Gerald E. CONNOLLY (United States)
18 October 2018
This report discusses the challenges posed by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) - commonly known as North Korea- to regional and international security. It begins with a review of North Korea’s ballistic and nuclear weapons programmes, noting its role in illicit arms trade in the Middle East and Africa. It then explains how Russia and China have enabled these activities in their hesitance to punish a historically relevant ally and fulfil other strategic aims.
Citing on the broader security and humanitarian consequences, the report rejects a kinetic option against the North Korean regime. Instead, it emphasises the importance of enforcing existing and, if necessary, adding additional sanctions against the DPRK. The report goes on to note the importance of promoting enforcement and compliance of existing sanctions. The Rapporteur suggests that NATO, through cooperation with regional partners and maritime interdiction, can support these enforcement efforts and counter the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. The report ends with a call for action by NATO and the Allies to take steps to support the sanctions regime.
