FR 2025-02004

The document in consideration is an Executive Order issued by the President of the United States, which designates certain international cartels and suspected criminal organizations as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) or Specially Designated Global Terrorists (SDGTs). Utilizing the authority of existing laws, this order aims to counteract the threat these groups pose to national security and the stability of the Western Hemisphere.

General Summary

The primary goal of this Executive Order is to recognize the violent and destabilizing impact that international cartels have on the United States and neighboring regions. By designating these organizations as FTOs or SDGTs, the directive seeks to empower law enforcement and government departments to take stringent measures to diminish their influence within and outside the borders of the United States. Furthermore, the order outlines a two-week timeframe for relevant federal agencies to assess and prepare for the implementation of these designations, indicating a swift response to what is considered a pressing national security concern.

Significant Issues and Concerns

Several issues arise from the execution and implications of this directive:

1. Financial Transparency and Implementation: The order does not detail the financial implications or budget allocation for enforcing these designations. Without clear financial planning, there is a risk of inefficient use of resources and potential wasteful spending, which may concern taxpayers and government watchdogs.

2. Complex Language: The technical language used, such as "extraterritorial command-and-control structures," may be difficult for the general public to comprehend. Simplifying the language could improve public understanding and engagement with the measures proposed by the order.

3. Broad and Aggressive Terminology: Terms like "total elimination" of these organizations may appear overly aggressive or unrealistic. Such wording raises questions about the feasibility of the implementation strategies and the potential for achievable outcomes.

4. Unfunded Mandates: The order assigns roles to various departments but lacks a discussion on the resources required, potentially leading to unfunded mandates that could strain these entities and their existing budgets.

Public Impact

For the general public, this order signals a proactive stance by the government to combat organized crime that has significant negative implications, including drug trafficking and violence. Citizens might expect increased security and a reduction in criminal activities, but they may also be concerned about how effectively these goals can be achieved.

Impact on Stakeholders

• Government Agencies: Agencies such as the Department of State, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Department of Justice are tasked with implementing these directives. This expanded role could mean increased workloads and the necessity for efficient inter-agency coordination.

• International Relations: The designation of certain organizations may impact diplomatic relations with countries where these cartels have a presence. Foreign governments could view the U.S.'s aggressive stance as overreach or conversely, as a welcomed partnership against shared threats.

• Affected Organizations and Support Networks: For the cartels and other criminal organizations targeted by the order, this designation could lead to their assets being frozen and increased enforcement measures against their activities. Despite these actions potentially reducing crime, they may also lead to increased tension or retaliation.

In summation, while the Executive Order addresses a pressing security issue, its execution and implications raise questions related to financial transparency, language clarity, and the practicality of goals. These factors necessitate closer scrutiny by both stakeholders and the public to ensure successful and efficient implementation.