Homeland Security
Americans must recommit themselves to living the principles that made this nation safe, free, and prosperous while defending them against attack. The surest way to reduce America’s vulnerability is to provide persistent, sensible homeland security; the broad national effort by all levels of government - federal, state, and local - to prevent terrorist attacks within the United States, reduce America's vulnerability to terrorism, and minimize the damage and recover from attacks that do occur.
GAO Risk Management: Strengthening the Use of Risk Management Principles in Homeland Security
Homeland security risks are broad and DHS cannot protect against all, rather there is a clearly defined need for risk management strategies. GAO assembled a forum of 25 experts from both the national and international arena, including government officials and risk management experts. The members of this forum evaluated what risk management practices were considered to be effective and the key challenges in applying best practices.
GAO Report: Maritime Security, Successful Development Leading Towards Implementation
Of the six desirable characteristics of an effective national strategy that GAO identified in 2004, the "National Strategy for Maritime Security" and its eight supporting implementation plans address four and partially address the remaining two characteristics.
GAO Higher Education: United States’ and Other Countries’ Strategies for Attracting and Funding International Students
In the recent years since September 11th, the number of international students coming to study in the US has dropped for the first time in over thirty years. While the numbers have begun to rise again, many point to the tightened immigration and visa policies as the potential cause of this initial dip. GAO has developed an ongoing study on both US and international governmental efforts to fund international students studying in their country.
GAO Afghanistan Security: Further Congressional Action Needed to Develop and Sustain Capable Afghan National Security Forces
GAO found that the Department of Defense report, in response to a GAO request for detailed planning for the ANSF, lacks sufficient detail for effectice interagency planning and oversight. Additionally, although the Department of State is sharing duties for this task, they have not completed a plan of their own. Without a detailed plan, it is difficult to assess progress and conduct oversight of the cost of developing the ANSF.
GAO Afghan Security: U.S. Efforts to Develop Capable Afghan Police Forces Face Challenges and Need a Coordinated, Detailed Plan to Help Ensure Accountability
As with the concurrently issued report on the Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF), GAO found that the plans for the development and the training of the Afghan National Police (ANP) were not sufficient. Neither the State Department nor the Department of Defense has set forth a clearly defined plan or milestones for the ANP. In all, after an investment of over $6 billion, none of the 433 ANP units are considered to be fully capable.
GAO Report: “Global War on Terrorism: Reported Obligations for the Department of Defense”
From fiscal year 2001 through fiscal year 2007, and for the first quarter of fiscal year 2008 through December 2007, Congress has provided DOD with a total of about $635.9 billion for its efforts in support of GWOT. As part of GOA's ongoing work, they are reviewing DOD's rationale for reporting its GWOT related obligations.
GAO Supply Chain Security: Challenges to Scanning 100 Percent of U.S.-Bound Cargo Containers
GAO has released a report on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)’s Secure Freight Initiative (SFI), which is testing the feasibility of scanning 100 percent of cargo containers bound for the U.S. at seven major ports. GAO found nine issues with the system and the requirement of the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act (9/11 Act) to expand the Secure Freight Initiative to all ports by 2012.
GAO Emergency Management: Observations on DHS’s Preparedness for Catastrophic Disasters
GAO examined how the Department of Homeland Security has defined roles and responsibilities in national emergency preparedness, an important issue with the upcoming transition of administrations. GAO found that these roles and responsibilities, as well as capabilities, were well defined by DHS in policy documents, but that stake holders needed to be better integrated in the revision of these documents. It was also found that DHS needed to put further work into the development of means by which to lead national emergency response and planning, as well as means by which to measure national preparedness and capabilities.
GAO Combating Terrorism: Guidance for State Department's Antiterrorism Assistance Program Is Limited and State Does Not Systematically Assess Outcomes
GAO assessed the Department of State’s Antiterrorism Assistance (ATA), Office of the Coordinator for Counterterrorism (S/CT), and Office of Antiterrorism Assistance (DS/T/ATA). It recommended that Congress reexamine the requirement that the Department of State file an annual report on U.S. counterterrorism assistance and its assessment measures.
GAO Combating Terrorism: Guidance for State Department's Antiterrorism Assistance Program is Limited and State Does Not Systematically Assess Outcomes
The Department of State’s Office of the Coordinator for Counterterrorism (S/CT) was found to provide minimal guidance to help prioritize Antiterrorism Assistance (ATA) recipients. Additionally, the S/CT and its Bureau of Diplomatic Security as well as the Office of Antiterrorism Assistance (DS/T/ATA) did not systematically align ATA assistance with U.S. assessments of foreign partner counterterrorism needs. Furthermore, State reporting on U.S. counterterrorism assistance abroad was incomplete and inaccurate. The S/CT had not regularly submitted required reports to Congress after 1996. The reports that were submitted contained inaccurate program information and comprehensive information of the results on program assistance that would be useful to Congress. GAO suggested that Congress reconsider the requirement that State prepare an annual report on U.S. counterterrorism assistance and review its use of needs assessments and measures for assessing the ATA program.
The Muslim Brotherhood in Syria and the Concept of Democracy
Radwan Ziadeh (Senior Fellow at Jennings Randolph Fellowship Program at USIP) discusses the transformation in the political thinking mechanism of the most prominent Syrian Islamic movement.
CRS Report: Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty: Background and Current Developments
The Bush Administration opposses the CBTB and has not ruled out resumed testing.
GAO Border Security: State Department Should Plan for Potentially Significant Staffing and Facilities Shortfalls Cause by Changes in the Visa Waiver Program
The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) currently allows the citizens of 27 different countries to enter the United States without a visa. While the executive branch has proposed to potentially add 13 new countries to the program, others worry about the security risks of this program and have suggested its termination. GAO assessed the possible effects that would occur if the program were to come to an end, as well as those that would come from its expansion. Additionally, GAO to a look at the possible effects of the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). GAO has recommended that the Department of State and US embassies in VWP countries develop contingency plans for the possibility of the termination of the VWP program. It also recommended that DHS and State prepare for the possible effects of ESTA.
GAO Combating Terrorism: U.S. Efforts to Address the Terrorist Threat in Pakistan’s Federally Administered Tribal Areas Require a Comprehensive Plan and Continued Oversight
Pakistan’s Federally Administered Tribal Areas’ (FATA) are highly prone to terrorist threats and use as a safe haven by these terrorists. Thus far, the US has relied mainly on the Pakistani military, supported by U.S. Coalition Support Funds (CSF), and predominantly military forms of national power to protect the FATA. GAO concluded that the United States has not developed a comprehensive plan to combat the rampant terrorism in the area. The development of such a plan is exceptionally important given the growing uncertainty as to the support of the new Pakistani government.
GAO Border Security: Summary of Covert Tests and Security Assessments for the Senate Committee on Finance, 2003–2007
Between 2002 and 2006, GAO sent covert investigators to attempt to enter the United States with fraudulent identification documents. They tested both manned, legal points of entry and unmanned points at international airports, the northern U.S.-Canadian border, and the southern U.S.-Mexican border. In 93 percent of cases, investigators had no problem entering the country.
Cybersecurity in the Internet Marketplace
Interviews with chief security officers in the Internet supply chain (those companies that provide Internet services or encourage people to use the Internet) reveal dramatically different attitudes about corporate cybersecurity. The authors’ preliminary investigation suggests that a company’s market discipline explains these differences.
How to Encourage and Support Muslim Democrats
Nowhere is the question of whether people are fit for democracy by virtue of their culture and traditions raised more relentlessly than in the case of the Middle East and the broader Muslim world. Carl Gershman, President of the National Endowment for Democracy offers some ideas for consideration.
Country Reports on Terrorism 2007
U.S. law requires the Secretary of State to provide Congress, by April 30 of each year, a full and complete report on terrorism with regard to those countries and groups meeting criteria set forth in the legislation. This annual report is entitled Country Reports on Terrorism. Beginning with the report for 2004, it replaced the previously published Patterns of Global Terrorism.
CRS Report For Congress, Congressional Oversight of Intelligence: Current Structure and Alternatives
CRS has sought to examine the Congressional structure and oversight on intelligence, especially in light of the pledge by the House majority to enact the remaining recommendations of the 9/11 Commission which called congressional oversight of intelligence "dysfunctional". CRS examined the current state of intelligence committees in Congress and the proposals that either the power of the existing committees on intelligence be expanded or that a joint committee on intelligence (JCI) be created based on the structure of the former Joint Committee on Atomic Energy (JCAE).
CRS Report for Congress, Homeland Security Act of 2002: Tort Liability Provisions
While state law generally governs tort liability, Congress has the ability to regulate it when it affects interstate commerce. This CRS report discusses the past cases where Congress has limited tort liability, as well as the provisions in the Homeland Security Act of 2002 that do the same.
Violent Islamist Extremism, The Internet, and the Homegrown Terrorist Threat
United States Senate
Committee on Homeland Security
and Governmental Affairs
Majority & Minority Staff Report
Joseph Lieberman, Chairman
Susan Collins, Ranking Minority Member
May 8, 2008
This is the first in a series of reports by the Majority and Minority staff of the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs (Committee) on the threat of homegrown terrorism inspired by violent Islamist extremism.
What Determines Homeland Security Spending?
The distribution of State Homeland Security Grants has been characterized as pork barrel spending,
where political considerations and not terrorism risk are determining the allocation each state receives.
Using revealed preference analysis, we test this claim. From 2004 to 2006, measures of terrorism risk
are found to be positive determinants of funding while measures of political influence and party
affiliation of elected officials show no positive relationship with grant funding. These results are not
compatible with the assertion that funding is distributed due to political factors.
Petraeus Hearing Should Focus on Three Fronts, One Long War
During the upcoming confirmation hearings, senators from both sides of the aisle should make clear to the incoming the U.S. Central Command commander that winning all three fronts is vital to American interests and that they will do everything in their power to support accomplishing these goals.
Real Solutions for Challenges on the Mexico-US Border: The Mérida Initiative
The relationship between Mexico and the United States impacts a wide variety of issues including immigration, border security, economic development, and transnational crime. Tackling these issues will require joint solutions that respect the sovereignty of both nations and address mutual concerns. Join us as Ambassador Arturo Sarukhan of Mexico speaks about current U.S.-Mexico relations and the way forward, followed by a panel of experts who will provide additional commentaries.
The War in Afghanistan: More Help Needed
Greater international support is needed to secure and stabilize Afghanistan, a crucial front in the global war on terrorism. The February 18 Pakistani election provides an opportunity to isolate extremists along the border. The U.S. should work with NATO countries on a joint approach to Pakistan and consider appointing a high-level envoy to coordinate policies between Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Moving Forward to Secure the Border
What Determines Homeland Security Spending?
The distribution of State Homeland Security Grants has been characterized as pork barrel spending,
where political considerations and not terrorism risk are determining the allocation each state receives.
Using revealed preference analysis, we test this claim. From 2004 to 2006, measures of terrorism risk
are found to be positive determinants of funding while measures of political influence and party
affiliation of elected officials show no positive relationship with grant funding. These results are not
compatible with the assertion that funding is distributed due to political factors.
Testimony of the Department of Homeland Security Inspector General on FEMA's preparedness
On April 3 the Department of Homeland Security Inspector General Testified before the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs regarding the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) level of preparedness for a catastrophic disaster. He testifies that FEMA has made limited progress in its level of preparedness since Hurricane Katrina, and that it still has much work to do to be ready for future catastrophic disasters.
GAO Supply Chain Security: U.S. Customs and Border Protection Has Enhanced Its Partnership with Import Trade Sectors, but Challenges Remain in Verifying Security Practices
The GAO assessed the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and its oversight of the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) with specific regards to "(1) improving its benefit award policies for C-TPAT members, (2) addressing challenges in validating members' security practices, and (3) addressing management and staff challenges."
FEMA’s Preparedness for the Next Catastrophic Disaster
This is one of a series of audit, inspection, and special reports prepared as part of The Department of Homeland Security's Office of Inspector General's oversight responsibilities to promote economy, efficiency, and effectiveness within the department. This report addresses FEMA’s preparedness for the next catastrophic disaster. It is based on interviews with employees and officials of relevant agencies and institutions, direct observations, and a review of applicable documents. It finds that, while FEMA has made moderate progress towards preparing for disasters, it still has a long way to go in being prepared for future catastrophic disasters.
GAO Report: Catastrophic Disasters: Federal Efforts Help States Prepare for and Respond to Psychological Consequences, but FEMA's Crisis Counseling Program Needs Improvements
This report examines federal agencies’ actions to help states prepare for the psychological consequences of catastrophic disasters and states’ experiences obtaining and using grants from the Crisis Counseling Assistance and Training Program (CCP) to respond to the psychological consequences of catastrophic disasters. CCP is a program of the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
GAO Report: National Disaster Response
The GAO Report published Feb 27 its finding on the FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security. FEMA and the Red Cross agreed the FEMA should be the primary agency for mass care in the NRF because the primary agency should be able to direct federal agencies’ resources to meet mass care needs, which the Red Cross cannot do. The shifting roles present several implementation issues. For example, FEMA has enhances responsibilities for coordinating the activities of voluntary organizations, it does not currently have a sufficient number of specialized staff to meet this responsibility.
Data Mining Report
The Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) is pleased to provide to the Congress The Federal Agency Data Mining Reporting Act of 2007 (“Data Mining Reporting Act”). The Data Mining Reporting Act requires “the head of each departments or agency of the Federal Government” that is engaged in activities defined as “data mining” to report on such activities to the Congress. The report covers the data mining activities of all elements of the ODNI.
Help Wanted: Administration Proposes Needed Changes in the H-2A Visa Program
A Neighbor Calls: Mexican President Calderón Visits the U.S.
The Heritage Foundation's Research on FISA, Web Memo #1810
The Senate is preparing to vote on legislation to renew the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), the 1970s law that governs intelligence-gathering. The executive branch must have the powers it needs to protect Americans from acts of war by foreign enemies. The following is a list of Heritage Foundation research on FISA.
Towards a Grand Strategy for an Uncertain Role: Renewing Transatlantic
In this report authors assess current capabilities and analyze the deficiencies in existing institutions, concluding that no nation and no institution is capable of dealing with current and future problems on its own. Based on this, the authors propose a new grand strategy, which could be adopted by both organization and nations, and then look for the options of how to implement such a strategy. They conclude, given the challenges the world faces, that this is not the time to start from scratch.
Strengthening Homeland Security: Reforming Planning and Resources Allocation
This report presents findings about the organizational structure pocess, and tools that surround planning and resource allocation for Homeland Security in the executive branch and Congress. The author explores problem's with today's arrangements and offers recommendations for consideration for the next administration and Congress.
GAO Report: Examinations of High-Risk Cargo at Foreign Seaports Have Increased, but Improved Data Collection and Performance Measures Are Needed
The GAO report evaluates and asses Customs and Border Protection’s Container Security Initiative on how it has contributed to strategic planning for supply chain security, strengthened CSI operations, and evaluated operations. The GAO recommends the CPA enhance data collected on CSI team performance, host government examinations, and related performance measures.
Securing America’s Passenger-Rail Systems
Rand’s report on “Securing America’s Passenger-Rail Systems” provides a framework for security planners and policymakers to use in order to protect the people against threats and vulnerabilities of rails systems. The synthesis of the report is a combination of rail-system vulnerabilities and how to cost-effectively reduce them.
Secure Borders and Open Doors
This report was led by the Secretaries of Homeland Security and the Secure Borders and Open Doors Advisory Committee in order to reassess our nation’s borders and security. It outlines 44 policy recommendations that can be implemented solely by the executive branch which require funding from Congress and legislative changes.
GAO Report: Border Security: Despite Progress, Weaknesses in Traveler Inspections Exist at Our Nation's Ports of Entry
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CPB) estimated that more than several thousand inadmissible aliens entered the United State through ports of entry in 2006 and the numbers have not changed despite new implantations that have been made. The GAO in its report has recommended enhancing the internal controls in the inspection process, providing new mechanisms for training, and implementing a performance measure that will apprehend inadmissible aliens and violators.
GAO: Observations on Implementing the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative
This GAO report focuses on the implementation of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHITI) analyzing specifically that the DHS needs to take action to implement the program as soon as feasible.
CRS Report - Open Source Intelligence (OSINT): Issues for Congress
In the recent years, there has been effort to increase investment in open source information (OSINT), intelligence gathered from newspapers, journals, radio and television, and the Internet. In order to support other intelligence agencies in OSINT, and perform OSINT acquisition and analysis, the position of Assistant Director of National
Intelligence for Open Source and the National Open Source Center was created. Some suggests that congressional oversight be used to ensure all agencies are committed to using OSINT, and that the ODNI are meeting the challenge of properly using OSINT.
Maritime Security - The SAFE Port Act: Status and Implementation One Year Later
Because the safety and economic security of the United States depend in substantial part on the security of its 361 seaports, the United States has a vital national interest in maritime security. The Security and Accountability for Every Port Act (SAFE Port Act), modified existing legislation and created and codified new programs related to maritime security. This testimony synthesizes the results of GAO’s completed work and preliminary observations from GAO’s ongoing work related to the SAFE Port Act pertaining to (1) overall port security, (2) security at individual facilities, and (3) cargo container security. To perform this work GAO visited domestic and overseas ports; reviewed agency program documents, port security plans, and post-exercise reports; and interviewed officials from the federal, state, local, private, and international sectors.
GAO Report: Border Security - Despite Progress, Weaknesses in Traveler Inspections Exist at Our Nation’s Ports of Entry
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is responsible for keeping terrorists and other dangerous people from entering the country while also facilitating the cross-border movement of millions of travelers. In response to a congressional request, GAO examined CBP traveler inspection efforts, the progress made and the challenges that remain in staffing and training at ports of entry, and the progress CBP has made in developing strategic plans and performance measures for its traveler inspection program.
CRS Report for Congress: National Security Special Events
Major events that are considered to be nationally significant may be designated by the President - or his representative, the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) - as National Special Security Events (NSSE). Beginning in September 1998 through February 2007, there have been 27 events designated as NSSEs. Some of these events have included presidential inaugurations, presidential nominating conventions, major sports events, and major international meetings. The U.S. Secret Service (USSS) is the lead federal agency responsible for coordinating, planning, exercising, and implementing security for NSSEs, and was designated as the lead agency in P.L. 106-544. This report provides information on USSS legislative authority for NSSEs, NSSE designation funding and training, and NSSE funding.
GAO Congressional Testimony on Border Security
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is responsible for keeping terrorists and other dangerous people from entering the country while also facilitating the cross-border movement of millions of travelers. CBP carries out this responsibility at 326 air, sea, and land ports of entry. In response to a congressional request, GAO examined CBP traveler inspection efforts, the progress made, and the challenges that remain in staffing and training at ports of entry, and the progress CBP has made in developing strategic plans and performance measures for its traveler inspection program.
GAO Report: Global War on Terrorism - DOD Needs to Take Action to Encourage Fiscal Discipline and Optimize the Use of Tools Intended to Improve GWOT Cost Reporting
Since the September 2001 terrorist attacks, Congress has provided about $542.9 billion, as of May 2007, to the Department of Defense (DOD) for the Global War on
Terrorism (GWOT). Under the Comptroller General’s authority to conduct evaluations on his own initiative, GAO assessed (1) the outlook of DOD’s reported
GWOT obligations for fiscal year 2007 and funding requests for fiscal year 2008, (2) the effect of changes
in DOD’s GWOT funding guidance, and (3) DOD’s progress in
implementing variance analysis and affirmation statements.
National Strategy for Information Sharing
Our success in preventing future terrorist attacks depends upon our ability to gather, analyze, and share information and intelligence regarding those who want to attack us, the tactics that they use, and the targets that they intend to attack. Our National Strategy for Combating Terrorism, issued in September 2006, recognizes that the War on Terror is a different kind of war, which requires a paradigm shift and the application of all elements of our national power and influence. The intelligence and information sharing structures that once enabled the winning of the Cold War now require greater flexibility and resilience to confront the threats facing our Nation from a transnational terrorist movement determined to destroy our people, our freedoms, and our way of life.
GAO Report: Internet Infrastructure - Challenges in Developing a Public/Private Recovery Plan
Since the early 1990s, growth in the use of the Internet has revolutionized the way that our nation communicates and conducts business. While the Internet originated as a U.S. government-sponsored research project, the vast majority of its infrastructure is currently owned and operated by the private sector. Federal policy recognizes the need to prepare for debilitating Internet disruptions and tasks the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with developing an integrated public/private plan for Internet recovery. GAO was asked to summarize its report on plans for recovering the Internet in case of a major disruption and to provide an update on DHS’s efforts to implement that report’s recommendations.
GAO Report - Maritime Security: One Year Later: A Progress Report on the SAFE Port Act
Officers with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) within DHS investigate violations of immigration laws and identify aliens who are removable from the United States. GAO was asked to examine how ICE ensures that discretion is used in the most fair, reasoned, and efficient manner possible. Their report concludes with some recommendations for the officers working in the field of apprehension.
GAO Report: Transportation Security - Efforts to Strengthen Aviation and Surface Transportation Security are Under Way, but Challenges Remain
Since its inception in 2001, TSA has developed and implemented a variety of programs and procedures to secure commercial aviation and surface modes of transportation, including passenger and freight rail, mass transit, highways, commercial vehicles, and pipelines. GAO examined (1) the progress DHS and TSA have made in securing the nation’s aviation and surface transportation systems, and (2) challenges that have impeded the department’s efforts to implement its mission and management functions.
GAO Report: One Year Later: A Progress Report on the SAFE Port Act
The Security and Accountability for Every Port Act (SAFE Port Act), modified existing legislation and created and codified new programs related to maritime security. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and its U.S. Coast Guard, Transportation Security Agency, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection have key maritime security responsibilities. This testimony synthesizes the results of GAO's completed work and preliminary observations from GAO's ongoing work related to the SAFE Port Act pertaining to: (1) overall port security, (2) security at individual facilities, and (3) cargo container security.
The Top Five Reasons Why Conservatives Should Oppose the U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea
Twenty-five years ago, President Ronald Reagan rejected the Law of the Sea Treaty — and rightly so. Today, the convention remains a threat to American interests.
New Homeland Security Strategy Misses the Mark
In the wake of 9/11, the Administration published a strategy for keeping the nation safe, free, and prosperous in the face of the threat of transnational terrorism. As the nation's first homeland security strategy, it was not bad. This week, the White House published a new version of the strategy that obfuscates rather than clarifies the government's homeland security mission.
GAO Report: High-Containment Biosafety Laboratories: Preliminary Observations on the Oversight of the Proliferation of BSL-3 and BSL-4 Laboratories in the United States.
Following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 the United States has constructed ten additional biosafety level (BSL) 4 labs in addition to numerous BSL-3 labs across the country. This proliferation of high-containment labs containing the “most dangerous infectious disease agents” has raised concerns within the GAO following surveys conducted by the organization that illustrate the lack of oversight by government agencies on BSL labs. The GAO report expresses concern towards the security of these facilities, the transport of biological agents and government oversight.
GAO Report: Maritime Security: The SAFE Port Act and Efforts to Secure Our Nation’s Seaports
The Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Coast Guard, Transportation Security Agency and U.S. Customs and Border Protection have the difficult task of port and maritime security. The Security and Accountability for Every Port Act (SAFE Port Act) was implemented to better monitor and secure America’s 361 seaports and approximately 3,000 maritime facilities from unlawful entry into the U.S of illicit people and goods. In the attached document, the GAO summarizes recent efforts, such as SAFE, to expand maritime security and additional measures to combat terrorism in maritime regions.
Fact Sheet: National Strategy for Homeland Security
This fact sheet outlines the critical components of the newly issued National Strategy for Homeland Security.
Reagan and The Law of the Sea
It is an impressive testament to the abiding affection and political influence of former President Ronald Reagan that the fate of a controversial treaty now before the U.S. Senate may ultimately turn on a single question: What would Reagan do?
Combating Terrorism: Law Enforcement Agencies Lack Directives to Assist Foreign Nations
Following the attacks of September 11, 2001 the Bush administration has implemented numerous measures to combat terrorism worldwide. One major addition to counterterrorism has been the changing role of law enforcement agencies in their cooperation with foreign nations to prevent terrorist activities in the host countries before reaching U.S. soil. This report summarizes the difficulties that LEA’s are facing with regards to organization and collaboration in the fight against terrorism.
National Strategy for Homeland Security
This updated Strategy, which builds directly from the first National Strategy for Homeland Security issued in July 2002, reflects the Administration's increased understanding of the terrorist threats confronting
the United States today, incorporates lessons learned from exercises and real-world catastrophes – including Hurricane Katrina – and proposes new initiatives and approaches that will enable the Nation to achieve its homeland security objectives. This Strategy also complements both the National Security Strategy issued in March 2006 and the National Strategy
for Combating Terrorism issued in September 2006.
Immigration: Many Questions, A Few Answers
This article sheds light on the grossly controversial topic of illegal immigration in the United States. By not enforcing our immigration laws, America has left its borders out of control and as a result, there is an overwhelming sense of disrespect for our rule of law. The Honorable Lamar Smith proposes ways in which we can reduce illegal immigration by giving America better tools to fight it.
RAND Report: Is Weapon System Cost Growth Increasing? A Quantitative Assessment of Competing and Ongoing Programs
This study is designed to answer questions regarding the cost of the Department of Defense's weapons systems. It looks at the trends of cost growth over the past three decades using a variety of methodologies and attempts to analyze ongoing programs. By addressing the magnitude of cost growth, this study hopes to rein in the cost growth of U.S. DoD acquistion programs.
Dangerous Seas Ahead
The United States has always been defined by the oceans. For centuries they've separated our nation from potential invaders. About 20 percent of the world's oceanbourne trade passes through American ports. So it makes sense that the Bush administration would want to protect America's freedom of access to the oceans. Unfortunately, it's trying to take a big step in the wrong direction.
GAO Report: Key Aspects of International Air Passenger Inspection Travel Fees Should Be Addressed Regardless of Whether Fees Are Consolidated
The process of setting, collecting, and distributing separate, dissimilar fees creates challenges for agencies and stakeholders. Although air passenger inspections were integrated within CBP, the fees supporting these inspections were created and are still governed by separate, dissimilar authorizing legislation. Two fee amounts are set in statute and one is set by regulation; all are collected by the airlines, deposited into three separate accounts and distributed among the agencies. As a result, the fees are administered and overseen by a complicated network of executive branch agencies and
congressional committees, creating a series of challenges. GAO is making 10 recommendations to the Secretaries of Agriculture and Homeland Security to improve cost estimates, collection, distribution, remittance, and compliance of the user fees.
Heralding Unheard Voices: The Role of Faith-Based Organizations and Nongovernmental Organizations During Disasters
FBOs and NGOs had a significant beneficial impact for many victims of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
They provided shelter, food, medical services, hygiene services, mental health and spiritual care, physical
reconstruction, logistics management and services, transportation, children’s services, and case
management. What follows is a glimpse into the world of FBOs and NGOs and their actions following
Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
Radicalization in the West: The Homegrown Threat
Understanding the radicalization process in the West that drives “unremarkable” people to become terrorists is vital for developing effective counterstrategies and has special importance for the NYPD and the City of New York. As one of the country’s iconic symbols and the target of numerous terrorist plots since the 1990’s, New York City continues to be among the top targets of terrorists worldwide.
Financing Recovery from Catastrophic Events
What is the Federal Government’s financial responsibility in case of a disaster like Hurricane Katrina? How
can the Federal Government pre-position itself to help the nation recover and still encourage the
public and private sectors to undertake mitigation strategies? What is the best combination of
compensation mechanisms in case of a mega-catastrophe, and how can the Federal Government
best encourage this division of responsibility?
DHS Outlines Eight Keys to National Preparedness
The Homeland Security Department has just released its National Preparedness Guidelines this week, providing a list of the eight most important priorities that should guide national preparedness investments in the coming years. Strengthening national information sharing, emergency communications and infrastructure protection are among the top priorities.
World Trade Center: EPA's Most Recent Test and Clean Program Raises Concerns That Need to Be Addressed to Better Prepare for Indoor Contamination Following Disasters
While EPA has acted upon lessons learned following this disaster, some concerns remain about its preparedness to respond to indoor contamination following future disasters. Specifically, EPA has not developed protocols on how and when to collect data to determine the extent of indoor contamination, one of the concerns raised by panel members.
GAO Report: U.S. Assistance Has Helped Mexican Counternarcotics Efforts, but Tons of Illicit Drugs Continue to Flow into the United States
The overall goal of the U.S. National Drug Control Strategy, which is prepared by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP), is to reduce illicit drug use in the United States. One of the strategy’s priorities is to disrupt the illicit drug marketplace. To this end, since fiscal year 2000, the United States has provided about $397 million to support Mexican counternarcotics efforts. According to the Department of State (State), much of the illicit drugs consumed in the United States flows through or is produced in Mexico. GAO examined (1) developments in Mexican drug production and trafficking since calendar year 2000 and (2) U.S. counternarcotics support for Mexico since fiscal year 2000.
Administration Record on Improving Border Security and Immigration
These reforms represent steps the Administration can take within the boundaries of existing law to secure our borders more effectively, improve interior and worksite enforcement, streamline existing guest worker programs, improve the current immigration system, and help new immigrants assimilate into American culture.
DOJ Fact Sheet on National Security Letters
This provides a brief overview on National Security Letters, including their definition, authority, practice and limitations.
Counterterrorism White Paper
This paper outlines the success of the Department of Justice in the war on terrorism. Although the Department’s counterterrorism efforts span the period from the 1980s to
the present, this paper focuses primarily on the investigations, prosecutions, policy and legislative efforts that post-date September 11, 2001, the defining moment which transformed our approach from reactive to proactive, from response to prevention. The spotlight of this paper is on the many criminal prosecution successes.
Underlying Reasons for Success and Failures of Terrorist Attacks: Selected Case Studies
This report by the Homeland Security Institute focuses on trends in success and failures from attacks since the mid-1990s against targets in the United States and abroad, whether or not directly targeting the United States. The report focuses on two target categories that they believe are particularly vulnerable: passenger rail and commercial aviation. The report concludes that the most influential factors determining the success or failure of a terrorist attack are those that occur in the pre-execution phases.
GAO Testimony: ALIEN DETENTION STANDARDS
GAO Testimony before the Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship, Refugees, Border Security and International Law, Committee on the Judiciary, House of Representatives
ALIEN DETENTION STANDARDS
Observations on the Adherence to ICE’s Medical Standards in Detention Facilities
Statement of Richard M. Stana
Director, Homeland Security and Justice Issues
At the time of its visits, GAO observed instances of noncompliance with ICE’s medical care standards at 3 of the 23 facilities visited.
The types of grievances at the facilities GAO visited typically included the lack of timely response to requests for medical treatment, missing property, high commissary prices, poor food quality and insufficient food quantity, high telephone costs, problems with telephones, and questions concerning detention case management issues. ICE’s detainee grievance standard states that facilities shall establish and implement procedures for informal and formal resolution of detainee grievances. Four of the 23 facilities GAO visited did not comply with all aspects of ICE’s detainee grievance standards. For example, one facility did not properly log all grievances that GAO found in their facility files. Detainee complaints may also be filed with several governmental and nongovernmental organizations. The primary way for detainees to file complaints is to contact the DHS Office of Inspector General (OIG). About 11 percent of detainee complaints to the OIG between 2005 and 2006 involved medical treatment issues. However, we found that the OIG complaint hotline 1-800 number was blocked or otherwise restricted at 12 of the facilities we tested. OIG investigates the most serious complaints and refers the remainder to other DHS components. GAO could not determine the number of cases referred to ICE’s Detention Removal Office and concluded that ICE’s detainee complaint database was not sufficiently reliable.
The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea: The Risks Outweigh the Benefits
While the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) contains provisions that would be marginally beneficial to the U.S. Navy, other provisions of the treaty, such as those regarding the settlement of disputes, royalties on the exploitation of resources on the deep seabed, and the empowering of an additional U.N.-affiliated international bureaucracy, pose far greater risks to U.S. interests. Nothing has occurred since 2004 that should lead the Senate to reverse its earlier decision to decline to take up the treaty.
Homeland Security Institute - Strategic Planning: Mission Area Analysis
The Homeland Security Institute (HIS) provides a clear outline of the national leadership’s strategic vision in its Mission Area Analysis (MAA) report. In order to reach this goal, the report provides a graphical presentation of the breakdown of activities that include objectives, functions, and others tasks that are necessary. With these activities in place and enforced, the MAA proves to be an effective analysis and measurement tool that must be pursued in order to secure the homeland.
National Security Letters Diagram
This diagram illustrates how the FBI uses National Security Letters.
Port Risk Management: Additional Federal Guidance Would Aid Ports in Disaster Planning and Recovery
This report was prepared under the authority of the Comptroller General to examine (1) challenges port authorities have experienced as a result of recent natural disasters, (2) efforts under way to address these challenges, and (3) the manner in which port authorities plan for natural disasters. GAO reviewed documents and interviewed various port stakeholders from 17 major U.S. ports. It recommends that the Secretary of Homeland Security encourage port stakeholders to use existing forums for discussing all-hazards planning.
Maritime Security: Public Safety Consequences of a Liquefied Natural Gas Spill Need Clarification
This testimony is based on GAO’s recently released report, Maritime Security: Public Safety Consequences of a Terrorist Attack on a Tanker Carrying Liquefied Natural Gas Need Clarification (GAO-07-316). To prepare this report, GAO examined the results of six recent unclassified studies on the effects of an LNG spill and convened a panel of 19 experts to identify areas of agreement on the consequences of a terrorist attack on an LNG tanker.
Homeland Security: Continuing Attention to Privacy Concerns is Needed as Programs Are Developed
For this hearing, GAO was asked to testify on key privacy challenges facing DHS. To address this issue,
GAO identified and summarized issues raised in its previous reports on privacy and assessed recent
Government-wide privacy guidance.
Federal Aviation Administration: Observations on Selected Changes to FAA's Funding and Budget Structure in the Administration's Reauthorization Proposal
This statement offers GAO’s observations on the proposed changes in FAA’s (1) funding and (2) budget structure and is based on GAO’s analysis of FAA’s proposal and a recent GAO report on FAA funding options.
Homeland Security: US-VISIT Program Faces Operational, Technological, and Management Challenges
This testimony summarizes GAO’s work on the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) efforts to implement the U.S. Visitor and Immigrant Status Indicator Technology (US-VISIT) program at air, sea, and land ports of entry (POE). This testimony addresses DHS’s efforts to (1) implement US-VISIT entry capability, (2) implement US-VISIT exit capability, and (3) resolve longstanding management challenges that could impair DHS’s ability to effectively implement the US-VISIT program. GAO analyzed DHS and US-VISIT documents, interviewed program officials, and visited 21 land POEs with varied traffic levels on both borders.
Critical Infrastructure: Challenges Remain in Protecting Key Sectors
This testimony is based primarily on GAO’s October 2006 sector council report and a body of work on cyber critical infrastructure protection. Specifically, it addresses (1) the extent to which these councils have been established, (2) key facilitating factors and challenges affecting the formation of the council, (3) key facilitating factors and challenges encountered in developing sector plans, and (4) the status of DHS’s efforts to fulfill key cybersecurity responsibilities.
Response to DOJ Inspector General's Report on FBI's use of National Security Letters
The FBI concurs with the Inspector General that, when implemented, the recommended reforms can improve the accuracy of the reporting of the use of National Security Letters (NSLs) and ensure compliance with the requirements governing their use.
Letter from Attorney General to Inspector General Fine
Attorney General Alberto Gonzales expresses his concurrence with the findings of IG Fine regarding FBI use of National Security Letters. He reports that the FBI’s National Security Division and the Privacy and Civil Liberties Office will report to him on their progress in corrective actions. Gonzales also asks that IG Fine report back to him in four months on the FBI’s implementation of his recommendation.
The DHS’ Security Risk Assessment Methodology: Evolution, Issues and Options for Congress
During Secretary Chertoff’s Senate confirmation hearing, he advocated a risk-based approach to homeland security. While risked-basis analysis is common in many fields, it is a relatively new approach to homeland security. This CRS report examines the history of risked based analysis in the security sector, and looks to the future of this practice towards securing the homeland.
DOJ Press Release: Statement from DOJ Spokesman Dean Boyd
DOJ Spokesman Dean Boyd responds to the findings of IG Fine that the Department must collect, verify, and maintain accurate statistic on the national security work being conducted at DOJ offices around the country. With few exceptions, he acknowledges that the Department has already implemented the controls recommended by the OIG.
Report on "Critical Homeland Infrastructure Protection"
The Defense Science Board (DSB) was asked by both the DoD and DHS to establish the Critical Homeland Infrastructure Protection Task Force to assess best practices for protecting US homeland installations and recommend different approaches to enhance security and protection of these facilities. This is a general report of the DSB’s findings.
Port Security Task Force Report: The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey
The economic impact of exports and imports at maritime ports in the United States totals $2.23 trillion. With the Congressional debate over Dubai Ports World taking over port security, there has been a renewed debate about maritime security. This report offers a series of policy suggestions for increasing our homeland security in the maritime sector.
Major Management Challenges Facing the Department of Homeland Security
This report presents the major management challenges facing the Department of Homeland Security and was included in DHS’ FY 2006 Performance and Accountability Report. As required by the Reports Consolidation Act of 2000, this assessment of management challenges is updated annually.
Coast Guard Deepwater Program; Background, Oversight Issues, and Options for Congress
In order to assist Congress in the decision to approve, reject or modify the Administration’s annual funding requests for the Integrated Deepwater Systems (IDS) program, this report offers a cost-benefit analysis of the program’s requirements.
Illegal Immigration Task Force Report
The Texas Conservative Coalition Research Institute’s Illegal Immigration Task Force began its work with the objective of offering practical policy solutions that address the incentives that draw immigrants to Texas illegally. To this end, the TCCRI’s Illegal Immigration Task Force has focused its work in four key areas: 1) Voter identification; 2) Access to state and federal welfare programs; 3) Employer sanctions; and 4) Bilingual education in public schools. By laying out the fundamental problems in each of these areas, the Task Force offers lawmakers not only a map for evaluating these issues, but also specific legislative recommendations to address illegal immigration in Texas.
National Strategy for Combating Terrorism
This updated strategy sets the course for winning the War on Terror. It builds directly from the National Security Strategy issued in March 2006 as well as the February 2003 National Strategy for Combating Terrorism, and incorporates an increased understanding of the enemy. To win the War on Terror, this strategy states that we will: advance effective democracies as the long-term antidote to the ideology of terrorism; prevent attacks by terrorist networks; deny weapons of mass destruction to rogue states and terrorist allies who seek to use them; deny terrorists the support and sanctuary of rogue states; deny terrorists control of any nation they would use as a base and launching pad for terror; and lay the foundations and build the institutions and structures we need to carry the fight forward against terror and help ensure our ultimate success.
Catastrophic Disasters: Enhanced Leadership, Capabilities, and Accountability
The purpose of this report is to summarize what went well with the national response to Hurricane Katrina, and what did not go well and why, and what changes are needed to improve the nation’s readiness to respond to a catastrophic disaster; and to identify selected issues associated with the Gulf Coast’s recovery. This report includes six recommendations to the Secretary of Homeland Security with which DHS generally agreed, describing actions taken to implement them. The report also includes a matter for congressional consideration.
Navy Littoral Combat Ship (LCS): Background and Issues for Congress
This report provides an overview of the factors of consideration should Congress decide to continue funding Littoral Combat Ships.
DOE’s Efforts to Protect the Columbia River from Contamination
This GAO paper reports on the Department of Energy’s (DOE) efforts regarding nuclear contamination to the Columbia River in Washington State. The DOE has proposed new initiatives to integrate all contamination zones under a single project. However, past failures of the DOE in relation to similar programs is likely to be repeated unless the DOE incorporates measures and evaluations of results and effectiveness.
Homeland Security Intelligence: Perceptions, Statutory Definitions and Approaches
Prior to 9/11, the various technical and non-technical means of gathering intelligence have been seen as specific to foreign policy and national security. This report reviews the models and concepts regarding how the gathering of intelligence for homeland security intelligence (HSINT) purposes. Though the tools and methods for HSINT may be similar to those in the past, the organizational model is more holistic, as it attempts to bridge the “foreign-domestic divide.”
Historical Tables
This document provides a wide range of data on Federal Government finances. Many of the data series begin in 1940 and include estimates of the President’s budget for 2004-2009.
Maritime Security: Information-Sharing Efforts are Improving
This GAO report states that the Coast Guard has the leading responsibility in coordinating maritime information sharing efforts. It outlines steps that the Coast Guard has undertaken, such as the establishment of area maritime security committees, in order to identify and improve the risks involved with current port security initiatives.
Admitting Additional Countries into the Visa Waiver Program
This GAO report describes the Visa Waiver Program, which enables citizens of 27 participating countries to travel to the United States for up to 90 days without a visa. In February, 2005 President Bush announced the “Road Map Initiative,” establishing requirements and guidelines for countries that wish to be included in the Visa Waiver Program. An overview of these prerequisites is contained in the body of the report.
Homeland Security: DHS is Addressing Security at Chemical Facilities, but Additional Authority is Needed
The GAO was asked to review the Department of Homeland Security’s coordination efforts to protect United States chemical facilities. Upon Review of DHS’s strategy, the GAO makes three recommendations it believes will improve the department’s strategy for U.S. chemical plant protection, including interagency cooperation with the Environmental Protection Agency.
Coast Guard: Observations on Agency Performance, Operations and Future Challenges
The GAO did a comprehensive review of the Coast Guard and its performance level. This testimony makes recommendations as to how the Coast Guard can (1) meet performance goals (2) adjust to added responsibilities (3) Acquire new assets and (4) meet other future challenges.
Fact Sheet: Securing Our Nation's Borders
Through the Secure Border Initiative (SBI) and other efforts, DHS is strengthening security along our northern and southern borders through the integrated use of increased manpower and infrastructure, cutting-edge technology, enhanced immigration enforcement, and cooperation with our state, local, and international partners.
Current Strategy Forum - Naval War College
The CNO outlines recent Naval Maritime Strategy and the changes that now must be made due to the vast changes from globalization. The Navy is now operating is an information aged world, where it can not simply adapt to change, but adapt to the rapid speed of change. Adm. Mullen suggests the Navy must redefine “Sea Power” in this new era and explain how it will operate differently, train differently, educate differently, and balance the force differently.
State Interoperable Communications: DHS Funded Activities Fiscal Years 2003-2005
This report gives a state by state breakout of fiscal spending on interoperable communications in all 50 states from 2003-2005. The report also includes spending on procurement, infrastructure modernization and training and project development costs.
National Strategy to Combat Terrorist Travel
The Strategy contains an overview of the many US Government initiatives currently underway to address the terrorist travel problem. In addition, the Strategy describes continuing challenges the US must face as a nation in restricting terrorist mobility.
Management of Savagery
The "Management of Savagery" is a translation of a major al-Qaeda book that outlines its plans for defeating the United States and its Allies. Written by Jihadi ideologues, “The Management of Savagery” also gives an introspective look at the strengths and weaknesses al-Qaeda sees within its own jihadist movement.
The Combating Terrorism Center: Biodefense Report (Vol.I)
In conceptualizing a response to biological weapons, U.S. policymakers thought first of technical solutions and training of emergency responders to protect the population or respond to a bioterror event. Next, we considered non-proliferation and traditional deterrence approaches to reducing the likelihood of an attack. More recently, some have begun thinking about strengthening the resolve of the general public in order to mitigate the effects of an attack and, perhaps, serve as a deterrent. The purpose of this workshop was to explore the nature of public resilience and begin a conversation about both positive public policy measures to develop a resilient public and its strategic impact.
National Security Strategy of the United States
It is the policy of the United States to seek and support democratic movements and institutions in every nation and culture, with the ultimate goal of ending tyranny in our world. The goal of our statecraft is to help create a world of democratic, well-governed states that can meet the needs of their citizens and conduct themselves responsibly in the international system. This strategy encapsulates the best way to provide enduring security for the American people.
Trends in Terrorism 2006
On April 28, 2006, the Department of State sent to Congress its annual report on global terrorism: “Country Reports on Global Terrorism 2005.” The 262-page report provides an annual strategic assessment of trends in terrorism and the evolving nature of the terrorist threat, coupled with detailed information on anti-terror
cooperation by nations worldwide. The report and underlying data portray a threat from radical Jihadists that is becoming more widespread, diffuse, and increasingly homegrown, often with a lack of formal operational connection with al Qaeda ideological leaders. If so, this report assesses what adjustment in implementation of United States anti-terror strategy and tactics need to be made to reflect a more international law enforcement oriented approach, such as that envisioned in the February 2003 National Strategy for Combating Terrorism.
National Security Law Report
This 16-page report features articles by prominent law scholars and attorneys from around the country on issues pertaining to national security law.
Threats At Our Threshold: Securing And Defending The United States In The 21st Century
The Consortium for Homeland Defense and Security in America (CHDSA) is dedicated to the advancement of ideas, debate and recommendations to address the complexities surrounding the domestic security of the United States in the modern era. It is composed of organizations dedicated to the study of these issues from the United States Army War College’s Center for Strategic Leadership; George Washington University’s Homeland Security Policy Institute; the Center for Strategic and International Studies; and the Heritage Foundation. On November 14-15, 2007, the consortium will hold their second annual symposium, examining issues of pressing concern to the well-being of the citizens of this country, its infrastructure, and its interests.
Responding to Catastrophic Disaster
The Secretary gives a testimony before Congress and points out the Department of Defense’s response to catastrophic disasters is part of a coordinated effort among Federal, State, local, and tribal government, as well as nongovernmental organizations. He outlines DoD’s role in responding to catastrophic incidents.
The Federal Response to Hurricane Katrina Lessons Learned
The Report is organized in a manner to give the reader the most comprehensive and clear understanding possible of what happened during the Federal response to Hurricane Katrina. It begins with a discussion of the magnitude and complexity of the response challenge by discussing “Katrina in Perspective”—providing an historical comparison both of the hurricane itself and the resultant flood. Only by understanding what the storm was, and was not, can an appropriate and measured assessment of the response take place. A National Preparedness “Primer” on the current Federal framework is then provided to give the reader an understanding of how the current system was supposed to function. This chapter points out some fundamental confusion in the Federal planning and identifies potential shortcomings in the applicability of our plans to catastrophic widespread incidents.
Letter from DOJ to Senator Arlen Specter
In this letter, Attorney General Alberto Gonzales clarifies some of his answers from his February 6, 2006 hearing before the Senate Committee on the Judiciary on “Wartime Executive Power and the National Security Agency’s Surveillance Authority.” He discusses a variety of legal issues concerning FISA, the Terrorist Surveillance Program and the Force Resolution, among other things.
The Federal Response to Hurricane Katrina Lessons Learned
As part of a comprehensive review of the federal response to Hurricane Katrina, a team of experienced individuals was assembled to revisit the hurricane-ravaged Gulf Cost in mid-November 2005. They met with government officials, business and community leaders, and volunteers. This report reflects those findings.
Securing General Aviation
General Aviation (GA), the term that categorizes 57 percent of civilian aviation traffic in the U.S. has been undergoing steps to improve security without excessively restricting air commerce or freedom of movement since 9/11. Because areas of GA vary significantly in terms of associated risk, policies for lessening potential threats should formulated based on risk assessments.
Iraq and U.S. Policy: Opening Remarks Before Senate Foreign Relations Committee
Opening Remarks before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Secretary Rice outlines the objectives that must be made if the United States and the Iraqi government is to succeed in their battle against the insurgents.
Homeland Security: Protecting Airspace in the National Capital Region
Since 9/11, protecting the airspace surrounding Washington, DC has been significantly enhanced. However, some within the general aviation (GA) community have regarded such measures as excessive. Determining the correct balance between security and commerce will be an ongoing process.
Prepared Statement for the Senate Armed Services Committee
In his prepared statement, Acting Deputy Director of Defense Gordon England announced a three pronged approach to reforming the acquisition structure within the Department of Defense
Untangling The Web: Congressional Oversight and the Department of Homeland Security
Interim Report on SARS Quarantine
The Task Force was asked to review and comment on the interaction of public health needs and national security needs using the SARS epidemic as a specific example. The strategic and operation procedures currently in place within the Department of Defense provide an adequate basis to control a future health emergency. The Task Force provides some recommendations to improve the current process.
DoD Roles and Missions in Homeland Security (Vol. II- B: Supporting Reports)
The final report of the study assessing DoD’s roles and mission in Homeland Security consists of two volumes. Volume I identifies capabilities and initiatives needed by DoD to fulfill its responsibilities to project force when directed and to protect the homeland. It focuses on those capabilities that depend upon DoD working closely with other agencies. In addition, opportunities are identified for DoD to export some of its core competencies to help accelerate the maturation of the many agencies involved in homeland security tasks. Volume II is a compilation of four sub-panel reports.
9/11 Commission Report
The Commission’s Final Report provides a full and complete account of the circumstances surrounding the September 11th, 2001, terrorist attacks, including preparedness for and the immediate response to the attacks. It also includes recommendations designed to guard against future attacks.
The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea
This is the testimony of Baker Spring, F.M Kirby Research Fellow in National Security Policy at The Heritage Foundation, on The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea before The House Committee on International Relations.
DoD Roles and Missions in Homeland Security (Vol. II- A: Supporting Reports)
The final report of the study assessing DoD’s roles and mission in Homeland Security consists of two volumes. Volume I identifies capabilities and initiatives needed by DoD to fulfill its responsibilities to project force when directed and to protect the homeland. It focuses on those capabilities that depend upon DoD working closely with other agencies. In addition, opportunities are identified for DoD to export some of its core competencies to help accelerate the maturation of the many agencies involved in homeland security tasks. Volume II is a compilation of four sub-panel reports.
The Department of Homeland Security Needs to Fully Adopt a Knowledge-based Approach to its Counter-MANPADS Development Program
DHS faces significant challenges in adapting a military counter-MANPADS system to commercial aircraft. These challenges include establishing system requirements, maturing technology and design, and setting reliable cost estimates. DHS has to account for a wide variety of aircraft types in designing and integrating the system. The GAO's past work on the best practices of product developers in government and industry has found that the use of a knowledge-based approach is a key factor in successfully addressing such challenges.
Homeland Security Presidential Directive 8
This directive establishes policies to strengthen the preparedness of the United States to prevent and respond to threatened or actual domestic terrorist attacks, major disasters, and other emergencies by requiring a national domestic all-hazards preparedness goal, establishing mechanisms for improved delivery of Federal preparedness assistance to State and local governments, and outlining actions to strengthen preparedness capabilities of Federal, State, and local entities.
GAO Report: Internet Infrastructure - Challenges in Developing a Public/Private Recovery Plan
GAO was asked to summarize its report on plans for recovering the Internet in case of a major disruption and to provide an update on DHS’s efforts to implement that report’s recommendations. The report (1) identifies examples of major disruptions to the Internet, (2) identifies the primary laws and regulations governing recovery of the Internet in the event of a major disruption, (3) evaluates DHS plans for facilitating recovery from Internet disruptions, and (4) assesses challenges to such efforts.
Acquisition of National Security Space Programs
The Task Force was chartered by the Under Secretary of Defense (ATL), Secretary of the Air Force, and Undersecretary of the Air Force/Director of the NRO. It was asked to investigate systemic issues related to space systems acquisition, to include all aspects from requirements definition and budgetary planning through staffing and program execution; and to recommend improvements to the acquisition of space programs from initiation to deployment. Their findings and conclusions identified requirements definition and control issues; unhealthy cost bias in proposal evaluation; widespread lack of budget reserves required to implement high risk programs on schedule; and an overall under-appreciation of the importance of appropriately staffed and trained system engineering staffs to manage the technologically demanding and unique aspects of space programs.
A Bad Treaty Returns: The Case of the Law of the Sea Treaty
This research by Peter M. Leitner, a senior strategic trade advisor at the Department of Defense, discusses how the Law of the Sea Treaty may indeed be viewed as a harbinger of future UN efforts to spin-off or reformulate its activities in such a way as to insulate itself from, and possibly become ascendant to, the sovereign character of nation-states.
A Line in the Sand: Confronting the Threat at the Southwest Border
The Subcommittee on Investigations of the Committee on Homeland Security issues this interim report summarizing its findings regarding the criminal activity and violence taking place along the Southwest border of the United States between Texas and Mexico. The Texas-Mexico border region has been experiencing an alarming rise in the level of criminal cartel activity, including drug and human smuggling, which has placed significant additional burdens on Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies.
This interim report will examine the roots of the criminal enterprise and its effects on the local populations, what steps are being taken or should be taken to counter the threat, and the significance of these issues for the overall homeland security of the United States.
