North Korea: Why Sanctions are Not the Answer

Last week my wife Donna and I returned from six days in North Korea, representing MCC along with two colleagues.  Along with other Christian organizations, MCC is seeking to be a reconciliatory presence at a time of rising hostilities.  In this spirit we at MCC recently published “Frequently asked questions on North Korea, MCC’s work, and why sanctions matter.”  In addition to the urgent need for humanitarian exceptions, one question we address:  If North Korea is considered an enemy of the United States, why should MCC assist North Koreans with food and material resources?

See the full document: Sanctions on North Korea (DPRK) are not the answer

One excerpt:

“MCC was engaged as a reconciliatory presence with people in countries such as Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Cuba before they had diplomatic relations with the U.S. Engagement, not isolation, is a more effective way to bring understanding between peoples and plant seeds for a new future of peace and security for all.”