European Union Criminalizes Violation and Circumvention of the Union Sanctions

 On March 12, 2024, the European Parliament approved new rules to harmonize the enforcement of EU sanctions across member states.

       With 543 votes in favor, 45 against, and 27 abstentions, the European Parliament has adopted a directive, agreed with member states, on criminalizing the violation and circumvention of EU sanctions. It will introduce a common definition of, and minimum penalties for, violations.

       After the vote, rapporteur Sophie in’t Veld (Renew, the Netherlands) said: “The Russian invasion benefits from crooks breaking the law in Europe. They must be caught, and forum shopping must stop.”[1]