Authoritarianism as a driver of U.S. foreign policy: the cases of Myanmar, Vietnam, and North Korea
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Authors
Lee, Rang
Subjects
authoritarianism
U.S. foreign policy
Myanmar
Vietnam
North Korea
U.S.-Myanmar relations
U.S.-Vietnam relations
U.S.-North Korea relations
Freedom House
strategic interest
U.S. foreign policy
Myanmar
Vietnam
North Korea
U.S.-Myanmar relations
U.S.-Vietnam relations
U.S.-North Korea relations
Freedom House
strategic interest
Advisors
Mabry, Tristan
Huntley, Wade
Date of Issue
2016-12
Date
Dec-16
Publisher
Monterey, California: Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
What is the significance of authoritarianism to U.S. foreign policy? Promoting democracy is a key element of U.S. foreign policy, and Washington conventionally criticizes authoritarian regimes. At the same time, the United States traditionally praises authoritarian regimes that allow pluralism. But these attitudes may or may not correlate with improved foreign relations. To what extent is the softening of authoritarian rule responsible for improved foreign relations as opposed to other factors? This thesis compares U.S. foreign relations with three authoritarian states: Myanmar, Vietnam, and North Korea. The cases represent varying degrees of authoritarian rule and varying levels of cooperation with Washington. Findings from this thesis highlight the significance of authoritarian rule as a driver of U.S. foreign policy.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
National Security Affairs (NSA)
Organization
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
Sponsors
Funder
Format
Citation
Distribution Statement
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
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Copyright is reserved by the copyright owner.