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| Friday, November 20, 2009 |
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Congress & Global Concerns
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In the House of Representatives, the Foreign Relations Authorization Act is now under consideration. This measure funds U.S. programs overseas. However, within the early drafts of this bill are two provisions that are of concern.
The first is language that establishes the Office for Global Women’s Issues. Secretary of State Clinton has indicated that a woman’s “fundamental right” to reproductive services (including abortion) are a top priority when it comes to U.S. foreign policy. It is almost certain that this new office will serve to advance that goal.
Second, the bill instructs all U.S. diplomats to work towards the repeal of any foreign laws that place restrictions on same-sex relationships. This is problematic for a number of reasons, not the least of which is that fact that it would turn our foreign diplomats into social police for policies that are at best lacking consensus here at home. It’s also redirecting attention from the serious international issues – including the pursuit of peace in the Middle East and the eradication of religious persecution around the word. It's these issues that should receive the attention of our foreign diplomats.
At the same time, the proposal to grant the Organization for the Islamic Conference (OIC) control over the Temple Mount in Jerusalem is getting some attention. Thanks to the thousands who already voiced their concern to the White House, the United Nations and the nation of Israel. And, President Obama recently suggested that the U.S. enter into a partnership with the OIC to fight malaria. While combating this deadly disease is certainly appropriate, serious questions must be asked about partnering with an organization like the OIC, which calls for the destruction of Israel and favors laws that permit the persecution of Christians.
Our Government Affairs team will continue to monitor the activity in Washington – along with the international ramifications of those actions – and we'll bring you further developments as they unfold.
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Posted: 6/8/2009 12:01 AM
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