Blocking Property of Additional Persons Contributing to the Situation in Belarus

Aug 11, 2021

Summary

Blocks the money and property of people in Belarus who are hurting democracy and human rights, and stops them from coming to the United States.

What problem does this solve?

The government of Belarus has been hurting its own people, cheating in elections, and taking away basic freedoms, which is a threat to U.S. interests. This order freezes the U.S. assets of and bans travel for officials and others involved, putting pressure on the regime to change its ways.

What does this order do?

Blocks property of Belarusian officials and entities

Freezes all property and money in the U.S. belonging to people and groups involved with the Belarusian government or its harmful actions.

Suspends entry into the United States

Bans individuals who meet the sanction criteria from entering the U.S. as immigrants or nonimmigrants.

Targets key sectors of the Belarusian economy

Allows sanctions on anyone operating in Belarus's defense, security, energy, potash, tobacco, construction, or transportation sectors.

Expands national emergency

Widens the scope of the national emergency declared in Executive Order 13405, citing the fraudulent 2020 election and subsequent oppression as a threat to the U.S.

Prohibits donations

Bans making or receiving donations of certain items to or from sanctioned individuals if it would harm the U.S. response to the emergency.

Who does this affect?

Belarusian government officials
Individuals and businesses in key Belarusian economic sectors
Belarusian opposition and civil society members

What is the real world impact?

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Promotes democracy and human rights in Belarus

Applies financial and travel pressure on the Belarusian regime to stop its oppressive actions against its own people and to respect democratic processes and fundamental freedoms.

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Counters Russian influence

Belarus is a close ally of Russia. By sanctioning the Belarusian regime, the U.S. sends a message to Russia and weakens a key partner in the region, which could be seen as part of a broader geopolitical strategy.

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May harm ordinary citizens

While targeting specific sectors and officials, broad economic sanctions can sometimes unintentionally hurt the general population of Belarus by damaging the country's economy, making life harder for people not involved with the regime.

When does this start?

This executive order became effective on August 9, 2021, the date it was signed.