The inconsistency of EU sanctions in Sub-Saharan Africa hypocrisy or careful policy making?: a systematic literature review

The EU is a frequent sender of sanctions. Yet, according to some voices the EU is too selective with this tool and inconsistent in its foreign policy stance. Scholars have discussed reasons for the inconsistent application of sanctions primarily in thematic silos, leading to two main positions where the EU is either viewed as a normative or realist foreign policy actor. Whilst it is argued that Sub-Saharan Africa is a frequent target for EU sanctions due its low economic and political importance there are also substantial inconsistencies in sanction application within the region. In a systematic literature review this thesis therefore aims to compile an overview of all factors that influence EU’s decision to (not) impose a sanction in the context of Sub-Saharan Africa. The leading argument is that the EU is neither a purely normative nor a purely realist actor but instead carefully considers a variety of aspects. The conclusion of this thesis points in this direction, however, it remains unclear to what extent each of these factors play into the decision to impose a sanction. Additionally, the literature review identifies important gaps in the research revolving around inconsistencies. Most importantly, the insufficient understanding of how expectations of effectiveness and impact of sanctions contribute to the sanction decision.