Blocking Property of Persons Threatening the Peace, Security, or Stability of Burma

Jul 13, 2012

Summary

Freezes the money and property of people who harm Burma's peace process, commit human rights abuses, or trade weapons with North Korea.

What problem does this solve?

Some people continue to harm Burma's progress toward peace and democracy through violence, human rights abuses, and illegal arms trading. This order allows the U.S. to freeze the assets of these individuals and prevent them from entering the country to pressure them to stop.

What does this order do?

Blocks property and assets

Freezes all property and money in the U.S. belonging to people who are found to be threatening the peace, security, or stability of Burma.

Suspends entry into the United States

Bans anyone who has had their property blocked under this order from entering the U.S., either as an immigrant or a visitor.

Defines who can be sanctioned

Lists the reasons a person can be sanctioned, including undermining political reform, committing human rights abuses, or trading arms with North Korea.

Prohibits donations

Forbids making or receiving donations of any kind to or from a person whose property has been blocked by this order.

Authorizes the Treasury Secretary to act

Gives the Secretary of the Treasury the power to create rules and take all necessary actions to enforce this order.

Amends previous executive orders

Updates the wording in Executive Order 13464 and Executive Order 13448 from 'logistical, or technical' support to 'or technological' support.

Who does this affect?

Individuals and groups threatening Burma's peace process
Burmese officials involved in human rights abuses
U.S. financial institutions

What is the real world impact?

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Supports political reform in Burma

Uses financial pressure to support Burma's move toward democracy. By freezing the assets of those who stand in the way of reform, the order makes it harder for them to operate and fund their activities.

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Stops arms trade with North Korea

Targets the military trade between Burma and North Korea. This action helps enforce international sanctions against North Korea and addresses a direct threat to U.S. national security.

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Allows for broad application of sanctions

Gives the Secretary of the Treasury wide authority to decide who is a threat. Critics might argue this power could be used without enough proof, potentially harming people or businesses not directly involved in wrongdoing.

When does this start?

This order becomes effective on July 11, 2012.