The global war on terror has cost the U.S. $437 billion since September 11, the Congressional Research Service estimated last month, including $319 billion for the war in Iraq. (The Pentagon claims the latter figure should be $210 billion.)
The CRS cost estimate has been widely reported, but the underlying report has not been widely available to the public. Now it is:
“The Cost of Iraq, Afghanistan, and Other Global War on Terror Operations Since 9/11” (pdf), updated June 14, 2006.
Some other notable CRS reports obtained by Secrecy News include the following.
“Military Operations: Precedents for Funding Contingency Operations in Regular or in Supplemental Appropriations Bills” (pdf), June 13, 2006.
“Defense Procurement: Full Funding Policy — Background, Issues, and Options for Congress” (pdf), updated June 20, 2006.
“U.S. Democracy Promotion Policy in the Middle East: The Islamist Dilemma” (pdf), June 15, 2006.
“Freedom of Speech and Press: Exceptions to the First Amendment” (pdf), updated June 2, 2006.
With thoughtful policy action, it is still possible to build systems that are fair, transparent, and accountable, and to earn the public trust that will ultimately determine AI’s future. We hope policymakers are ready to act.
Procurement is not merely an administrative function—it is how AI enters government and the first line of defense for responsible AI in the public sector.
Responsible AI starts with who is in the data, who is at the table, whose needs shape the outcome, and who is responsible when it falls short.
There is no question this is a Big Deal. If you are a university or research lab, or aspire to work in one, or are simply an enthusiast of federally-funded research, what’s next will matter.