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Afghanistan’s Financial Sanctions List Takes Effect, UK Meets UN Obligations

The Afghanistan (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2020 have finally come into full force as of December 31st, ensuring the UK meets its obligations under the United Nations sanctions regime concerning Afghanistan.

Background

The initial imposition of UN sanctions dates back to 1999 in response to the Taliban’s actions, including providing shelter and training for international terrorist groups.

New Regulations

The new regulations replace relevant EU legislation and related UK regulations with substantially the same effect. The Afghanistan (Sanctions) (EU Exit) (Amendment) Regulations 2022, which implemented United Nations Security Council Resolution 2615, took effect on January 28th. Statutory guidance has been updated to reflect the new regulations.

Key Points

• Individuals designated under this regime are included on the UK sanctions list.
• For more information on other UK sanctions regimes, visit our website.

Contact Information

For further information on financial sanctions, contact:

• Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation at OFSI@hmtreasury.gov.uk or subscribe to their e-alerts.
• For trade sanctions, reach out to the Export Control Joint Unit’s Helpline on 020 7215 4594 or email exportcontrol.help@trade.gov.uk and subscribe to their notices to exporters.
• The Department for Transport can provide information on transport sanctions at transportsanctions@dft.gov.uk.
• For general information on sanctions, contact the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office’s Sanctions Directorate at Fcdo.correspondence@fcdo.gov.uk.