Us Congress House Bill HB4871

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 7/25/23
• Refer: 7/25/23

Caption

Atrocity Prevention Act

Impact

The provisions of HB 4871 require the Secretary of State to conduct thorough reviews of U.S. security assistance to countries identified as being at risk. This review must be submitted to Congress within 60 days of the annual report, ensuring that legislative bodies have regular access to information regarding the complexities and risks associated with U.S. foreign aid. The results of these reports would effectively guide policymakers in deciding whether to continue, terminate, or modify security assistance based on the assessed risks of those countries using such aid to perpetuate atrocities.

Summary

House Bill 4871, titled the Atrocity Prevention Act, seeks to amend and expand the reporting requirements established by the Elie Wiesel Genocide and Atrocities Prevention Act of 2018. Specifically, the bill aims to enhance the annual report by including a classification system for countries at risk of atrocities, categorized as high-, medium-, or low-risk. The intent behind this amendment is to improve the United States' response to global threats of genocide and mass atrocities by providing more structured and actionable information regarding these risk levels.

Contention

The bill has drawn attention for its potential operational impact on U.S. foreign assistance strategies. Advocates argue that it provides necessary oversight and accountability, ensuring that American resources are not inadvertently enabling acts of violence against vulnerable populations. However, critics may see it as a cumbersome process that could delay vital assistance or complicate U.S. diplomatic efforts, as the requirement for assessments could slow down responses to immediate humanitarian crises. The revisions are poised to spark debates regarding the balance between national interests, humanitarian assistance, and the moral responsibilities of the United States on the global stage.