Russia, Iran… The West should review its sanctions against “pariah” regimes

Should we continue to isolate “untouchable” regimes? The Arab League’s reunification of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, ousted since 2011, raises questions. It has become clear that the sanctions imposed on these regimes will not bring about any political change in their country. Syria represents a textbook case. As the United States and Europe become more reluctant to use military force abroad, they opt more for economic coercion.

The United States currently sanctions approximately 10,000 individuals and companies in some 50 countries. He has ordered strict sanctions against certain states, such as Cuba or Burma. But a large number of countries are ignoring the West and talking to untouchable rule. The Chinese Foreign Minister has started talks with the Taliban.

Last month, a conference of Latin American countries discussed the possibility of legitimizing the dictatorial regime in Venezuela. This situation should lead to a more flexible approach towards sanctions.

Customize restrictions according to circumstances?

These must adhere to three principles: First, individual sanctions against autocratic rulers such as Bashar al-Assad and his cohorts must be maintained.

Second, humanitarian exemptions should allow a wide range of activities, from strengthening public services to rebuilding schools, that would alleviate the suffering of the population. The United Arab Emirates, for example, wants to build a solar power plant in Syria that would help restore electricity, but is reluctant to do so for fear of retaliation for violating sanctions.

Finally, any relaxation of the measures should be conditional on a serious change in behaviour. In the Syrian case, this would mean that the Assad regime allows the return of refugees and gives up drug trafficking – the captagon represents the country’s number one export. For Russia, an easing of sanctions may depend on the evacuation of occupied Ukrainian territories; Iran must take steps to stop its nuclear program.

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A decade ago, many politicians viewed sanctions as a cheaper and safer alternative to war. As the situation in Syria shows, this approach was too optimistic. But that doesn’t mean sanctions are useless. They should be thought of as a dial that can be adjusted up or down depending on the circumstances.

They may not be able to topple autocratic rulers like Bashar al-Assad, but they may be able to induce them to behave less brutally. For those who live under this type of regime, anything that reduces oppression is good news.