Sanctions

Definition

Sanctions are coercive measures imposed by one or more states, or international organizations, against a target country, entity, or individual to compel a change in behavior. They can take the form of trade restrictions, asset freezes, travel bans, or financial penalties. Sanctions are a key tool in modern foreign policy, sitting between diplomacy and military action. Their effectiveness depends on multilateral coordination, enforcement mechanisms, and the economic vulnerability of the target. Secondary sanctions can extend penalties to third parties that conduct business with the sanctioned entity.