Canada’s Financial Sanctions: Preventing Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction and Supporting International Peace

The Government of Canada has implemented various types of financial sanctions to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, support international peace and security, and hold accountable those who engage in corrupt practices. These measures are designed to restrict or prohibit trade, financial transactions, or other economic activity between Canada and targeted countries.

Types of Sanctions

Arms Embargo

An arms embargo is a type of sanction that aims to prevent weapons and military equipment from leaving or reaching a targeted country. This prohibition applies to the export and import of arms and related materials, as well as communication of technical data or financial transactions related to military activities.

Asset Freezes

Canada also imposes asset freezes, which prohibit individuals or entities from gaining access to property or other assets held under Canadian jurisdiction. This measure prevents persons in Canada and Canadians outside Canada from dealing with any property held by a targeted individual or entity.

Export and Import Restrictions

Export and import restrictions are another type of sanction that aim to hinder the economy or specific sectors of a targeted country. These restrictions typically prohibit buying, selling, or shipping identified goods to or from the country.

Financial Prohibitions

Financial prohibitions restrict persons in Canada and Canadians outside Canada from conducting financial transactions with or on behalf of listed individuals or entities. These measures also target specific types of financial transactions.

Technical Assistance Prohibitions

Technical assistance prohibitions prevent countries targeted by an arms embargo or export ban from obtaining services and information related to banned products. This prohibition applies to providing technical data, training, or other technical assistance.

Additional Regulations

In addition to these primary sanctions laws, Canada has enacted various regulations under the Export and Import Permits Act to control trade with specific countries. The Criminal Code enables Canada to apply measures in relation to terrorist entities, while the Freezing Assets of Corrupt Foreign Officials Act allows Canada to freeze the assets of certain foreign officials.

Immigration Consequences

The Immigration and Refugee Protection Act also provides authority to deny entry into Canada to foreign nationals who are deemed inadmissible pursuant to sanctions. These measures demonstrate Canada’s commitment to maintaining a secure and responsible international trade system, while promoting peace, stability, and human rights around the world.