Presidential Directive
Issued on June 16, 2017
Policy Summary
On June 16th, President Donald Trump signed a directive with the intention of reversing Obama-era Cuba policy changes. The directive only dealt with a few regulations and left many in place. Specifically, private tours of Cuba are no longer allowed, and any educational trip will undergo an intensive audit. Furthermore, President Trump is restricting some business transactions with Cuba and will not permit any Americans from exchanging or dealing with any business owned by the Cuban military. Embassies will remain open, and many businesses will maintain operations and money will continue to exchange hands on the island. LEARN MORE
Analysis
The President has taken a rather moderate stance on this reversal which goes against much of his earlier rhetoric. Even Russia criticized the language of President Trump’s speech on Friday, and this Cold War-era thinking does not aid the United States or its interests. The regulations he did repeal will not convince the Cuban government to change, and they have received bipartisan condemnation across the country. It will hurt economic development of both nations. A cold and unfriendly approach to Cuba did little to soften the country during its multi-decade embargo throughout the Cold War. LEARN MORE
Engagement Resources
- UNHCR-Cuba — An assembly in the United Nations which furthers the rights and interests of refugees across the globe.
- Amnesty International — Amnesty International conducts advocates for justice for migrant workers and immigrants and protects them from mistreatment
- Atlas Free Trade — A network of research and collaboration between concerned international advocates who wish to remove trade barriers.
This brief was compiled by Jacob Malinowski. If you have comments or want to add the name of your organization to this brief please contact jacob@usresistnews.org.
