§8905 Democracy, civil society, governance, and technical assistance for Ukraine and other states in Central and Eastern Europe

Summary

The Secretary of State must, if money is available, work directly or with nongovernmental groups to help Ukraine and nearby countries strengthen democracy and the rule of law, fight corruption, promote unity across regions, prepare for free and fair elections (including monitoring), diversify the economy, trade, and energy sources, build up democratic institutions and civil society, expand independent media and protect journalists and activists, support reforms in Eastern Partnership countries, and boost women’s economic and political power while preventing violence and including women in any security negotiations. Up to $50,000,000 is allowed for fiscal year 2015 to pay for these actions; more money could be provided by other laws. The President must send a plan to the appropriate congressional committees no later than 60 days after April 3, 2014. Money from the $50,000,000 cannot be spent until 15 days after the President tells those committees he intends to use it. The President can waive that delay if waiting would risk human health or welfare, but must notify the committees as soon as possible and no later than three days after taking the action.