DHS Secretary Gives Annual Address on the Homeland Security Progress in 2011
On January 30, 2012, Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano gave her second annual address on the state of homeland security in the U.S. She highlighted the Department's progress in 2011, emphasizing the major steps DHS took to enhance America's capabilities to guard against terrorism; secure the nation's borders; engage in smart enforcement of immigration laws; safeguard and secure cyberspace; prepare for, respond to and recover from disasters; and to mature and strengthen the homeland security enterprise. Napolitano’s high-level overview also touched on trade and cargo.
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With respect to international trade, Napolitano said DHS initiatives in 2011 (and beyond) include:
- Shippers screening cargo. As part of a broader cargo security initiative, DHS now allows participating shippers to screen air cargo, following strict standards to support the 100 percent screening requirements of the 9/11 Act for cargo transported on passenger aircraft.
- Other countries’ screening. DHS is also reviewing U.S. foreign partners’ cargo screening to determine whether their programs provide a level of security commensurate with U.S. air cargo security standards. Those who meet these requirements are officially recognized to conduct screening for cargo traveling to the U.S.
- Precursor chemicals. DHS is working with more than 80 countries to prevent the illegal theft or diversion of precursor chemicals that can be used to make Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). Through these efforts DHS has already seized more than 62 metric tons of such deadly materials.
- Expedited cargo release for trusted partners. DHS is partnering directly with the international trade community to provide expedited cargo processing for companies that undergo extensive vetting and meet strict security criteria.
- Global supply chain security. DHS is leading an administration-wide effort on Global Supply Chain Security that builds off existing trusted partner programs. This new strategy represents a whole-of-nation approach to global supply chain systems, with two explicit goals: promote the efficient and secure movement of goods and foster resilient supply chain systems. (DHS efforts will be guided by three key principles: (1) find smarter and more cost effective ways to address security threats and maximize resources and expertise from across the U.S. Government; (2) foster an all-of-nation approach to leverage the critical roles played by state, local, tribal and territorial governments, and private sector partners in strengthening supply chains; and (3) enhance U.S. coordination with the international community and international stakeholders who also have key supply chain roles and responsibilities.)
DHS Secretary’s 01/30/12 speech is available here.
DHS' list of 2011 accomplishments, including those on international partnerships, northern border, and intellectual property rights (IPR) is available here.