ExecutiveOrdersEO
Proc 7452ProclamationG.W. Bush · R Quiet signal

Proclamation 7452

Suspension of Entry as Immigrants and Nonimmigrants of Persons Responsible for Actions That Threaten International Stabilization Efforts in the Western Balkans, and Persons Responsible for Wartime Atrocities in That Region

President George W. Bush invoked Section 212(f) of the Immigration and Nationality Act to suspend entry of immigrants and nonimmigrants who threaten international stabilization efforts in the Western Balkans or who committed wartime atrocities in the region since 1991. The Secretary of State has sole discretion to identify covered persons and establish implementation procedures, with the proclamation remaining in effect until the Secretary determines it is no longer necessary.

Federal Register Open PDF 66 FR 34775

Impact dates

  1. Proclamation effective immediately

Key directives

  • Suspend immigrant and nonimmigrant entry of persons threatening Western Balkans stabilization
  • Suspend entry of persons responsible for wartime atrocities in Western Balkans since 1991
  • Secretary of State shall identify covered persons in sole discretion
  • Secretary of State shall establish implementation procedures
  • Secretary of State shall advise Attorney General of any termination determination
  • Termination determination effective upon Federal Register publication

Who is ordered

Timeline

Immediate

  • Entry suspension takes effect immediately upon signing (June 26, 2001)
  • Secretary of State gains authority to identify covered persons and establish procedures

Near term (90d)

  • Secretary of State to establish implementation procedures for identifying covered persons

Long term

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

Risks & tensions

  • Broad discretionary authority to Secretary of State with no judicial review or appeal mechanism specified
  • Vague standard in Section 2 ('not contrary to the interest of the United States') creates uncertainty about waiver process
  • Indefinite duration with no sunset date or congressional review requirement
  • Potential tension with international refugee obligations (Section 4 non-derogation clause suggests awareness of this risk)
Proclamation 7452: Suspension of Entry as Immigrants and Nonimmigrants of Persons Responsible for Actions That Threaten International Stabilization Efforts in the Western Balkans, and Persons Responsible for Wartime Atrocities in That Region · Executive Orders