21/09/2025
Targeted sanctions that comply with international law can apply pressure for peace, protect civilians, and uphold human rights.
But unilateral coercive measures that violate international law pose serious risks to human rights.
Sanctions targeting entire sectors of an economy can prevent people from accessing basic necessities. In conflict and crisis, they can hinder the delivery of humanitarian aid, interfere with essential health and education services, and undermine the rights to work, housing, and social security.
Sanctions on agricultural products and supplies can increase prices, putting food out of reach for many. These measures disproportionately affect the most vulnerable, including women and children.
Any sanctions must comply fully with international law, including human rights law. The process for imposing sanctions must be fair and take human rights impacts into account.
Sanctions should never be used to influence or harm accountability mechanisms, including international courts, or UN experts.
I urge all countries that impose sanctions to establish clear and effective humanitarian exemptions that explicitly protect essential food imports and agricultural goods.
Sanctions must never be used to punish an entire population.
- , United Nations Human Rights Chief
➡️ https://www.ohchr.org/en/statements-and-speeches/2025/09/hc-turk-addresses-biennial-panel-unilateral-coercive-measures-and
