Switzerland Takes Lead in Improving Targeted Sanctions Regime Amid Concerns Over Rule of Law
Strengthening Procedures Against Terrorism and Upholding the Rule of Law
Switzerland is working closely with other nations to improve procedures aimed at combating terrorism and upholding the rule of law. The country has been actively involved in designing targeted financial sanctions, including freezing assets, imposing travel restrictions on specific individuals, and restricting trade in certain goods such as diamonds, oil, and weapons.
Targeted Sanctions: A More Effective Approach
The United Nations now restricts itself to implementing targeted sanctions following negative experiences with blanket sanctions imposed on Iraq in the 1990s. These sanctions are more effective and have fewer side effects on civilian populations or third countries. Examples of targeted sanctions include:
- Freezing assets
- Imposing travel restrictions
- Restricting trade in certain goods
The Importance of Lists in Implementing Targeted Sanctions
Lists of names play a crucial role in implementing targeted sanctions decided by the Security Council to combat terrorism. Since being listed has serious consequences for individuals and groups, it is essential that the principles of the rule of law are observed during listing and delisting procedures.
Improving Procedures to Address Concerns Over Rule of Law
To address concerns over the rule of law, Switzerland is working with other states to improve these procedures. In December 2009, the Security Council established the post of UN ombudsman to oversee the delisting procedure for the Al Qaeda/Taliban sanctions list, a move welcomed by Switzerland and its partners. The next step is to introduce this procedure to other sanctions regimes.
Switzerland’s Role in Designing Targeted Financial Sanctions
Switzerland has also been at the forefront of designing targeted financial sanctions. In 1998 and 1999, international experts met in Interlaken at the invitation of the Swiss government to discuss improvements in this field. The results of these discussions were published as a manual in 2001.
Conclusion
Switzerland’s efforts to improve targeted sanctions regimes demonstrate its commitment to upholding the rule of law while combating terrorism. By working closely with other nations and international organizations, Switzerland is helping to create a more effective and fairer system for imposing sanctions.