Suspension of Entry as Immigrants and Nonimmigrants of Persons Impeding the Peace Process in Sierra Leone

This proclamation suspends entry into the United States for immigrants and nonimmigrants who support the Revolutionary United Front or impede the peace process in Sierra Leone, along with their family members. The Secretary of State is authorized to implement the suspension through established procedures and to determine when it should be terminated.

Federal Register Open PDF 65 FR 60831

Impact dates

Oct 10, 2000
Proclamation effective immediately

Key directives

Suspend immigrant and nonimmigrant entry for persons supporting RUF or impeding Sierra Leone peace process
Secretary of State to establish procedures to identify covered persons
Secretary of State to implement the proclamation
Secretary of State may terminate proclamation when no longer necessary

Who is ordered

Secretary of State · Department of State

Timeline

Immediate

Entry suspension takes effect immediately upon signing (October 10, 2000)
Secretary of State authorized to establish identification procedures

Near term (90d)

Implementation procedures to be established by Secretary of State

Long term

Suspension remains in effect indefinitely until Secretary of State determines termination is warranted
Termination effective upon Federal Register publication

Risks & tensions

Broad family coverage (spouses, children of any age, parents) may raise due process and humanitarian concerns
Section 2 waiver authority is discretionary and vague—'not contrary to the interests of the United States' provides wide latitude
Indefinite duration with termination solely at Secretary of State's discretion creates uncertainty
Potential tension with international agreement obligations (Section 4) despite non-derogation clause