How do sanctions function in international relations?

Sanctions play a significant role in international relations as instruments designed to influence a state's behavior through economic or diplomatic means rather than through military engagement. They typically involve restrictions such as trade barriers, asset freezes, or limitations on financial transactions aimed at coercing a target country to change policies or adhere to international norms. By imposing sanctions, states or international organizations express disapproval of actions taken by a state, seeking to bring about change while avoiding direct military confrontation.

This approach is often preferred in complex geopolitical situations where military action could escalate tensions or lead to unintended consequences. Sanctions can also serve as a means of signaling discontent and rallying international support around shared values, such as human rights or non-proliferation.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of sanctions. Declarations of war and militaristic actions imply direct conflict, which is contrary to the purpose of sanctions. Promoting tourism bears no relevance to the punitive or persuasive goals that sanctions aim to achieve in international diplomacy.