Blocking Property of Certain Persons With Respect to Human Rights Abuses in Syria
May 3, 2011
Signed by: Barack Obama
Signed on: Apr 29, 2011
Published on: May 3, 2011
May 3, 2011
Signed by: Barack Obama
Signed on: Apr 29, 2011
Published on: May 3, 2011
Summary
Freezes the assets of Syrian officials and others responsible for violence and human rights abuses against the Syrian people.
What problem does this solve?
The Syrian government was using violence, torture, and arrests against its own people who were peacefully protesting. This order freezes the money and property of those responsible to pressure them to stop the human rights abuses.
What does this order do?
Blocks property of designated persons
Freezes all property and interests in property within the United States belonging to individuals and entities involved in human rights abuses in Syria.
Identifies individuals subject to sanctions
Targets persons listed in the Annex and any person found to be responsible for or complicit in human rights abuses, as determined by the Secretary of the Treasury.
Prohibits donations
Bans making or receiving donations of certain items to or from any person whose property is blocked by this order.
Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to implement the order
Gives the Secretary of the Treasury the power to create rules and regulations necessary to carry out the order, in consultation with the Secretary of State.
Allows for blocking property without prior notice
Determines that to be effective, there is no need to give prior notice to people before their property is blocked, preventing them from moving assets.
Who does this affect?
- Syrian government officials and individuals involved in human rights abuses
- Entities providing support to the Syrian government
- U.S. persons and companies with financial ties to designated individuals
What is the real world impact?
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Pressures the Syrian government to end violence
Applies financial sanctions to individuals and groups responsible for human rights abuses, aiming to stop the violent repression of peaceful protestors in Syria.
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Supports U.S. foreign policy goals
Demonstrates U.S. opposition to the Syrian government's actions and supports international efforts to hold the regime accountable, without using military force.
When does this start?
This order went into effect at 1:00 p.m. eastern daylight time on April 29, 2011.