Taking Additional Steps to Address the Conflict in the Congo
Jul 10, 2014
Signed by: Barack Obama
Signed on: Jul 8, 2014
Published on: Jul 10, 2014
Jul 10, 2014
Signed by: Barack Obama
Signed on: Jul 8, 2014
Published on: Jul 10, 2014
Summary
Blocks the property of people who threaten peace, commit violence, or support armed groups in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
What problem does this solve?
Violence, human rights abuses, and the use of child soldiers continue to destabilize the Democratic Republic of the Congo, often funded by illegal trade. This order freezes the U.S. assets of people and groups involved in the conflict to cut off their financial support and pressure them to stop.
What does this order do?
Expands reasons for sanctions
Adds new activities that can lead to sanctions, including undermining democratic processes, targeting civilians, using child soldiers, and obstructing humanitarian aid.
Blocks property of supporters
Allows for the freezing of assets of any person or group that provides financial, material, or technological support to those already sanctioned.
Targets arms suppliers
Authorizes sanctions against anyone who has supplied, sold, or transferred arms and military-related materials to the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Prohibits avoiding sanctions
Makes it illegal to try to evade or avoid the prohibitions set forth in the order, including forming a conspiracy to do so.
Sanctions leaders of armed groups
Allows the Secretary of the Treasury to block the property of political or military leaders of foreign or Congolese armed groups that block peace efforts.
Who does this affect?
- Individuals and groups involved in the Congo conflict
- U.S. persons and financial institutions
- Citizens of the Democratic Republic of the Congo
What is the real world impact?
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Promotes peace and stability
Aims to stop the violence and human rights abuses in the Congo by financially punishing the people and groups responsible for the conflict.
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Protects U.S. economic interests
Helps stabilize a region rich in natural resources important for technology, potentially securing supply chains for American companies.
When does this start?
This order became effective when it was signed on July 8, 2014.