Financial Crime World

Angola Sanctions Violations: Diamond Trafficking, Secondary Sanctions, and the Need for a Permanent Monitoring Mechanism

UN Security Council Discusses Ongoing Issue of Angola Sanctions Violations

In a high-stakes meeting, 30 speakers addressed the issue of Angola sanctions violations and their consequences at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). The discussions focused on conflict diamonds, penalties for violators, secondary sanctions, and the importance of a permanent monitoring mechanism for UN sanctions.

Angola Sanctions Monitoring Mechanism Report and Recommendations

  • Chairman Ryan’s Intro: UNSC Chairman, Richard Ryan of Ireland, introduced the report of the Angola Sanctions Monitoring Mechanism
  • Mechanism’s Detailed Report: Covering topics on arms and military equipment, UNITA representation, transport involvement, and diamond trading

The Need for Persistence and Resources to Implement Recommendations

  • Effective Regime: Chairman Ryan believed the UN sanctions regime against UNITA was effective but required persistence
  • Permanent Monitoring Mechanism: The absence of a permanent monitoring mechanism was underscored

Angolan Minister’s Address: Sanctions Violations as Persuasive Incentive

  • Acknowledgment of Violations: João Bernardo de Miranda admitted to sanctions violations but emphasized their role in persuading UNITA
  • Reinforcement of Monitoring Mechanism: He called for strengthening the monitoring mechanism
  • Measures Against Organized Crime Networks: Measures were advocated against criminal networks supporting UNITA
  • Secondary Sanctions: He urged action against countries violating sanctions

Endorsement of Secondary Sanctions

  • Support from Mauritius and Mozambique: Secondary sanctions were endorsed to enhance the Council’s and the sanctions’ effectiveness

Concerns Regarding Secondary Sanctions and the Creation of a Permanent Monitoring Mechanism

  • French Recommendation: French representative emphasized the importance of assistance over punishment as a solution
  • Permanent Monitoring Mechanism: He recommended creating a permanent monitoring mechanism

Observer States’ Perspective: Demilitarization and Continued Commitment

  • Portuguese Representation: The demilitarization of political parties and commitment to peace outcomes were emphasized
  • Call for Monitoring Mechanism: The requirement for a monitoring mechanism echoed

Conclusion and Significance

  • Impact on Conflict Resolution and Peacekeeping Efforts: The debate on the need for a permanent monitoring mechanism and effective implementation of UNSC decisions is crucial for the international community’s approach to conflicts and peacekeeping efforts

Background: The Angola Sanctions Monitoring Mechanism

  • Established in 2000: The Angola Sanctions Monitoring Mechanism was established by resolution 1295 (2000) of the United Nations Security Council
  • Purpose: To collect additional information and investigate leads on sanctions violations
  • Activities and Recommendations: Activities include investigations into arms and equipment, representation, transport, and diamond trading and financial assets
  • Continued Commitment to the Angola peace process: The international community’s commitment to the Angola peace process was reaffirmed