Preventing Escalation and Advancing Caucasus Engagement Act; PEACE Act
Summary
The Preventing Escalation and Advancing Caucasus Engagement Act (PEACE Act) aims to impose sanctions on Azerbaijan in response to renewed acts of aggression against Armenia. It outlines a policy of supporting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of both Armenia and Azerbaijan, while deterring the use of force through sanctions. The bill also seeks to support diplomatic negotiations between the two countries and reduce Russian influence in Armenia.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the PEACE Act would lead to the imposition of sanctions on Azerbaijani government officials, military units, and civilian agencies involved in hostile actions against Armenia. It would also sanction foreign persons who aid or facilitate such actions. These sanctions include blocking property, ineligibility for visas, and restrictions on financial transactions with Azerbaijani entities.
Potential Benefits
- May deter Azerbaijan from engaging in further hostile actions against Armenia.
- Could promote a peaceful resolution to the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan through diplomatic negotiations.
- Might strengthen ties between the United States and Armenia, fostering cooperation and support.
- Could help reduce malign Russian influence in the region, promoting stability.
- Supports international law and the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Could strain relations between the United States and Azerbaijan, potentially impacting diplomatic and economic cooperation.
- Sanctions may have unintended economic consequences, affecting trade and investment.
- The act's focus on sanctions may not be the most effective way to achieve long-term peace and stability in the region.
- There is a risk that sanctions could disproportionately affect the Azerbaijani population.
- The act's provisions could be seen as biased towards Armenia, potentially undermining the United States' role as a neutral mediator.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's focus on foreign policy and the imposition of sanctions falls under the purview of the Executive Branch and Congress, as outlined in Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations and declare war. The President's power to impose sanctions is also derived from the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or liberties.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).