ExecutiveOrdersEO
Notice 13219NoticeObama · D

Presidential Notice 13219

Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to the Western Balkans

President Obama extended for one year the national emergency declared in 2001 regarding the Western Balkans, citing ongoing threats from extremist violence and obstruction of peace agreements. The continuation maintains existing sanctions and emergency measures under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act.

Federal Register Open PDF 80 FR 36463

Impact dates

  1. Continued national emergency expires unless further extended

Key directives

  • Continue national emergency with respect to the Western Balkans for 1 year beyond June 26, 2015
  • Publish notice in Federal Register
  • Transmit notice to Congress

Timeline

Immediate

  • National emergency continues in effect beyond June 26, 2015
  • Existing sanctions and measures remain active

Near term (90d)

  • Annual congressional notification completed

Long term

  • Emergency authority subject to renewal or termination by June 26, 2016
  • Potential for indefinite continuation if threat persists

Risks & tensions

  • Perpetual emergency authority: 14th annual renewal since 2001 raises questions about indefinite emergency powers
  • Vague threat assessment: 'actions of persons' language lacks specific current intelligence
  • Sanctions impact on regional economic development uncertain
Presidential Notice 13219: Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to the Western Balkans · Executive Orders