Sanctions are portrayed by the West as a way of punishing wrong-doers. Putting aside the question of who appointed the West the world’s policeman, the fact is that sanctions often hit the wrong target – people rather than officials. This is especially true in Africa, which has long been in the sanctions cross hairs. And in reality, they are just a tool for those who wield them to get their own way and maintain dominance. No wonder the US & co. love using them so much! Our Facts of the Week this week break it down.