A new report from the Congressional Research Service provides an extensive overview of the U.S. war in Afghanistan, and the choices that confront U.S. policy makers.
“The U.S. Government faces key strategic and operational decisions about its further engagement in the war in Afghanistan. These may include clarifying U.S. national interests in Afghanistan and the region; defining clear strategic objectives based on those interests; determining which diplomatic, economic, and military approaches to adopt, and what resources to commit to support those approaches; prioritizing ‘Afghanistan’ versus other national security imperatives; and helping marshal a coordinated application of international efforts.”
See “War in Afghanistan: Strategy, Military Operations, and Issues for Congress” (pdf), January 23, 2009.
Other noteworthy new reports from the Congressional Research Service include the following (all pdf).
“Homeland Security Intelligence: Perceptions, Statutory Definitions, and Approaches,” updated January 14, 2009.
“Israel and Hamas: Conflict in Gaza (2008-2009),” January 15, 2009.
“Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty: Background and Current Developments,” updated January 28, 2009.
“The Special Inspector General (SIG) for the Troubled Assets Relief Program (TARP),” January 14, 2009.
“Amendments to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act Set to Expire in 2009,” January 6, 2009.
Life-extending the existing Minuteman III missiles is the best way to field an ICBM force without sacrificing funding for other priorities.
To improve program outcomes, federal evaluation officers should conduct “unmet desire surveys” to advance federal learning agendas and built agency buy-in.
A federal agency takes over 100 days on average to hire a new employee — with significantly longer time frames for some positions — compared to 36 days in the private sector.
At least 40% of Medicare beneficiaries do not have a documented AHCD. In the absence of one, medical professionals may perform major and costly interventions unknowingly against a patient’s wishes.