I mean to say that the procedures for entering or leaving the US are becoming more and more identifical to entering or leaving a prison when you are just the visitor and not the inmate.

I'm familiar with the draconian US-VISIT side of things from friends and the often times more hidden inspections and procedures for those in non-waiver countries (like Romania).  Did you know that all non-nationals have to fill out a questionnaire upon entering the US which includes the question "Are you a terrorist?"...

Just fly to a civilized nation sometime and the difference is overwhelming.  You get off the plane, you show your passport to the border agent, he or she scans it to see if its valid and if there's an Interpol pickup against you, then if not you're waved on through.  If you're landing in the EU its likely your passport won't even be stamped.  You pick up your bags and you go through customs.  On the off chance the customs agent wants to inspect your luggage,  they are professional and courteous.  Then you're done! Total time: 10 minutes maximum.  Welcome to the country!

Meanwhile it takes me 60 to 120 minutes to enter into my own freaking country.. and I usually always get the "thorough inspection" although in the airport in the city in my home state I never minded this because I was (at the time) LEO and could talk to the people there in "our" language.  But I always used to see some poor Arab woman's suitcase filled with French fashion magazines being opened and contents all over the place... sigh..

I remember once getting into a fuss with an FBI agent because I tried to use my cell phone while waiting in an enormous line for passport control in JFK airport.. with her telling me I would be immediately arrested if I did not close it. sheesh..

I don't think I'll ever be able to go back, even for a visit, until something changes.  I'm the most peaceful person I know but somehow I always feel guilty of something when I'm treated like that.

Pax


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