Latest Action: 09/24/2008 - Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S9435-9436; text as passed Senate: CR S9436; text of measure as introduced: CR S9425)

Bill Text
A resolution calling for a comprehensive strategy to address the crisis in Darfur, Sudan.

9/24/2008--Passed Senate without amendment.    (There is 1 other summary)

(This measure has not been amended since it was introduced. The summary of that version is repeated here.)

Urges the President, the U.N. Secretary-General, the African Union, and members of the international community to pursue a comprehensive solution to the crisis in Darfur, Sudan.

Condemns: (1) the government of Sudan for its continued obstruction of the deployment of United Nations-African Union peacekeepers; and (2) the ongoing acts of violence in, and obstruction of aid to, Darfur committed by all parties.

Calls upon the government of Sudan and armed parties in the region to declare a cessation of hostilities, abide by the U.N. arms embargo, cease attacks upon humanitarian organizations, and participate in international efforts to negotiate a political settlement.

Latest Action: 09/24/2008 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR E1871)

Bill Text
Calling for a comprehensive strategy to address the crisis in Darfur, Sudan, and condemning the ongoing assaults and obstruction by the Khartoum regime.

9/23/2008--Introduced.

Urges the President, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, the African Union, regional governmental and nongovernmental actors, and other key members of the international community to pursue a comprehensive solution to crisis in Darfur, Sudan.

Calls upon the government of Sudan and armed parties in the region to declare a cessation of hostilities.

Latest Action: 09/27/2008 - Senate Committee on Foreign Relations discharged by Unanimous Consent.

Bill Text
A resolution condemning ongoing sales of arms to belligerents in Sudan, including the Government of Sudan, and calling for both a cessation of such sales and an expansion of the United Nations embargo on arms sales to Sudan. 9/27/2008--Passed Senate amended.    (There is 1 other summary) Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) the United States should seek a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Darfur, Sudan, and should continue to pursue a political solution to the deployment of the United Nations-African Union Mission peacekeeping forces in Darfur; (2) the United States supports U.N. Security Council Resolutions 1556 and 1591 imposing an arms embargo on all belligerents in Darfur; (3) in light of the transferred arms in Darfur from China and Russia and the government of Sudan's insistence that it will not abide by the embargo, all U.N. member states should cease all arms sales to the government of Sudan; and (4) the U.S. Permanent Representative [...]

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Latest Action: 09/18/2008 - Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

Bill Text
Condemning ongoing sales of arms to belligerents in Sudan, including the Government of Sudan, and calling for both a cessation of such sales and an expansion of the United Nations embargo on arms sales to Sudan.

9/18/2008--Introduced.

Expresses the sense of the Senate that the United States: (1) should seek a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Darfur, Sudan; and (2) supports U.N. Security Council Resolutions 1556 and 1591 imposing an arms embargo on all belligerents in Darfur.

Latest Action: 07/30/2008 - Referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations. (text of measure as introduced: CR S7789-7790)

Bill Text
A resolution calling on the Governments of the People's Republic of China and the international community to use the upcoming Olympic Games as an opportunity to push for the parties to the conflicts in Sudan, Chad, and the Central African Republic to cease hostilities and revive efforts toward a peaceful resolution of their national and regional conflicts. 7/30/2008--Introduced. Expresses continued support and sympathy for the hundreds of thousands of civilians of Sudan, Chad, and the Central African Republic who have been affected by the ongoing violence and regional instability. Urges: (1) the United Nations, the African Union, and other international leaders to use the unique opportunity presented by the Olympics to promote peace, dialogue, and reconciliation in areas of conflict; (2) the government of China to press the Sudanese government to commit to a cessation of hostilities, allow the full deployment of UNAMID peacekeeping forces, and engage in good faith in [...]

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Latest Action: 06/20/2008 - Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

Bill Text
Joining the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in observance of World Refugee Day and calling on the United States Government, international organizations, and aid groups to take immediate steps to secure urgently needed humanitarian relief for the more than 2,000,000 people displaced by genocide in the Darfur region of Sudan. 6/20/2008--Introduced. Reaffirms the historic commitment of the United States as a nation founded by refugees. Calls on: (1) the Department of State to support the refugee assistance efforts of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and of nongovernmental organizations; (2) the U.S. government to continue its international leadership role in response to the people of the Darfur region of Sudan who have been displaced by Sudan's genocide; and (3) the Department of State and the Department of Homeland Security to facilitate the resettlement of an appropriate number of Darfuris. Urges the parties to the [...]

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Latest Action: 06/19/2008 - Considered as unfinished business.

Bill Text
Condemning postelection violence in Zimbabwe and calling for a peaceful resolution to the current political crisis. 6/19/2008--Passed House amended.    (There is 1 other summary) Condemns the campaign of violence and harassment in Zimbabwe conducted by the ruling party and its supporters in the police and military against members of the opposition and other civilians. Calls on the government of Zimbabwe to create an environment conducive to a peaceful transition of power. Encourages the political parties to commit to forming a government that reflects the will of the Zimbabwean people and promotes national unity. Urges the international community, under the leadership of the United Nations, the African Union (AU), and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), to deploy monitors to ensure that the presidential runoff election reflects the will of the Zimbabwean people. Commends: (1) the people of Zimbabwe for their [...]

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Latest Action: 09/23/2008 - Mr. Crowley moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution, as amended.

Bill Text
Condemning sexual violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and calling on the international community to take immediate actions to respond to the violence. 9/23/2008--Passed House amended.    (There is 1 other summary) Condemns all forms of sexual violence, including rape, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Calls on the government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo to address the large-scale sexual violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Urges: (1) an increased U.S. and donor country effort to provide greater assistance for police and military human rights training in the Democratic Republic of the Congo; and (2) the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to increase its assistance to victims of sexual violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Urges the Secretary of State to appoint a special envoy to the Democratic Republic of the Congo to sustain U.S. engagement in a peace [...]

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Latest Action: 05/21/2008 - Senate Committee on Foreign Relations discharged by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S4705-4706)

Bill Text
A resolution supporting humanitarian assistance, protection of civilians, accountability for abuses in Somalia, and urging concrete progress in line with the Transitional Federal Charter of Somalia toward the establishment of a viable government of national unity. 5/21/2008--Passed Senate without amendment.    (There is 1 other summary) (This measure has not been amended since it was introduced. The summary has been expanded because action occurred on the measure.) Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) the United States remains committed to the people of Somalia and to helping build the institutions necessary for a stable and peaceful nation; and (2) the President, in partnership with the African Union, the United Nations, and the international community, should provide humanitarian assistance, ensure accountability for parties responsible for violations of human rights and international humanitarian law in Somalia, and call on all [...]

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Latest Action: 05/07/2008 - Considered as unfinished business. (consideration: CR H3117-3118)

Bill Text
Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives regarding provocative and dangerous statements and actions taken by the Government of the Russian Federation that undermine the territorial integrity of the Republic of Georgia. 5/7/2008--Passed House without amendment.    (There is 1 other summary) (This measure has not been amended since it was introduced. The summary has been expanded because action occurred on the measure.) Condemns recent decisions by the government of the Russian Federation to establish official ties with the regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, a process that impedes reconciliation between those regions and the government of the Republic of Georgia and that violates Georgia's sovereignty and Russia's commitments to international peacekeeping. Calls upon the government of the Russian Federation to revoke its decision to establish official ties with the regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. Encourages [...]

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Latest Action: 04/22/2008 - Senate Committee on Foreign Relations discharged by Unanimous Consent.

Bill Text
A resolution recognizing the 60th anniversary of the founding of the modern State of Israel and reaffirming the bonds of close friendship and cooperation between the United States and Israel.

4/22/2008--Passed Senate without amendment.    (There is 1 other summary)

(This measure has not been amended since it was introduced. The summary of that version is repeated here.)

Recognizes the historic significance of the 60th anniversary of the reestablishment of Israel as a homeland for the Jewish people.

Reaffirms the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the United States and Israel.

Commends the people of Israel for their achievements in building a new state and a pluralistic democratic society.

Reaffirms support for Israel's right to defend itself against threats to its security and existence.

Extends congratulations and best wishes to Israel and the Israeli people for a peaceful and successful future.

Latest Action: 04/29/2008 - Message on Senate action sent to the House.

Bill Text
A concurrent resolution honoring the Prime Minister of Ireland, Bertie Ahern, for his service to the people of Ireland and to the world and welcoming the Prime Minister to the United States. 4/28/2008--Passed Senate without amendment.    (There are 2 other summaries) (This measure has not been amended since it was introduced. The expanded summary of the Senate reported version is repeated here.) Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the Prime Minister of Ireland, Bertie Ahern, has been a strong leader for the people of Ireland and a good friend to the United States; (2) the skillful leadership of Prime Minister Ahern was indispensable in achieving a successful resolution of the conflict in Northern Ireland, and hopes his unique talents will be of service in resolving conflicts elsewhere in the years ahead; and (3) the Members of the Senate and the House of Representatives look forward to paying fitting and fond tribute to Prime Minister [...]

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Latest Action: 07/15/2008 - Mr. Payne moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution, as amended.

Bill Text
Honoring the esteemed former President Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela on the occasion of his 90th birthday.

7/15/2008--Passed House amended.    (There is 1 other summary)

Honors former President Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela on his 90th birthday (July 18, 2008) and extends best wishes to him and his family.

Honors his many accomplishments on behalf of all South Africans.

Congratulates him for his efforts to promote dialogue to peacefully resolve conflicts between people in Africa and around the world.

Celebrates his contributions to South Africa, the United States, and the international community.

Latest Action: 04/28/2008 - Message on Senate action sent to the House.

Bill Text
Recognizing the 60th anniversary of the founding of the modern State of Israel and reaffirming the bonds of close friendship and cooperation between the United States and Israel. 4/24/2008--Passed Senate without amendment.    (There are 2 other summaries) (This measure has not been amended since it was introduced. The expanded summary of the House passed version is repeated here.) Recognizes the historic significance of the 60th anniversary of the reestablishment of the State of Israel as a homeland for the Jewish people. Reaffirms: (1) the bonds of friendship and cooperation which have existed between the United States and Israel for the past 60 years and commits to strengthening those bonds; and (2) support for Israel's right to defend itself against threats to its security and existence. Commends the people of Israel for their achievements in building a new state and a pluralistic, democratic society in the [...]

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Latest Action: 04/02/2008 - Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on Armed Services, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee

Bill Text
Expressing the need for a more comprehensive diplomatic initiative led by the United States, Iraq, and the international community.

4/2/2008--Introduced.

Expresses the need for a comprehensive diplomatic initiative led by the United States, the Republic of Iraq, and the international community to ensure the establishment of a cohesive government in Iraq.

Expresses condolences to the number of Iraqis who have been killed, displaced, or wounded.

Expresses gratitude to the coalition forces and other international supporters for their contribution and sacrifice in the efforts to bring peace to Iraq.

Recognizes that the U.S. government owes a debt of gratitude to the men and women who have served in Iraq and who now deserve comprehensive rehabilitation and assistance.

Latest Action: 04/14/2008 - Senate Committee on Foreign Relations discharged by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S2982-2983)

Bill Text
A resolution calling on the relevant governments, multilateral bodies, and non-state actors in Chad, the Central African Republic, and Sudan to devote ample political commitment and material resources towards the achievement and implementation of a negotiated resolution to the national and regional conflicts in Chad, the Central African Republic, and Darfur, Sudan. 4/14/2008--Passed Senate without amendment.    (There is 1 other summary) (This measure has not been amended since it was introduced. The summary has been expanded because action occurred on the measure.) Expresses the concern and compassion of the citizens of the United States for the citizens of Sudan, Chad, and the Central African Republic who have been gravely affected by interrelated violence and instability in these countries. Calls upon all parties to these conflicts to cease hostilities and uphold basic human rights. Urges the governments of Chad and Sudan,[...]

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Latest Action: 05/05/2008 - Ms. Watson moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution, as amended.

Bill Text
Calling on the United States Government and the international community to promptly develop, fund, and implement a comprehensive regional strategy to protect civilians, facilitate humanitarian operations, contain and reduce violence, and contribute to conditions for sustainable peace and good governance in Chad, as well as in the wider region that includes the northern region of the Central African Republic and the Darfur region of Sudan. 5/5/2008--Passed House amended.    (There is 1 other summary) Expresses concern about the safety and well-being of innocent civilians in Chad and the refugees from Darfur and the Central African Republic. Condemns Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir and the National Congress Party for their support of the armed rebellion in Chad. Calls on all parties to seek a negotiated settlement. Urges the government of Chad to: (1) engage in a national dialogue to reach a comprehensive agreement; (2) protect its [...]

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Latest Action: 03/05/2008 - Senate Committee on Foreign Relations discharged by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S1653)

Bill Text
A resolution calling for peace in Darfur. 3/5/2008--Passed Senate without amendment.    (There is 1 other summary) (This measure has not been amended since it was introduced. The summary has been expanded because action occurred on the measure.) Calls upon the government of Sudan and other signatories and non-signatories to the May 5, 2006, Darfur Peace Agreement to cease hostilities. Calls upon the government of Sudan to facilitate the deployment of the United Nations-African Union peacekeeping force, including any non-African peacekeepers. Urges all invited individuals and movements to attend the next round of peace negotiations without preconditions. Condemns: (1) intimidation or threats against camp or civil society leaders to discourage them from attending the peace talks; and (2) actions by any party that undermines the Darfur peace process. Calls upon all parties to the Comprehensive Peace Agreement to support [...]

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Latest Action: 02/06/2008 - Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on Armed Services, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee

Bill Text
Expressing the need for a more comprehensive diplomatic initiative led by the United States, Republic of Iraq, and international community.

2/6/2008--Introduced.

Expresses the need for a comprehensive diplomatic initiative led by the United States, the Republic of Iraq, and the international community to ensure the establishment of a cohesive government in Iraq.

Expresses condolences to the number of Iraqis who have been killed, displaced, or wounded.

Recognizes that the U.S. government owes a debt of gratitude to the men and women who have served in Iraq and who now deserve comprehensive rehabilitation and assistance.

Latest Action: 12/19/2007 - Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on Armed Services, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee

Bill Text
Expressing the need for a more comprehensive diplomatic initiative led by the United States, Republic of Iraq, and international community.

12/19/2007--Introduced.

Expresses the need for a comprehensive diplomatic initiative led by the United States, the Republic of Iraq, and the international community to ensure the establishment of a cohesive government in Iraq.

Expresses condolences to the number of Iraqis who have been killed, displaced, or wounded.

Recognizes that the U.S. government owes a debt of gratitude to the men and women who have served in Iraq and who now deserve comprehensive rehabilitation and assistance.

Latest Action: 10/29/2007 - Mr. Tanner moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution, as amended.

Bill Text
Condemning in the strongest terms the attacks on African Union peacekeepers that occurred in Haskanita, Darfur, Sudan, on September 29, 2007. 10/29/2007--Passed House amended.    (There is 1 other summary) Condemns the September 2007 attacks on African Union (AU) peacekeepers that occurred in Haskanita, Darfur, Sudan. Expresses condolences and sympathies to the people and governments of Nigeria, Mali, Senegal, and Botswana and to the families and friends of those individuals who were killed, injured, or missing in the attacks. Expresses the solidarity of the people and government of the United States with the AU and the peacekeepers. Expresses readiness to support efforts to bring to justice those individuals responsible for the attacks and to dismantle the networks that carry out such attacks. Expresses support for the people of Darfur, and encourages all parties involved in the conflict to commit to negotiate a final peace [...]

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Latest Action: 10/10/2007 - Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

Bill Text
To require the President to seek to institute a regional diplomatic plan for the Middle East, and for other purposes. 10/10/2007--Introduced. New Diplomatic Offensive for Iraq Act - Directs the President to implement a regional diplomatic plan in conjunction with the U.N. Security Council to: (1) curtail the ongoing civil war in Iraq; (2) prevent the spread of violence from Iraq into neighboring countries; (3) prevent the establishment of safe havens for al-Qa'ida and other terrorist organizations; (4) prevent regional conflict; (5) prevent genocide, ethnic cleansing, and other crimes against humanity; and (6) promote a national process of reconciliation within Iraq. States that it is U.S. policy to: (1) undertake a sustained diplomatic effort to engage the governments of regional nations on issues that impact the situation in Iraq; (2) continue and expand U.S. direct bilateral talks with nations neighboring Iraq on issues of mutual interest; (3) support the goals [...]

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Latest Action: 10/09/2007 - DEBATE - The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 687.

Bill Text
Resolution recognizing Reverend Theodore M. Hesburgh, C.S.C., for his contributions to the civil rights movement in the United States, his tireless work to reduce the threat of nuclear conflict, and his efforts to secure the peaceful resolution of international conflicts.

10/9/2007--Passed House amended.    (There is 1 other summary)

Celebrates the 90th birthday of Reverend Theodore M. Hesburgh.

Honors Reverend Hesburgh for a lifetime of selfless dedication to the Catholic Church, our Nation, and the University of Notre Dame.

Latest Action: 09/19/2007 - Referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations. (text of measure as introduced: CR S11757-11758)

Bill Text
A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate regarding the Israeli-Palestinian peace process. 9/19/2007--Introduced. Reaffirms the Senate's commitment to: (1) a lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict based on the establishment of two states, Israel and Palestine; and (2) Israel's security. Denounces the use of violence and terror. Calls on: (1) President Bush to engage Israel and the Palestinian Authority (PA) to begin negotiations; (2) Hamas to recognize Israel's right to exist, renounce and end all terror and incitement, and accept past agreements and obligations with Israel; (3) moderate Arab states to intensify their diplomatic efforts toward a two-state solution; and (4) Israeli and Palestinian leaders to embrace efforts to achieve peace and refrain from taking any actions that would prejudice final status negotiations. Welcomes the Arab League Peace Initiative. Urges President Bush to consider appointing as Special Envoy [...]

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Latest Action: 08/04/2007 - Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

Bill Text
Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the President should take immediate action to boycott the Summer Olympic Games of 2008 in Beijing, China.

8/4/2007--Introduced.

Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that: (1) the President should take immediate action to boycott the 2008 Summer Olympic Games in Beijing, China; and (2) if such action is taken the President should resume participation in the Games if the governments of the People's Republic of China (PRC) and Sudan take specified actions respecting Darfur.

Latest Action: 10/29/2007 - DEBATE - The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 573.

Bill Text
Recognizing and commending the efforts of the United States public and advocacy groups to raise awareness about and help end the worsening humanitarian crisis and genocide in Darfur, Sudan, and for other purposes. 10/29/2007--Passed House amended.    (There is 1 other summary) Commends the efforts of the U.S. public and advocacy groups to raise awareness about and help end the worsening humanitarian crisis and genocide in Darfur, Sudan. Supports the efforts of the various local schools, communities, and faith-based, human rights, humanitarian, and youth-led advocacy organizations that have dedicated their time and energy to help end the Darfur genocide and to promote peace, defend human rights, and improve the lives of those affected in Sudan and Chad. Urges the United States to work with its partners in the international community to support a negotiated settlement to the Darfur conflict while implementing a more robust se