Definition
They may include asset freezes, trade restrictions, financial prohibitions, travel limits, or sectoral measures.
Political Dictionary
Economic Sanctions
Economic sanctions are restrictions used to influence another country, organization, or person.
Why It Matters
They are tools of foreign policy intended to change behavior without direct military force.
How It Works
Government identifies targets, prohibits transactions, blocks assets, and enforces compliance through financial and trade controls.
History
Sanctions have been used extensively in modern diplomacy, especially since the twentieth century.
Example
A country may freeze the assets of officials accused of serious abuses.
Common Misconceptions
- Sanctions affect only political leaders.
- They always achieve their objective.
- Every trade restriction is a sanction.
Related Terms
- Fiscal Policy
- Monetary Policy
- Inflation
- Economic Growth
- Government Spending
Related Topics
See Also