International Violence Against Women: U.S. Response and Policy Issues

[Excerpt] In recent years, the international community has increasingly recognized international violence against women (VAW) as a significant human rights and global health issue. VAW, which can include both random acts of violence as well as sustained abuse over time, can be physical, psychological, or sexual in nature. Studies have found that VAW occurs in all geographic regions, countries, cultures, and economic classes, with some research showing that women in developing countries experience higher rates of violence than those in developed countries. Many experts view VAW as a symptom of the historically unequal power relationship between men and women,and argue that over time this imbalance has led to pervasive cultural stereotypes and attitudes that perpetuate a cycle of violence. This report addresses causes, prevalence, and consequences of violence against women. It provides examples of completed and ongoing U.S. activities that address VAW directly or include anti-VAW components, and it outlines possible policy issues for the 112th Congress, including • the scope and effectiveness of U.S. programs in addressing international VAW; • further integrating anti-VAW programs into U.S. assistance and foreign policy mechanisms; • U.S. funding for anti-VAW activities worldwide, particularly in light of the global financial crisis, economic recession, and subsequent calls to reduce the U.S. budget deficit; and • strengthening U.S. government coordination of anti-VAW activities

Lincoln as a Wartime President

The paper explores the leadership of President Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War, with a particular focus on his relationships with Generals George B. McClellan and Ulysses S. Grant. The study analyzes how Lincoln\u27s strategic decisions shaped the course of the war, and how his interactions with McClellan and Grant impacted the outcome of the conflict. Through an analysis of primary sources, including letters and official documents, the paper demonstrates how Lincoln\u27s wartime leadership helped to preserve the Union and ultimately end slavery in the United States. By examining the challenges and triumphs of Lincoln\u27s presidency, this study offers insights into the role of leadership during times of crisis and the enduring legacy of one of America\u27s greatest presidents

Indian Ocean Earthquake and Tsunami: Humanitarian Assistance and Relief Operations. January 2005

This report summarizes the extent of the disaster and relief effort

United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan: Background and Policy Issues

This report examines the role of United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) in Afghanistan and discusses the obstacles the organization faces in coordinating international efforts and explores related policy issues and considerations for the 112th Congress

Humanitarian Crisis in Haiti: 2004

Since armed rebels seized control of Haiti’s fourth largest city, Gonaives, on February 5, 2004, and protests calling for President Aristide’s resignation culminated in his departure on February 29, there has been increasing concern about a looming humanitarian crisis in Haiti. With events on the ground constantly shifting and an increasing lack of security, assessments of the humanitarian situation remain fluid and subject to change. This report covers recent developments and the humanitarian response to the crisis by the United States and other international actors

International Disasters and Humanitarian Assistance: U.S. Governmental Response

This report provides the U.S. governmental response of the international disasters and humanitarian assistance

Indian Ocean Earthquake and Tsunami: Humanitarian Assistance and Relief Operations

On December 26, 2004, a magnitude 9.0 undersea earthquake off the west coast of northern Sumatra, Indonesia, unleashed a tsunami that affected more than 12 countries throughout south and southeast Asia and stretched as far as the northeastern African coast. Current official estimates indicate that more than 160,000 people are dead and millions of others are affected, including those injured, missing, or displaced, making this the deadliest tsunami on record. News reports suggest that the death toll may be well above 200,000. Sections of Indonesia, Sri Lanka, India, and Thailand have suffered the worst devastation. Eighteen Americans are confirmed dead, with another sixteen presumed dead, and 153 remain unaccounted for

Afghanistan's Path to Reconstruction: Obstacles, Challenges, and Issues for Congress

Although hostilities in Afghanistan have not yet ended and the war on terrorism in Afghanistan continues, relief and reconstruction efforts to assist the people of Afghanistan are well underway. International attention has mostly focused on Afghanistan’s short- and medium-term future. While questions continue between the United States and its allies about division of labor, burdensharing, and exit strategies, Congress continues to examine the assistance progress, aid priorities, long-term reconstruction proposals, and the implementation role to be played by the United States. Furthermore, Congress considers the FY2003 funding for Afghanistan inadequate and is calling for significantly higher appropriations. A brief overview of the current situation provides a snapshot of the progress to date and the many challenges that lie ahead

International Crises and Disasters: U.S. Humanitarian Assistance Response Mechanisms

Report that examines U.S. humanitarian assistance in international crises and disaster situations. It considers the sources and types of U.S. government aid, the response mechanisms of key U.S. agencies and departments, and possible issues for Congress--including competing aid and budget priorities, burden sharing and donor-fatigue, the transparency and efficacy of U.S. humanitarian assistance, consequences of such assistance, and potential links to broader U.S. foreign policy goals