Blocking Property and Suspending Entry of Persons in Mali

Jul 30, 2019

Summary

Stops people who cause trouble in Mali from using their money in the U.S. or from coming into the country, to help bring peace to the region.

What problem does this solve?

The situation in Mali, including terrorism and human rights abuses, is a threat to U.S. national security. This order blocks the money and travel of people causing these problems to pressure them to stop.

What does this order do?

Declares a national emergency

States that the situation in Mali is an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the United States, officially declaring a national emergency to address it.

Blocks property and assets

Freezes all property and money in the United States belonging to any person or group found to be contributing to the conflict in Mali. This prevents them from using their assets within U.S. reach.

Suspends entry into the United States

Bans anyone identified as contributing to the Mali conflict from entering the United States, either as an immigrant or a visitor.

Lists reasons for sanctions

Identifies specific actions that can lead to sanctions, including threatening peace, undermining democracy, attacking peacekeepers, obstructing aid, committing human rights abuses, or engaging in corruption.

Prohibits donations

Bans donations of items like food, clothing, and medicine to any person or group whose property is blocked by this order.

Authorizes implementation

Gives the Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretary of State the power to create rules and take actions needed to carry out the order.

Who does this affect?

Individuals and groups contributing to the conflict in Mali
U.S. citizens and companies doing business with sanctioned persons

What is the real world impact?

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Supports international peace efforts

Aligns United States policy with United Nations Security Council resolutions aimed at stabilizing Mali. This shows cooperation with international partners to address the conflict without direct military action.

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Applies economic and travel pressure

Uses financial sanctions and travel bans as a tool of foreign policy. This pressures individuals and groups who threaten peace or commit human rights abuses by cutting off their access to the U.S. financial system and travel.

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Grants broad authority to government agencies

Gives the Secretary of the Treasury and Secretary of State significant power to decide who gets sanctioned. Critics might argue this could be used without enough oversight or be based on political reasons rather than clear evidence.

When does this start?

This executive order became effective on July 26, 2019.