Ongoing review of sanctions needed, Security Council told

Concluding a two-day discussion of efforts to improve the implementation and monitoring of sanctions, the Security Council today heard wide support for an ongoing review process for such measures.

Addressing an open meeting, a number of speakers called for the creation of a monitoring body to oversee the implementation of Council resolutions and to enhance the effectiveness of sanctions.

Other delegates welcomed the new steps taken by the Council to impose targeted sanctions of a limited timeframe, which were aimed specifically at changing the conduct of individuals and groups.

During the first day of the discussions on Monday, the Council heard briefings by three countries on key initiatives to help improve the sanctions process. The German Permanent Representative informed the 15-member body of the so-called "Bonn/Berlin Process," which focused on arms embargoes and travel related sanctions. The Permanent Observer for Switzerland spoke about the "Interlaken Process," which concentrated on the identification of basic legal and administrative requirements for national implementation of financial sanctions.

Meanwhile, the State Secretary for Foreign Affairs of Sweden addressed the Council on the "Stockholm Process," which will focus on how the UN and Member States can ensure effective monitoring of compliance and enforcement, and how best to assist Member States in implementing sanctions regimes.

According to the UN Department of Political Affairs, the use of mandatory sanctions is intended to apply pressure on a State or entity to comply with the objectives set by the Council without resorting to the use of force.

A great number of countries and humanitarian organizations, however, have expressed concern at the possible adverse impact of sanctions on the most vulnerable segments of the population, such as women and children. Concerns have also been expressed over the negative impact sanctions can have on the economy of third countries.