HRC55: oral statement during the interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the DPRK

Item 4: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation in the DPRKOrganisation: Christian Solidarity WorldwideSpeaker: Claire Denman

Thank you, Mr President.

Ten years on from the establishment of the Commission of Inquiry the situation of human rights in the DPRK remains in urgent need of international attention.

We are deeply concerned by grave and widespread violations of the right to freedom of religion or belief. Any DPRK citizen and their families who expresses an opinion or belief outside the state ideology faces severe punishment, including imprisonment, torture, and even execution.

We call on the DPRK to uphold and respect the right to freedom of religion or belief, and to release all persons currently detained in prison camps immediately and unconditionally.

CSW remains concerned about the DPRK’s continued restrictions on freedom of movement. Though borders have recently reopened it remains incredibly difficult for citizens to leave the country and travel freely.

Citizens who escape to China risk forcible repatriation, which contravenes China’s obligations under international refugee law. Repatriated individuals found to have had contact with Christians are known to face particularly harsh punishment.

We call on China to adhere to international obligations with regards to refugees, ensuring that those who flee the DPRK are protected. CSW condemns the refoulment of nearly 500 North Korean refugees from China in 2023.

CSW is also concerned about recent reports of widespread starvation and food insecurity, particularly against the backdrop of excessive domestic military spending. We call on the DPRK to redirect their resources towards addressing chronic food insecurity.

We continue to encourage UN Member States to consistently raise the human rights situation in the DPRK, separately from the question of nuclear non-proliferation, until all human rights in the DPRK are fully upheld and protected.

Thank you.