Responding to Religious Repression in North Korea

Michael Kirby, former chair of the UN Commission of Inquiry on human rights in North Korea, discusses the commission's recommendations for addressing systematic crimes against humanity in North Korea, including religious repression.

Learn more about CFR's Religion and Foreign Policy Initiative.

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China

The China-North Korea Relationship
Complex dynamics between the two Asian nuclear powers are shifting once again as North Korea deepens ties with Russia and the U.S.-China rivalry intensifies.

by Clara Fong November 21, 2024

South Korea

China-Korea Relations: Deepening Suspicions and Limited Diplomacy
Developments in China-South Korea and China-North Korea relations between January and April of 2023 include security and economic challenges, as well as Chinese criticisms of the Yoon administration’s diplomatic moves. 

by Scott A. Snyder and See-won Byun May 17, 2023 Asia Unbound

United States

How to Prepare for the Future After Seven Decades of the U.S.-South Korea Alliance

The United States and South Korea are marking their seventy-year alliance with a state visit amid tighter defense collaboration. But the alliance “forged in blood” should now evolve to be powered by chips, batteries, and clean technology.

by Scott A. Snyder April 20, 2023 Asia Program

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RealEcon

Trade Deals Need More Than Ninety Days
The Trump administration initially expected to conclude multiple trade deals by the end of the 90-day pause but found that trade negotiations take time. 

by Inu Manak July 7, 2025 RealEcon

Climate Change

What Congress’ ‘Big’ Policy Bill Means for Global Climate Change
The legislation promoted by Trump and the White House will undo many of the climate and energy initiatives and tax credit programs passed during the Joe Biden administration.

by Varun Sivaram, Alice C. Hill and David M. Hart June 30, 2025 Energy Security and Climate Change Program

Iran

The Nonproliferation Chilling Effect U.S. Strikes on Iran Nuclear Sites Could Cause
Countries without nuclear weapons could decide nuclear nonproliferation and transparency efforts that the world has taken for granted now pose more risk than reward.

by Erin D. Dumbacher June 27, 2025 National Security and Defense Program