Blocking Property of Certain Persons Contributing to the Situation in Nicaragua

Nov 29, 2018

Summary

Freezes the property and bans U.S. entry for people in Nicaragua who abuse human rights, are corrupt, or weaken democracy.

What problem does this solve?

The government of Nicaragua used violence against protestors and is corrupt, which threatens U.S. interests. This order punishes those responsible by blocking their money and property in the U.S. and banning them from entry.

What does this order do?

Declares a national emergency

Declares that the situation in Nicaragua, including the government's violent response to protests and corruption, is an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security of the United States.

Blocks property and assets

Freezes all property and interests in property within the U.S. for any person determined to be contributing to the crisis in Nicaragua. This prevents the assets from being transferred, paid, or withdrawn.

Suspends U.S. entry

Bans any person sanctioned under this order from entering the United States, either as an immigrant or nonimmigrant, unless the Secretary of State decides their entry is in the national interest.

Identifies individuals for sanctions

Targets individuals involved in serious human rights abuse, undermining democracy, threatening Nicaragua's stability, or engaging in corruption related to the Nicaraguan government.

Prohibits donations

Bans the making of donations of articles like food, clothing, and medicine to any person whose property is blocked by this order.

Allows for sanctions without prior notice

States that because funds can be moved instantly, no prior notice is required before blocking a person's property to ensure the measures are effective.

Who does this affect?

Nicaraguan government officials
Individuals involved in corruption or human rights abuses in Nicaragua
U.S. persons with financial ties to sanctioned individuals

What is the real world impact?

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Pressures the Nicaraguan government

Uses economic and travel sanctions to push the Ortega regime to stop its violent and anti-democratic actions without using military force.

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Supports democratic movements

Aims to support protestors and civil society in Nicaragua by targeting the officials and individuals who are repressing them.

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Asserts U.S. foreign policy

Demonstrates U.S. opposition to the Nicaraguan government's actions and could be seen as an attempt to influence the country's internal politics, which some may criticize as foreign interference.

When does this start?

This order takes effect immediately as of its signing on November 27, 2018.