Occasional Paper #10:OP:1

by David Cortright and George Lopez

This paper reviews the current debate over imposing tougher economic sanctions against Nigeria following the execution of Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight other Ogoni activists in 1995 and examines the options available to international policymakers. The experiences of earlier sanctions episodes are evaluated to determine lessons that may apply to the situation in Nigeria. Chief among these findings is the conclusion that trade sanctions usually have been incapable of removing a military dictatorship or forcing a major change in government. The paper also notes that financial sanctions have been more effective than general trade sanctions, while causing less severe humanitarian consequences. The special role of multinational oil companies in Nigeria is noted, as is the challenge of attempting to boycott such corporations. The lesson of South Africa is cited, where a transnational divestment campaign among citizen groups successfully applied pressure for an end to the apartheid system. The paper concludes that a similar citizen campaign, combined with stronger and more effective financial sanctions, would be the most effective economic strategy for the restoration of democracy in Nigeria.

Dr. David Cortright is president of the Fourth Freedom Forum, Goshen, Indiana, and George Lopez is professor of government and international studies and fellow of the Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies.  

Top of Page

Home > Publications > Occasional Papers