What is an economic sanction?

"Economic sanction" is an economic measure imposed by a country, a group of countries, or international organisation(s) against a country, its officials, or private citizens. These sanctions are usually instituted to put an end to undesirable acts or policies, such as violations of international law or human rights, or to bring about a change in policy when legal or democratic principles are not being observed. They can also serve as a preventive measure to discourage certain actions.

Economic sanctions can take many forms, including travel bans, restrictions on import and export, trade embargoes, freezing of assets, and seizure of assets. They are aimed at parties who otherwise cannot easily be brought under the jurisdiction of the sanctioning authority. Companies, organisations, and countries that violate the sanctions can also be subject to penalties themselves.