International sanctions are measures taken by countries or international organizations to restrict or prohibit trade with a particular country or countries, usually as a form of protest or punishment. The word "sanctions" is pronounced /ˈsæŋkʃənz/ in IPA transcription. The "s" is pronounced as in "say", while the "a" is pronounced as in "cat". The "ng" sound is created by placing the back of the tongue against the soft palate, and the "k" sound is pronounced by making a sharp, forced exhalation of air from the back of the mouth.
International sanctions refer to measures imposed on a particular country or entity by multiple nations, international organizations, or coalitions in response to perceived violations or breaches of international law, human rights violations, threats to international peace and security, or non-compliance with international agreements. These measures are typically intended to deter or punish the targeted party and encourage a change in its behavior.
International sanctions can take various forms, ranging from economic and trade restrictions to diplomatic and political measures. Economic sanctions may involve limiting or completely halting trade, commerce, and financial transactions with the targeted country, such as imposing export bans, import restrictions, or freezing assets. Diplomatic sanctions can involve downgrading or severing diplomatic relations, expelling diplomats, or imposing travel restrictions on individuals associated with the targeted party.
The objective of international sanctions is not only punitive but also to convey a message and influence the behavior of the targeted country or party. Aiming to create economic pressure, isolate the target, and restrict its access to resources, international sanctions seek to compel the party to comply with international norms, respect human rights, or alter its policies.
International sanctions can be imposed through various channels, including the United Nations Security Council, regional organizations like the European Union or the African Union, or coalitions formed by multiple nations. They require a coordinated effort among participating countries to ensure their effectiveness and impact. However, it is important to note that the effectiveness of international sanctions can vary depending on the level of compliance and support from nations involved, as well as the targeted party's resolve and capacity to withstand the sanctions.
The word "international" is derived from the Latin word "internationālis", which combines "inter" meaning "between" or "among", and "nātiōnālis" meaning "national". It refers to things that involve or are shared by multiple nations.
The term "sanction" has its origins in the Latin word "sānctiō", which means "approval" or "ratification". In the context of international relations, sanctions are penalties or measures imposed by one country or a group of countries against another country to express disapproval or to compel compliance with certain demands or behaviors.
Therefore, the phrase "international sanctions" combines "international" to connote actions involving multiple nations and "sanctions" to represent the penalty or action taken by nations collectively.