Source: European Parliament
Sanctions are an essential element of the EU’s foreign policy and contribute to the preservation of international peace and security, the fundamental values of the EU, such as the rule of law, democracy and human rights.
Sanctions imposed by the EU have a preventive and administrative character, aiming at encouraging a change in behaviour of those targeted.
Under Article 29 of the Treaty of the European Union and Article 215 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, the Council of the European Union takes decisions to adopt, renew or lift sanctions regimes.
EU restrictive measures in force are kept under periodical review by the Council. A review allows to assess whether the goals for imposition of restrictive measures were achieved and the targeted persons still fulfil the listing criteria. Ultimately, EU restrictive measures are extended by unanimity of all Member States in the Council.
Following a proposal for restrictive measures by either the High Representative/Vice-President or a Member State, the Council decides whether to adopt a proposal or reject it.
In the event of the lack of unanimity in the Council, the author of a proposal for restrictive measures may decide whether to submit a revised or new proposal.
The Council Presidency may also submit a modified proposal taking into account the comments of the Member States.