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Somalia Sanctions

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Sanctions Brochures

Sanctions Brochures are an overview of OFAC's regulations with regard to the Somalia sanctions.  They are useful quick reference tools. 

Frequently Asked Questions

OFAC has compiled hundreds of frequently asked questions (FAQs) about its sanctions programs and related policies.  The links below send the user to OFAC's FAQ pages.

Interpretive Guidance

OFAC issues interpretive guidance on specific issues related to the sanctions programs it administers.  These interpretations of OFAC policy are sometimes published in response to a public request for guidance or may be released proactively by OFAC in order to address a complex topic.

Applying for a Specific OFAC License

It may be in your and the U.S. government’s interest to authorize particular economic activity related to the Somalia sanctions.  Certain activities related to the Somalia sanctions may be allowed if they are licensed by OFAC.  Visit the link below to apply for an OFAC license.

Guidance on OFAC Licensing Policy

Certain activities related to the Somalia sanctions may be allowed if they are licensed by OFAC.  Below OFAC has issued guidance and statements on specific licensing policies as they relate to the Somalia sanctions.

  • Licenses for Legal Fees and Costs - Guidance on the Release of Limited Amounts of Blocked Funds for Payment of Legal Fees and Costs Incurred in Challenging the Blocking of U.S. Persons in Administrative or Civil Proceedings
  • Entities Owned By Blocked Persons - Guidance On Entities Owned By Persons Whose Property And Interests In Property Are Blocked

LEGAL FRAMEWORK FOR THE Somalia sanctions

The Somalia sanctions program represents the implementation of multiple legal authorities.  Some of these authorities are in the form of executive orders issued by the President.  Other authorities are public laws (statutes) passed by The Congress.  These authorities are further codified by OFAC in its regulations which are published in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR).  Modifications to these regulations are posted in the Federal Register.  In addition to all of these authorities, OFAC may also implement United Nations Security Council Resolutions (UNSCRs) with regard to the Somalia sanctions.

Executive Orders

  • 13620​ Taking Additional Steps to Address the National Emergency With Respect to Somalia (Effective Date - July 20, 2012)
  • 13536 Blocking Property of Certain Persons Contributing to the Conflict in Somalia (Effective Date - April 13, 2010)

Statutes

Code of Federal Regulations

Federal Register Notices

  • 87 FR 78484-22 - Publication of Humanitarian Sanctions Regulations Amendment and General Licenses (Nongovernmental Organizations, Agricultural, and Medicine)
  • 87 FR 78470-22 - Publication of United States Government and International Organizations Official Business Sanctions Regulations Amendment and General Licenses
  • 86 FR 22346 - Amended Somalia Sanctions Regulations
  • 75 FR 24394 - New regulations to implement Executive Order 13536

United Nations Security Council Resolutions

  • 1897 (30 November 2009)
  • 1872 (26 May 2009)
  • 1851 (16 December 2008)
  • 1846 (2 December 2008)
  • 1844 (20 November 2008)
  • 1816 (2 June 2008)
  • 1772 (20 August 2007)
  • 1744 (20 February 2007)
  • 1725 (6 December 2006)
  • 1356 (19 June 2001)
  • 733 (23 January 1992)