On July 30, 2021, the EU Council adopted a framework that provides for possible sanctions against persons and entities responsible for undermining democracy or the rule of law in Lebanon for engaging in the following actions:
• Obstructing the democratic political process by hampering the formation of a government or undermining the holding of elections;
• Obstructing the implementation of plans approved by Lebanese authorities or other international actors to improve the accountability and good governance of the public sector or implementation of economic reforms,
including the banking and financial sectors and including the adoption of transparent, non-discriminatory legislation on the export of capital; or
• Serious financial misconduct involving public funds, as long as the acts are covered by the United Nations Convention Against Corruption and the unauthorized export of capital.
The sanctions include a travel ban to the EU, asset freezes for listed persons and entities, and forbid EU persons and entities from providing funds to listed parties.
These actions follow the Council’s adoption of conclusions on December 7, 2020 that called for Lebanese authorities to implement reforms and establish a “credible and accountable” government based on the country’s worsening financial, economic, social and political crisis that has caused increasing difficulties for the Lebanese population. The EU continues to express its support for the people of Lebanon and urges Lebanese leaders to put aside their differences and implement appropriate measures to restore stability.