Libtech, Yesterday, after months of research and writing, I released writeup about a ISS World allowing Iranian telecommunications companies and Sudanese security services to attend their surveillance trade show over the past several years.
Humorously, when the Washington Post attached an old brochure to the blogpost at the last minute, I noticed that apparently Syria was also self-reported to have attended as well. All three countries potentially constitute violations of longstanding embargoes against the countries, which are partially grounded in human rights violations, and inevitably bring up questions about how the parent organization controls attendance. The Washington Post version is at least worth a read as it provides insight into the mentality of the industry and enjoyable moments such as: In an initial phone interview in May, TeleStrategies founder and president Jerry Lucas acknowledged the attendance of the Sudanese but not of any Iranian companies or individuals. Lucas said the firm’s operations had been cleared by its lawyer, and argued that TeleStrategies does not conduct the training but merely is “providing a venue.” In follow-up emails, Lucas said he had misspoken and that neither Sudanese nor Iranians attended. He said in one email that he had confused Sudan with Egypt. Washington Post: http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/the-switch/wp/2014/07/31/is-the-wiretappers-ball-hosting-guests-from-repressive-regimes/ Full Report: http://cda.io/notes/monitoring-the-lines/ I would be greatly indebted if everyone would share the story onward and provide feedback. Thank you. Cordially, Collin -- *Collin David Anderson* averysmallbird.com | @cda | Washington, D.C.
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