until the end of July. FEMA has suggested that additional disaster funding is needed by June. Because its disaster funding was tapped to meet Haiti's needs, the State Department argues that it needs its funding by June. And while the plaintiffs in the Cobell and Pigford cases could reject the settlements if funding is not provided by this spring's deadlines, the Administration's support may dissuade them. Congress will consider this supplemental appropriations request within the constraints set forth in the FY2010 congressional budget resolution (S.Con.Res. 13), and other budget rules. Some Members may believe that the request should be exempt from such constraints by designating the additional spending as an emergency, as provided under the rules. Others, in light of the current fiscal environment, may believe that all or portions of the additional spending should be offset, so as not to increase the deficit. Congress could change the Administration's request. For DOD's request, issues could include whether to set a timeline to evaluate the Afghan war troop surge; whether plans and funding to accelerate the training of Afghan security forces are achievable; and whether DOD's basing request signifies a permanent presence."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Belasco, Amy; Else, Daniel H.; Lindsay, Bruce R.

  2010-05-12
• COVID-19 and U.S. International Pandemic Preparedness, Prevention, and Response, Hearings Before the Committee on Foreign Relations, United States Senate, One Hundred Sixteenth Congress, Second Session, June 18 and June 30, 2020

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  These are the June 18 and June 30, 2020 hearings on "COVID-19 [coronavirus disease 2019] and U.S. International Pandemic Preparedness, Prevention, and Response," held before the U.S. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations. From the opening statement of James E. Risch: "Today, we are going to discuss the international response to the COVID-19 pandemic as well as future pandemic preparedness, prevention, and response. [...] It is essential that we respond now to help our partners who are not yet experiencing significant spread to get testing, tracing, and quarantine procedures in place, and to help our partners who already are under siege avert a worst-case scenario. We also need to focus on protecting access to food, livelihoods, water, sanitation, and hygiene. Protecting existing investments in immunizations, maternal and child health, and other infectious diseases are important at this time, also. [...] At the same time, we need to figure out how to get ahead of the next global pandemic. Indeed, that is what the focus of this hearing is going to be on." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Mark Dybul, Chris Milligan, Garrett Grigsby, Jimmy J. Kolker, Ashish K. Jha, and Jeremy Konyndyk.

  United States. Government Publishing Office

  2020
• China's Role in Wildlife Trafficking and the Chinese Government's Response

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "Overlooked, underpoliced, and highly lucrative, international wildlife trafficking has become a low-risk/high-return illegal trade estimated at $7 billion to $23 billion annually. While China's share of this trade is unknown due to the trade's illicit nature, China is widely recognized as the world's largest market for trafficked wildlife products. As the Chinese economy has grown, demand for wildlife products--including endangered species--has increased, contributing to the decline in populations of iconic species such as elephants and rhinos, as well as lesser-known species. Three factors play into Chinese demand for wildlife products: (1) wildlife products are valued as status symbols; (2) wildlife products represent a financial asset with stable or increasing value; and (3) wildlife products are perceived to have health benefits related to traditional Asian medicine. Until recently, however, public knowledge in China about wildlife trafficking and conservation efforts has been limited."

  U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission

  Southerland, Matthew; Stephens, Suzanna

  2018-12-06
• Department of Defense Appropriations for 2021, Part 1, Hearings Before a Subcommittee of the Committee on Appropriations, House of Representatives, One Hundred Sixteenth Congress, Second Session, February 6, 2020, February 27, 2020, March 3, 2020, March 4, 2020, March 5, 2020, March 10, 2020, March 11, 2020, March 12, 2020

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  These are the February 6, 2020, February 27, 2020, March 3, 2020, March 4, 2020, March 5, 2020, March 10, 2020, March 11, 2020, and March 12, 2020 hearings on "Department of Defense Appropriations for 2021, Part 1," held before the U.S. House Subcommittee of the Committee on Appropriations. From the opening statement of Peter J. Visclosky: "The leadership of the Department of Defense has affirmed repeatedly that modernization of the strategic deterrent is the Department's number one priority. We know that effort will be costly. We also know that the Department has outlined an ambitious program to modernize our conventional forces to meet the needs of what is referred to as great power competition. While the administration appears to be fully committed to modernizing our nuclear systems, I must also stress my concern that the administration has not demonstrated the same commitment when it comes to arms control." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Charles A. Richard, Tod D. Wolters, Joseph L. Lengyel, Charles Luckey, Luke McCollum, David G. Bellon, Richard W. Scobee, Thomas B. Modly, Michael M. Gilday, David H. Berger, David D. Thompson, Clinton E. Crosier, R. Scott Dingle, Bruce L. Gillingham, Dorothy A. Hogg, Thomas McCaffery, Ronald Place, Bill Tinston, Craig S. Faller, Ryan D. McCarthy, James P. McConville, Kenneth F. McKenzie, Stephen Townsend, Roger Williams, McGovern, Richard Hudson, Brian Fitzpatrick, Thomas Suozzi, Glenn Thompson, Denny Heck, Jodey Arrington, Brad Wenstrup, Jennifer Gonzalez-Colon, and Sheila Jackson Lee.

  United States. Government Publishing Office

  2021
• El Salvador: Political, Economic, and Social Conditions and U.S. Relations [March 17, 2010]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "Throughout the last few decades, the United States has maintained a strong interest in El Salvador, a small Central American country with a population of 7.2 million. During the 1980s, El Salvador was the largest recipient of U.S. aid in Latin America as its government struggled against the Farabundo Marti National Liberation Front (FMLN) insurgency during a 12-year civil war. A peace accord negotiated in 1992 brought the war to an end and formally assimilated the FMLN into the political process as a political party. After the peace accords were signed, U.S. involvement shifted toward helping the government rebuild democracy and implement marketfriendly economic reforms. Mauricio Funes of the FMLN was inaugurated to a five-year presidential term in June 2009. Funes won a close election in March 2009, marking the first FMLN presidential victory and the first transfer in political power between parties since the end of El Salvador's civil war. Funes' victory followed strong showings by the FMLN in the January 2009 municipal and legislative elections, in which the party won a plurality of the seats in the National Assembly and the largest share of the municipal vote."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Seelke, Clare Ribando

  2010-03-17
• Department of Homeland Security: FY2015 Appropriations [November 20, 2014]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "This report analyzes the FY2015 appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). While this report makes note of many budgetary resources provided to DHS, its primary focus is on funding approved by Congress through the appropriations process."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Painter, William L.

  2014-11-20
• Generalized System of Preferences: Background and Renewal Debate [December 16, 2014]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  From the summary: "The U.S. Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program provides non-reciprocal, duty-free tariff treatment to certain products imported from designated beneficiary developing countries (BDCs). The United States, the European Union, and other developed countries have implemented similar programs since the 1970s. The U.S. program was first authorized in Title V of the Trade Act of 1974, and is subject to periodic renewal by Congress. The GSP program was most recently extended until July 31, 2013, in Section 1 of P.L. 112-40, and has not been renewed. Imports under the GSP program in 2012 (last full year of GSP implementation) amounted to about $19.9 billion--about 6% of all imports from GSP countries, and about 1% of total U.S. imports. […] This report presents, first, recent developments and a brief history, economic rationale, and legal background leading to the establishment of the GSP. Second, the report presents a discussion of U.S. implementation of the GSP. Third, the report presents an analysis of the U.S. program's effectiveness and the positions of various stakeholders. Fourth, implications of the expiration of the U.S. program and possible options for Congress are discussed."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Jones, Vivian Catherine

  2014-12-16
• Spreading Disease, Spreading Conflict? COVID-19, Climate Change and Security Risks

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  From the Summary: "The COVID-19 [coronavirus disease 2019] pandemic has profound global impacts. Since the beginning of January 2020, there have been almost 30 million confirmed cases of COVID-19, and almost one million deaths, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). While all countries have been affected, COVID-19 is hitting especially hard those that were already struggling with poverty and conflict. The lockdown measures and travel restrictions caused millions to lose their jobs and incomes, exposed inequalities in access to basic services and resources, and heightened the risks to safety and human rights for many. What is worse, the full brunt of the pandemic may only be felt much later. Many of the contexts affected by the pandemic are also experiencing the impacts of climate change, which have and will continue to exacerbate situations of fragility and conflict. There is widespread agreement among security experts that climate change is a risk multiplier and obstacle to peace. It adds to and compounds challenges such as increased resource demands and rapid population growth and urbanisation, thus exacerbating existing fragility and conflict risks. At the same time, climate change has not stopped for COVID-19 as the massive wildfires, record droughts and floods, unprecedented heat and storms that we have seen in 2020 remind us."

  adelphi; Climate Diplomacy

  Mosello, Beatrice; Foong, Adrian; König, Christian . . .

  2020-10
• Central Asia: Regional Developments and Implications for U.S. Interests [Updated August 4, 2006]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "The Administration's diverse goals in Central Asia reflect the differing characteristics of these states. U.S. interests in Kazakhstan include securing and eliminating Soviet-era nuclear and biological weapons materials and facilities. In Tajikistan, U.S. aid focuses on economic reconstruction. U.S. energy firms have invested in oil and natural gas development in Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan. U.S. relations with Uzbekistan suffered following the Uzbek government's violent crackdown on armed and unarmed protesters in the city of Andijon in May 2005. Some observers call for different emphases or levels of U.S. involvement in the region. There are differing views on whether to strengthen or weaken conditions linking aid to progress in improving human rights or in making adequate progress in democratization and the creation of free markets. There is debate regarding the importance of energy resources in the region to U.S. national security and about whether the risks posed by civil and ethnic tensions in the region outweigh the benefits of U.S. involvement. There are questions about whether U.S. military access is needed after Afghanistan becomes more stable. Heightened congressional interest in Central Asian (and South Caucasian) states was reflected in passage of 'Silk Road' language in 1999 (P.L. 106-113) authorizing enhanced U.S. policy attention and aid to support conflict amelioration, humanitarian needs, economic development, transport (including energy pipelines) and communications, border controls, democracy, and the creation of civil societies in these countries."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Nichol, James P.

  2006-08-04
• Bahrain: Reform, Security, and U.S. Policy [Updated August 4, 2006]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "After instability during the late 1990s, Bahrain undertook substantial political reforms, but lingering tensions between ruling Sunni Muslims and the Shiite majority are re-emerging in advance of October 2006 parliamentary elections. Bahrain's stability has long been a key U.S. interest; it has hosted U.S. naval headquarters for the Gulf for nearly 60 years. In September 2004, the United States and Bahrain signed a free trade agreement (FTA); legislation implementing it (H.R. 4340) was signed January 11, 2006 (P.L. 109-169)."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Katzman, Kenneth

  2006-08-04
• Central Asia: Regional Developments and Implications for U.S. Interests [Updated June 29, 2006]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "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; 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 U.S. objectives include promoting democratization, free markets, 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.

  2006-06-29
• Qualifying Industrial Zones in Jordan and Egypt [Updated July 5, 2006]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "In 1996, Congress authorized the creation of Qualifying Industrial Zones (QIZs), thereby entitling goods jointly produced by Israel and either Jordan or Egypt to enter the United States duty free. The QIZ creation vehicle was an amendment to the United States-Israel Free Trade Area Implementation Act of 1985 (P.L. 99-47), and its purpose was to promote peace and development between Israel and her Arab neighbors. Although Israeli-Palestinian violence has continued, some observers have praised QIZs for helping to spark Jordan's economic growth. Others note that QIZs, while promoting U.S.-Jordanian trade, have had modest impact on promoting job growth in Jordan. In 2005, Egypt began participating in the QIZ program. This report provides an overview of QIZs in the context of promoting regional development and peace. It will be updated periodically to reflect recent developments."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Prados, Alfred B.; Sharp, Jeremy Maxwell; Bolle, Mary Jane

  2006-07-05
• Central Asia: Regional Developments and Implications for U.S. Interests [Updated January 25, 2007]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  From the Summary: "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. […] After September 11, U.S. policy emphasized bolstering the security of the Central Asian states to help them combat terrorism, proliferation, and arms trafficking. Other strategic U.S. objectives include promoting democratization, free markets, 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, […] The Administration's diverse goals in Central Asia reflect the differing characteristics of these states. […] The 110th Congress is likely to continue to be at the forefront in advocating increased U.S. ties with Central Asia and in providing backing for use of the region as a staging area for supporting U.S.-led stabilization efforts in Afghanistan. […] Assistance for border and customs controls and other safeguards to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) will likely be ongoing congressional concerns. Congress will continue to contend with balancing its concerns about human rights abuses and lagging democratization against other U.S. interests in continued engagement with Central Asia to advance energy security and prosecute the Global War on Terror."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Nichol, James P.

  2007-01-25
• H.R. 1 (Implementing the 9/11 Commission Recommendations Act of 2007) and S. 4 (Improving America's Security Act of 2007): A Comparative Analysis [March 29, 2007]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  From the Summary: "This comparative analysis of H.R. 1 (Implementing the 9/11Commission Recommendations Act of 2007) and S. 4 (Improving America's Security Act of 2007) is an assessment of major similarities and differences between the two bills as passed by the House (January 9, 2007) and Senate (March 13, 2007) and under conference consideration. References to the two bills are to engrossed versions. The presentation is organized to follow the basic construct of the House bill because its coverage remained more stable through the legislative process and as the analyses began. Titles unique to S. 4 follow the Titles of H.R. 1. CRS [Congressional Research Service] experts are available to follow up on any additional needs, including clarification of content or of legislative references; each section of the analysis includes contact information for the analyst or attorney who prepared it. CRS also provides online access to research products that directly address a number of issues that are the focus of or are raised by H.R. 1 and S. 4. These products are available under the CRS homepage heading 'Terrorism and Homeland Security' (see [http://www.crs.gov])."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Bruner, Edward F.

  2007-03-29
• Brazil-U.S. Relations [February 28, 2007]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  From the Summary: "In recent years, congressional interest in Brazil has focused on the U.S.- Brazilian bilateral trade relationship, as well as Brazil's role in sub-regional, regional, and global trade talks in the Doha round of the World Trade Organization (WTO) negotiations. In December 2006, Congress extended trade preferences for Brazil under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), but set thresholds that may limit trade preferences for some Brazilian exports compared to previous years. Interest in Brazil also centers on its role as a stabilizing force in Latin America, especially with respect to Venezuela and Bolivia. Brazil's role as an ethanol producer has generated growing interest in Congress. In addition, Brazil is a key U.S. ally whose cooperation is sought on issues that include counternarcotics and counterterrorism efforts; human rights concerns, such as race relations and trafficking in persons; the environment, including protection of the Amazon; and HIV/AIDS prevention. This report analyzes Brazil's political, economic, and social conditions, and how those conditions affect its role in the region and its relationship with the United States."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Seelke, Clare Ribando

  2007-02-28
• Homeland Security Department: FY2007 Appropriations [Updated July 26, 2006]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "This report describes the FY2007 appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The Senate passed H.R. 5441 on July 13, 2006, which would provide $32.8 billion in net budget authority for DHS for FY2007. The House passed H.R. 5441, on June 6, 2006, which would provide $33.2 billion in net budget authority for DHS in FY2007. The Administration requested a net appropriation of $31.9 billion in net budget authority for FY2007, of which $31.0 billion is discretionary budget authority, and $1 billion is mandatory budget authority."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Lake, Jennifer E.; Lister, Sarah A.; Nunez-Neto, Blas

  2006-07-26
• Central Asia: Regional Developments and Implications for U.S. Interests [Updated November 6, 2006]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "The Administration's diverse goals in Central Asia reflect the differing characteristics of these states. U.S. interests in Kazakhstan include securing and eliminating Soviet-era nuclear and biological weapons materials and facilities. In Tajikistan, U.S. aid focuses on economic reconstruction. U.S. energy firms have invested in oil and natural gas development in Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan. U.S. relations with Uzbekistan suffered following the Uzbek government's violent crackdown on armed and unarmed protesters in the city of Andijon in May 2005. Some observers call for different emphases or levels of U.S. involvement in the region. There are differing views on whether to strengthen or weaken conditions linking aid to progress in improving human rights or in making adequate progress in democratization and the creation of free markets. There is debate regarding the importance of energy resources in the region to U.S. national security and about whether the risks posed by civil and ethnic tensions in the region outweigh the benefits of U.S. involvement. There are questions about whether U.S. military access is needed after Afghanistan becomes more stable. Heightened congressional interest in Central Asian (and South Caucasian) states was reflected in passage of 'Silk Road' language in 1999 (P.L. 106-113) authorizing enhanced U.S. policy attention and aid to support conflict amelioration, humanitarian needs, economic development, transport (including energy pipelines) and communications, border controls, democracy, and the creation of civil societies in these countries."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Nichol, James P.

  2006-11-06
• Immigration Consequences of Criminal Activity [Updated September 20, 2006]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "Congress has broad plenary authority to determine classes of aliens who may be admitted into the United States and the grounds for which they may be removed. Pursuant to the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), as amended, certain conduct may either disqualify an alien from entering the United States ('inadmissibility') or provide grounds for his or her removal/deportation. Prominently included among this conduct is criminal activity. 'Criminal activity' comprises acts violative of federal, state, or, in many cases, foreign criminal law. It does not cover violations of the INA that are not crimes, most notably, being in the U.S. without legal permission. Thus, the term 'illegal alien'-an alien without legal status-is not synonymous with 'criminal alien.' Most crimes affecting immigration status are not specifically mentioned by the INA, but instead fall under a broad category of crimes, such as crimes involving moral turpitude or aggravated felonies. In addition, certain criminal conduct precludes a finding of good moral character under the INA, which is a requirement for naturalization and certain types of immigration relief. In certain circumstances, grounds for inadmissibility or deportability may be waived. In some cases, aliens facing removal may be allowed to remain in the United States-for example, when they are granted discretionary or mandatory relief from removal for humanitarian reasons, such as through asylum, withholding of removal, or cancellation of removal. Aliens facing removal may also be permitted to depart the United States voluntarily, and thereby avoid the potential stigma and legal consequences of forced removal."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Eig, Larry M.; Garcia, Michael John

  2006-09-20
• Central Asia: Regional Developments and Implications for U.S. Interests [Updated April 5, 2007]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  From the Summary: "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, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan also endorsed coalition military action in Iraq, and Kazakhstan provided about two dozen troops for rebuilding. U.S. policy has emphasized bolstering the security of the Central Asian 'front-line' states to help them combat terrorism, proliferation, and arms trafficking. Other strategic U.S. objectives have included promoting free markets, democratization, human rights, and energy development. The Administration also has encouraged the states to become what it considers to be responsible members of the international community rather than to carry out xenophobic, extremist, and anti-Western policies that threaten international peace and stability."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Nichol, James P.

  2007-04-05
• Immigration Issues in Trade Agreements [Updated January 25, 2007]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  From the Summary: "The connections between trade and migration are as longstanding as the historic movements of goods and people. The desire for commerce may often be the principal motivation, but the need to send people to facilitate the transactions soon follows. Recognition of this phenomenon is incorporated into the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), which includes provisions for aliens who are entering the United States solely as 'treaty traders' and 'treaty investors.' Although the United States has not created a common market for the movement of labor with our trading partners, there are immigration provisions in existing free trade agreements (FTAs) that spell out reciprocal terms regulating the 'temporary entry of business persons.' Immigration issues often raised in the context of the FTAs include whether FTAs should contain provisions that expressly expand immigration between the countries as well as whether FTAs should require that the immigrant-sending countries restrain unwanted migration (typically expressed as illegal aliens). The question of whether the movement of people -- especially temporary workers -- is subsumed under the broader category of 'provision of services' and thus an inherent part of any free trade agreement also arises. Even in FTAs that do not have explicit immigration provisions, such as the United States-Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement (DR-CAFTA), there may be a debate over the effects that FTAs might have on future migration."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Wasem, Ruth Ellen

  2007-01-25
• India-U.S. Relations [Updated March 10, 2006]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  From the Summary: "The end of the Cold War freed India-U.S. relations from the constraints of global bipolarity, but interactions continued for a decade to be affected by the burden of history, most notably the longstanding India-Pakistan rivalry and nuclear weapons proliferation in the region. Recent years, however, have witnessed a sea change in bilateral relations, with more positive interactions becoming the norm. India's swift offer of full support for U.S.-led counter-terrorism operations after September 2001 was widely viewed as reflective of such change. Today, President Bush calls India a 'natural partner of the United States' and his Administration seeks to assist India's rise as a major power in the new century. […] India is in the midst of major and rapid economic expansion. Many U.S. business interests view India as a lucrative market and candidate for foreign investment. The United States supports India's efforts to transform its once quasi-socialist economy through fiscal reform and market opening. Since 1991, India has taken steps in this direction, with coalition governments keeping the country on a general path of reform. However, there is U.S. concern that movement remains slow and inconsistent. See also CRS [Congressional Research Service] Report RL33072, 'U.S.- India Bilateral Agreements in 2005'; CRS Report RL32259, 'Terrorism in South Asia'; and CRS Report RS21502, 'India-U.S. Economic Relations.'"

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Kronstadt, K. Alan

  2006-03-10
• Afghanistan: Post-War Governance, Security, and U.S. Policy [Updated November 1, 2007]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  From the Summary: "Assessments of the U.S. effort to stabilize Afghanistan are mixed and subject to debate. The political transition was completed with the convening of a parliament in December 2005; a new constitution was adopted in January 2004, successful presidential elections were held on October 9, 2004, and parliamentary elections took place on September 18, 2005. The parliament has become an arena for factions that have fought each other for nearly three decades to debate and peacefully resolve differences. Afghan citizens are enjoying personal freedoms forbidden by the Taliban. Women are participating in economic and political life, including as ministers, provincial governors, and parliament leaders. However, the insurgency led by supporters of the Taliban movement and Al Qaeda continues to challenge U.S. and other NATO [North Atlantic Treaty Organization] forces, particularly in the south. Contributing to the violence is popular frustration with lack of economic development, official corruption, and the failure to extend Afghan government authority into rural areas. Narcotics trafficking is resisting counter-measures and funding insurgent activity. The Afghan government and some U.S. officials blame Pakistan for failing to prevent Taliban commanders from operating from Pakistan, largely beyond the reach of U.S./NATO-led forces in Afghanistan. Yet, U.S. and NATO commanders pre-empted an anticipated 2007 'spring offensive' by the Taliban with an increase in force levels, accelerated reconstruction efforts, and combat operations. […] To help stabilize Afghanistan, the United States and partner countries are deploying a 41,000 troop NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) that now commands peacekeeping throughout Afghanistan, and running regional enclaves to secure reconstruction (Provincial Reconstruction Teams, PRTs), as well as building an Afghan National Army."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Katzman, Kenneth

  2007-11-01
• Dominican Republic: Political and Economic Conditions and Relations with the United States [Updated April 17, 2007]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  From the Summary: "President Leonel Fernández of the Dominican Liberation Party (PLD), who served as president previously (1996-2000), took office on August 16, 2004. President Fernández has presided over a period of rapid economic growth (an estimated 10% in 2006), enjoys continued popular support, and has a majority in both legislative chambers. He has restored investor confidence in the Dominican economy and enacted some fiscal reforms, but struggled to resolve the country's ongoing problems with corruption and electricity shortages. Fernández seeks to maintain close ties with the United States and to improve relations with neighboring Haiti. His government has been criticized, however, for its mistreatment of undocumented Haitian migrants and Dominicans of Haitian descent. Fernández will seek re-election in May 2008 but is likely to face tough competition from within his own party and from several opposition candidates. Also, on March 1, 2007, the Dominican Republic-Central America-United States Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR) entered into force in the Dominican Republic after a series of delays. This CRS [Congressional Research Service] report will be updated."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Seelke, Clare Ribando

  2007-04-17
• Immigration Issues in Trade Agreements [Updated July 11, 2005]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "The connections between trade and migration are as longstanding as the historic movements of goods and people. The desire for commerce may often be the principal motivation, but the need to send people to facilitate the transactions soon follows. Recognition of this phenomenon is incorporated into the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), which includes provisions for aliens who are entering the United States solely as 'treaty traders' and 'treaty investors.' Although the United States has not created a common market for the movement of labor with our trading partners, there are immigration provisions in existing free trade agreements (FTAs) that spell out reciprocal terms regulating the 'temporary entry of business persons.' Immigration issues often raised in the context of the FTAs include whether FTAs should contain provisions that expressly expand immigration between the countries as well as whether FTAs should require that the immigrant-sending countries restrain unwanted migration (typically expressed as illegal aliens). The question of whether the movement of people-especially temporary workers-is subsumed under the broader category of 'provision of services' and thus an inherent part of any free trade agreement also arises. Even in FTAs that do not have explicit immigration provisions, such as the United States-Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement (DR-CAFTA), there is a debate over the effects that FTAs may have on future migration. There are a variety of approaches to study the impact of trade agreements on migration, and this report draws on several different perspectives."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Wasem, Ruth Ellen

  2005-07-11
• Progress Report on Conflict Minerals, Hearing Before the Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health Policy of the Committee on Foreign Affairs, United States Senate, One Hundred Fifteenth Congress, First Session, April 5, 2017

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  This is a testimony compilation of the April 5, 2017 hearing on "A Progress Report on Conflict Minerals" held before the Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health Policy of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs. From the opening statement of Rick Goss: "Numerous governments and credible independent observers report recent positive trends on breaking the links between armed groups and mining for 3T [tin, tantalum and tungsten] minerals. These officials note a significant reduction in the presence of armed groups -- including Congolese armed forces -- at 3T mining sites, largely due to increased transparency, monitoring, and control measures. Importantly, the DRC [Democratic Republic of Congo] government has increased its involvement by imposing greater controls, taxes, legal enforcement, and oversight. According to the OECD [Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development], non-traceable exports of 3T trade at a discount of almost 30% compared to traceable materials." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Rick Goss, Mvemba Dizolele, and Arvind Ganesan.

  United States. Congress. Senate. Committee on Foreign Relations

  2017-04-05
• War in Syria: Next Steps to Mitigate the Crises, Hearing Before the Committee on Foreign Relations, United States Senate, One Hundred Fourteenth Congress, Second Session, May 17, 2016

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  This testimony compilation is from the May 17, 2016 hearing, "War in Syria: Next Steps to Mitigate the Crises," before the Committee on Foreign Relations. From the opening statement of Robert S. Ford: "Thank you for the invitation to speak before the committee today about what new steps can be taken to mitigate the crisis in Syria. It is an honor to appear before you again. There is not much we the United States can do now to mitigate the crisis in Syria quickly. The fighting is too entrenched and bitterly sectarian; both the Syrian government and the armed opposition seek military victory instead of preparing their own ranks for tough, mutual compromises. Foreign nations are deeply involved - far more deeply than the United States - and they are committed to winning the conflict militarily. There is no magic American bullet. This is not to say there are not useful things the United States can and should do, but we are well past the point of a clearly identifiable path out of the conflict." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Robert S. Ford, Nancy Lindborg, and Tamara Cofman Wittes.

  United States. Congress. Senate. Committee on Foreign Relations

  2016-05-17
• United States Special Operations Command: Hearing before the Committee on Armed Services, United States Senate, One Hundred Fifteenth Congress, First Session, May 4, 2017

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  This is a testimony compilation of the May 4, 2017 hearing "United States Special Operations Command" held before the Senate Committee on Armed Services. From the opening statement of John McCain: "The purpose of today's hearing is to hear directly from the senior civilian and military leaders responsible for ensuring our special operations forces are trained, equipped, and ready to confront what is the most complex and daunting set of national security challenges our Nation has faced since the Second World War." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Theresa M. Whelan and Raymond A. Thomas III.

  United States. Congress. Senate. Committee on Armed Services

  2017-05-04
• ISIL's Reign of Terror: Confronting the Growing Humanitarian Crisis in Iraq and Syria, Hearing before the U.S. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, Subcommittee on International Operations and Organizations, Human Rights, Democracy, and Global Women's Issues, One Hundred and Thirteenth Congress, First Session, December 9, 2014

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  This is a testimony compilation from the December 9, 2014 hearing on "ISIL's [Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant] Reign of Terror: Confronting the Growing Humanitarian Crisis in Iraq and Syria" held before the U.S. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations. From the testimony of Tom Malinowski: ""There are tyrants in the world who commit such crimes, but they know on some level that their conduct is shameful, so they hide what they do; Daesh puts its crimes on YouTube. It is of the utmost importance that those who commit and brag about such acts not be allowed to project a narrative of success, as Daesh tried to do earlier this year. It must fail and be seen to fail by every person and organization around the world that might have similar inclinations. And Daesh will fail; there is no question about that now. By targeting people of all sects, religions, and nationalities, it has united people of all sects, religions, and nationalities against it, and enabled us to forge a global coalition in support of local forces that will ultimately defeat this organization and liberate people from its terror. We will restore human rights by defeating Daesh. But what I want to stress most of all today is that the reverse is also true: we will defeat Daesh in part by defending the human rights of its intended victims. The protection of civilians in Iraq and Syria is built into our strategy; we see it not just as a moral imperative but a key to success in the fight." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Barbara Boxer (statement unavailable), Tom Malinowski, Nancy Lindborg, Vian Dakhil, Sarah Margon, Vian Dakhil, and Francis Kalabat.

  United States. Congress. Senate. Committee on Foreign Relations

  2014-12-09
• Sexual Violence in African Conflicts [November 25, 2009]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "This report focuses on current conflicts in Africa in which sexual violence is reported to be widespread or systematic. It describes the context in which such violence takes place, selected cases where it is currently occurring, and U.S. policy responses. It concludes with a discussion of potential policy considerations for Congress, including the design and effectiveness of U.S. programs; coordination between agencies and between international donors; and the question of whether policy responses to sexual violence can be separated from the broader context in which such violence occurs. The report includes a detailed case study of DRC [Democratic Republic of Congo], which has drawn particular attention from the Obama Administration and the 111th Congress."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Arieff, Alexis

  2009-11-25