AFSC welcomes the conclusion of an investigation by the U.S. Treasury Department around sanctions rules and reporting requirements relating to our long-standing humanitarian work in North Korea (DPRK). We see this investigation as an opportunity for both the U.S. government and AFSC to improve upon processes for delivering aid. On the part of the U.S. government, we urge the Treasury Department to expand approved activities (called the “general license”), clarify existing sanctions guidance, and to provide legal protections for financial institutions and suppliers that work with humanitarian organizations. For its part, AFSC commits to better supporting its staff and a decision-making process that uplifts the voices of those “closest to the ground.”
AFSC has used this experience to put forth a number of policy proposals that protect humanitarian actors, expedite aid delivery, and improve the overall political atmosphere. While there is much work to be done, we are encouraged that these proposals have resulted in policy reversals by the administration as well as draft legislation in Congress. We look forward to continuing to work with all the relevant actors to improve upon these processes, alleviate human suffering, and advance toward a peaceful Korean peninsula.