RETHINKING THE USE OF SANCTIONS BY UNITED NATIONS AND STATE BEHAVIOUR: IMPLICATIONS FOR PEACE AND DEVELOPMENT

Authors: Nnamdi Okonkwo, PhD & Prince Eze, PhD

ABSTRACT

In the international system, sanctions are often used to enforce global norms, deter aggression, and influence policy changes. Against this backdrop, this study using secondary data and dependency theory as a theoretical framework explored the complex effects of United Nations sanctions and state behaviour and its implications for peace and development, revealing both the potential benefits and unintended harms. The findings of the study showed how sanctions disrupt access to essential goods, healthcare, and education, leading to severe humanitarian crises in countries like Venezuela, Iran, and North Korea. The study also shows how economic sanctions stifle development by restricting access to global markets, technologies, and investment, perpetuating poverty and limiting long-term economic growth. In response to these challenges, the study recommends rethinking the design of sanctions and shifting focus from economy-wide sanctions to targeted measures that specifically impact political and economic elites, thereby minimizing harm to ordinary citizens. Additionally, integrating developmental aid with sanctions regimes can alleviate the negative impacts on vulnerable populations, ensuring access to basic services while maintaining diplomatic pressure.

Keywords: Sanctions, State behaviour, Development, Humanitarian crisis, Peace, Policy change

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