By Dr Masimba MavazaThe recent Conference on Sanctions brought to light the devastating impact of Unilateral Coercive Measures (UCMs) on nations and their people. A powerful voice emerged from this gathering: Dr. Gift Manyatera, Pro Vice Chancellor of the Midlands State University. His insightful address shed light on the urgent need to dismantle these unjust sanctions.Dr. Manyatera emphasized the unlawful nature of UCMs and their detrimental consequences. He highlighted the common trends observed in affected countries, using Zimbabwe as a prime example of a nation that has suffered for over two decades under the weight of these punitive measures. The past 2 days of this conference have clearly demonstrated the unlawfulness and negative impact of UCMs on states and its peoples. The presentations so far highlight common trends in the affected countries a case in point being the impact that UCMs have had on Zimbabwe for over 2 decades and which the Hon Minister of Justice addressed yesterday. Dr Manyatera The humanitarian crisis exacerbated by UCMs is a stark reality. The proposed UN Guidelines on Business and Human Rights offer a glimmer of hope, aiming to minimize the impact of these measures. However, Dr. Manyatera argued that the ultimate goal should be the complete elimination of UCMs. “The perspectives of the humanitarian actors are informative in this regard. To counter this form of warfare, the development of the United Nations Guiding Principles (UNGPs) on sanctions, business and human rights is a welcome development expected to minimize the impact of UCMs on sanctioned peoples across the world should not be the end goal but elimination of UCMs”, he said. Additionally, “the proposed UNGPs must take the Protect, Respect and Remedy framework a step further. It is an undisputable fact that safeguards (exemptions) against UCMs have proved to be ineffective in the context of secondary sanctions and de-risking policies and over compliance. In this respect, we should all reflect on the following aspects as they relate to UCMs.” To achieve this, he outlined several key steps to consider as the conference drew to an end: * Quantifying the Harm: Rigorous data collection is essential to accurately assess the extent of the damage caused by UCMs. * Seeking Remedies: Pursuing reparations and utilizing existing legal frameworks to hold perpetrators accountable. * Addressing Terminology Dilemmas: Clarifying the complex language surrounding UCMs to facilitate effective advocacy and policymaking. * Debating the Legality of UCMs: Challenging the legal basis of these measures and exposing their inherent flaws. * Confronting Double Standards: Exposing the discriminatory application of UCMs and advocating for equitable treatment. * Reforming Global Governance: Advocating for a more just and equitable international system that prioritizes human rights and development.As the conference concluded, the onus now lies on the international community to act on these recommendations. By taking decisive steps to dismantle UCMs, we can pave the way for a more just and equitable world. Post navigation Striving for Safer Roads: Zimbabwe’s Challenge in Reducing Traffic Crashes Trailblazer for Change: Hon. Monica Mutsvangwa Listed as One of Africa’s Most Influential Women