Congresswoman Lee Statement on Lifting of Sudan Sanctions
Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Barbara Lee released the following statement on the Trump Administration’s decision to lift sanctions on the government of Sudan:
“I am deeply concerned by the Trump Administration’s decision to provide sanctions relief to the Sudanese government. Lifting these sanctions, especially in light of recent violence in Darfur and absent of clear progress from the government on human rights, sends the wrong message to President Bashir and other Sudanese officials.
“The people of Sudan deserve a government that prioritizes human rights, responsible governance and peace for all its citizens. Congress must be prepared to act quickly to prevent any back-sliding from these objectives and hold the Sudanese leadership accountable.”
BACKGROUND: In 2007, Congresswoman Lee’s legislation, the Sudan Accountability and Divestment Act of 2007, was signed into law by President Bush. This legislation authorized state and local governments to divest assets in companies that conduct business operations in Sudan and prohibited U.S. government contracts with such companies. The decision by the Trump Administration would undermine important accountability measures that ensure businesses are not profiting off of human rights abuses.
###