Writing Samples
“Heaviest ever imposed: EXAMINING THE EFFECTS OF SANCTIONS ON THE DEMOCRATIC PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF KOREA.”
Master’s capstone thesis (UGA; SPIA, Spring 2021)
This paper examines what effects sanctions have had on the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK; North Korea). It reviews the relevant literature regarding sanctions and WMD proliferation. Sanctions have not worked in limiting security threats made by the DPRK nor have they been useful in preventing human rights abuses by the DPRK government. North Korea’s nuclear and missile program have not been halted by “crippling sanctions.” North Korea has no respect for human rights including the use of torture. Sanctions are most likely making life harder for the citizens of the DPRK while the government finds ways to mitigate the effects of sanctions. The United States should look for other ways to work with North Korea to lessen tensions and improve human security.
Synthetic biology as a weapon of mass destruction, a briefing
Technical Background of WMD for nonproliferation policy professionals (UGA; cits, fall 2020)
The ability to weaponize molecular proteins through a process called DNA shuffling poses a direct threat to the safety and security of the United States of America. Understanding the risk of this emerging technology will be key to mitigating the threats posted by biological weapons to the homeland and its allies. This policy brief will explain the rise in synthetic biology, how this technology can be used as a weapon of mass destruction, America’s current vulnerabilities to biological weapons, and will conclude with policy recommendations to prepare for a potential biological attack on the homeland.
Together with our allies, a briefing
Energy statecraft (UGA; cits, fall 2020)
The climate, energy, and security challenges facing America in the 21st century can only be managed by creating a network of democratic states, initiated by America, with a common goal of reducing greenhouse emissions while countering energy-rich and authoritarian states like Russia and China. Understanding how foreign alliances can benefit both domestic energy policy and combat climate change is key to making appropriate energy policy decisions. This document will will draw conclusions about the current global energy situation, America’s reliance on alliances, and climate change imperatives.