CRS Views Decline of Central American Security

Violent instability in Central America poses a growing threat to the countries of the region, with direct and indirect consequences for the United States, according to a new report (pdf) from the Congressional Research Service.

“The seven nations of Central America face significant security challenges. Well-financed and heavily armed criminal threats, fragile political and judicial systems, and persistent social hardships such as poverty and unemployment contribute to widespread insecurity in the region. The United States has allocated $260 million in security assistance to support Central America since FY2008 under what is now known as the Central America Regional Security Initiative; however, security conditions have continued to deteriorate,” the CRS report said.

A copy of the report was obtained by Secrecy News.  See “Central America Regional Security Initiative: Background and Policy Issues for Congress,” March 30, 2011.

Other noteworthy new CRS reports include the following (all pdf).

“The Japanese Nuclear Incident: Technical Aspects,” March 31, 2011.

“Nuclear Power Plant Sites: Maps of Seismic Hazards and Population Centers,” March 29, 2011.

“Japan’s 2011 Earthquake and Tsunami: Economic Effects and Implications for the United States,” March 25, 2011.

“Funeral Protests: Selected Federal Laws and Constitutional Issues,” March 22, 2011.

“War in Afghanistan: Strategy, Military Operations, and Issues for Congress,” March 9, 2011.