Analysis Of North Korea’s Nuclear Program And The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, 2002-2017

Abstract

This study examined North Korea’s nuclear programs in relation to the nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty, to determine the extent of the violations and ascertain if the sanctions imposed on North Korea has deterred them from Nuclear weapon development. The study adopted a descriptive design technique. Also the study employed a documentary data to the collection of data and content analysis was used in data analysis. The study found that the North Korea’s  Nuclear weapons development has contributed significantly to  nuclear  proliferation to the extent of threatening  collective security in the international  system and  in Middle  East in particular. The study concluded that the division of Korea into North and South during Cold War; and U.S Security threats against North Korea are some of the reasons why North Korea decided to embark on nuclear development to guarantee its security. Also, this study found out that heavy sanctions imposed on North Korean economy is one of the reasons why North Korea agreed for negotiation with US and IAEA. Finally, the researcher recommends that sanctions imposed on North Korea’s economy   should be reduced and North Korea’s nuclear program should not be used for security threats within or outside the region.