Negative Effects of Sanctions on Civilians. Cases of Russia and Venezuela

This thesis investigates the negative impacts of economic sanctions on civilian populations, with a focus on Russia and Venezuela. Economic sanctions, a common tool in international diplomacy, aim to enforce political objectives by exerting economic pressure. However, their efficacy and ethical implications are hotly debated. Proponents view sanctions as a non-violent means of promoting international norms, while critics argue they cause significant collateral damage to civilians. The research examines the cases of Russia and Venezuela, both subject to extensive sanctions due to geopolitical conflicts and governance issues. In Russia, sanctions target key sectors such as finance, energy, and defense, in response to actions in Ukraine. In Venezuela, sanctions address political repression, corruption, and humanitarian crises under the Maduro regime. This comparative analysis highlights how different political, economic, and social contexts influence the severity and nature of sanctions' impacts on civilians. Using qualitative and quantitative methods, including case studies, economic indicators, and content analysis, this thesis assesses the humanitarian consequences of sanctions. It reveals how sanctions exacerbate economic hardship, social instability, and access to basic necessities like food, medicine, healthcare, and education. The findings underscore the importance of considering humanitarian impacts in sanction policies and advocate for more balanced approaches that prioritize the well-being of ordinary citizens. By providing a detailed comparative analysis of Russia and Venezuela, this research contributes to the academic understanding of the socio-economic impacts of international sanctions and offers insights for policymakers on the conditions under which sanctions are most and least effective.