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Economic Sanctions in International Law and Practice: Essential Reading for Policymakers and Practitioners

E.E. Cummings

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Published in Economic Sanctions In International Law And Practice (Routledge Advances In International Relations And Global Politics 146)

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Economic sanctions are increasingly used as a tool of foreign policy. They can be imposed by states, international organizations, or both. Economic sanctions can take a variety of forms, including trade embargoes, asset freezes, and travel bans.

Economic Sanctions in International Law and Practice (Routledge Advances in International Relations and Global Politics 146)

Economic Sanctions in International Law and Practice (Routledge Advances in International Relations and Global Politics Book 146)

by Matthew Fray

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5135 KB
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Print length	:	270 pages

The use of economic sanctions has been controversial. Some argue that they are an effective way to pressure states to change their behavior. Others argue that they are ineffective and can cause unintended harm to the civilian population.

Despite the controversy, economic sanctions remain a widely used tool of foreign policy. It is therefore essential for policymakers and practitioners to have a clear understanding of the legal framework governing economic sanctions.

Economic Sanctions in International Law

Economic sanctions are governed by a complex body of international law. The most important sources of law on economic sanctions are the United Nations Charter, the Security Council resolutions, and the General Assembly resolutions.

The United Nations Charter prohibits the use of force against states. However, it does not explicitly prohibit the use of economic sanctions. The Security Council is responsible for maintaining international peace and security. It has the power to impose economic sanctions under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.

The General Assembly also has the power to impose economic sanctions. However, its resolutions are not binding on states. Economic sanctions imposed by the General Assembly are typically referred to as "soft sanctions."

Types of Economic Sanctions

There are a variety of different types of economic sanctions. The most common types of sanctions are trade embargoes, asset freezes, and travel bans.

Trade embargoes prohibit the import or export of goods and services to or from a target state. Asset freezes prohibit the transfer of assets to or from a target state. Travel bans prohibit individuals from entering or leaving a target state.

Other types of economic sanctions include arms embargoes, financial sanctions, and diplomatic sanctions. Arms embargoes prohibit the import or export of arms and ammunition to or from a target state. Financial sanctions prohibit the transfer of funds to or from a target state. Diplomatic sanctions prohibit the establishment or maintenance of diplomatic relations with a target state.

The Effects of Economic Sanctions

Economic sanctions can have a significant impact on the target state. They can lead to economic recession, unemployment, and social unrest. They can also cause shortages of food, medicine, and other essential goods.

The effects of economic sanctions are not always predictable. The effectiveness of sanctions depends on a number of factors, including the type of sanctions, the target state's economic resilience, and the international support for the sanctions.

The Role of International Organizations

International organizations play an important role in the implementation and enforcement of economic sanctions. The United Nations Security Council is responsible for imposing and enforcing sanctions under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter. Other international organizations, such as the European Union and the Organization of American States, also have the power to impose economic sanctions.

International organizations can provide support for the implementation and enforcement of economic sanctions. They can provide logistical support, such as transportation and communications. They can also provide financial assistance to states that are affected by sanctions.

Economic sanctions are a complex and controversial tool of foreign policy. It is essential for policymakers and practitioners to have a clear understanding of the legal framework governing economic sanctions. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the legal framework governing economic sanctions, including their history, types, and effects. The book also examines the role of international organizations in the implementation and enforcement of economic sanctions.

This book is essential reading for policymakers, practitioners, and anyone interested in the use of economic sanctions in international relations.

Economic Sanctions in International Law and Practice (Routledge Advances in International Relations and Global Politics Book 146)

by Matthew Fray

4.7 out of 5