THE ROLE OF THE TIME LIMIT IN THE EVOLUTION OF THE NON MILITARY SANCTIONS POLICY OF THE SECURIT COUNCIL

Recently, a significant change has occurred in the lifting aspect of the Security Council sanctions, namely, the inclusion of a fixed term in sanctions regimes. We first examine the emergence of the idea of a fixed term for sanctions regimes. With the disappearance of the situation justifying the imposition of sanctions, there is no reason to maintain them. Yet, each permanent member may oppose the lifting of sanctions and extend them indefinitely.The experience acquired, particularly from the sanctions imposed against Iraq has, since 2000, led the Security Council to introduce a fixed term in its sanctions regimes. Then we will examine the contribution of the time limit to the sanctions policy of the Security Council and the risk it may raise to the effectiveness of sanctions. Introducing a validity term in sanctions regimes is a key element and a guarantee for improvement in the suspension and lifting aspects of sanctions. Furthermore, the time limit can ensure the viability of the sanctions mechanism and will also contribute to their legality and effectiveness. Nevertheless, this policy change is not absolute.