Blocking the Property of Persons Involved in Serious Human Rights Abuse or Corruption

Dec 26, 2017

Summary

Lets the U.S. freeze the money and property of people from other countries who commit serious human rights abuses or are involved in corruption.

What problem does this solve?

Serious human rights abuse and corruption from outside the U.S. threaten global political and economic systems. This order declares a national emergency to block the U.S. property and entry of those responsible, protecting the U.S. financial system.

What does this order do?

Declares a national emergency

States that serious human rights abuse and corruption from abroad are an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States.

Blocks property and assets

Freezes all property and money in the U.S. belonging to foreign persons who are identified as being involved in serious human rights abuse or corruption.

Suspends U.S. entry

Stops any person identified under this order from entering the United States, either as an immigrant or a visitor.

Authorizes key officials to designate persons

Allows the Secretary of the Treasury, working with the Secretary of State and Attorney General, to decide which foreign persons meet the criteria for sanctions.

Allows for sanctions without prior notice

Determines that to be effective, individuals can be added to the sanctions list without being told beforehand, preventing them from moving their assets.

Who does this affect?

Foreign persons involved in human rights abuse or corruption
Foreign government officials
U.S. financial institutions

What is the real world impact?

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Creates a tool for foreign policy

Gives the President broad power to punish specific foreign individuals and officials without needing to pass new laws, which can be used to pressure other governments or respond quickly to international events.

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Protects the U.S. financial system

Prevents individuals who engage in corruption or human rights abuses from using U.S. banks and markets to hide or move their money, strengthening international stability.

When does this start?

This order became effective at 12:01 a.m. EST on December 21, 2017.