Obama to review US surveillance programs

US president Barack Obama announced on Friday that the first public review of US surveillance programs since 9/11 will soon take place, after public concern regarding such programs has increased in light of Edward Snowden’s disclosures.

Since the revelations of whistleblower Edward Snowden, President Obama, as well as other senior intelligence officials, has repeatedly maintained that the security of US citizens is suitably protected. However, he has now announced that a review will take place in order to restore the faith and confidence of the public.

During a press conference held at the White House, President Obama stated that a panel of independent figures would “review our entire intelligence and communications technologies” before the end of the year, adding: “We need new thinking for a new era.” He has however made it clear that the programs themselves would be remaining in place.

Apparently referring to Mr Snowden’s revelations, the President explained how “drip by drip” the stories disclosed to the public had “changed the environment” as well as public perceptions regarding surveillance programs. He stated: “It is not enough for me as president to have confidence in these programs. The American people need to have confidence in them as well.”

Molly Kersey