Talk Elections

Atlas Fantasy Elections => Atlas Fantasy Government => Topic started by: Southern Senator North Carolina Yankee on April 18, 2012, 08:11:30 PM



Title: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Law'd)
Post by: Southern Senator North Carolina Yankee on April 18, 2012, 08:11:30 PM
Quote
To authorize assistance for women and girls in Afghanistan, and for other purposes.

Be it enacted by the Senate of the Atlasia.

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.

This Act may be cited as the `Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012'.

SEC. 2. FINDINGS.

Senate makes the following findings:

1. Despite the removal of the Taliban from power, women in Afghanistan continue to experience brutal violation of their human rights, generally outside of Kabul where warlords are reexerting control.

2. Strong and continued Atlasian support can ensure that the advances made by Afghan women since the fall of the Taliban will continue and grow, rather than recede.

3. The Atlasia has made a substantial contribution to the emergency relief and humanitarian efforts for Afghanistan. Completing the Atlasian mission in Afghanistan will also require significant and long-term investments in development and reconstruction assistance.

4. The maternal mortality rate in Afghanistan is the second highest in the world, with recent reports estimating that every 30 minutes an Afghan woman dies of pregnancy related causes, or approximately 15,000 women every year. The estimated maternal mortality rate of 1,600 deaths per 100,000 live births can be significantly reduced through access to primary health care services, including safe birthing supplies, emergency obstetric care, prenatal and postnatal care, contraception, and prevention and treatment for the effects of sexual coercion and rape.

5. Women comprise 75 percent or more of the refugees and internally displaced in camps, urban areas, and villages in Afghanistan.

6. 85 percent of Afghanistan's population lives in rural areas. The women in rural areas perform vital roles in food production, processing, and preparation. Successful reconstruction and development assistance must target rural women as part of any agricultural interventions.

7. Within Afghanistan and outside of Afghanistan, local women's organizations are delivering critical services and have the knowledge and experience to assist the Atlasia in delivering effective relief aid.

8. The Afghan Ministry for Women's Affairs is an important ministry that is essential for re-establishing women's human rights, ensuring that women are included in all development efforts, and delivering critical legal, health, education, and economic services to women throughout Afghanistan's 30 provinces.

9.  Afghan women are taking the initiative to reach across the conflict divide and foster peace. Women's perspectives and experiences in seeking solutions to conflicts are necessary to ensure lasting peace.

10. Adequate security in both urban and rural areas is essential if women and girls are to exercise their human rights, work, attend school, and otherwise participate in and benefit from humanitarian and development programs sponsored by the Atlasia.

SEC. 3. ESTABLISHMENT OF AFGHAN WOMEN'S FUND.

(a) ESTABLISHMENT- The Administrator of the Atlasian Agency for International Development shall establish a fund for the purpose of assisting women and girls in Afghanistan in the areas of political and human rights, health care, education, training, security, and shelter.

(b) ACTIVITIES SUPPORTED- The fund established under subsection (a) shall support the following activities:

(1) Direct financial and programmatic assistance to the Ministry of Women's Affairs in Afghanistan (hereafter in this section referred to as the `Ministry') to promote the strengthening of the Ministry as the Government of Afghanistan continues its transition to a long-term government structure and to enable the Ministry to fulfill its mandate. The Ministry may use such assistance to support activities such as the following:

(A) Multiyear women-centered economic development programs, including programs to assist widows, female heads of household, women in rural areas, and disabled women.

(B) Collaboration with the Ministry of Health to construct culturally appropriate health infrastructure and delivery of high-quality comprehensive health care programs, including primary, maternal, child, reproductive, and mental health care.

(C) Programs to prevent trafficking in persons, assist victims, and apprehend and prosecute traffickers in persons.

(2) Direct financial assistance to the National Human Rights Commission of Afghanistan.

(3) Construction of women's educational facilities in Afghanistan.

(c) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS- There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $22,500,000 for each of the fiscal years 2013, 2014, and 2015 and such sums as are necessary for each subsequent fiscal year.

SEC. 4. ASSISTANCE TO AFGHANISTAN.

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, not less than 15 percent of the aggregate amount of economic and humanitarian assistance authorized to be made available to Afghanistan for each of the fiscal years 2013, 2014, and 2015 shall be made available for assistance directly to Afghan-led local nongovernmental organizations, including Afghan women-led organizations, with demonstrated experience in delivering services to Afghan women and children to support their programmatic activities and organizational development. In recognition of the appreciating capacity of Afghan-led local nongovernmental organizations, including Afghan women-led organizations, an appropriate percentage of the aggregate amount of economic and humanitarian assistance authorized to be made available to Afghanistan for fiscal year 2006 and each subsequent fiscal year shall be made available for assistance directly to Afghan-led local nongovernmental organizations, including Afghan women-led organizations.

SEC. 5. REQUIREMENTS RELATING TO UNITED STATES ACTIVITIES IN AFGHANISTAN.

(a) IN GENERAL- Activities described in subsections (b) through (e) that are carried out by the Atlasia in Afghanistan shall comply with the applicable requirements contained in such subsections.

(b) GOVERNANCE OF AFGHANISTAN- With respect to the governance of Afghanistan, the applicable requirements are the following:

(1) Include the perspectives and advice of Afghan women's organizations, networks, and leaders in Atlasia policymaking related to the governance of Afghanistan.

(2) Promote the inclusion of a significant number of women in future legislative bodies to ensure that women's full range of human rights are included and upheld in any constitution or legal structures of Afghanistan.

(3) Encourage the appointment of women to high level positions within Afghan Ministries.

(c) POST-CONFLICT RECONSTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT- With respect to activities relating to post-conflict stability in Afghanistan, the applicable requirements are the following:

(1) Encourage Atlasian organizations that receive funds authorized by this Act to partner with or create Afghan-led counterpart organizations and provide these organizations with significant financial resources, technical assistance, and capacity building.

(2) Increase women's access to or ownership of productive assets such as land, water, agricultural inputs, credit, and property.

(3) Provide long-term financial assistance for primary, secondary, higher, nontraditional, and vocational education for Afghan girls, women, boys, and men.

(4) Integrate education and training programs for former combatants with economic development programs to encourage their reintegration into society and to promote post-conflict stability.

(5) Provide assistance to rehabilitate children affected by the conflict, particularly child soldiers.

(6) Support educational efforts to increase awareness with respect to landmines, facilitate the removal of landmines, and provide services to individuals with disabilities caused by landmines.

(d) AFGHAN MILITARY AND POLICE- With respect to training for military and police forces in Afghanistan, the applicable requirements are the following:

(1) Include training on the protection, rights, and the particular needs of women and emphasize that violations of women's rights are intolerable and should be prosecuted.

(2) Encourage such trainers who will carry out the activities in paragraph (1) to consult with women's organizations in Afghanistan to ensure that training content and materials are adequate, appropriate, and comprehensive.

(e) RELIEF, RESETTLEMENT, AND REPATRIATION OF REFUGEES AND INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS- With respect to the relief, resettlement, and repatriation of refugees and internally displaced persons in Afghanistan, the applicable requirements are the following:

(1) Take all necessary steps to ensure that women refugees and internally displaced persons in camps, urban areas, and villages are directly receiving food aid, shelter, relief supplies, and other services from Atlasian-sponsored programs.

(2) Take all necessary steps to ensure that women refugees in camps, urban areas, and villages are accessing high-quality health and medical services, including primary, maternal, child, and mental health services.

(3) Take all necessary steps to ensure that women and children in refugee camps are protected from sexual exploitation.

(4) Take all necessary steps to ensure refugees and internally displaced persons that seek to return to their place of origin can do so voluntarily, safely, and with the full protection of their rights. Atlasian-sponsored efforts shall not coerce refugees or internally displaced persons to return to their places of origin.

SEC. 6. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS.

Not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the President shall prepare and transmit to Senate a report that contains documentation of the progress in implementing the requirements of section 5. All data in the report shall be disaggregated by gender.

Sponsor: Pingvin99
Co-sponsor: Alfred F. Jones


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Southern Senator North Carolina Yankee on April 18, 2012, 08:15:40 PM
Just realized this is "international" stuff and can go into the international slot, imagine that. :P


PINGVIN! ALFRED! FRONT AND CENTER!!!

You got 24 hours to explain why this is an important act.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Pingvin on April 19, 2012, 01:00:43 AM
I"M HERE!
Why I think that this act is very important:
1) It will improve our relationship with the Afghanistan.
2) It is a one more step in a worldwide human rights.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: H.E. VOLODYMYR ZELENKSYY on April 19, 2012, 05:26:22 AM
Well, we've got to help these women, don't we? I don't see why you would oppose this, unless you're a cold, heartless slug of a human.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Pingvin on April 19, 2012, 05:44:36 AM
^^^^^


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Napoleon on April 19, 2012, 05:59:02 AM
I like this bill, and suggest including family planning education and reproductive health care. Unless these women are educated about their rights and in control of their bodies, they will remain oppressed.

Quote
Afghanistan holds the distinction of having of the highest fertility rate per woman in Asia - the average woman will bear six children in her lifetime.
Quote
One woman was so happy to have birth control pills that she hugged and kissed [the woman distributing them], ripped open a package and swallowed a pill with a gulp of water.
http://jezebel.com/5405867/do-the-reproductive-rights-of-afghan-women-rest-with-religious-men (http://jezebel.com/5405867/do-the-reproductive-rights-of-afghan-women-rest-with-religious-men)


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: CLARENCE 2015! on April 19, 2012, 06:00:59 AM
Napoleon- I understand you want to turn a unanimous, well-intentioned bill into an abortion debate... I recommend we spare the controversy and pass this and help the women of Afghanistan


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Napoleon on April 19, 2012, 06:03:39 AM
Napoleon- I understand you want to turn a unanimous, well-intentioned bill into an abortion debate... I recommend we spare the controversy and pass this and help the women of Afghanistan

Did you even read the link or is this Whig War on Women going international?

Quote
As a recent Economist story on fertility trends emphasized, women in the developing world generally have more children than they want to. When we see falling fertility rates, it's normally a result of women being empowered to make more decisions about their own lives.

Quote
"‘If my husband finds out, he'll punish me,' " Mahmouda recalled the woman saying. " ‘I'm pregnant now. I really need those pills.' "

Taking birth control in secret is not unusual, the women said. Even Aziza's own husband opposes her using it.

"He said, ‘We are Muslims and God gives us babies,' " she said.

You have to be literally heartless to not be concerned for the health and safety of these poor women.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Napoleon on April 19, 2012, 06:07:40 AM
Anyway, I request a pro-woman Senator to introduce this amendment.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: CLARENCE 2015! on April 19, 2012, 06:29:37 AM
NOt to consider health and safety? What is this bill about??? And Whig War on Women- take your talking point trash elsewhere.  There's no cable news in the Fantasy boards


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: ilikeverin on April 19, 2012, 09:00:59 AM
I like this bill, and suggest including family planning education and reproductive health care. Unless these women are educated about their rights and in control of their bodies, they will remain oppressed.

Quote
Afghanistan holds the distinction of having of the highest fertility rate per woman in Asia - the average woman will bear six children in her lifetime.
Quote
One woman was so happy to have birth control pills that she hugged and kissed [the woman distributing them], ripped open a package and swallowed a pill with a gulp of water.
http://jezebel.com/5405867/do-the-reproductive-rights-of-afghan-women-rest-with-religious-men (http://jezebel.com/5405867/do-the-reproductive-rights-of-afghan-women-rest-with-religious-men)

Would the Afghan government be able to reject this aid if we included such provisions?  I'm not opposed to them, I just want to make sure that won't screw us over as far as actually accomplishing anything in this bill.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: The world will shine with light in our nightmare on April 19, 2012, 12:30:52 PM
I propose this amendment to Section 3, subsection 1B.

Quote
(B) Collaboration with the Ministry of Health to construct culturally appropriate health infrastructure and delivery of high-quality comprehensive health care programs, including primary, maternal, child, reproductive, and mental health care, as well as education programs for family planning.

Reproductive healthcare services are already covered by this.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Pingvin on April 19, 2012, 01:32:04 PM
I wouldn't oppose that.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: The world will shine with light in our nightmare on April 19, 2012, 01:50:47 PM
I only have a couple concerns with this legislation- how do we ensure that the funds are not being swindled out in corruption and that the Afghan government meets the requirements prescribed by the bill?  Those are always my biggest concerns with foreign aid.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Kaine for Senate '18 on April 19, 2012, 04:26:04 PM
I support Napoleon's suggestion (never thought I'd say that).


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Southern Senator North Carolina Yankee on April 19, 2012, 04:32:03 PM
I would like to echo ILV's concerns, as well as those of the Senator Scott's.


Pingvin, Alfred and SoEA Ben? RESPONSES TO THESE CONCERNS ARE REQUESTED!!!!




Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: H.E. VOLODYMYR ZELENKSYY on April 19, 2012, 06:05:28 PM
Well, if we can, we'd be monitoring it, of course.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: The world will shine with light in our nightmare on April 19, 2012, 06:21:53 PM
Well, if we can, we'd be monitoring it, of course.

How so? :P


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: H.E. VOLODYMYR ZELENKSYY on April 19, 2012, 08:35:53 PM
I guess wed make the people who take care of that stuff do it, if they exist.

I'm not very good at this whole 'writing bills' thing. I just vote :).


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Pingvin on April 20, 2012, 12:46:08 AM
I think that we should appoint a Special Representative or something like that. He would report regularly to President and Senate.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: The world will shine with light in our nightmare on April 20, 2012, 01:04:57 AM
I propose this amendment to Section 6.

Quote
SEC. 6. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS.

Upon enactment of this act, the Secretary of External Affairs shall be responsible to oversee appropriate use of funds and resources.  The Secretary must report to the President how requirements are being met.  Not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, both the President and the Secretary shall prepare and transmit to Senate a report that contains documentation of the progress in implementing the requirements of section 5. All data in the report shall be disaggregated by gender.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Pingvin on April 20, 2012, 01:11:11 AM
I would not oppose that.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: H.E. VOLODYMYR ZELENKSYY on April 20, 2012, 05:19:27 AM
I'm fine with that.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Kaine for Senate '18 on April 20, 2012, 01:02:58 PM
It gives me more work, so I oppose it :P

But yeah, that's fine.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Southern Senator North Carolina Yankee on April 20, 2012, 10:21:27 PM
Senators have 24 hours to object.


I fully endorse making Benny boy work a hell of lot more. >:D


What about ILV's concerns?


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Southern Senator North Carolina Yankee on April 22, 2012, 04:34:48 PM
The amendment has passed.


As for my question?


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Southern Senator North Carolina Yankee on April 24, 2012, 09:52:15 PM
HEY!!!

I'M TALKING HERE!! I'M TALKING HERE!!!

:P


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: ilikeverin on April 24, 2012, 11:04:31 PM
HEY!!!

I'M TALKING HERE!! I'M TALKING HERE!!!

:P

As was I!  Noooooobody loooooooves us :(


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: H.E. VOLODYMYR ZELENKSYY on April 25, 2012, 05:28:15 AM
I just assume Ben will take care of all of that.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Southern Senator North Carolina Yankee on April 25, 2012, 11:17:50 AM
Never assume anything.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Kaine for Senate '18 on April 25, 2012, 11:24:53 AM
Sorry guys, I'm at school now.  I'll respond in a few hours.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Kaine for Senate '18 on April 25, 2012, 05:17:07 PM
In terms of the government accepting/rejecting funds, I'd include a clause saying that if review shows the government misappropriating the money, then the aid be withdrawn immediately.  In terms of overseeing the distribution, I'd keep in close contact with the US Embassy, and have the SoEA reports include use of funds.

Does that help?


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: CLARENCE 2015! on April 25, 2012, 05:23:25 PM
That sounds good to me Ben-


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: H.E. VOLODYMYR ZELENKSYY on April 26, 2012, 05:34:41 AM
Sure.

I'm not very good at this whole 'writing bills' thing. I just assume Ben will handle everything we tell him to do.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Southern Senator North Carolina Yankee on April 26, 2012, 02:43:43 PM
Quote from: Current Text
To authorize assistance for women and girls in Afghanistan, and for other purposes.

Be it enacted by the Senate of the Atlasia.

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.

This Act may be cited as the `Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012'.

SECTION 2. FINDINGS.

Senate makes the following findings:

1. Despite the removal of the Taliban from power, women in Afghanistan continue to experience brutal violation of their human rights, generally outside of Kabul where warlords are reexerting control.

2. Strong and continued Atlasian support can ensure that the advances made by Afghan women since the fall of the Taliban will continue and grow, rather than recede.

3. The Atlasia has made a substantial contribution to the emergency relief and humanitarian efforts for Afghanistan. Completing the Atlasian mission in Afghanistan will also require significant and long-term investments in development and reconstruction assistance.

4. The maternal mortality rate in Afghanistan is the second highest in the world, with recent reports estimating that every 30 minutes an Afghan woman dies of pregnancy related causes, or approximately 15,000 women every year. The estimated maternal mortality rate of 1,600 deaths per 100,000 live births can be significantly reduced through access to primary health care services, including safe birthing supplies, emergency obstetric care, prenatal and postnatal care, contraception, and prevention and treatment for the effects of sexual coercion and rape.

5. Women comprise 75 percent or more of the refugees and internally displaced in camps, urban areas, and villages in Afghanistan.

6. 85 percent of Afghanistan's population lives in rural areas. The women in rural areas perform vital roles in food production, processing, and preparation. Successful reconstruction and development assistance must target rural women as part of any agricultural interventions.

7. Within Afghanistan and outside of Afghanistan, local women's organizations are delivering critical services and have the knowledge and experience to assist the Atlasia in delivering effective relief aid.

8. The Afghan Ministry for Women's Affairs is an important ministry that is essential for re-establishing women's human rights, ensuring that women are included in all development efforts, and delivering critical legal, health, education, and economic services to women throughout Afghanistan's 30 provinces.

9.  Afghan women are taking the initiative to reach across the conflict divide and foster peace. Women's perspectives and experiences in seeking solutions to conflicts are necessary to ensure lasting peace.

10. Adequate security in both urban and rural areas is essential if women and girls are to exercise their human rights, work, attend school, and otherwise participate in and benefit from humanitarian and development programs sponsored by the Atlasia.

SECTION 3. ESTABLISHMENT OF AFGHAN WOMEN'S FUND.

(a) ESTABLISHMENT- The Administrator of the Atlasian Agency for International Development shall establish a fund for the purpose of assisting women and girls in Afghanistan in the areas of political and human rights, health care, education, training, security, and shelter.

(b) ACTIVITIES SUPPORTED- The fund established under subsection (a) shall support the following activities:

(1) Direct financial and programmatic assistance to the Ministry of Women's Affairs in Afghanistan (hereafter in this section referred to as the `Ministry') to promote the strengthening of the Ministry as the Government of Afghanistan continues its transition to a long-term government structure and to enable the Ministry to fulfill its mandate. The Ministry may use such assistance to support activities such as the following:

(A) Multiyear women-centered economic development programs, including programs to assist widows, female heads of household, women in rural areas, and disabled women.

(B) Collaboration with the Ministry of Health to construct culturally appropriate health infrastructure and delivery of high-quality comprehensive health care programs, including primary, maternal, child, reproductive, and mental health care, as well as education programs for family planning.

(C) Programs to prevent trafficking in persons, assist victims, and apprehend and prosecute traffickers in persons.

(2) Direct financial assistance to the National Human Rights Commission of Afghanistan.

(3) Construction of women's educational facilities in Afghanistan.

(c) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS- There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $22,500,000 for each of the fiscal years 2013, 2014, and 2015 and such sums as are necessary for each subsequent fiscal year.

SECTION 4. ASSISTANCE TO AFGHANISTAN.

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, not less than 15 percent of the aggregate amount of economic and humanitarian assistance authorized to be made available to Afghanistan for each of the fiscal years 2013, 2014, and 2015 shall be made available for assistance directly to Afghan-led local nongovernmental organizations, including Afghan women-led organizations, with demonstrated experience in delivering services to Afghan women and children to support their programmatic activities and organizational development. In recognition of the appreciating capacity of Afghan-led local nongovernmental organizations, including Afghan women-led organizations, an appropriate percentage of the aggregate amount of economic and humanitarian assistance authorized to be made available to Afghanistan for fiscal year 2006 and each subsequent fiscal year shall be made available for assistance directly to Afghan-led local nongovernmental organizations, including Afghan women-led organizations.

SECTION 5. REQUIREMENTS RELATING TO UNITED STATES ACTIVITIES IN AFGHANISTAN.

(a) IN GENERAL- Activities described in subsections (b) through (e) that are carried out by the Atlasia in Afghanistan shall comply with the applicable requirements contained in such subsections.

(b) GOVERNANCE OF AFGHANISTAN- With respect to the governance of Afghanistan, the applicable requirements are the following:

(1) Include the perspectives and advice of Afghan women's organizations, networks, and leaders in Atlasia policymaking related to the governance of Afghanistan.

(2) Promote the inclusion of a significant number of women in future legislative bodies to ensure that women's full range of human rights are included and upheld in any constitution or legal structures of Afghanistan.

(3) Encourage the appointment of women to high level positions within Afghan Ministries.

(c) POST-CONFLICT RECONSTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT- With respect to activities relating to post-conflict stability in Afghanistan, the applicable requirements are the following:

(1) Encourage Atlasian organizations that receive funds authorized by this Act to partner with or create Afghan-led counterpart organizations and provide these organizations with significant financial resources, technical assistance, and capacity building.

(2) Increase women's access to or ownership of productive assets such as land, water, agricultural inputs, credit, and property.

(3) Provide long-term financial assistance for primary, secondary, higher, nontraditional, and vocational education for Afghan girls, women, boys, and men.

(4) Integrate education and training programs for former combatants with economic development programs to encourage their reintegration into society and to promote post-conflict stability.

(5) Provide assistance to rehabilitate children affected by the conflict, particularly child soldiers.

(6) Support educational efforts to increase awareness with respect to landmines, facilitate the removal of landmines, and provide services to individuals with disabilities caused by landmines.

(d) AFGHAN MILITARY AND POLICE- With respect to training for military and police forces in Afghanistan, the applicable requirements are the following:

(1) Include training on the protection, rights, and the particular needs of women and emphasize that violations of women's rights are intolerable and should be prosecuted.

(2) Encourage such trainers who will carry out the activities in paragraph (1) to consult with women's organizations in Afghanistan to ensure that training content and materials are adequate, appropriate, and comprehensive.

(e) RELIEF, RESETTLEMENT, AND REPATRIATION OF REFUGEES AND INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS- With respect to the relief, resettlement, and repatriation of refugees and internally displaced persons in Afghanistan, the applicable requirements are the following:

(1) Take all necessary steps to ensure that women refugees and internally displaced persons in camps, urban areas, and villages are directly receiving food aid, shelter, relief supplies, and other services from Atlasian-sponsored programs.

(2) Take all necessary steps to ensure that women refugees in camps, urban areas, and villages are accessing high-quality health and medical services, including primary, maternal, child, and mental health services.

(3) Take all necessary steps to ensure that women and children in refugee camps are protected from sexual exploitation.

(4) Take all necessary steps to ensure refugees and internally displaced persons that seek to return to their place of origin can do so voluntarily, safely, and with the full protection of their rights. Atlasian-sponsored efforts shall not coerce refugees or internally displaced persons to return to their places of origin.

SECTION 6. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS.

Upon enactment of this act, the Secretary of External Affairs shall be responsible to oversee appropriate use of funds and resources.  The Secretary must report to the President how requirements are being met.  Not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, both the President and the Secretary shall prepare and transmit to Senate a report that contains documentation of the progress in implementing the requirements of section 5. All data in the report shall be disaggregated by gender.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: The world will shine with light in our nightmare on April 26, 2012, 02:48:05 PM
The current text doesn't include the first amendment I proposed.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Southern Senator North Carolina Yankee on April 26, 2012, 02:48:48 PM
Just as a note, when I said "the amendment has passed" I meant to say "amendments"


I forgot that two were under consideration, when I posted that.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Southern Senator North Carolina Yankee on April 26, 2012, 02:50:53 PM
The current text doesn't include the first amendment I proposed.

I know, I never said the text was finished in constructing. Only so many posts appear when you in posting mode, you know. :P I just copied it from the first page:

Quote
(B) Collaboration with the Ministry of Health to construct culturally appropriate health infrastructure and delivery of high-quality comprehensive health care programs, including primary, maternal, child, reproductive, and mental health care, as well as education programs for family planning.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Southern Senator North Carolina Yankee on April 26, 2012, 03:05:11 PM
Amendment Recommended by Ben:

Quote
Section 3 (d) shall read: The mismanagement of monies, distributed under this act, by the government of Afghanistan, shall result in the immediate suspension of further aid directed by this act.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Southern Senator North Carolina Yankee on April 26, 2012, 03:05:39 PM
Sponsor?


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: H.E. VOLODYMYR ZELENKSYY on April 26, 2012, 07:00:23 PM
I will.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Southern Senator North Carolina Yankee on April 26, 2012, 07:08:46 PM
What? That response is too vague to decipher intent. :P


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: CLARENCE 2015! on April 27, 2012, 06:39:09 AM
I'll sponsor Ben's amendment


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Southern Senator North Carolina Yankee on April 27, 2012, 07:56:31 PM
I don't need a sponsor for the amendment, I am sponsoring it. :P

I need the bill's sponsor to response to it as friendly or unfriendly. 


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: 🐒Gods of Prosperity🔱🐲💸 on April 27, 2012, 09:42:30 PM
In terms of the government accepting/rejecting funds, I'd include a clause saying that if review shows the government misappropriating the money, then the aid be withdrawn immediately.  In terms of overseeing the distribution, I'd keep in close contact with the US Embassy, and have the SoEA reports include use of funds.

Does that help?
I don't see how that deals with the issue of setting up a program that does things Afghan leaders may not approve of.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: H.E. VOLODYMYR ZELENKSYY on April 28, 2012, 08:51:39 AM
The amendment is friendly.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Southern Senator North Carolina Yankee on April 28, 2012, 08:52:45 AM
I need Pingvin to respond as well.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Pingvin on April 28, 2012, 09:55:25 AM
Oh, well. I would not oppose any amendments. I'm too busy with party stuff now.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Southern Senator North Carolina Yankee on April 28, 2012, 11:40:43 AM
Senators have 24 hours to object.


Oh, well. I would not oppose any amendments. I'm too busy with party stuff now.

That is probably a statment you will regret having made later on. Call it a hunch.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Southern Senator North Carolina Yankee on April 28, 2012, 02:53:54 PM
In terms of the government accepting/rejecting funds, I'd include a clause saying that if review shows the government misappropriating the money, then the aid be withdrawn immediately.  In terms of overseeing the distribution, I'd keep in close contact with the US Embassy, and have the SoEA reports include use of funds.

Does that help?
I don't see how that deals with the issue of setting up a program that does things Afghan leaders may not approve of.

Yes, that Ben fellow went and pulled as fast one on us. Damn If I had my committee plan finished, I would grill him until he became charcoal.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Kaine for Senate '18 on April 28, 2012, 05:10:31 PM
I don't see how that deals with the issue of setting up a program that does things Afghan leaders may not approve of.

Yeah, sorry about that (it wasn't intentional Yank).  Honestly, there isn't a lot we can do to make the Afghan government support this, other than telling them that if they refuse to implement the programs, they don't get the money.  The benefits are great, but so are the risks.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Southern Senator North Carolina Yankee on April 28, 2012, 05:20:44 PM
I don't see how that deals with the issue of setting up a program that does things Afghan leaders may not approve of.

Yeah, sorry about that (it wasn't intentional Yank).  Honestly, there isn't a lot we can do to make the Afghan government support this, other than telling them that if they refuse to implement the programs, they don't get the money.  The benefits are great, but so are the risks.

It was purely strategic. :P

Is the language at present satisfactory as to provide that kind of failsafe or is another amendment necessary?


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Southern Senator North Carolina Yankee on April 28, 2012, 05:21:45 PM
I would like to the have the FPR in this slot by Monday, people. Just keep that in mind.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Fmr President & Senator Polnut on April 29, 2012, 04:19:53 AM
I have some pretty firm concerns about this Bill...

I fully support the aims and the treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan is an issue of international importance.

However, we cannot dictate to them how they run their country. I think this is a strongly aspirational Bill, which does risk overreaching, and therefore undermining its intended purpose.

I think a simpler line of " we are doing x, if you don't meet standards y then you will meet with these consequences z" would do something without that risk...

We need to use leverage, but we cannot dictate, it's a balancing act for sure, but we do need to be realistic.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Southern Senator North Carolina Yankee on April 30, 2012, 04:24:53 PM
Amendment has passed.


Is there anyway the bill could be amended to your satisfaction, Mr. President? Or is a unsalvageable?


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Fmr President & Senator Polnut on April 30, 2012, 06:07:08 PM
Amendment has passed.


Is there anyway the bill could be amended to your satisfaction, Mr. President? Or is a unsalvageable?

I'm not sure, if the Sponsor or other Senators wanted to discuss this with me, maybe we could reach a compromise.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Southern Senator North Carolina Yankee on April 30, 2012, 08:29:11 PM
If I don't here back from such negotiations in 24 hours I am opening a final vote on this.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Kaine for Senate '18 on May 02, 2012, 04:03:00 PM
Not sure if this necessary, but I move for a final vote.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (At Final Vote)
Post by: Southern Senator North Carolina Yankee on May 02, 2012, 05:57:19 PM
I just hate it when I accomodate someone and I get sh**t out of it in return. Fool me once, shame on you...

Senators a final vote is now open on this bill, please vote Aye, Nay or Abstain.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Southern Senator North Carolina Yankee on May 02, 2012, 06:01:02 PM
Quote from: Final Text
To authorize assistance for women and girls in Afghanistan, and for other purposes.

Be it enacted by the Senate of the Atlasia.

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.

This Act may be cited as the `Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012'.

SECTION 2. FINDINGS.

Senate makes the following findings:

1. Despite the removal of the Taliban from power, women in Afghanistan continue to experience brutal violation of their human rights, generally outside of Kabul where warlords are reexerting control.

2. Strong and continued Atlasian support can ensure that the advances made by Afghan women since the fall of the Taliban will continue and grow, rather than recede.

3. The Atlasia has made a substantial contribution to the emergency relief and humanitarian efforts for Afghanistan. Completing the Atlasian mission in Afghanistan will also require significant and long-term investments in development and reconstruction assistance.

4. The maternal mortality rate in Afghanistan is the second highest in the world, with recent reports estimating that every 30 minutes an Afghan woman dies of pregnancy related causes, or approximately 15,000 women every year. The estimated maternal mortality rate of 1,600 deaths per 100,000 live births can be significantly reduced through access to primary health care services, including safe birthing supplies, emergency obstetric care, prenatal and postnatal care, contraception, and prevention and treatment for the effects of sexual coercion and rape.

5. Women comprise 75 percent or more of the refugees and internally displaced in camps, urban areas, and villages in Afghanistan.

6. 85 percent of Afghanistan's population lives in rural areas. The women in rural areas perform vital roles in food production, processing, and preparation. Successful reconstruction and development assistance must target rural women as part of any agricultural interventions.

7. Within Afghanistan and outside of Afghanistan, local women's organizations are delivering critical services and have the knowledge and experience to assist the Atlasia in delivering effective relief aid.

8. The Afghan Ministry for Women's Affairs is an important ministry that is essential for re-establishing women's human rights, ensuring that women are included in all development efforts, and delivering critical legal, health, education, and economic services to women throughout Afghanistan's 30 provinces.

9.  Afghan women are taking the initiative to reach across the conflict divide and foster peace. Women's perspectives and experiences in seeking solutions to conflicts are necessary to ensure lasting peace.

10. Adequate security in both urban and rural areas is essential if women and girls are to exercise their human rights, work, attend school, and otherwise participate in and benefit from humanitarian and development programs sponsored by the Atlasia.

SECTION 3. ESTABLISHMENT OF AFGHAN WOMEN'S FUND.

(a) ESTABLISHMENT- The Administrator of the Atlasian Agency for International Development shall establish a fund for the purpose of assisting women and girls in Afghanistan in the areas of political and human rights, health care, education, training, security, and shelter.

(b) ACTIVITIES SUPPORTED- The fund established under subsection (a) shall support the following activities:

(1) Direct financial and programmatic assistance to the Ministry of Women's Affairs in Afghanistan (hereafter in this section referred to as the `Ministry') to promote the strengthening of the Ministry as the Government of Afghanistan continues its transition to a long-term government structure and to enable the Ministry to fulfill its mandate. The Ministry may use such assistance to support activities such as the following:

(A) Multiyear women-centered economic development programs, including programs to assist widows, female heads of household, women in rural areas, and disabled women.

(B) Collaboration with the Ministry of Health to construct culturally appropriate health infrastructure and delivery of high-quality comprehensive health care programs, including primary, maternal, child, reproductive, and mental health care, as well as education programs for family planning.

(C) Programs to prevent trafficking in persons, assist victims, and apprehend and prosecute traffickers in persons.

(2) Direct financial assistance to the National Human Rights Commission of Afghanistan.

(3) Construction of women's educational facilities in Afghanistan.

(c) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS- There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $22,500,000 for each of the fiscal years 2013, 2014, and 2015 and such sums as are necessary for each subsequent fiscal year.

(d) The mismanagement of monies, distributed under this act, by the government of Afghanistan, shall result in the immediate suspension of further aid directed by this act.

SECTION 4. ASSISTANCE TO AFGHANISTAN.

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, not less than 15 percent of the aggregate amount of economic and humanitarian assistance authorized to be made available to Afghanistan for each of the fiscal years 2013, 2014, and 2015 shall be made available for assistance directly to Afghan-led local nongovernmental organizations, including Afghan women-led organizations, with demonstrated experience in delivering services to Afghan women and children to support their programmatic activities and organizational development. In recognition of the appreciating capacity of Afghan-led local nongovernmental organizations, including Afghan women-led organizations, an appropriate percentage of the aggregate amount of economic and humanitarian assistance authorized to be made available to Afghanistan for fiscal year 2006 and each subsequent fiscal year shall be made available for assistance directly to Afghan-led local nongovernmental organizations, including Afghan women-led organizations.

SECTION 5. REQUIREMENTS RELATING TO UNITED STATES ACTIVITIES IN AFGHANISTAN.

(a) IN GENERAL- Activities described in subsections (b) through (e) that are carried out by the Atlasia in Afghanistan shall comply with the applicable requirements contained in such subsections.

(b) GOVERNANCE OF AFGHANISTAN- With respect to the governance of Afghanistan, the applicable requirements are the following:

(1) Include the perspectives and advice of Afghan women's organizations, networks, and leaders in Atlasia policymaking related to the governance of Afghanistan.

(2) Promote the inclusion of a significant number of women in future legislative bodies to ensure that women's full range of human rights are included and upheld in any constitution or legal structures of Afghanistan.

(3) Encourage the appointment of women to high level positions within Afghan Ministries.

(c) POST-CONFLICT RECONSTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT- With respect to activities relating to post-conflict stability in Afghanistan, the applicable requirements are the following:

(1) Encourage Atlasian organizations that receive funds authorized by this Act to partner with or create Afghan-led counterpart organizations and provide these organizations with significant financial resources, technical assistance, and capacity building.

(2) Increase women's access to or ownership of productive assets such as land, water, agricultural inputs, credit, and property.

(3) Provide long-term financial assistance for primary, secondary, higher, nontraditional, and vocational education for Afghan girls, women, boys, and men.

(4) Integrate education and training programs for former combatants with economic development programs to encourage their reintegration into society and to promote post-conflict stability.

(5) Provide assistance to rehabilitate children affected by the conflict, particularly child soldiers.

(6) Support educational efforts to increase awareness with respect to landmines, facilitate the removal of landmines, and provide services to individuals with disabilities caused by landmines.

(d) AFGHAN MILITARY AND POLICE- With respect to training for military and police forces in Afghanistan, the applicable requirements are the following:

(1) Include training on the protection, rights, and the particular needs of women and emphasize that violations of women's rights are intolerable and should be prosecuted.

(2) Encourage such trainers who will carry out the activities in paragraph (1) to consult with women's organizations in Afghanistan to ensure that training content and materials are adequate, appropriate, and comprehensive.

(e) RELIEF, RESETTLEMENT, AND REPATRIATION OF REFUGEES AND INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS- With respect to the relief, resettlement, and repatriation of refugees and internally displaced persons in Afghanistan, the applicable requirements are the following:

(1) Take all necessary steps to ensure that women refugees and internally displaced persons in camps, urban areas, and villages are directly receiving food aid, shelter, relief supplies, and other services from Atlasian-sponsored programs.

(2) Take all necessary steps to ensure that women refugees in camps, urban areas, and villages are accessing high-quality health and medical services, including primary, maternal, child, and mental health services.

(3) Take all necessary steps to ensure that women and children in refugee camps are protected from sexual exploitation.

(4) Take all necessary steps to ensure refugees and internally displaced persons that seek to return to their place of origin can do so voluntarily, safely, and with the full protection of their rights. Atlasian-sponsored efforts shall not coerce refugees or internally displaced persons to return to their places of origin.

SECTION 6. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS.

Upon enactment of this act, the Secretary of External Affairs shall be responsible to oversee appropriate use of funds and resources.  The Secretary must report to the President how requirements are being met.  Not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, both the President and the Secretary shall prepare and transmit to Senate a report that contains documentation of the progress in implementing the requirements of section 5. All data in the report shall be disaggregated by gender.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (At Final Vote)
Post by: The world will shine with light in our nightmare on May 02, 2012, 06:07:52 PM
Aye.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (At Final Vote)
Post by: H.E. VOLODYMYR ZELENKSYY on May 02, 2012, 08:37:21 PM
Aye.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (At Final Vote)
Post by: Kaine for Senate '18 on May 02, 2012, 08:51:18 PM
To be honest, I'm inclined to agree with the President's reservations.  I'm worried that it is simply not realistic to expect this bill to have a real impact.  However, you may say I'm a dreamer, therefore: AYE


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (At Final Vote)
Post by: Sbane on May 02, 2012, 09:03:22 PM
I see some problems with this bill and this may not go anywhere, but I will vote for it. We should fight for the rights of Afghani women even if it is quixotic. I might be in favor of a mass transportation of Afghani women into Atlasia (very hot on average to boot) but that might be a tad unreasonable. :P

Anyways, Aye.



Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (At Final Vote)
Post by: TJ in Oregon on May 02, 2012, 11:37:49 PM
Aye


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (At Final Vote)
Post by: LastVoter on May 02, 2012, 11:59:36 PM
Aye.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (At Final Vote)
Post by: Pingvin on May 03, 2012, 12:28:43 AM
Aye


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (At Final Vote)
Post by: Southern Senator North Carolina Yankee on May 03, 2012, 12:15:52 PM
Aye


Nathan and ILV still haven't voted. If they don't by the time I get back from lunch, they won't get the chance. :P


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (On the President's Desk)
Post by: Southern Senator North Carolina Yankee on May 03, 2012, 01:21:32 PM
Vote on Final Passage of the Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012:

Aye (7): Alfred F. Jones, Ben, NC Yankee, Pingvin, Sbane, Scott, and TJ in Cleve
Nay (0):
Abstain (0):

Didn't Vote (3): Clarence, ILV, and Nathan

With seven votes in the affirmative and none in the negative the bill has passed the Senate and his presented to the President for his likely veto.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (Debating)
Post by: Southern Senator North Carolina Yankee on May 03, 2012, 01:23:14 PM
Quote from: Final Text
To authorize assistance for women and girls in Afghanistan, and for other purposes.

Be it enacted by the Senate of the Atlasia.

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.

This Act may be cited as the `Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012'.

SECTION 2. FINDINGS.

Senate makes the following findings:

1. Despite the removal of the Taliban from power, women in Afghanistan continue to experience brutal violation of their human rights, generally outside of Kabul where warlords are reexerting control.

2. Strong and continued Atlasian support can ensure that the advances made by Afghan women since the fall of the Taliban will continue and grow, rather than recede.

3. The Atlasia has made a substantial contribution to the emergency relief and humanitarian efforts for Afghanistan. Completing the Atlasian mission in Afghanistan will also require significant and long-term investments in development and reconstruction assistance.

4. The maternal mortality rate in Afghanistan is the second highest in the world, with recent reports estimating that every 30 minutes an Afghan woman dies of pregnancy related causes, or approximately 15,000 women every year. The estimated maternal mortality rate of 1,600 deaths per 100,000 live births can be significantly reduced through access to primary health care services, including safe birthing supplies, emergency obstetric care, prenatal and postnatal care, contraception, and prevention and treatment for the effects of sexual coercion and rape.

5. Women comprise 75 percent or more of the refugees and internally displaced in camps, urban areas, and villages in Afghanistan.

6. 85 percent of Afghanistan's population lives in rural areas. The women in rural areas perform vital roles in food production, processing, and preparation. Successful reconstruction and development assistance must target rural women as part of any agricultural interventions.

7. Within Afghanistan and outside of Afghanistan, local women's organizations are delivering critical services and have the knowledge and experience to assist the Atlasia in delivering effective relief aid.

8. The Afghan Ministry for Women's Affairs is an important ministry that is essential for re-establishing women's human rights, ensuring that women are included in all development efforts, and delivering critical legal, health, education, and economic services to women throughout Afghanistan's 30 provinces.

9.  Afghan women are taking the initiative to reach across the conflict divide and foster peace. Women's perspectives and experiences in seeking solutions to conflicts are necessary to ensure lasting peace.

10. Adequate security in both urban and rural areas is essential if women and girls are to exercise their human rights, work, attend school, and otherwise participate in and benefit from humanitarian and development programs sponsored by the Atlasia.

SECTION 3. ESTABLISHMENT OF AFGHAN WOMEN'S FUND.

(a) ESTABLISHMENT- The Administrator of the Atlasian Agency for International Development shall establish a fund for the purpose of assisting women and girls in Afghanistan in the areas of political and human rights, health care, education, training, security, and shelter.

(b) ACTIVITIES SUPPORTED- The fund established under subsection (a) shall support the following activities:

(1) Direct financial and programmatic assistance to the Ministry of Women's Affairs in Afghanistan (hereafter in this section referred to as the `Ministry') to promote the strengthening of the Ministry as the Government of Afghanistan continues its transition to a long-term government structure and to enable the Ministry to fulfill its mandate. The Ministry may use such assistance to support activities such as the following:

(A) Multiyear women-centered economic development programs, including programs to assist widows, female heads of household, women in rural areas, and disabled women.

(B) Collaboration with the Ministry of Health to construct culturally appropriate health infrastructure and delivery of high-quality comprehensive health care programs, including primary, maternal, child, reproductive, and mental health care, as well as education programs for family planning.

(C) Programs to prevent trafficking in persons, assist victims, and apprehend and prosecute traffickers in persons.

(2) Direct financial assistance to the National Human Rights Commission of Afghanistan.

(3) Construction of women's educational facilities in Afghanistan.

(c) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS- There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $22,500,000 for each of the fiscal years 2013, 2014, and 2015 and such sums as are necessary for each subsequent fiscal year.

(d) The mismanagement of monies, distributed under this act, by the government of Afghanistan, shall result in the immediate suspension of further aid directed by this act.

SECTION 4. ASSISTANCE TO AFGHANISTAN.

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, not less than 15 percent of the aggregate amount of economic and humanitarian assistance authorized to be made available to Afghanistan for each of the fiscal years 2013, 2014, and 2015 shall be made available for assistance directly to Afghan-led local nongovernmental organizations, including Afghan women-led organizations, with demonstrated experience in delivering services to Afghan women and children to support their programmatic activities and organizational development. In recognition of the appreciating capacity of Afghan-led local nongovernmental organizations, including Afghan women-led organizations, an appropriate percentage of the aggregate amount of economic and humanitarian assistance authorized to be made available to Afghanistan for fiscal year 2006 and each subsequent fiscal year shall be made available for assistance directly to Afghan-led local nongovernmental organizations, including Afghan women-led organizations.

SECTION 5. REQUIREMENTS RELATING TO UNITED STATES ACTIVITIES IN AFGHANISTAN.

(a) IN GENERAL- Activities described in subsections (b) through (e) that are carried out by the Atlasia in Afghanistan shall comply with the applicable requirements contained in such subsections.

(b) GOVERNANCE OF AFGHANISTAN- With respect to the governance of Afghanistan, the applicable requirements are the following:

(1) Include the perspectives and advice of Afghan women's organizations, networks, and leaders in Atlasia policymaking related to the governance of Afghanistan.

(2) Promote the inclusion of a significant number of women in future legislative bodies to ensure that women's full range of human rights are included and upheld in any constitution or legal structures of Afghanistan.

(3) Encourage the appointment of women to high level positions within Afghan Ministries.

(c) POST-CONFLICT RECONSTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT- With respect to activities relating to post-conflict stability in Afghanistan, the applicable requirements are the following:

(1) Encourage Atlasian organizations that receive funds authorized by this Act to partner with or create Afghan-led counterpart organizations and provide these organizations with significant financial resources, technical assistance, and capacity building.

(2) Increase women's access to or ownership of productive assets such as land, water, agricultural inputs, credit, and property.

(3) Provide long-term financial assistance for primary, secondary, higher, nontraditional, and vocational education for Afghan girls, women, boys, and men.

(4) Integrate education and training programs for former combatants with economic development programs to encourage their reintegration into society and to promote post-conflict stability.

(5) Provide assistance to rehabilitate children affected by the conflict, particularly child soldiers.

(6) Support educational efforts to increase awareness with respect to landmines, facilitate the removal of landmines, and provide services to individuals with disabilities caused by landmines.

(d) AFGHAN MILITARY AND POLICE- With respect to training for military and police forces in Afghanistan, the applicable requirements are the following:

(1) Include training on the protection, rights, and the particular needs of women and emphasize that violations of women's rights are intolerable and should be prosecuted.

(2) Encourage such trainers who will carry out the activities in paragraph (1) to consult with women's organizations in Afghanistan to ensure that training content and materials are adequate, appropriate, and comprehensive.

(e) RELIEF, RESETTLEMENT, AND REPATRIATION OF REFUGEES AND INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS- With respect to the relief, resettlement, and repatriation of refugees and internally displaced persons in Afghanistan, the applicable requirements are the following:

(1) Take all necessary steps to ensure that women refugees and internally displaced persons in camps, urban areas, and villages are directly receiving food aid, shelter, relief supplies, and other services from Atlasian-sponsored programs.

(2) Take all necessary steps to ensure that women refugees in camps, urban areas, and villages are accessing high-quality health and medical services, including primary, maternal, child, and mental health services.

(3) Take all necessary steps to ensure that women and children in refugee camps are protected from sexual exploitation.

(4) Take all necessary steps to ensure refugees and internally displaced persons that seek to return to their place of origin can do so voluntarily, safely, and with the full protection of their rights. Atlasian-sponsored efforts shall not coerce refugees or internally displaced persons to return to their places of origin.

SECTION 6. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS.

Upon enactment of this act, the Secretary of External Affairs shall be responsible to oversee appropriate use of funds and resources.  The Secretary must report to the President how requirements are being met.  Not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, both the President and the Secretary shall prepare and transmit to Senate a report that contains documentation of the progress in implementing the requirements of section 5. All data in the report shall be disaggregated by gender.



Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (On the President's Desk)
Post by: Fmr President & Senator Polnut on May 07, 2012, 06:29:20 PM
()

Signing statement:

I consider this Bill 'aspirational' - otherwise I would consider it a practical overreach of our role.


Title: Re: SENATE BILL: Access for Afghan Women Act of 2012 (On the President's Desk)
Post by: Napoleon on May 07, 2012, 06:30:49 PM
Thank you President Polnut.

I am hopeful that this act will provide aid and relief to the women of Afghanistan, and their families.