Stephen Bosworth, the dean of The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, last week resigned as the Obama administration's Special Representative for North Korea Policy. Having served the role for two−and−a−half years, Bosworth made his final appearance as Special Representative at talks held in Geneva on Oct. 24 and 25.
U.S. Ambassador to the International Atomic Energy Agency in Vienna Glyn Davies was appointed to succeed Bosworth. Bosworth expressed confidence in Davies' qualifications for the role.
"I think he is very experienced and an outstanding diplomat who will do a very good job in this difficult position," Bosworth said.
Bosworth has balanced his diplomatic role with his deanship at Fletcher for over two years. His recent decision to step down was primarily motivated by his confidence in the progress made in recent years in the United States' diplomatic relations with North Korea.
"I think that the problems that are posed by North Korea are going to require careful attention by the U.S. for a long time of several years to come," Bosworth said. "I think I have been able to make a contribution, but I think it is a time for transition."
Bosworth cited the high amount of travel necessitated by the job as another reason for his decision to leave the post.
"It has been two−and−a−half years, and that is a long time to be doing the travel that this job requires."Bosworth said. "I think that in the future, this [special envoy position] is probably going to require someone who can work on the problem for a full−timebasis."
Bosworth was optimistic about the progress made in U.S. policy toward North Korea during his tenure.
"I think we have stabilized the situation and created a base for renewal of bilateral and multilateral dialogue with North Korea," he said.
Bosworth stressed the importance of the United States' continued commitment to the issues concerning North Korea.
"This is a long−term engagement, a long−term problem that will be with us for years to go, so it is a good time for the transition," he said.
Adjunct Assistant Professor of International Politics at Fletcher Sung−Yoon Lee, who specializes in North Korean politics, praised the Obama administration's firm approach toward North Korea throughout Bosworth's tenure. "In the past, it has always been the North Korea's strategy to put pressure on the U.S. when the U.S. was perceived by North Korea and other countries to be concerned with other things," he said. "Obama and his administration did not bite on North Korea's bait."
Seth Leighton, a second−year masters of Arts in Law and Diplomacy candidate, echoed Lee's praise.
"The period in which Dean Bosworth took over these duties was one of many trials and tribulations, and if you look at where we are now, we are certainly in a better state than when he took over," Leighton said.
"I think there are a lot of potential positive steps being taken with the development of the enterprises of northeast [Asia]," Leighton added.
