While the current economic crisis is very severe, the regime itself shows few signs of deterioration. The easing of US sanctions will help North Korea to modernize its economy and increase trade and communication. This would strengthen the position of those in the country who are inclined to engage with the outside world. For many years the US government argued that its position was constrained by South Korean policies. That has changed.
Sanctions are anachronistic and counter-productive.
It's time for the Cold War to come to an end. John Feffer, American Friends Service Committee John Feffer is a Quaker International Affairs Representative for the American Friends Service Committee. He is a writer and editor, and the author of Beyond Detente and Shock Waves and co-editor of Europe's New Nationalism . PA 19102 Links are for information only, and do not imply AFSC endorsement.