Blocking Property of Certain Persons Associated With the International Criminal Court

Jun 15, 2020

Summary

Blocks property and travel for International Criminal Court members who investigate or prosecute U.S. personnel without U.S. consent.

What problem does this solve?

The International Criminal Court (ICC) is investigating U.S. personnel, which the U.S. government views as an overreach of its power and a threat to national security. This order authorizes sanctions to block the ICC's actions against Americans and their allies.

What does this order do?

Declares a national emergency

States that any attempt by the ICC to investigate or prosecute U.S. personnel without U.S. consent is an unusual and extraordinary threat to national security.

Blocks property and assets

Freezes all property and financial assets within the U.S. belonging to foreign persons involved in ICC investigations against U.S. personnel or its allies.

Suspends entry into the United States

Bans ICC officials, employees, agents, and their immediate family members from entering the U.S. if they are involved in investigations of U.S. or allied personnel.

Prohibits providing support

Forbids giving or receiving any money, goods, or services to or from any person sanctioned under this order.

Protects personnel from allied nations

Extends protections and sanctions to cover investigations into personnel from NATO member countries and other major non-NATO allies.

Who does this affect?

International Criminal Court (ICC) personnel
U.S. military and government personnel
Personnel from U.S. allied nations

What is the real world impact?

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Could be seen as obstructing justice

Critics may argue the order intimidates an international court to avoid accountability for alleged war crimes. It could undermine global efforts to prosecute serious international offenses.

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Discourages international investigations

Creates significant personal and financial consequences for ICC staff involved in investigations of U.S. personnel or allies. This pressure may deter the court from pursuing such cases in the future.

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Protects U.S. sovereignty and personnel

Asserts that the U.S. does not recognize the ICC's authority over its citizens. The order aims to shield current and former U.S. military and government officials from ICC investigations, which it calls illegitimate.

When does this start?

This executive order became effective on June 11, 2020, the date it was signed.