Abstract

This paper provides an overview of current U.S. port security programs, discussing efforts both to protect ports as a target and to prevent international goods movement from being used as a vector for terrorists, their weapons, or their supplies. We provide an overview of U.S. government activities in the years leading up to 9/11, and details about each of the main port-security efforts after 9/11. We also evaluate these efforts and find opportunities for improvement in terms of effectiveness, prevention versus recovery planning, use of available resources, priorities and implementation, and funding. Although much has been accomplished to secure the nation’s ports since 9/11, this analysis concludes that much is yet to be done.

Recommended Citation

Haveman, Jon D.; Shatz, Howard J.; and Vilchis, Ernesto A. (2005) "U.S. Port Security Policy after 9/11: Overview and Evaluation," Journal of Homeland Security and Emergency Management: Vol. 2 : Iss. 4, Article 1.
Available at: http://www.bepress.com/jhsem/vol2/iss4/1