The People Power Party on March 29 welcomed the South Korean government’s decision to join as a co-sponsor of the United Nations (UN) Human Rights Council’s resolution on North Korean human rights.
Party spokesperson Cho Yong-sool stated in a commentary that it’s a positive step that it has finally reclaimed the minimal role as a responsible member of the international community, even if it’s overdue.
Cho criticized the previous Moon Jae-in administration’s reluctance to engage on North Korean human rights issues, saying it led to South Korea being sidelined in international discussions. He emphasized that the People Power Party’s efforts to rectify this stance and return as a co-sponsor in 2023 represent a crucial restoration of commitment to universal human rights.
Cho further argued that its constitution considers North Korean residents as citizens of South Korea. Turning a blind eye to their human rights isn’t just a diplomatic choice; it’s a failure to fulfill the national obligation.
The spokesperson stressed that the focus now should be on action, not mere participation. He urged the Lee Jae Myung administration to go beyond simply adding its name as a co-sponsor. Cho called on the government to explicitly address North Korea’s undemocratic practices that violate international norms and to actively work towards concrete improvements in human rights conditions.
The resolution on North Korean human rights, drafted by the European Union and Australia, is scheduled for adoption at the 61st session of the UN Human Rights Council on Monday (March 30).