EU Sanctions in International Law: Impact, Challenges, and Human Rights Considerations

Abstract

This research examines the impact of European Union sanctions on target countries, including Iran, Russia, and Syria. The primary objective of this paper is to analyze the functioning of EU economic sanctions as a tool to exert pressure on governments and to examine their consequences on the economy and human rights. The research shows that while the initial aim of sanctions is to pressure governments and alter their behavior, in many cases, these sanctions have had significant negative effects on the lives of ordinary people and vulnerable groups. Particularly in countries with weak economies, such as Iran and Syria, shortages of essential goods and health problems resulting from sanctions have severely impacted the living conditions of people. Furthermore, the study addresses the impact of these sanctions on the EU's international relations and the economic changes in the target countries, concluding that in some cases, sanctions not only fail to bring about political changes but also create new humanitarian issues in these countries. Finally, the paper offers recommendations for reforming the EU’s sanction policies to reduce their collateral damage to the people.