Targeted sanction

Definition. A restrictive measure directed at specified individuals or entities rather than at an entire state, its economy or its population.

Key points. Targeted sanctions may take different forms: asset freezes, financial restrictions, prohibitions on transactions or travel restrictions.

They differ from general economic sanctions in the way their targets are identified. This distinction is intended, in particular, to limit the consequences borne by people who are not directly concerned by the conduct to which the measure is intended to respond.

A visa restriction may perform a function comparable to that of a targeted sanction when it is used to exert pressure on a person because of their actions or functions. Not every visa restriction, however, legally constitutes an international sanction.

The practical effect of the measure depends on the circumstances of its target. An entry ban may have little effect on someone with no connection to the country concerned and considerably more on someone whose professional, political, diplomatic or family activities require travel there.

Related concepts. Visa restriction · Extraterritoriality · Legislative sovereignty