What types of sanctions exist, and who do they typically target?

Sanctions are typically classified into financial, economic, and trade sanctions, primarily aimed at targeting individuals, entities, or countries to achieve specific policy objectives or enforce international law. Financial sanctions restrict access to financial markets and institutions, influencing the economic landscape for the targeted parties. Economic sanctions can involve comprehensive embargoes that prevent trade and investment, thereby crippling an economy or a particular sector. Trade sanctions specifically restrict import and export activities with certain countries or organizations.

This framework serves as a vital tool for governments and international bodies to address issues such as human rights violations, terrorism, or aggression without resorting to military action. By targeting the financial and economic capabilities of the individuals or entities involved, sanctions aim to compel compliance with international laws or norms.

In contrast, the other options reflect various themes that do not typically align with the recognized forms of sanctions and the specific targets they involve. Military, social, cultural, emotional, educational, environmental, and health aspects do not accurately characterize sanctions in the context of AML and compliance frameworks. Hence, the understanding of sanctions as financial, economic, and trade measures is essential for comprehending their application in international finance and compliance settings.