Brussels, 25 March 2025
EU restrictive measures, also known as sanctions, are an essential tool in the EU’s common foreign and security policy. The EU now has over 40 sanctions regimes globally containing a wide range of restrictive measures, from targeted individual measures (e.g. asset freezes) to more comprehensive sectoral approaches (targeting finance, trade, energy, etc.). With increasing worldwide tensions, EU restrictive measures are continuously expanding at a more rapid pace. This complexity can generate risk aversion, which in some instances may lead to de-risking practices. As a result, compliance needs are soaring.
A new initiative, the EU Sanctions Helpdesk, funded by the European Union is set to provide vital support to European small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) navigating the complex landscape of sanctions. It offers a comprehensive range of services designed to help SMEs comply with EU sanctions worldwide, reducing the risk of non-compliance and associated costs.
The Helpdesk provides personalised support to SMEs performing sanctions due diligence checks and manages a dedicated website featuring sanctions-related information, events, tips, lessons learned, and more.
All UN and autonomous EU restrictive measures are covered by the Helpdesk, providing SMEs with a one-stop-shop for sanctions compliance.
The Helpdesk works with partners including public authorities, business support stakeholders, financial institutions, and international sanctions and compliance organisations. Through these partnerships the Helpdesk will participate in joint outreach and awareness-raising activities, host and attend events, and deliver training sessions.
Related links
- Visit the EU Sanctions Helpdesk website
- Submit a request to the EU Sanctions Compliance Support Service & read Frequently asked questions
- Audiovisual Service