On the 27th, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution concerning North Korean human rights by consensus. This was the first time since it was first adopted in 2005 that such a resolution has passed without recourse to a vote, as even China did not seek to officially disagree with it.
In South Korea, the step has been taken as a reflection of the common perception of the international community on the seriousness of the human rights situation in North Korea.
The resolution highlighted the “North Korean people’s worsening human rights situation despite leadership changes in the past.” In addition, it expressed concern over six areas of infringement including public execution, torture, and freedom of expression, religion and movement.
It also once again urged cooperation with the UN rapporteur and other UN agencies.
The resolution recorded a positive assessment of North Korean cooperation with UN delegations investigating the country’s food and nutrition status, but criticized the limited access granted to its people.
Although there was no vote on the resolution, China, Russia, Cuba and Iran did express their overall opposition to it.
