UNCT Guest Speakers Series: Professor Georgy Toloraya on DPRK’s recent developments

UN Resident Coordinator Colombano hosted Professor Georgy Toloraya for the latest installment of the UNCT Guest Speakers Series on 23 March. Speaking from Moscow, the Russian scholar, former diplomat and representative on the now disbanded Panel of Experts of the 1718 Sanctions Committee provided his views on recent developments in the DPRK, based on his decade-long experience with the country, including a recent visit. In a well-participated session, Professor Toloraya addressed the main outcomes of the 9th Workers Party Congress concluded last month, along with the latest economic and social developments, including growth estimates, demographics, and the rural/urban divide. He also covered elements of the cooperation between the DPRK and the Russian Federation. During the discussion, UNCT members focused on the implications for UN activities in the DPRK and the prospects for the return of the Country Team to Pyongyang.