Sanctions are often the first reaction by particularly Global North States to international crises. Although not a victim-focussed tool, because of their regular usage sanctions could, and should, be wielded in a way that is more victim-centred. 

 

Researched and drafted by researchers from the Cambridge Pro Bono Project and the Asia Justice Coalition Junior Research Consultant Rafsi Albar, this whitepaper explores three opportunities to ‘make sanctions work’ for victims of human rights and humanitarian law abuses including atrocity crimes. These opportunities include: (1) ensuring accountability for sanctions violations; (2) developing victims’ funds, financed by the interest of frozen assets or the fines imposed for violations; and (3) confiscating and distributing frozen assets absent a criminal conviction. Read full report here.