S-3395 : Still Just a Bill

The Belarus Democracy, Human Rights, and Sovereignty Act of 2023 (S. 3395) seeks to reauthorize and amend the Belarus Democracy Act of 2004. Key provisions include:

• Findings and Policy Updates: Updates congressional findings and outlines US policy towards Belarus, focusing on condemning the 2020 presidential election, supporting the Belarusian democratic movement, and rejecting the integration of Belarus into a "Union State" with Russia.
• Special Envoy for Belarus: Mandates the appointment of a Special Envoy for Belarus to coordinate efforts to improve human rights, address national security implications, and respond to regional impacts.
• Strategic Dialogue: Requires the Secretary of State to host regular strategic dialogues with the Belarus Democracy Movement to coordinate efforts for democratic transition and support Belarusians living abroad.
• Assistance to Belarus: Amends provisions related to assistance for promoting democracy, civil society, and sovereignty in Belarus, including countering internet censorship and supporting Belarusian language programs.
• International Broadcasting: Includes Voice of America in international broadcasting efforts to Belarus.
• Sanctions: Amends sanctions provisions to include those involved in the suppression of protests related to the Russian invasion of Ukraine and those supporting security cooperation with Russia.
• Multilateral Cooperation: Encourages multilateral cooperation to condemn the collaboration between Belarus and Russia and to provide technical assistance for the creation of national identity documentation for Belarusians living abroad.
• Uniting for Ukraine Program: Mandates a pathway for Belarusian nationals residing in Ukraine to participate in the Uniting for Ukraine program.
• Reports: Requires reports on various aspects, including government actions, circumvention of sanctions, and efforts to enable Belarusians living outside Belarus to travel freely.