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Why does sanctions compliance matter?
In an increasingly complex global risk environment, sanctions compliance is a crucial area for regulated firms.
Introduction to Sanctions is an interactive, on-demand course from UK Finance that provides a structured and practical overview of global sanctions regimes and their real-world application.
This self-paced course is designed for professionals in financial services, legal, compliance, and international trade, offering a solid grounding in how sanctions are applied, monitored, and enforced. It highlights the connection between sanctions and financial crime prevention frameworks such as AML and explores the implications of non-compliance in both regulated and commercial sectors.
Study time
The course is designed to be completed in three months. However, you will have access to the materials for 12 months, allowing you to complete them at your own pace. Learners will receive a certificate upon completion.
CPD Certification
This elearning offers a good level of CPD value. The course is easy to navigate and the slides are well put together with a good balance of text and images. Course content is well-written and engaging with good use of case studies. There is a good level of learner interaction and useful links to document downloads, relevant external websites and a podcast. A pdf glossary of terms is available for each module.. A certificate is issued on successful completion of the course as evidence of CPD undertaken.
The course comprises of 12 modules, covering everything from the historical context of sanctions to practical implementation across various jurisdictions, including the UN, EU, US, and UK.
With an engaging and accessible format, this course is ideal for both newcomers and experienced professionals looking for a refresher that aligns with current regulatory expectations and best practices.
Enrol today and start building your expertise in sanctions with UK Finance.
Module one: What are sanctions? (20 mins) An accessible introduction to the core concepts of sanctions — what they are, why they are used, who they involve, and how they are applied.
Module two: History of sanctions (30 mins) A concise look at the evolution of sanctions from historical origins to modern strategic use in global diplomacy and international security, and how effective they are through case studies.
Module three: Sanctions and anti-money laundering (15 mins) Explores the relationship between sanctions compliance and AML obligations, with a focus on types of sanctions.
Module four: Financial sanctions (15 mins)An overview of financial sanctions, such as how they are applied, why they are imposed, the types of financial sanctions and who manages them.
Module five: Trade sanctions (20 mins)Explains what trade sanctions are, how they are applied and to whom trade sanctions are used - to control the flow of goods and services, and the challenges they pose to global supply chains.
Module six: Aircraft and shipping sanctions (10 mins)Covers sanctions targeting transport assets, including aircraft and maritime vessels, and the operational considerations for affected sectors.
Module seven: UN sanctions(15 mins)Outlines the role of the UN Security Council in establishing sanctions regimes and how these are implemented globally.
Module eight: EU sanctions (20 mins)Explains the EU’s sanctions framework, including decision-making, implementation, and the UK’s post-Brexit alignment and divergence.
Module nine: US sanctions (30 mins)Examines the global reach of US sanctions and how extraterritoriality affects non-US businesses.
Module ten: Screening sanctions (25 mins) Guidance on sanctions screening tools, processes, and best practices to support effective compliance.
Module eleven: Guidance, exceptions and licences (20 mins) Outlines how authorities issue guidance, how licences are granted, and how exceptions can be lawfully applied.
Module twelve: Reporting and enforcement (25 mins) Details the reporting requirements for sanctions breaches, how enforcement is carried out, and the consequences of non-compliance.
This course is designed for:
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