Perspective – Nuclear Negotiations with North Korea

This report examines the recent breakthrough in diplomatic activity on the Korean Peninsula and suggests key areas that policymakers must keep in mind as negotiations progress. In it, Dr. Derek Bolton argues that national narratives hold important insights into understanding state perceptions and interests, and should be taken into consideration when formulating bargaining positions. Nuclear weapons provide North Korea both physical and ideational security. Negotiators must address both of these issues to be successful.