Making Economic Sanctions an Effective Alternative.

The United States has increasingly used economic sanctions in difficult, diplomatic situations over the last forty years. Such frequent use would seem to indicate that sanctions are an effective diplomatic tool. But many policy makers, statesmen, informed citizens, and media spokespersons have persistently argued that sanctions have not been productive, and that the outcomes achieved differed markedly from intended objectives. This study assesses key U.S. sanctions cases against nations that currently have pivotal, global roles, including China, Cuba, Iraq, and the former Yugoslavia. U.S. sanctions against South Africa are also included to balance this analysis with a much noted instance of success. The study concludes with lessons learned and recommendations to enhance future uses of sanctions.