(This note is not part of the Regulations)

These Regulations are made under the Sanctions and Anti-Money Laundering Act 2018 (c.13) to establish a sanctions regime in relation to the Democratic Republic of the Congo for the purpose of promoting resolution of the conflict, respect for human rights, compliance with international humanitarian law, and respect for democracy, the rule of law and good governance. Following the UK's withdrawal from the European Union, these Regulations also implement the UN sanctions regime in respect of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and replaces the EU sanctions regime which imposed certain restrictive measures directly against persons acting in violation of the arms embargo with regard to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, implemented via an EU Council Decision and Regulation.

The Regulations confer a power on the Secretary of State to designate persons who are, or have been, involved in the commission of serious human rights violations or abuses, violations of international humanitarian law and persons who have obstructed or undermined respect for democracy, the rule of law and good governance in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Designated persons may be excluded from the United Kingdom and may be made subject to financial sanctions, including having their funds and/or economic resources frozen. These Regulations also impose trade restrictions on military goods and technology for non-governmental entities and individuals operating in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.