Russia and China use human trafficking, it’s not just a human rights issue—it’s a global security issue
July 30 is World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, and as the West builds its strategies to counter Russia and China’s increasingly coordinated military aggressions and invasive intelligence operations, we would do well to take a closer look at how human trafficking fuels both of these state-controlled economies—and revisit a human rights tool that could help us address security threats by hitting at the financial engines of global war machines. On Feb. 4 of this year, just 20 days before the invasion of Ukraine, Chinese President&nb
Read MoreHillicon Valley — Gig workers criticize ‘flexibility’ proposal
Gig economy workers criticized a bill they argue would exclude workers in app-based jobs from labor protections, but supporters say the legislation aims to strike a balance for independent workers. Meanwhile, Instagram said it would roll back some of the changes to the app that had been criticized by some users – including at least a few prominent celebrities on the platform. This is Hillicon Valley, detailing all you need to know about tech and cyber news from Capitol Hill to Silicon Valley. Send tips to The Hill’s
Read MoreHouse passes bill to ban assault weapons
The House on Friday passed a bill to ban assault weapons, securing a significant victory for Democrats following a spate of mass shootings across the country and marking the first time lawmakers have approved a prohibition on the popular firearms in more than two decades. The legislation, titled the Assault Weapons Ban of 2022, cleared the chamber in a 217-213 vote. Republican Reps. Chris Jacobs (R-N.Y.) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.) supported the measure, while Democratic Reps. Henry Cuellar (Texas), Jared Golden (Maine), Vicente Gonzalez (Texas), Kurt Schrader (Ore.) a
Read MoreEnergy & Environment —Schumer-Manchin deal boosts renewables
The reconciliation deal will be a boost for the renewables industry. Meanwhile, major oil companies recently saw a bump in profits. This is Overnight Energy & Environment, your source for the latest news focused on energy, the environment and beyond. For The Hill, we’re Rachel Frazin and Zack Budryk. Someone forward you this newsletter?
Read MoreDefense & National Security — Watchdog details DHS troubles during evacuation
The Department of Homeland Security’s watchdog said a lack of volunteers hamstrung the agency’s ability to manage Afghan evacuees brought to the U.S. and other countries. We’ll talk about the report. Plus, we’ll look at why veterans are staging a sit-in at the Capitol after Senate Republicans blocked legislation expanding benefits to veterans who were exposed to toxins during military service. This is Defense & National Security, your nightly guide to the latest developments at the Pentagon, on Capitol Hill and beyond. F
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