ChinaTalk America's New Tools of Coercion
Dec 17, 2020
Peter Harrell and Liz Rosenberg, both CNAS fellows and former Obama administration officials, delve into the evolution of U.S. sanctions policy and its effectiveness in U.S.-China relations. They discuss how the Trump administration refined coercive economic measures and the role of law enforcement in combating trade malpractices. The conversation also highlights the ethical challenges of sanctions compliance, the dynamic shifts between administrations, and even creative pitches for TV shows centered around sanctions themes, mixing serious analysis with a touch of humor.
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Ancient Sanctions
- Sanctions, or trade embargoes, are an ancient tool of economic leverage.
- They date back to at least 432 BC in ancient Greece, potentially influencing the Peloponnesian War.
US Sanctions Usage
- The US has used sanctions for various foreign policy goals, like combating narco-trafficking, terrorism, and WMD proliferation.
- Sanctions create economic pressure, leading to negotiations or concessions.
Comprehensive Sanctions
- There's a resurgence of comprehensive sanctions targeting entire economies.
- This contrasts with the earlier trend of "smart sanctions" focusing on individuals.