EU adopts a new framework for enhanced sanctions on Lebanon
On 30 July 2021, the EU Council announced that it has adopted a framework for targeted restrictive measures, over and above United Nations requirements, to address the worsening situation in Lebanon.
At present no one has been designated but the framework provides for the possibility of imposing sanctions against persons and entities who are considered responsible for undermining democracy or the rule of law in Lebanon through any of the following actions:
- Obstructing or undermining the democratic political process
- Obstructing or undermining the implementation of plans approved by Lebanese authorities and supported by relevant international actors, including the EU
- Serious financial misconduct, concerning public funds, insofar as the acts concerned are covered by the United Nations Convention Against Corruption, and the unauthorised export of capital
Sanctions consist of a travel ban to the European Union and an asset freeze for persons, and an asset freeze for entities. In addition, EU persons and entities are forbidden from making funds available to those listed.
At present the EU and UK (and the UK Overseas Territories) implement UN mandated sanctions relevant to Lebanon following the assassination of former Prime Minister Rafic Hariri in 2005. These new EU restrictive measures will go above and beyond those sanctions. At present the UK (and UK Overseas Territories) have not committed to following the EU’s approach.
The Council Decision can be found here.
The Council Regulation can be found here.
The press release can be found here.
