On 9 June 2023, the EU Council adopted a general approach for a proposed law that would introduce criminal offences and penalties for violating EU sanctions. The aim is to deter and penalise individuals who breach sanctions, ensuring that there are consequences for their actions.

The law will make it easier to investigate, prosecute, and penalise those who violate sanction measures across the EU. Member states will be required to criminalise specific conduct, such as assisting individuals to bypass travel bans or engaging in trade with sanctioned goods.

The EU Council emphasises the need for dissuasive penalties that are effective, proportionate, and varied based on the offence. Member states must update their national laws to ensure proper law enforcement and establish limitation periods to facilitate legal action. Cooperation and coordination among law enforcement and judicial authorities at the EU level will be enhanced.

The next step involves negotiations with the European Parliament to reach a common position on the draft law.

The EU Council’s press release can be found here.