Modernizing the US-DPRK Agreed Framework: The Energy Imperative

This article examines the problems with the implementation of the October 1994 U.S.-DPRK Agreed Framework and suggests possible modifications. The Agreed Framework is a set of guidelines that help to regulate and render more predictable the behavior of the parties toward each other. There is nothing in the Framework to stop the two parties from reformulating and updating the agreement. The Bush administration and the DPRK will need to come to terms on a new, modernized agreement that serves their current needs while maintaining the diplomatic gains of the Framework to date. The nature of the DPRK’s energy-sector problems means a multi-pronged approach on a number of fronts is required. In this article, we identify five priority areas where we see DPRK energy sector assistance as both necessary and in the best interests of all parties. A U.S.-backed, coordinated program of grassroots energy-sector assistance to the DPRK would yield huge dividends in terms of confidence building and regional security. At the same time, in order to retain credibility with the DPRK, the United States must abide by its commitments to date, including the Agreed Framework.