Editorial: The New York Times

• U.S. sanctions - though critical - are being heard by the people, catching attention towards corrupt presidents like Haiti's Michel Martelly.
• Sanctions on entire countries (like Cuba, Iran and Venezuela) tend to be counterproductive as they create widespread misery but also strengthen autocrats' grip on power.
• Sanctions on specific individuals (like the former president of Haiti) can be effective. Though they might not change behavior, they send a strong signal and impose a stigma.
• Targeted sanctions can provide more opportunities to change the status quo. Once imposed, they give the United States a valuable bargaining chip.
• Examples in Guatemala, Latvia and Ukraine show how sanctions against specific individuals can produce swift results.
• In countries that don't mind antagonizing Washington, victories are fragile and changes elusive.
• The United States needs to seek alternatives in dealing with situations like Venezuela, where President Maduro has refused to give up power despite sanctions and elections.

Conclusion: Although they are not perfect nor the only solution, sanctions are a key tool in the fight against corruption and impunity. Additionally, they offer hope to activists fighting for justice in their countries.

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