The Paradox of Unsustainability in UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): The North Korean Case in the Context of Accountability and the Fragile States under Sanctions

Abstract

This study examines whether North Korea can be a part of the SDG process as a fragile state under sanctions. The paper focuses on the accountability mechanism of the SDG implementation process, and analyses how North Korea has engaged in the process and what needs to be addressed in order to achieve ‘leave no one behind’ principle of the SDGs. The findings of the study reveal that North Korea can engage in the SDG process, but only when a culture of accountability develops in its society as well as in its government structure. This study suggests employing the concept of ‘transitional accountability’ in a fragile context, with a shadow reporting system. Finally, the study argues that a constructive accountability approach can be more effective than a punitive one, especially in fragile states under sanctions.