Fighting Corruption and Human Rights Abuses: U.S. Takes Action on International Anti-Corruption Day
On International Anti-Corruption Day and the eve of Human Rights Day, the United States is wielding its power to promote accountability for corruption and human rights violations globally.
Combating Global Corruption
The Department of State took action against 14 individuals, including immediate family members, for involvement in significant corruption. Additionally, one individual was targeted for his connection to a gross violation of human rights. These actions render them ineligible for entry into the United States pursuant to Section 7031(c) of the annual Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act (“Section 7031(c).”
In a separate but related move, the Department further imposed visa restrictions on dozens of individuals involved in corruption, leveraging various policies under section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. The State Department also invoked its authority under Presidential Proclamation 10685 to restrict visas for individuals who enabled, facilitated, or were otherwise involved in significant corruption and their immediate family members.
In a significant crackdown on a global corruption network, the United States, in partnership with the United Kingdom, imposed sanctions on nine individuals and 19 entities. This targeted action tackled the complex web of corrupt practices linked to Kamlesh Pattni, who built a similar scheme to the 1990s Goldenberg scandal in Kenya which involved export incentive fraud and bribing Kenyan officials.
The United States wasn’t limited to targeting individual actors, it also addressed systemic challenges. By targeting specific instances of misuse of commercial spyware, further action was taken under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act.
Deepening Commitment to Human Rights
Citing widespread human rights abuses and transnational repression, the United States targeted individuals implicated in various human rights abuses and violations. This action bolstering the Khashoggi Ban visa restriction policy, targeting Akshay Kumar Agrawal for his involvement in human rights violations, a prominent figure linked to the serious abuses.
The Department of State also emphasized its commitment to tackling unjust detentions. New policies were implemented under Section 212(a)(3)(C) This encompasses expanding existing restrictions against applying to individuals party involved in the wrongful detention of U.S. nationals. These restrictions now extend to family members of those involved, underscoring the effort to hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.
The United States acted against individuals for human rights violations. The United States acted relentlessly, imposing visa restrictions on 17 Russian officials and Russia-appointed proxy authorities for undermining Ukraine’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence through sham elections held in occupied Ukrainian territories. Moreover, under the authority of E.O. 13894, Fawaz al Akhras was re-designated.
In the West Bank, further action was taken against seven individuals undermining peace, security, and stability, including those engaged in acts of violence and other actions that restricted civilian access to essential services.
- Simultaneously, Alpius Hasim Madi, a Deputy Koramil Commander, was publicly designated under Section 7031(c) for his role in the extrajudicial killing of Yeremia Zanambani in Papua in 2020.
These actions send
What are the potential unintended consequences of the U.S.’s actions against corruption and human rights abuses in other countries?
Fighting Corruption and Human Rights Abuses: U.S. Takes Action on International anti-Corruption Day
**[news Anchor]:** Joining us today is Alex Reed, an expert on international relations and human rights. Welcome to the show.
**[Alex Reed]:** Thank you for having me.
**[news Anchor]:** Today, the United States announced a series of meaningful actions targeting corruption and human rights abuses around the globe. What are your thoughts on these developments?
**[Alex Reed]:**
Well, this is a strong statement from the U.S. on the international stage. Taking action against corruption and human rights violations is crucial for promoting global stability and justice. Targeting individuals involved in these practices, alongside addressing systemic issues like misuse of spyware, sends a clear message that these actions will not be tolerated.
**[News Anchor]:** The U.S. has specifically mentioned targeting individuals connected to the Goldenberg scandal in Kenya [[1](https://www.state.gov/accountability-actions-to-counter-global-corruption-and-human-rights/)]. How significant is this, and what message does it send?
**[Alex Reed]:**
This is a significant step. The Goldenberg scandal was a major blight on Kenya’s history, causing immense economic damage.Targeting individuals involved, even years later, shows the U.S.’s commitment to holding perpetrators accountable, regardless of time or location. This sends a powerful message that impunity for corruption will not be allowed to stand.
**[News Anchor]** The U.S.has also focused on human rights abuses, notably in places like Russia, the West Bank, and Papua. How do these actions fit into the broader strategy?
**[guest]:**
These actions demonstrate a consistent approach to defending human rights globally. By targeting those responsible for human rights violations,the U.S. is sending a message that these abuses will have consequences. It is also important to note the focus on unjust detentions and the expansion of restrictions to include family members. This highlights the U.S.’s commitment to protecting not just
individuals, but also their loved ones from the repercussions of these actions.
**[News Anchor]:** Some critics may argue that these actions are overly interventionist or amount to meddling in the affairs of sovereign nations.How would you respond to that?
**[Alex Reed]:**
I understand those concerns, but I believe that promoting human rights and combating corruption are not internal matters but global issues. These issues have far-reaching consequences that impact international security and stability.
The U.S. has a duty to use its influence to uphold these fundamental values.
**[News Anchor]:**
Thank you for sharing your insights. This is certainly a significant growth in the fight against corruption and human rights abuses.What do you think viewers should be discussing in light of these actions?
