Financial Sanctions Enforcement in Guinea Takes Centre Stage as UK Leaves EU
The United Kingdom has strengthened its financial sanctions enforcement regime in a bid to promote accountability and justice following violent repression in Guinea. The move comes ahead of the country’s exit from the European Union, with new regulations aimed at ensuring that those responsible for human rights abuses are held accountable.
Overview of the Sanctions Regime
The sanctions regime is designed to encourage the government of Guinea to investigate properly the violent repression on September 28th, 2009, and its aftermath, as well as bring criminal proceedings against those responsible. The UK’s Regulations impose asset freezes on individuals who were involved in or promoted the violence, as well as those who committed human rights violations during or after the event.
Key Provisions of the Sanctions Regime
- Asset freezes on individuals involved in or promoting violence
- Asset freezes on individuals committing human rights violations during or after the event
- Regulations aimed at encouraging the government of Guinea to investigate and prosecute those responsible
Implementation and Amendments
The Guinea (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 have been implemented to ensure a seamless transition of sanctions following the UK’s departure from the EU. The regulations are supported by subsequent amendments made through:
- Sanctions (EU Exit) (Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 2) Regulations 2020
- Sanctions (EU Exit) (Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2020
Previous Regime and Applicability Dates
Prior to the UK’s exit from the EU, the Republic of Guinea (Asset Freezing) Regulations 2012 was in force, applicable until December 31st, 2020. The Council Regulation (EU) No 1284/2009 also applied during this period.
Additional Information and Resources
For more information on the UK’s sanctions regime for Guinea, readers are advised to consult relevant sources and authorities.