Thank you, Mr. President,
Before I begin, I would like to thank Special Rapporteur Tomas Ojea Quintana and other officials who have taken a special interest in the human rights issue of North Korea and have given us unwavering support.
Even until last year, it seemed that the Korean peninsula was on the precipice of war. However, with the 2018 Olympic Games in South Korea, both North and South engaged in what can be seen as peaceful discussions between the two nations. In spite of this, I would like to illuminate on the human right’s violations that still occur in North Korea.
In April of 2017, a 26-year-old man living in Gilju, North Korea, was publicly executed after pleading guilty to the murders of his relatives. In North Korea, cases like these are never accurately reported as citizens are denied the right to a fair trial, or due process. They are also barred from receiving any legal assistance.
In addition, there is greater enforcement against criminal laws in North Korea. Corrupt
organizations such as the police, and the North Korean State Security Department are
tools to closely keep surveillance upon the people.
Last year, the UN released sanctions targeting North Korean nuclear and ballistic missile
programs that resulted in the increase of gasoline prices. Correspondingly, the government has engaged in more illegal activities due to the sanctions. The military has ordered brokers to smuggle goods across Northern borders for a profit. Governmental organizations have also divided the West Sea, and rent out the waters to workers; however, any goods gained are sold directly to Chinese fisherman with no profit for the
workers.
I hope I have highlighted some human rights violations that will warrant the UN’s
attention.
Thank you