Europe’s North Korea Policy Post-Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine > Journal

Europe has a long-standing policy towards North Korea dating back to the early years of the 21st century: critical engagement. This policy mixes incentives such as dialogue and aid with deterrents including sanctions and condemnation. The three main goals of this policy are the denuclearisation of North Korea, improving the human rights situation of the North Korean population, and supporting inter-Korean reconciliation. Pyongyang’s support for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has changed the dynamics of Europe-North Korea relations though. North Korea has become the only country providing weapons, troops and diplomatic support to Russia. This way, North Korea has become involved in a war in Europe for the first time in its history. However, Pyongyang’s positioning in the Russo-Ukrainian conflict has not led to a change in Europe’s policy towards North Korea, as might have been expected. Path dependence explains why a situation that should have acted as a critical juncture leading Europe to formulate a new North Korea policy has not served as such. In this context, there are questions as to whether Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and North Korea’s response to it will eventually serve as a catalyst for Europe to change its approach towards Pyongyang. 

Introduction

History of Europe’s North Korea policy

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine: the role of North Korea

Europe’s responses to North Korea’s support for Russia

Towards a renewed European North Korea policy?

Conclusion