| Can nuclear proliferation be sufficiently controlled and monitored through the means of an international system? A central question in this analysis is whether/ how nuclear proliferation can be defined as a crime internationally. Crime within a globalized context is still an area of limited research within criminology and it was my intention to contribute to this neglected area through this study.;In exploring this question, a qualitative case study of North Korea was undertaken. The development of North Korea's nuclear program, which occurred slowly over a long period, was examined. International responses to these actions, through the actions and responses of the United Nations Security Council, were the focus. The Security Council was chosen due to its legitimately recognized role within the area of nuclear proliferation. Numerous resources were used for this qualitative study, including journal and newspaper articles, United Nations Resolutions, books, and official government publications.;This study found that the Security Council's role within the area of nuclear proliferation oversight has grown within the past two decades. Nuclear weapons did not exist until the middle of the twentieth century, making it a relatively new international security threat to be dealt with. Due to this fact, the Security Council is still in the process of defining its role within this emerging global issue. There are still weaknesses, flaws, and failures present within the current structure and policies of the Security Council in dealing with North Korea's nuclear proliferation. However, due to technological advances, nuclear weapons are becoming both more dangerous and more easily developable. Therefore, nuclear proliferation is a global issue that will continue to hold great importance worldwide. These facts necessitate the criminological study of nuclear proliferation. |
