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UN Human Rights Council 58: UK Statement for the Special Rapporteur on the DPRK

UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue with Special Rapporteur on the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. Delivered by the UK's Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.

19 March 2025

Location: Geneva
Delivered on: 19 March 2025 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

Thank you, Mr Vice President.

And thank you Special Rapporteur for your report and continued efforts to maintain international focus on the ongoing, systematic human rights violations in the DPRK.

We are pleased that the DPRK engaged with the Universal Periodic Review in November and encourage them to implement recommendations and make lasting changes for the people of the DPRK.

We share your serious concerns at the implementation of laws that further restrict the freedom of movement, work and expression in the DPRK.

All governments have a responsibility to uphold their obligations in line with UN Conventions and international law.

We also urge all Member States to respect the principle of non-refoulement and to not forcibly return those who have escaped the DPRK, where they face severe threats to their safety and human rights.

The UK supports the Special Rapporteur's recommendation that the DPRK incorporate all sustainable development goals, particularly those aimed at supporting individuals from vulnerable groups.

Special Rapporteur,

How do you propose to work with the DPRK to increase access to disaggregated data to better identify the needs of the most marginalised individuals?

Thank you.