International Law Blog Postings

Dr. William E. Berry, Jr., a professor of military strategic studies at the US Air Force Academy, addressed an audience of 40 last night in Denver, Colorado. The topic for the evening was "North Korean Nuclear Weapons: A Conundrum Wrapped in an Enigma or Rational Choice?" His hour-long speech sought to achieve three goals: a) to examine the motivations and influences behind North Korea's nuclear program, b) to explore potential US strategic responses, and c) to identify recommended political, economic, and military actions for the Bush administration. Dr. Berry concluded that regardless of the motivation, military options are not viable solutions to end North Korea's aggressive stance or to deter the proliferation of nuclear weapons on the Korean peninsula. He advocated a solution that incorporates economic incentives and a new legal instrument to replace the outdated Korean War Armistice Agreement of 1953. During the question and answer period, he criticized the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty for its lack of punitive measures against member states which unilaterally withdraw from the treaty, as North Korea legally did in 2003 without recourse. Jim Butterworth, who led a discussion on North Korean refugees and human rights on 28 April 2005 at the US Capitol, was in attendance and voiced his agreement with Dr. Berry's assessment. Continue Reading