Blocking Property and Suspending Entry of Persons in Western Balkans

Jun 10, 2021

Summary

Stops people who cause trouble in the Western Balkans from using their money in the U.S. or coming into the country.

What problem does this solve?

Corruption and actions against peace deals in the Western Balkans are stopping the growth of democracy and threatening U.S. security. This order freezes the money and blocks travel to the U.S. for people involved in these harmful acts to help bring stability to the area.

What does this order do?

Blocks property and assets

Freezes all property and money in the United States belonging to people who are found to be threatening peace or engaging in corruption in the Western Balkans.

Suspends entry into the United States

Stops people who meet the criteria for sanctions from entering the U.S., either as immigrants or visitors.

Expands a national emergency

Widens the scope of a previously declared national emergency concerning the Western Balkans to include threats from widespread corruption and the undermining of post-war agreements.

Defines who can be sanctioned

Lists specific actions that can lead to sanctions, including threatening peace, undermining democracy, violating peace agreements, serious human rights abuses, or corruption.

Prohibits helping sanctioned individuals

Makes it illegal for any U.S. person to provide money, goods, or services to anyone whose property is blocked by this order.

Who does this affect?

Individuals and groups in the Western Balkans involved in corruption or destabilizing activities
United States persons and businesses with financial ties to the Western Balkans

What is the real world impact?

•

Promotes stability in the Western Balkans

Uses economic pressure and travel bans to discourage individuals from engaging in corruption, undermining democratic processes, or violating peace agreements. This supports United States foreign policy goals for the region.

•

Protects U.S. national security

Prevents individuals who are considered a threat from using the U.S. financial system or entering the country. This helps protect the national security and foreign policy interests of the United States.

When does this start?

This executive order became effective on June 8, 2021.