EU Sanctions Regimes: How They Work and Who They Apply To

Introduction

The European Union operates one of the most extensivesanctions frameworks in the world, covering dozens of countries, organisations,and individuals. EU sanctions are adopted by the Council of the EU andimplemented through directly applicable Council Regulations — meaning theyautomatically become law across all EU member states. This introductory courseexplains how the EU sanctions framework is structured, how sanctions areimposed and updated, and what organisations operating within or connected to theEU need to know to stay compliant.

Who ThisCourse Is For

This course is suitable for compliance, legal, and operationsprofessionals at EU-based organisations or non-EU businesses with EUoperations, customers, or counterparties. It is designed for those who are newto EU sanctions or who need a structured overview of how the EU frameworkoperates.

WhatYou'll Learn

• How EU sanctions are created, adopted, and published

• The legal instruments used: Common Positions, CouncilDecisions, and Regulations

• Who is subject to EU sanctions obligations

• The scope of EU sanctions: geographic programmes,targeted designations, and sectoral measures

• Key EU sanctions lists and how to screen against them

• The role of national competent authorities inimplementing EU sanctions

• How EU sanctions interact with UN sanctions obligations

CourseStructure

Format: Live onlinesession with Q&A, also available as on-demand recording

Duration: 1 hour

Level: Beginner

Assessment: Noformal assessment — attendance certificate issued on completion

Technical Requirements

This course is compatible with most operating systems andmodern web browsers. Live sessions are delivered via video conferencing.On-demand recordings are accessible via the course platform. A stable internetconnection is recommended. If you experience access issues, please contact yourorganisation's IT department or the course provider.

‍Course Content

1. The EU Sanctions Framework

• The legal basis for EU sanctions: Article 215 TFEU andCFSP

• The role of the Council, the Foreign Affairs Council,and the EEAS

• Common Positions, Council Decisions, and CouncilRegulations

• How EU sanctions become law in member states

2. Types of EU Sanctions

• Geographic programmes: country-specific sanctionsregimes

• Targeted (horizontal) regimes: cyber, human rights, andcounter-terrorism

• Sectoral measures: sector-specific restrictions

• Asset freezes, travel bans, and financial prohibitions

3. Who Is Bound by EU Sanctions