During a verbal report to the Human Rights Council – the primary human rights authority under the United Nations – Deputy High Commissioner Nada Al-Nashif stated that the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (commonly referred to as North Korea) has not displayed any indications of adhering to its obligations.

She stated that since the government is showing no signs of addressing the lack of consequences, it is crucial for accountability to be pursued outside of North Korea.

“She emphasized that the primary means of achieving this should be referring the case to the International Criminal Court (ICC) or pursuing national prosecutions that adhere to international standards and principles of extraterritorial and universal jurisdiction.”

The OHCHR’s deputy director of the rights office emphasized the significance of non-legal accountability.

“Working alongside criminal accountability measures, it is crucial to also prioritize non-judicial forms of accountability in order for victims to receive timely justice.”

Broad consultations

Ms. Al-Nashif stated that in creating potential plans, OHCHR extensively sought advice in the previous year from both domestic and international legal authorities and experts, governments, members of civil society, and academic professionals.

In the previous month, the Office hosted a conference where professionals from various fields of accountability gathered to discuss potential solutions and effective strategies.

She stated that the options for accountability involved both legal actions in the criminal justice system and civil liability, along with alternative methods such as disclosing the truth, creating memorials, and providing reparations.

Raising awareness

The Deputy High Commissioner disclosed that OHCHR had allocated additional resources in the previous year to increasing recognition of the human rights conditions in North Korea.

In April of 2023, a significant investigative report was released regarding instances of forced disappearances and kidnappings, which included citizens from the nearby countries of South Korea and Japan.

She stated that the report demonstrated the consequences of the crime on the victims and their families, as well as their expectations and requirements regarding responsibility.

Protect escapees

Ms. Al-Nashif pointed out that individuals who have fled North Korea and those who have experienced human rights violations are crucial sources of information regarding the conditions in the country, as well as for potential legal actions.

She stressed the importance of allowing OHCHR to have unrestricted access to individuals who have escaped.

Additionally, she called on all nations to avoid forcibly returning individuals to North Korea and to offer them protection and aid.

“Repatriation puts them at real risk of torture, arbitrary detention, or other serious human rights violations,” she cautioned.

Source: news.un.org