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Chapter 1 A framework for the analysis of the effectiveness of arms embargoes

Putting Teeth in the Tiger: Improving the Effectiveness of Arms Embargoes

ISBN: 978-1-84855-202-9, eISBN: 978-1-84855-203-6

Publication date: 15 July 2009

Abstract

The popularity of arms embargoes makes sense on the one hand but can be puzzling on the other. Since arms are a type of good often linked directly to war and peace as one of the central objects of international politics, stemming the flow of arms to a country or group accused of acting against international peace and security is a logical response. However, while this reaction is frequent, it is not generally regarded as being effective. In fact, arms embargoes have a reputation of not functioning well. One can find many references, in academic literature and policy papers alike, which state that arms embargoes “do not work” that they are “ineffective” or that they are “not worth the paper they are printed on.” The paradox that sanctions are deemed to be of little consequence but are still popular among policy-makers (Baldwin, 1997) is particularly striking.

Citation

Brzoska, M. (2009), "Chapter 1 A framework for the analysis of the effectiveness of arms embargoes", Brzoska, M. and Lopez, G.A. (Ed.) Putting Teeth in the Tiger: Improving the Effectiveness of Arms Embargoes (Contributions to Conflict Management, Peace Economics and Development, Vol. 10), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 1-27. https://doi.org/10.1108/S1572-8323(2009)0000010005

Publisher

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Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2009, Emerald Group Publishing Limited