Even with limitless resources and no interference from outside, a bunch of UN bureaucrats is no substitute for a working economy. The programme has worked, up to a point. It has stopped Iraqis starving to death or succumbing to epidemics. That has brought them into conflict not only with the more hawkish members of the Security Council, but also with the very aim of the embargo. The UN's own sanctions regime runs counter to the UN's humanitarian programme to rebuild Iraq.
Sanctions remain the world's only leverage over a ruthless and bellicose tyrant.
Yet almost ten years into the embargo, they have not budged him. Instead of clinging to the forlorn hope that Mr Hussein will live up to his legal and moral responsibilities, perhaps America and Britain need to rethink a policy that has so embittered and impoverished his people. If you appreciate the information we provide, please support our work. Make a donation or become a member of Global Policy Forum.