Sanctions against North Korea and their Implications

19/04/16

Having conducted four nuclear tests and launched short- and medium-range ballistic missiles over the past decade, the world has looked on with increasing concern at the behaviour of North Korea (DPRK). Its repeated provocations not only threaten peace and stability in the Korean Peninsula but also increase tension in wider region. The Republic of Korea has effectively, in closing Gaesong Industrial Complex, a reconciliatory symbol of inter-Korean relations, abandoned the carrot and reverted to using the stick. China too, a long-time friend of DPRK, agreed to the tough new sanctions in the UN Security Council. The UN resolution has since been followed by restrictive measures by the EU. Halting North Korea’s nuclear march was also discussed when leaders met at the Nuclear Security Summit in Washington DC recently.

In this context, what impact could the new sanctions regime have? If sanctions fail, what additional steps could be taken to make the DPRK change course? How stable is the DPRK’s regime? Does this mean the end of the EU’s policy of ‘critical engagement’?

To discuss these questions and more, you are invited to a panel debate from 1700-1830 on 19 April at the Press Club, 95 Rue Froissart, 1040 Brussels. To confirm your attendance please reply to info@eu-asiacentre.eu 

Programme

1700 Introduction, Fraser Cameron, Director, EU-Asia Centre

Remarks by H.E. Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, Mr. AHN Chong-ghee

1710 Panel discussion featuring:

• Aidan Foster-Carter, Honorary Senior Research Fellow in Sociology and Modern Korea, Leeds University
• Maya Lester QC, Barrister with particular expertise in sanctions, Brick Court Chambers, London;
• Remco E. Breuker, Professor of Korean Studies, Leiden University;
• Julian Wilson, Head of Japan, Korea, Australia and New Zealand Division at the European External Action Service

1800 Q &A

1830 Close

For further details click here.