Bill · S.Con.Res. 20· Senate(119-SCONRES-20)
A concurrent resolution recognizing the 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act and reaffirming the United States' commitment to its principles and values.
- Introduced
- 8/1/2025
- Last activity
- 8/1/2025 — Referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations. (text: CR S5213-5214)
- Sponsored by
- Roger Wicker
- Cosponsors
- - 3 - 4
- Introduced
- In Committee
A concurrent resolution is how the Senate and the House settle something they do together, such as a budget plan or a joint session. It is adopted once both chambers agree to it, and that puts it into effect; it is not a law, so it does not go to the President.
What this bill would do
This concurrent resolution commemorates the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Helsinki Final Act. It recognizes the importance of the principles established by the Act and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). The resolution reasserts the United States' commitment to the full implementation of the Helsinki Final Act. It also urges all participating states to follow their obligations, specifically regarding human rights and fundamental freedoms. Finally, it calls on various groups within the United States to observe this anniversary through appropriate programs and activities.
Yes· 3 of 4
Does this favour talking over confrontation abroad?+5
The resolution emphasizes the peaceful settlement of disputes and the importance of international diplomacy through the Helsinki Final Act.
Does this protect the freedom to practise a religion?+5
The resolution explicitly mentions the importance of respect for the freedom of thought, conscience, religion, or belief.
Does this strengthen ties with allied countries?+4
The resolution reaffirms the United States' commitment to continued participation in the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe.
The opposite
No question was scored the opposite.
Who it would affect, and how
Potential Positive Impacts for People
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Protection of Human Rights and Freedoms: The resolution emphasizes that respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms is vital to democracy and stability (Resolution Section 3). This includes the protection of thought, conscience, religion, or belief (Whereas Section 7).
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Global Stability and Security: The Helsinki Final Act establishes a concept of security involving political-military, environmental, economic, and human rights dimensions (Whereas Section s) to help prevent, manage, and resolve conflict (Whereas Section).
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Promotion of Peace and Prosperity: The resolution conveys that respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the peaceful resolution of conflicts are vital for promoting security, prosperity, and peace (Resolution Section 5).
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Support Against Oppression: The legacy of the Act serves as a framework for supporting the rights of individuals against authoritarian oppression and aggression (Whereas Section).
Potential Negative Impacts for People
- No negative impacts are explicitly stated in the provided text.
Groups and Interests Ranking
Every group the model scored this bill for, from -10 to +10. Hover a score for the reason it gave.
- National Security And Foreign Policy
- Improves Diplomatic Engagement+5Improves International Alliances+4
- Social Issues And Justice
- Improves Religious Freedom+5
- Governance And Ideology
- Improves Freedom Of Speech+3
- 8/1/2025
- Referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations. (text: CR S5213-5214)
- 7 Cosponsors added.
- Introduced in Senate
John BoozmanRepublican · Arkansas
Katie BrittRepublican · Alabama
John FettermanDemocrat · Pennsylvania
Jeanne ShaheenDemocrat · New Hampshire
Tina SmithDemocrat · Minnesota
Thomas TillisRepublican · North Carolina
Sheldon WhitehouseDemocrat · Rhode Island