Geography
The Role of International Sanctions in Altering State Behavior
Quick fact
Sanctions are not just one tool—they range from travel bans and asset freezes to full trade embargoes. Studies suggest that they only achieve their goals about a third of the time, yet they remain a primary tool for coercive diplomacy.
Why this is interesting
Most countries say they only use sanctions as a last resort—yet they are imposed more than ever. If they so often fail, why do states keep using them?