SAN ANTONIO, Texas, Sept. 4, 2003 (PRIMEZONE) -- America has spent $361.9 Billion for the war on terrorism in FY2002 and FY2003, and is committed to spend another $252.1 Billion in FY2004, for a total of $614 Billion. This coupled with the 2.7 million jobs lost in the private sector and a $401 Billion deficit predicted to reach $500 Billion in 2004 indicates a severe U.S. economic situation.
Dr. Saul B. Wilen, president of International Horizons Unlimited (IHU) warned in December 2002, that while terrorism must be fought, the massive diversion of funds essential to support the programs of states and communities for healthcare, education, the needs of seniors, and other essential programs could further weaken the nation's already fragile economy. He called for, "...introducing prevention strategies to terrorism, which are the most likely strategies to succeed, and the most cost-effective." Almost ten months later and just short of the second anniversary of 9/11, he stated that, "Not much has changed. America remains unprepared for terrorism and the security of the U.S. has not been established despite the hundreds of billions spent. There are better ways."
This analysis, current through July 31, 2003, was culled from public documents supplied through The General Accounting Office, The Office of Management and Budget, The Congressional Budget Office, federal departments and multiple agencies, state and local entities, private sector sources, proposals for 2004 spending levels, and the Deficit Watch(tm) (www.deficitwatch.org) initiative and network.
The analysis was conducted in conjunction with IHU (www.intlhorizons.com), a terrorism prevention and strategies think-tank based in San Antonio, Texas.
To access the details of the costs of the war on terrorism go to: www.deficitwatch.org, Reports Volume II, or request the details via e-mail at IHU@intlhorizons.com.