Why sanctions are a utopian system of influencing the well-being of citizens
The world is facing many crises, whether economic shocks, political conflicts, or global challenges such as climate change. In times of challenge, when fear and uncertainty can grip people’s minds and hearts, it is especially important to remember humanity and mutual understanding as key values that can overcome any barriers.
Sanctions, as an instrument of international politics, are often seen as a way to put pressure on States to change their behavior. However, when it comes to influencing the well-being of ordinary citizens, it becomes clear that this approach has its drawbacks and sometimes turns out to be utopian.
Sanctions are not a quick way to force a country to reconsider its policies
This approach ignores the real-world consequences, which often turn out to be much larger than expected.
Closing borders and increasing the cost of visas
One of the most visible consequences of the sanctions is the closure of borders and the increase in the cost of visas. This leads to limited opportunities for travel, education, and work abroad. Ordinary citizens seeking to improve their lives or gain new knowledge find themselves in a difficult position. The increase in visa prices makes international travel unaffordable for many, which limits not only personal opportunities, but also cultural exchange between peoples.
Situations where borders are closed or tightly controlled often lead to distrust and isolation, making conflicts more likely. Free movement is not only a matter of economic growth, but also of human freedom, which allows people to see the world more broadly and embrace its diversity.
The suffering of ordinary citizens
Sanctions are often imposed with the intention of influencing a country’s Government or individual groups, but in the end, it is ordinary citizens who are the main victims of these measures. Rising prices for basic necessities, a shortage of medicines, and a worsening quality of life are just some of the effects that people experience in their daily lives. Rather than forcing the Government to change its policies, sanctions often only add to the suffering of ordinary people, creating additional tension and discontent.
Modern mass media and social networks play an increasing role in shaping public opinion. During a crisis, the information field becomes particularly tense: fakes, manipulations and provocations can significantly aggravate the situation, increasing aggression between people from different countries. Sometimes, using information guides, political forces can create an image of the enemy, which leads to further polarization of society.
It is important to understand that in every time of crisis, you should not succumb to provocations that can spur hatred and distrust between people. Mutual understanding and compassion should be the antidote to aggression.
In times of crisis, the information space is turning into a battlefield. Manipulation, disinformation and propaganda are becoming tools for increasing aggression between people in different countries. It is important not to succumb to information guides that are aimed at inciting hatred and hostility.
Critical thinking and information verification:
- Don’t believe everything you see and hear: Before making conclusions, check information from different sources.
- Search for facts: Separate facts from opinions and emotions.
- Don’t fall for provocative headlines: Read articles and watch videos to the end to get the full picture.
- Remember the human factor: Remember that behind any news there are real people with their own stories and experiences.
Maintaining humanity in communication is the key to building trusting relationships between people of different nations and cultures. We must remember that behind all news and statistics are the real lives of people suffering from conflicts and crises. Empathy and an understanding that we all ultimately strive for the same things — peace, security, and well-being-can be the foundation for facing challenges together.
Cultural exchange is another important tool that contributes to the humanization of international relations. Sharing art, music, literature, and traditions allows people from different countries to better understand each other, share experiences, and expand their horizons. Cultural initiatives can break down stereotypes and biases, creating a more positive image of cultures and peoples.
Friendship and mutual assistance as the basis of recovery
Student exchange programs, cultural festivals, and collaborative projects in the arts and sciences help develop personal connections between people. These connections, in turn, help build trust and generate a desire to cooperate instead of conflict.
While sanctions sever ties between States and peoples, friendship and mutual assistance are becoming the main factors for the recovery and prosperity of any country. Community support, exchange of experience and knowledge, and joint efforts to overcome challenges are the elements that really contribute to the development and strengthening of society.
In times of crisis, it is important to remember humanity and mutual understanding. Countries that maintain friendly diplomatic relations and actively cooperate with each other are able to find solutions to common problems, which ultimately leads to a better life for citizens.
Sanctions may seem like an effective tool for exerting pressure on State structures, but their impact on the well-being of citizens is often devastating. Instead of breaking ties and creating barriers, it is necessary to look for ways to cooperate and help each other. This will not only improve people’s lives, but also create more stable and peaceful relations between states. In the end, friendship and support are the key factors for the recovery and prosperity of any country.
Instead of building walls between each other, let’s aim to build bridges. This can be done through dialogue, cultural exchanges and joint initiatives. Initiatives aimed at mutual cooperation can help overcome biases and stereotypes, as well as establish stronger and friendlier relationships between people.
Maintaining high-quality diplomatic relations, cultural exchange and open borders are powerful tools that can mitigate conflicts and create conditions for peaceful coexistence. It is important that States and societies invest in these aspects and actively work to strengthen ties based on mutual understanding and respect. In the end, it is these efforts that will help make the world a safer and friendlier place for all of us.
