I thank the briefers for their brave testimonies and tireless advocacy. It is essential that we continue to shine a light on the grave human rights situation in the DPRK, about which the UK remains deeply concerned.
Human rights abuses against North Koreans remain widespread and systematic. Those who perpetrate these abuses remain unaccountable.
The regime refuses to acknowledge or act on the 2014 Commission of Inquiry report, which illustrates the multiple human rights violations committed in DPRK.
And the DPRK has repeatedly rejected UN resolutions which set out the many concerns shared by the international community, including the operation of prison camps and forced labour, violations of freedom of religion or belief and women’s rights.
North Koreans are denied freedom of movement, and many workers are sent overseas, often into modern slavery.
We urge the DPRK to cease these practices without delay.
Those wishing to leave do so clandestinely, at huge personal risk. We call on all Members to respect the principle of non-refoulement and not return escapees to DPRK.
On 7 November last year, the UK issued several recommendations to the DPRK as part of the Universal Periodic Review process, including ratifying the UN Convention against Torture and to reform the judicial system to ensure respect for the right to a fair trial.
We are pleased that the DPRK engaged with the Universal Periodic Review in November and encourage them to implement recommendations.
We need DPRK to make real and lasting change for the people of the DPRK.
We have repeatedly made it clear that the primary cause of the DPRK’s humanitarian and food crisis is their continued development of their illegal weapons programme, representing multiple breaches of Security Council resolutions.
Indeed, we have heard clearly today also the links between the human rights situation in DPRK and their support for Russia in its brutal war of aggression against Ukraine in brazen disregard towards UN sanctions.
We condemn these and call on the DPRK to prioritise the well-being of the people in North Korea.
We strongly encourage the DPRK to grant access to the Special Rapporteur on the situation on human rights in the DPRK and accept technical cooperation from UN human rights mechanisms, and to enable the return of UN agencies, to ensure help reaches those who are most vulnerable.
The UK continues to call on DPRK to engage in meaningful diplomacy and accept offers of dialogue.
We believe diplomacy and negotiations are the best way to secure peace and stability and improve the lives of all North Koreans.
