Unilateral Economic Sanctions and their Impacts on Human Rights: Case Study of US Sanctions on Iran

Abstract

Unilateral sanctions have long been a debated topic in international law. The proponents of unilateral sanctions argue that such mechanisms are the part of restrictive measures that are necessary to prevent the belligerents and pariah states from creating instability in the international order. However, the other section believes that unilateral sanctions are, in fact, contradictory to international law and human rights as they fundamentally target the common citizens. This article is, therefore, an attempt to discuss the aspects of unilateral sanctions and international law. The article would utilize the qualitative research methodology by taking the case study of Iran. Iran has been under sanctions since its revolution. While the UN sanctions were removed after JCPOA, the US sanctions still persist. Hence, it is imperative to understand the dynamics and purpose of US sanctions on Iran. The article would, therefore, examine the success and failure of US sanctions on Iran and its consequences on the Iranian population. Lastly, the article would also discuss the implications of US sanctions on the US policy itself that whether the sanctions assisted the US in consolidating its position in the Middle East or they backfired.