Scientific Output

Scientific OutputAssistant Professor Dr. Muhsin Hassani Thaher, faculty member at the College of Political Science, Al-Nahrain University, published a research paper titled “The Effectiveness of International Sanctions in US Foreign Policy: Between Political Pressure and Achieving Interests” in the Iraqi Journal of Political Science, published by the Iraqi Association of Political Science.Excerpt from the paper:
International sanctions are one of the most prominent tools in the arsenal of US foreign policy. They represent a practical embodiment of using economic power as an alternative to, or complement of, military force in managing international relations. The role of this tool has increased significantly in the post-Cold War era, as the United States seeks to reshape the international system in line with its strategic interests, while avoiding the high political and military costs associated with direct intervention.The paper concluded with several findings, including:
International sanctions do produce tangible economic effects, but they do not necessarily translate into decisive political outcomes, particularly on issues of a sovereign or security nature. Targeted states tend to absorb pressure through economic adaptation, redirecting their international relations, and strengthening domestic cohesion. Furthermore, the multipolarity of the international system reduces the effectiveness of unilateral sanctions and provides alternatives that diminish the level of imposed economic isolation.