The UK's sanctions regimes are a key foreign policy and national security tool, used to deter and disrupt malign behaviour and demonstrate support for international norms.

Designations are targeted, lawful and transparent, with due process protections and the ability to challenge them. The Government keeps sanctions under review to ensure they remain effective, proportionate and aligned with policy objectives, including how they interact with professional service providers and others exposed to sanctions risk. UK sanctions must be complied with by any individual, business or organisation undertaking activities in the UK, as well as UK nationals and UK-incorporated entities operating anywhere in the world.

A robust compliance and enforcement framework, alongside engagement with industry, helps identify and mitigate risks, maintaining the credibility and integrity of each regime.