Human Rights Council
Forty-second session
9–27 September 2019
Agenda item 6
Universal periodic review
Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review *
Democratic People’s Republic of Korea
Introduction
1.The Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review, established in accordance with Human Rights Council resolution 5/1, held its thirty-third session from 6 to 17 May 2019. The review of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea was held at the 8th meeting, on 9 May 2019. The delegation of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea was headed by the Permanent Representative of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva, Tae Song Han. At its 14th meeting, held on 14 May 2019, the Working Group adopted the report on the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.
2.On 15 January 2019, the Human Rights Council selected the following group of rapporteurs (troika) to facilitate the review of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea: Eritrea, Fiji and Spain.
3.In accordance with paragraph 15 of the annex to Human Rights Council resolution 5/1 and paragraph 5 of the annex to Council resolution 16/21, the following documents were issued for the review of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea:
(a)A national report submitted/written presentation made in accordance with paragraph 15 (a) (A/HRC/WG.6/33/PRK/1);
(b)A compilation prepared by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in accordance with paragraph 15 (b) (A/HRC/WG.6/33/PRK/2);
(c)A summary prepared by OHCHR in accordance with paragraph 15 (c) (A/HRC/WG.6/33/PRK/3).
4.A list of questions prepared in advance by Angola, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Germany, Portugal, on behalf of the Group of Friends on national implementation, reporting and follow-up, Slovenia, Sweden, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the United States of America was transmitted to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea through the troika. These questions are available on the website of the universal periodic review.
I.Summary of the proceedings of the review process
A.Presentation by the State under review
5.The delegation expressed the hope that the third cycle review of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea would promote a correct understanding of the human rights situation in the country, enabling the international community to adopt a proper viewpoint and attitude towards the country that were free from any bias and discrimination.
6.The State was the embodiment of the juche idea, requiring that people be placed at the centre of all considerations. Significant achievements had been made in the field of the promotion and protection of human rights.
7.Treaty-specific national coordinating committees had been integrated into a National Committee for the Implementation of the International Human Rights Treaties. The Institute of Human Rights had been established to raise public awareness about human rights.
8.Efforts were being made to reinvigorate all sectors of the national economy and to improve the livelihood of people. Medical establishments had been built and many hospitals were being upgraded, introducing modern medical science and technologies and methods of medical treatment.
9.Residential buildings had been built in the capital, provided to the working people free of charge, while tens of thousands of houses and welfare facilities had been built or renovated across the country.
10.Children received free education under the 12-year compulsory education system. The position of women in all spheres of the State and public life had been strengthened, older persons were held in high esteem, and persons with disabilities were under the special care and protection of the State and society.
11.Periodic reports had been submitted to the Committee on the Rights of the Child and the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women, which had conducted subsequent reviews. Upon the invitation of the State, the Special Rapporteur on the rights of persons with disabilities had visited the country.
12.In its efforts to promote human rights, the country had faced obstacles, particularly the resolutions adopted by the Human Rights Council and the General Assembly. Those resolutions were politically motivated and a manifestation of selectivity and double standards. They were based on fabricated information whose sources were the false testimonies of “defectors”.
13.Sanctions imposed by the Security Council hampered State efforts to protect and promote human rights. They obstructed trade and blocked the delivery of medicines and medical appliances for children, women and persons with disabilities, and made it difficult for the United Nations agencies and humanitarian actors operating in the country to carry out their missions.
B.Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review
14.During the interactive dialogue, 88 delegations made statements. Recommendations made during the dialogue are to be found in section II of the present report.
15.Togo noted that the ratification of several international human rights instruments showed the willingness of the Government to promote and protect the human rights of all its citizens.
16.Turkmenistan commended the State for the establishment of the National Committee for the Implementation of the International Human Rights Treaties.
17.Ukraine regretted the unwillingness of the Government to cooperate with the United Nations bodies, in particular the Human Rights Council.
18.The United Kingdom remained deeply concerned by reports of ongoing, widespread and systematic human rights violations and urged immediate and unhindered access for human rights actors.
19.The United States was deeply concerned about the 80,000 to 120,000 individuals held in deplorable conditions in political prison camps.
20.Uruguay commended the State for the creation of the National Committee for the Implementation of the International Human Rights Treaties.
21.The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela noted that the unilateral coercive sanctions were obstructing the distribution of medicines and the provision of medical services to children, women and persons with disabilities.
22.Viet Nam commended the State for the establishment of the National Committee for the Protection of Persons with Disabilities, and the amendment of the Socialist Labour Law extending the period of maternity leave.
23.Zimbabwe noted that new laws had been enacted on vocational education, dissemination of science and technology, disaster prevention, relief and recovery, and welfare services.
24.Afghanistan remained concerned about the lack of cooperation with the human rights mechanisms of the Human Rights Council and the limitations in people’s access to their basic needs.
25.Algeria welcomed the adoption of laws on education and vocational training, and legislative reforms undertaken in the field of labour law.
26.Argentina noted the country visit of the Special Rapporteur on the rights of persons with disabilities.
27.Australia noted that the commission of inquiry on human rights in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea had identified human rights violations amounting to crimes against humanity.
28.Austria regretted that the country’s cooperation with United Nations mechanisms and independent monitors remained very limited.
29.Italy welcomed the ratification of the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
30.Belarus noted the establishment of the National Committee for the Implementation of the International Human Rights Treaties.
31.Belgium stated that the human rights situation in the country remained of great concern.
32.Bhutan welcomed the ratification of the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
33.The Plurinational State of Bolivia commended the State for the establishment of the Institute of Human Rights under the Academy of Social Sciences.
34.Botswana noted the adoption of the Five-Year Strategy for National Economic Development (2016–2020), covering education, health, labour and construction.
35.Brazil remained deeply concerned about the persistent reports of grave and systematic violations of human rights, including restrictions on civil and political rights.
36.Bulgaria acknowledged that the findings of the commission of inquiry remained relevant.
37.Burundi commended the State for the establishment of the National Committee for the Implementation of the International Human Rights Treaties.
38.Cambodia made recommendations.
39.Canada was deeply concerned by the situation of human rights and noted the importance of greater access for United Nations mechanisms.
40.Chile reiterated its concern about the human rights situation in the country and encouraged cooperation with United Nations mechanisms and programmes, through greater openness and dialogue.
41.China appreciated the efforts made to formulate and implement the Five-Year Strategy for National Economic Development (2016–2020), continuously improve people’s living standards, attach importance to the rights of children, women and persons with disabilities, and take measures to meet people’s increasing demand for cultural life.
42.Costa Rica made recommendations.
43.Côte d’Ivoire encouraged the State to continue ratifying international human rights treaties.
44.Croatia urged the Government to grant immediate access to all special procedures, expressed concern at the widespread human rights abuses and violations, and encouraged the Government to establish a national human rights institution.
45.Cuba noted action taken to advance access to and the quality of health and education services.
46.Czechia stated that numerous credible reports still suggested that the human rights situation in the country remained of grave concern.
47.The Democratic Republic of the Congo welcomed the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
48.Denmark welcomed the first ever visit to the country by an independent expert designated by the Human Rights Council, but remained deeply concerned about the very grave and serious human rights situation.
49.Ecuador noted the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography.
50.Egypt noted the efforts made to develop the education and health sectors and the attention given to the rights of persons with disabilities and older persons.
51.Equatorial Guinea welcomed the promulgation and reforms of various human rights laws and noted the Government’s commitment to education.
52.Estonia urged the Government to fully implement commitments made, including under international human rights treaties.
53.Ethiopia noted the ratification of international instruments and the enactment of human rights-related laws. It commended the State for the establishment of secondary technical schools and the nationwide telemedicine system.
54.Fiji commended the Government for its environmental legislation, including the Law on Disaster Prevention, Relief and Recovery and the Law on Environmental Protection.
55.Finland encouraged the Government to fully engage with the United Nations human rights system, including the commission of inquiry, the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and other United Nations bodies and mechanisms.
56.France made recommendations.
57.Georgia acknowledged the Government’s ratification of and accession to a number of international legal instruments and urged it to cooperate with all special procedures.
58.Germany welcomed the visit of the Special Rapporteur on the rights of persons with disabilities and noted that some improvements for persons with disabilities had been made.
59.Greece noted the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the visit of the Special Rapporteur on the rights of persons with disabilities.
60.Haiti noted the State’s efforts to improve the quality of life of its people, despite the heavy economic sanctions.
61.Honduras made recommendations.
62.Iceland noted some positive steps but regretted that the serious human rights situation remained unchanged.
63.Indonesia welcomed the establishment of the National Committee for the Protection of Persons with Disabilities and the progress made towards the realization of economic, social and cultural rights.
64.The delegation of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea stated that freedom of expression was constitutionally entrenched. The right of citizens to submit complaints and petitions was guaranteed by the Law on Complaints and Petitions and the availability of robust complaints machinery. Interference in the complaints procedure, including through reprisals, was prohibited by the Law on Complaints and Petitions and the Criminal Law.
65.Through the organization of presentations, seminars, exhibitions, shows, contests and forums, citizens were provided with opportunities to freely express themselves and share their views. The State restricted the right to freedom of expression when it infringed the rights or reputation of others, or was detrimental to the protection of national security, public order, or public health or morals, as stipulated in the Criminal Law and other related laws.
66.Regarding access to information, the intranet’s coverage and its quality had been enhanced. Digital libraries, information technology centres and mobile libraries had been set up, including in provinces and at the county level.
67.To address the food problem, the Law on Farms had been amended and the Regulations on the Responsible Management of Farms had been adopted. Additionally, significant resources had been devoted to the agricultural sector. The State had also set up cereal stores in provinces, cities and counties for the sale of surplus cereal, which had contributed to keeping the price of cereal stable and implementing the State’s food administration policy.
68.Freedom of religion, as well as the restrictions upon its exercise, was explicitly provided for in article 68 of the Constitution. The State respected religious life and ceremonies; however, it did not condone or tolerate any attempts or manoeuvres by the hostile forces to use religion as a means to overthrow its political system or violate public order.
69.The State had strengthened its National Committee for the Implementation of the International Human Rights Treaties and reorganized its internal structure, enhancing the role of its secretariat and system of data collection. It was conducting awareness-raising campaigns, publishing human rights-related materials, preparing reports to the international human rights mechanisms and distributing their recommendations.
70.The songbun system of social classification was not practised in the country. All citizens had, and enjoyed, equal rights in all spheres, and domestic legislation provided for the principles of equality and non-discrimination. The State paid special attention to those most in need and took care of them, ensuring that no one was left behind.
71.Concerning law enforcement and judicial matters, the principle of division of powers had long been adhered to in the country. The right to a fair trial was guaranteed by law. The rights of accused persons were guaranteed by the Criminal Procedure Law, in accordance with the requirements of the relevant international conventions. The right to appeal was guaranteed.
72.Public prosecutors were empowered by law to exercise oversight over the proceedings of investigations, preliminary examinations and trials to ensure that law enforcement officials did not commit violations of the law. Additionally, criminal proceedings were recorded, including the interrogation and examination of suspects and accused persons, and submitted to court review.
73.Regarding reform institutions, the labour performed by prisoners as required by a conclusive court judgment did not qualify as forced labour. Prisoners were treated in conformity with the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (the Nelson Mandela Rules). Monitoring of reform institutions was undertaken by the prosecutors in the concerned area.
74.The Criminal Law and the Criminal Procedure Law did not contain terms such as “political prisoner” or “political prison camps”. Those laws stated that those who had committed offences against the State or other ordinary crimes should be committed to reform institutions.
75.The death penalty was imposed on those who had committed crimes against the State and those who had committed extremely serious and unpardonable crimes. Such cases were tried in the provincial courts, and subsequently brought before the Central Court and then the Presidium of the Supreme People’s Assembly for review and approval. The death penalty was not imposed on those who were under 18 years of age at the time that they had committed the offence. It was also not carried out against pregnant women. The death penalty was carried out in public only in rare cases, after strong requests by the victim’s family and other concerned persons.
76.The Criminal Law did not contain the penalty of “guilt by association”.
77.Those who had crossed the border for economic reasons without permission were not subjected to any punishment, but were given warnings and were allowed to resume their normal life. Fugitives from justice and those who were repatriated from the neighbouring country for having committed serious violations of the law, such as smuggling, were dealt with in accordance with the law.
78.The State had introduced universal 12-year compulsory education, which was provided free of charge. The State also provided support, such as textbooks, teaching materials, educational equipment and transportation. It had renovated schools in rural areas in order to eliminate the differences between urban and rural areas in the education sector. Efforts had been made to connect all universities and many schools to the intranet. Curriculum and teaching content for vocational education had been updated and the distance education system had been further improved. The State was making great efforts with regard to strengthening human rights education, and paid special attention to raising awareness of human rights among officials working in government and law enforcement agencies.
79.The law prohibited any form of child labour. Activities that students conducted on farms were educational in nature and were in line with the school curriculum.
80.The Islamic Republic of Iran recognized the efforts made to improve the situation of women and the submission of some national reports to treaty bodies.
81.Iraq welcomed the mechanism for drafting the national report and hoped that recently adopted legislation would improve the human rights situation in the country.
82.Ireland remained concerned that little progress had been made in addressing the systemic human rights violations in the country.
83.Israel made recommendations.
84.Japan noted that the issue of abductions needed to be urgently resolved and stated that Japan and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea should overcome mutual distrust and deepen cooperation.
85.Kuwait welcomed the positive participation of the Government in the third cycle of the universal periodic review and hoped that it would improve the human rights situation.
86.The Lao People’s Democratic Republic welcomed measures to provide legal guarantees for citizens’ enjoyment of their political, economic, social and cultural rights.
87.Latvia noted the visit to the country by the Special Rapporteur on the rights of persons with disabilities, but regretted the lack of cooperation with other special procedure mandate holders.
88.Luxembourg expressed deep concern at the human rights situation, including the mass imprisonment of people without a fair trial and the use of torture in political prison camps.
89.Maldives welcomed the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the facilitation of the visit to the country by the Special Rapporteur on the rights of persons with disabilities.
90.Mexico welcomed the ratification of the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography and the establishment of the Institute of Human Rights.
91.Montenegro strongly condemned the use of the death penalty, torture, continued restrictions of the freedom of expression and communication, systematic abductions, enforced disappearance and political prison camps.
92.Mozambique praised the Government for having submitted reports to some treaty bodies and for having welcomed the visit to the country by the Special Rapporteur on the rights of persons with disabilities.
93.Myanmar commended the State for the adoption or amendment of several pieces of human rights-related legislation, including its labour laws.
94.Namibia encouraged the Government to continue orienting its economic development towards the creation of an affluent and cultural life for its people.
95.Nepal applauded the measures taken to improve the social services and commended the State for the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
96.The Netherlands urged the Government to grant immediate and unrestricted access for international humanitarian agencies to all parts of the country.
97.New Zealand encouraged the country to become a member of the International Labour Organization (ILO) and to introduce and implement core labour standards.
98.Nicaragua made recommendations.
99.Nigeria commended the Government for its continued cooperation and engagement with human rights mechanisms and its efforts in protecting and empowering women and other vulnerable groups.
100.Norway remained deeply concerned about the grave human rights violations in the country, as well as about the situation of vulnerable groups, in particular children.
101.Oman valued the enactment of relevant human rights legislation.
102.Pakistan noted with appreciation the engagement with the international human rights framework.
103.The Philippines acknowledged efforts made to implement the Law on the Protection and Promotion of Women’s Rights and measures taken to increase the proportion of women in public posts.
104.Poland considered the Government’s involvement in the universal periodic review process as a sign of its willingness to engage constructively with the international community.
105.Portugal was concerned about the long-standing, systematic and widespread gross violations of human rights.
106.The Republic of Korea appreciated the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and stated that the issue of separated families was an urgent humanitarian and human rights issue.
107.The Russian Federation welcomed the Strategy for the Protection of Persons with Disabilities (2018–2020) and initiatives taken to protect and improve the rights of children.
108.Senegal welcomed the adoption of measures to implement the accepted recommendations from the second cycle of the universal periodic review.
109.Serbia commended the State for the establishment of the National Committee for the Implementation of the International Human Rights Treaties.
110.Singapore noted positive steps taken to promote and protect the rights of persons with disabilities, including the establishment of committees for the protection of persons with disabilities at the national, provincial, city and county levels.
111.Slovenia encouraged the State to fully cooperate with special procedures and other human rights mechanisms and remained concerned about violations of economic, social and cultural rights.
112.Spain welcomed the visit of the Special Rapporteur on the rights of persons with disabilities, and expressed concern about the songbun system.
113.The State of Palestine encouraged the Government to ensure that adopted legislation was in accordance with international standards.
114.Sweden welcomed the submission of the report to the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, but remained seriously concerned about the overall human rights situation.
115.Switzerland was extremely concerned about serious, systematic and general human rights violations, including restrictions on freedom of expression and the right to privacy and repression against political dissidents.
116.The Syrian Arab Republic commended the State for the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography.
117.Thailand welcomed the continued engagement with the universal periodic review mechanism and some treaty bodies and special procedures.
118.Timor-Leste noted with appreciation the establishment of the National Committee for the Implementation of the International Human Rights Treaties and the National Committee for the Protection of Persons with Disabilities.
119.The delegation of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea stressed that the State had put in place an elaborate and well-developed health-care system. All services were provided free of charge. The State had prioritized enhancement of the quality of medical services, including through the Midterm Strategy for the Development of the Health Sector (2016–2020). Significant resources had been devoted to upgrading health facilities, including at the county level. The State was making efforts to ensure an adequate supply of medicines.
120.To address the issue of malnutrition, the State had extended the period of maternity leave and standard food had been provided to women and children. The Strategy and Action Plan to Control Child and Maternal Malnutrition and the Education Strategy for Reproductive Health had been implemented.
121.On the issue of abductions, there had been no abducted foreign nationals other than Japanese in the country to date. The issue had been fundamentally and completely resolved thanks to the country’s sincere efforts under the Pyongyang Declaration of September 2002 between the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and Japan.
122.The biggest obstacle in the State’s efforts for the promotion and protection of human rights were the sanctions of the Security Council and the unilateral sanctions imposed by several countries. The real victims of the sanctions were children, women, older persons and persons with disabilities. The sanctions should be lifted immediately.
123.The State was conducting wide-ranging consultations with all stakeholders on the issue of accession to international conventions that it had not yet ratified. The State was not opposed to the objectives and requirements of those conventions and reflected them in domestic laws and implemented them to suit its reality. It would also continue to maintain close cooperation with treaty bodies and implement their recommendations, as appropriate.
124.Regarding cooperation with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, the State categorically rejected the “resolution” and the “Special Rapporteur” and would continue to do so. The “Special Rapporteur” was a political tool of the hostile forces, submitting annual reports to the Human Rights Council and the General Assembly that disparaged and slandered the country based on the false testimonies of the “defectors”. It also rejected the report of the commission of inquiry (A/HRC/25/63).
125.The State highly valued dialogue and cooperation for the promotion and protection of human rights, in particular through the universal periodic review mechanism.
II.Conclusions and/or recommendations
126. The following recommendations will be examined by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, which will provide responses in due time, but no later than the forty-second session of the Human Rights Council:
126.1 Continue to consider the possibility of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea acceding to other international human rights treaties (Belarus);
126.2 Consider ratifying the international human rights instruments to which it is not yet a party (Plurinational State of Bolivia); Consider ratifying other core human rights instruments, to which it has not become a party (Indonesia);
126.3 Consider ratifying the main international human rights instruments to which it is not yet a party (Côte d’Ivoire);
126.4 Continue the efforts to accede to all core human rights instruments (Estonia);
126.5 Ratify all remaining main human rights instruments, in particular the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and its Optional Protocol (Greece);
126.6 Ratify all the core human rights instruments to which it is not yet a party (Honduras);
126.7 Consider acceding to the core international human rights treaties to which it is not yet a party (Islamic Republic of Iran);
126.8 Continue ratifying the remaining core human rights conventions (Iraq);
126.9 Ratify core international human rights conventions, in particular the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty, as previously recommended (Latvia);
126.10 Ratify the following instruments: (a) the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty; (b) the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and its Optional Protocol; (c) the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights; and (d) the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (Portugal);
126.11 Ratify other international human rights instruments to which it is still not a party, including the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (Republic of Korea);
126.12 Accede to the core international human rights treaties to which it is not yet a State party and thoroughly implement its obligations under the treaties to which it is a party (State of Palestine);
126.13 Ratify the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (Georgia);
126.14 Ratify the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (Montenegro);
126.15 Ratify the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Togo);
126.16 Ratify the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (Burundi);
126.17 Intensify efforts for the ratification of the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Chile);
126.18 Ratify the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Denmark) (Montenegro) (Senegal);
126.19 Put in place time-bound plans for accession to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland);
126.20 Ratify the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and its Optional Protocol (Georgia);
126.21 Accede to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and its Optional Protocol (Uruguay);
126.22 Ratify the Convention against Torture and its Optional Protocol (Poland);
126.23 Consider ratifying the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Timor-Leste);
126.24 Ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance as well as the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and its Optional Protocol (France);
126.25 Ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance and respond to all individual communications submitted to the bodies and procedures of the United Nations regarding alleged cases, including to the requests of the Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances with regard to the persons abducted from the Korean Air flight in 1969 (Uruguay);
126.26 Accede to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, and implement it in national law (Croatia);
126.27 Accede to and fully align its national legislation with the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, including by incorporating provisions to cooperate promptly and fully with the International Criminal Court (Estonia);
126.28 Ratify the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court and fully align national legislation with all obligations under the Rome Statute, as previously recommended (Latvia);
126.29 Ratify the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (Luxembourg);
126.30 Become a member of the International Labour Organization and comply with its obligations arising from international human rights law (Portugal);
126.31 Join the International Labour Organization and ratify the eight fundamental ILO conventions (Sweden);
126.32 Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty (Togo);
126.33 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict (Togo);
126.34 Take steps aimed at eliminating violence against women, including ratifying the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (Namibia);
126.35 Ratify the Protocol additional to the Geneva Conventions of 12 August 1949, and relating to the protection of victims of non-international armed conflicts (Protocol II) (Switzerland);
126.36 Operate the National Committee for the Implementation of the International Human Rights Treaties with a view to achieving tangible progress in the implementation of the human rights treaties to which the country is a party (Turkmenistan);
126.37 Ensure human and financial resources and autonomy for the National Committee for the Implementation of the International Human Rights Treaties to enable it to effectively promote human rights in the country (Bulgaria);
126.38 Improve the role of the National Committee for the Implementation of the International Human Rights Treaties to widely disseminate international human rights instruments and efficiently coordinate national efforts to follow up on the concluding observations of the treaty bodies and the recommendations received through the universal periodic review (Syrian Arab Republic);
126.39 Cooperate with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and allow access to special procedure mandate holders and implement the recommendations issued by the United Nations mechanisms (Costa Rica);
126.40 Engage in a genuine dialogue with the Human Rights Council, OHCHR and United Nations mechanisms and allow for unhindered access by independent human rights monitors to the country (Czechia);
126.41 Facilitate cooperation and dialogue with the international community, especially with mechanisms and special procedures for the promotion and protection of human rights (Ecuador);
126.42 Continue its engagement and dialogue with the relevant United Nations human rights mechanisms (Viet Nam);
126.43 Strengthen its cooperation with the United Nations organizations and human rights mechanisms (State of Palestine);
126.44 Fulfil its commitments under ratified human rights instruments, including the submission of outstanding reports (Poland);
126.45 Strengthen the engagement with United Nations human rights treaty bodies, and improve coordination at the national level to ensure implementation of the recommendations (Maldives);
126.46 Adopt the necessary measures to implement the recommendations received from the Committee on the Rights of the Child and the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (Uruguay);
126.47 Grant access to all special procedures that request to visit the country and seek the technical assistance of OHCHR (Afghanistan);
126.48 Grant unrestricted access to all United Nations special procedure mandate holders who request to visit the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (Australia);
126.49 Act on its commitment to dialogue and cooperation by accepting outstanding requests by special procedures to visit the country and by engaging actively with OHCHR (Austria);
126.50 Extend a permanent invitation to all special procedure mandate holders to visit the country (Honduras);
126.51 Cooperate with the special procedures of the Human Rights Council by responding positively to the pending visit requests by the special procedure mandate holders (Latvia);
126.52 Consider extending a standing invitation to all special procedure mandate holders of the Human Rights Council (Latvia);
126.53 Improve its cooperation with the international human rights system through the realization of official visits by the special procedures of the Human Rights Council (Mexico);
126.54 Cooperate with the special procedure mandate holders (Senegal);
126.55 Extend an invitation to the Working Group on the issue of discrimination against women in law and in practice to visit the country (Sweden);
126.56 Grant access to the United Nations and other international humanitarian agencies to provide assistance to the most vulnerable groups (Afghanistan);
126.57 Allow humanitarian assistance providers operating in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea unrestricted and independent movement throughout the country, as well as direct and unimpeded access to all populations in need (United States of America);
126.58 Grant immediate, free and unimpeded access to international humanitarian organizations to provide assistance to the most vulnerable groups, including prisoners (Ireland);
126.59 Secure unlimited humanitarian access to all provinces of the country (Norway);
126.60 Implement reforms recommended by United Nations special mechanisms (Croatia);
126.61 Continue its efforts to complete the implementation of the remaining recommendations from the second cycle (Bhutan);
126.62 Consider seeking technical cooperation and capacity-building support from the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and other international bodies in the process of implementing the law on the protection of the rights of the child (Bulgaria);
126.63 Continue to maintain cooperation with international organizations in the fields of health, education, nutrition and food security (Islamic Republic of Iran);
126.64 Maintain cooperation with international organizations working on health, education, nutrition and food security (Kuwait);
126.65 Continue to maintain cooperation with the international organizations in the areas of health, education, nutrition and food security (Myanmar);
126.66 Continue to maintain cooperation with international organizations in the fields of health, education, nutrition and food security (Pakistan);
126.67 Establish meaningful cooperation with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights as a first step in the area of technical assistance (Poland);
126.68 Seek the technical assistance of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, including by granting access to the country (Portugal);
126.69 Consider seeking technical assistance from the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (Timor-Leste);
126.70 Actively participate in international dialogue and cooperation on human rights (Kuwait);
126.71 Promote international exchange to improve the quality of technical and vocational education and training (Myanmar);
126.72 Incorporate the principles and requirements of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography into the relevant domestic laws with a view to fulfilling their implementation (Turkmenistan);
126.73 Continue to take further legislative measures in the promotion and protection of human rights to ensure the full enjoyment by its citizens (Lao People’s Democratic Republic);
126.74 Undertake a comprehensive review of the national legislation with a view to further strengthening the legal framework for the promotion and protection of human rights as required by the international human rights treaties to which the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea is a party (Lao People’s Democratic Republic);
126.75 Continue to bring national legislation into line with international human rights standards (Russian Federation);
126.76 Continue the efforts to further perfect the domestic legal framework for the protection and promotion of human rights with a view to ensuring full enjoyment by citizens of their vested rights (Syrian Arab Republic);
126.77 Incorporate the principles and requirements of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography into the relevant domestic laws with a view to full implementation (Syrian Arab Republic);
126.78 Work on harmonizing national legislation with the provisions of international human rights treaties (Zimbabwe);
126.79 Step up the efforts to take legislative and practical measures for the protection and promotion of human rights (Ethiopia);
126.80 Continue efforts for the protection and promotion of human rights in line with international human rights norms and standards (Nepal);
126.81 Sustain its commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights (Nigeria);
126.82 Scale up its efforts in the promotion and protection of the rights of vulnerable groups in society (Nigeria);
126.83 Take further measures to ensure that all citizens enjoy their civil, cultural, economic and social rights (Oman);
126.84 Strengthen coordination at the national level to ensure effective implementation of the human rights conventions to which the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea is a State party (Philippines);
126.85 Take measures to ensure effective implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography (Viet Nam);
126.86 Strengthen its efforts to overcome the challenges that negatively impact the promotion and protection of human rights and to provide adequate conditions favorable to the enjoyment of human rights in accordance with international standards (State of Palestine);
126.87 Increase efforts to strengthen national capacities for the promotion and protection of human rights (Belarus);
126.88 Establish a national human rights institution in accordance with the principles relating to the status of national institutions for the promotion and protection of human rights (the Paris Principles) (Costa Rica) (Ukraine);
126.89 Establish an independent national human rights institution in accordance with the Paris Principles (Iraq);
126.90 Establish a national independent institution for the defence of human rights, in conformity with the Paris Principles (Senegal);
126.91 Implement in an effective manner its Strategy for National Economic Development, and its Strategies for the Development of the Health Sector and for the Development of Education, for a better standard of living for its population (Cuba);
126.92 Continue efforts for the implementation of the Five-Year Strategy for National Economic Development (2016–2020) (Democratic Republic of the Congo);
126.93 Continue efforts for the implementation of the National Strategy for the Development of Education (2015–2032) (Democratic Republic of the Congo);
126.94 Increase the efforts for awareness-raising about human rights among officials of the people’s power organs and law enforcement organs (Ethiopia);
126.95 Establish closer relations with African people and persons of African descent in order to foster a better understanding and more complete appreciation of the culture, history and contributions to humanity by persons of African descent; for example, by organizing cultural exchanges in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (Haiti);
126.96 Foster human rights awareness-raising activities among citizens (Myanmar);
126.97 Facilitate awareness-raising activities and training programmes on human rights (Philippines);
126.98Publish the full text of human rights treaties that the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea has ratified, translated into Korean, on the national network service (Kwangmyong) (Sweden);
126.99 Consider increasing budget allocations to the health, education and social sectors, within the Five-Year Strategy for National Economic Development, to ensure improved access to services in rural areas (Botswana);
126.100 Redirect its public spending in order to fulfil the right of all people in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea to a standard of living adequate for their health and well-being, in line with Sustainable Development Goals 1, 2 and 3 (Netherlands);
126.101 Take continued innovative measures to reduce the gaps between urban and rural areas in every possible aspect (Turkmenistan);
126.102 Maintain the design of action to guarantee the well-being of its population, in particular children, women, older persons and persons with disabilities, in its economic and social development plans (Cuba);
126.103 Adopt measures in the legislative sphere to combat discrimination based on social class, religion or political opinion (Honduras);
126.104 Take further steps to strengthen the anti-discrimination legal framework to ensure wider access to food, health, education and other fundamental rights (Indonesia);
126.105 Develop a strategy to protect persons with special needs and ensure that they enjoy their full rights (Oman);
126.106 Further strengthen programmes to protect the rights of vulnerable groups including women, children, persons with disabilities and the elderly (Philippines);
126.107 Expand the measures designed to uplift the well-being of women, children, persons with disabilities and elderly people (Zimbabwe);
126.108 Continue to promote sustainable economic and social development in order to provide a solid basis for its people to better enjoy all human rights (China);
126.109 Cooperate with the United Nations and the international community to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, including the implementation of the right to health (Republic of Korea);
126.110 Provide information on the steps taken to ensure that those most vulnerable to climate change are included in domestic measures to address the causes and effects of climate change (Fiji);
126.111 Ensure that a human rights-based approach is incorporated into the implementation of the Law on Disaster Prevention, Relief and Recovery and the Law on Environmental Protection (Fiji);
126.112 Enable greater inclusion and participation of women, children, persons with disabilities, and indigenous and other marginalized communities in devising holistic strategies towards managing climate change and its impact on livelihoods (Fiji);
126.113 Fulfil treaty obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and allow the population to exercise all civil and political rights, including freedom of expression, access to information and ability to travel, within and outside the country (Italy);
126.114 Fulfil treaty obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and allow the population to exercise all civil and political rights, including freedom of expression, access to information and ability to travel (Croatia);
126.115 Reduce the offences punishable by the death penalty and provide official figures regarding death sentences and executions, and consider introducing a moratorium on the death penalty (Italy);
126.116 Introduce a moratorium on executions as a first step towards the abolition of the death penalty (Belgium);
126.117 Disclose information on the use of the death penalty (Belgium);
126.118 Take progressive steps to abolish the death penalty (Ukraine);
126.119 Reduce the number of crimes punishable by the death penalty and put in place a moratorium with a view to abolishing it (France);
126.120 Introduce an official moratorium on executions as a first step towards the abolition of the death penalty (Georgia);
126.121 Take progressive steps to restrict and/or abolish the death penalty (Greece);
126.122 Abolish the death penalty (Iceland);
126.123 Reconsider abolishing the death penalty (Mozambique);
126.124 Take steps aimed at restricting executions, establish a moratorium on the death penalty or abolish it altogether (Namibia);
126.125 Abolish the death penalty in all cases and put an immediate halt to public executions (New Zealand);
126.126 Adopt an immediate moratorium on the application of the death penalty as a step towards its full abolition and publish data on recent executions as well as on the number of people on death row (Spain);
126.127 Implement a moratorium on the death penalty (Timor-Leste);
126.128 Take immediate and effective action to stop the use of torture and other ill-treatment in detention facilities and ensure fair trial guarantees (Austria);
126.129 Take immediate and effective action to stop torture and ill-treatment including sexual violence, through proper training, awareness campaigns and enactment of laws, especially for State security and policing organs (Germany);
126.130 Prohibit the use of torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment, and ratify the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Spain);
126.131 Take concrete measures to improve conditions of detention by implementing the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (the Nelson Mandela Rules) and the United Nations Rules for the Treatment of Women Prisoners and Non-custodial Measures for Women Offenders (the Bangkok Rules) (Thailand);
126.132 Take immediate action to cease the practice of forced labour, including the use of prisoners and children, as defined by article 1 of the United Nations Convention of the Rights of the Child (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland);
126.133 Adopt legislation to criminalize trafficking, in accordance with international standards, and provide support for women survivors of trafficking (Israel);
126.134 Consider adopting policies to combat trafficking in persons, especially women and children (Philippines);
126.135 Ensure the freedom of movement of all citizens of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea in the country and abroad (France);
126.136 Respect the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion by taking effective measures to prevent and eliminate all forms of persecution on the grounds of religion or belief and by promoting religious tolerance and dialogue in society (Greece);
126.137 Allow Christians as well as persons belonging to any other religious community or group to exercise their religion independently and publicly, without fear of punishment, reprisal or surveillance (Ireland);
126.138 Review the legislation and national policies in order to adapt them to the standards of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, in particular with regard to freedom of expression and access to information (Costa Rica);
126.139 Implement reforms to bring laws and practices in line with international standards of freedom of the press and freedom of expression (Greece);
126.140 Introduce a law on freedom of information in accordance with international standards (Greece);
126.141 Ensure freedom of expression and the independence of the media (Luxembourg);
126.142 Guarantee the right to information and freedom of expression, preserving the freedom to seek, receive and disseminate information and ideas, orally, in writing and in print (Mexico);
126.143 Create a conducive environment where civil society organizations can function independently without fear of surveillance, arrest or other forms of punishment (Poland);
126.144 Promote freedom of opinion and expression and the right to privacy (Iraq);
126.145 Abstain from any form of interference in the direct and regular communication between its citizens and other persons, including parents and children living in other countries (Switzerland);
126.146 Guarantee the functioning of an independent judiciary, and reform the criminal code and the criminal procedure code to fully ensure procedural guarantees and free and just judgements (Costa Rica);
126.147 Comply with its obligations arising from human rights treaties that it ratified (Ukraine);
126.148 Ensure the full realization of civil and political rights, including the possibility for all its citizens to communicate freely, directly, safely and regularly with their family members and others, even if they live in other countries, without any interference other than justified exemptions which are in line with the international human rights law and standards (Finland);
126.149 Continue to cooperate with the Republic of Korea to fundamentally resolve the issue of separated families, including the implementation of the relevant commitments made at the inter-Korean summits (Republic of Korea);
126.150 Remove the barriers to access to education and health and provide genuinely free education and health services for its entire population (Afghanistan);
126.151 Increase people’s access to food, health care, education and adequate housing throughout the country (Cambodia);
126.152 Continue to make efforts to develop education and health care, to better protect people’s right to education and right to health (China);
126.153 Develop a strategy to ensure more equal access to the rights to health, education and an adequate standard of living in rural areas (Costa Rica);
126.154 Ensure the protection of the rights to food, health, water and sanitation, as previously recommended (Ukraine);
126.155 Enhance measures to ensure the availability and accessibility of essential services for all and the enjoyment of rights by women, children and persons with disabilities (Nepal);
126.156 Continue to guarantee access to education, food and health for its people, especially those most in need (Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);
126.157 Intensify efforts in ensuring the rights to food and health for all people in the country, with priorities given to vulnerable or specific groups such as children, women, persons with disabilities and older persons (Thailand);
126.158 Continue the implementation of the food administration policy of the State (Plurinational State of Bolivia);
126.159 Continue to strengthen measures that ensure access to food for the entire population (Chile);
126.160 Take necessary measures to combat food insecurity and malnutrition, which affect millions of persons, including in particular children, women and older persons as well as other vulnerable groups (Ecuador);
126.161 Further ensure that access to food in the country is free from discrimination and that public distribution of food covers marginalized and most vulnerable groups (Finland);
126.162 Take concrete measure and means to fight against poverty (Cambodia);
126.163 Take further measures to reduce inequalities in access to health care, at an affordable cost (Algeria);
126.164 Strengthen its positive actions to further reduce the infant mortality and malnutrition rates in the country (Cuba);
126.165 Continue the development of the health sector and achieve universal health care (Egypt);
126.166 Continue its initiatives to improve public health services, in line with the right to health (Nicaragua);
126.167 Continue modernizing the national health system in favour of the population (Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);
126.168 Continue the development of education and enable all citizens to access all stages of education (Egypt);
126.169 Continue to reinforce the initiatives to promote the right to education (Nicaragua);
126.170 Redouble its efforts to improve the education conditions and environment of rural schools, in order for its people to enjoy their right to education (Pakistan);
126.171 Strive to improve the quality of the education system by allocating more resources to school infrastructure by aligning them across the entire territory of the country (Serbia);
126.172 Take immediate measures to ensure gender equality and protect women from gender-based violence (Argentina);
126.173 Implement measures to ensure gender equality in practice, and end impunity for violence against women and girls (Australia);
126.174 Strengthen measures to address the gaps in the promotion and protection of the rights of women and children (Bhutan);
126.175 Develop and adopt a comprehensive plan of action to promote women’s rights and their empowerment, and monitor and assess its implementation (Bulgaria);
126.176 Continue efforts to stop violence against children and to empower women to access leadership positions in government institutions (Egypt);
126.177 Take concrete action to increase the recruitment of female officers and strengthen their roles in the policymaking agencies (Pakistan);
126.178 Further strengthen measures to promote women’s empowerment (Philippines);
126.179 Take measures to improve gender equality (Viet Nam);
126.180 Strengthen its legislation in order to identify and amend discriminatory provisions against women, in particular those governing access to education and employment (Côte d’Ivoire);
126.181 Review the Law on the Protection and Promotion of Women’s Rights to ensure that all forms of gender-based violence against women in all spheres are criminalized (Belgium);
126.182 Intensify the fight against violence against women by: (a) introducing in the penal code a definition of violence against women, including rape and trafficking; (b) putting in place training programmes for law enforcement officials, magistrates and civil servants to identify, prevent and punish violence against women; and (c) prohibiting forced genital searches on repatriated women (France);
126.183 Review laws, including the Law on the Protection and Promotion of Women’s Rights, to include definitions of violence against women, including rape and trafficking of women (Iceland);
126.184 Take measures to criminalize marital rape and to prevent and punish domestic violence against women, including awareness campaigns, legal services, support and shelter for survivors (Israel);
126.185 Step up the implementation of the Law on the Protection and Promotion of Women’s Rights, and reform criminal legislation to clearly define and punish rape and trafficking of women (Mexico);
126.186 Establish a system to prevent sexual violence against women in detention (Norway);
126.187 Develop a comprehensive strategy to prevent and combat all forms of violence against children, in particular addressing their root causes (Algeria);
126.188 Adopt concrete measures to address the root causes of infant and child mortality, including social and economic deprivation and inequality, child malnutrition and child labour (Brazil);
126.189 Establish an independent, third-party institution dedicated to combating child abuse (Denmark);
126.190 Ensure a ban on corporal punishment in all settings, including at home and in educational institutions, and monitor its respect (Israel);
126.191 Amend the Act on the Protection of the Rights of the Child to cover all children under the age of 18 years (Maldives);
126.192 Consider reviewing its national laws on child protection, in order to cover all children under the age of 18 years and raise the minimum age of marriage to 18 years (Namibia);
126.193 Take appropriate measures to develop inclusive education for children with disabilities and ensure that it is prioritized over their placement in specialized institutions and classes (Bulgaria);
126.194 Develop collaboration between the National Committee for the Protection of Persons with Disabilities of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and relevant national institutions of other countries in the region (Indonesia);
126.195 Make further efforts for the protection of persons with disabilities (Islamic Republic of Iran);
126.196 Continue its efforts to provide persons with disabilities with equal access and rights to health care and education (Norway);
126.197 Further protect the rights of persons with disabilities, including its participation in the review by the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (Republic of Korea);
126.198 Seek to improve those housing facilities and public transport that are not accessible to persons with disabilities, with the aim of making them as much as possible for independent living and full participation in all aspects of life (Serbia);
126.199 Adopt more measures to allow persons with disabilities to participate more widely in society, such as eliminating physical barriers in public spaces and increasing awareness-raising campaigns to remove stigma about persons with disabilities (Singapore).
127. The recommendations formulated during the interactive dialogue/listed below have been examined by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and have been noted by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea:
127.1 Continue deepening the cooperation channels with all the human rights mechanisms of the United Nations, treaty bodies and OHCHR, particularly by allowing the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea access to the country (Argentina);
127.2 Cooperate with human rights mechanisms, including the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (Botswana);
127.3 Consider allowing access to the United Nations special procedures requesting to visit the country, including the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (Chile);
127.4 Fully cooperate with the United Nations human rights mechanisms, including the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, as previously recommended (Ukraine);
127.5 Cooperate fully with the commission of inquiry and grant unrestricted access to all United Nations special procedures, including the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (Estonia);
127.6 Grant access to and cooperate with all United Nations special procedures, in particular the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (Germany);
127.7 Grant access to the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, as well as other special procedure mandate holders (Italy);
127.8 Fully cooperate with the United Nations Human Rights Council and accept a visit of the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (Canada);
127.9 Guarantee access to its territory to the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and to all other special procedure mandate holders and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (Luxembourg);
127.10 Cooperate with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (Uruguay);
127.11 Allow the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, and other thematic rapporteurs, unfettered access to the country and its people (New Zealand);
127.12 Give access to the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (Norway);
127.13 Immediately improve the very grave and serious human rights situation in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, especially by granting all international human rights bodies and mechanisms full access to the country (Denmark);
127.14 Provide access to the entirety of the country, including to the province of Jagang, to the United Nations agencies and special procedures, embassies and non-governmental organizations (France);
127.15 Grant immediate and unrestricted access to all United Nations human rights mechanisms, including the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (Poland);
127.16 Fully cooperate with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, including its office in Seoul, and issue a standing invitation to the special procedures (Belgium);
127.17 Prioritize the human rights of its population over military expenditure, including by dedicating resources to ensure freedom from hunger (Australia);
127.18Bring an end to discrimination, in particular discrimination based on the songbun system, guaranteeing the principle of equality and non-discrimination among its citizens (Argentina);
127.19Address the systematic discrimination that underpins human rights violations, including by taking immediate action to abolish the songbun class system (Australia);
127.20End all forms of discrimination, in particular the songbun system, which discriminates against citizens according to their family background and loyalty to the regime (Czechia);
127.21End the songbun social classification system and related discrimination (Germany);
127.22Reconsider the role of Christianity in the ideology and society of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea within the songbun system, in order to see the positive contributions of Christianity to the economic, social and political developments in the context of socialism (Haiti);
127.23 End all forms of discrimination, including on the basis of religion, social class, political view and gender (Israel);
127.24 Prevent cases of enforced disappearance and arbitrary execution and publish data on the application of the death penalty (Czechia);
127.25 Take immediate and effective action to stop the use of torture and other ill-treatment of detainees in political prison camps and other detention facilities, in line with Sustainable Development Goal 16 (Netherlands);
127.26 Give international humanitarian organizations access to provide assistance to detainees in all penitentiary facilities, including labour training camps, prisons and political prison camps, allow family visits to all detainees, and establish rules regarding the treatment of detainees in accordance with international human rights standards (Germany);
127.27 End the practice of inadequately paid labour and the political mobilization of the population, which in the case of minors hinder access to education (Germany);
127.28 Eliminate all forms of forced labour and introduce freedom of movement both within and outside the country (Spain);
127.29 Put an end to forced labour in political prison camps and, in particular, protect children under 18 years against any form of forced labour in conformity with target 8.7 of the Sustainable Development Goals (Switzerland);
127.30 Take concrete action towards the early resolution of the abductions issue, including the immediate return of all abductees (Japan);
127.31 Address the issues of abductees and prisoners of war (Republic of Korea);
127.32 Put an end to the practice of deprivation of liberty in political prison camps, promoting their closure and guaranteeing a fair trial as well as full respect for freedom of expression and procedural guarantees (Argentina);
127.33 Immediately close down all political prison camps and release all prisoners of conscience, including relatives being held on the basis of guilt by association (Austria);
127.34 Implement its obligations under the human rights instruments to which it is party, and cease the use of arbitrary detention, political prison camps and collective punishment (Canada);
127.35 Immediately release the remaining crew and passengers, including Hwang Won, abducted in 1969 during the hijacking of Korean Air Lines flight YS-11 (Iceland);
127.36 Immediately dismantle all political prison camps, release all political prisoners, institute protections against arbitrary detention that guarantee due process and fair trial, and grant international observers, including United Nations special procedures, unimpeded and unrestricted access to the country and to all detention facilities (United States of America);
127.37 Immediately close political prisoner camps and unconditionally release all political prisoners (Luxembourg);
127.38 Take immediate steps to close political prison camps (New Zealand);
127.39 Close down all political prison camps and labour camps and unconditionally release all prisoners of conscience, including relatives that have been held on the basis of “guilt by association” (Slovenia);
127.40 Close all detention camps in which internees are arbitrarily deprived of liberty and subjected to inhumane conditions (Spain);
127.41 Immediately close all political prison camps and unconditionally release all prisoners of conscience, including relatives being held on the basis of “guilt by association” (Sweden);
127.42 Revise the criminal code, and any other relevant laws or policies, to decriminalize possession and distribution of religious texts (United States of America);
127.43 Remove from State legislation all provisions punishing free speech, freedom of association and assembly, or freedom of political participation (Canada);
127.44 Cease the censorship of foreign and domestic media and permit the establishment of an independent press (Canada);
127.45 End censorship and fully ensure freedom of expression both online and offline (Czechia);
127.46 Allow the establishment of independent newspapers and other media and end all censorship of domestic and foreign media, and introduce access to the Internet in schools, libraries and other public facilities (Greece);
127.47 End the practice of forcing all married women to join the Socialist Women’s Union of Korea, and the demand to provide unpaid labour as part of the membership (Israel);
127.48 End all surveillance and censorship of individuals, organizations, media and communications that is contrary to international human rights laws and standards (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland);
127.49 Build an independent judiciary, and unconditionally release all political prisoners and those detained without a due process (Czechia);
127.50 Ensure the right to a fair trial by amending the provisions of the criminal code that are incompatible with respect for individual guarantees and ensuring the publicity of proceedings (France);
127.51 Bring an end to serious human rights violations, particularly arbitrary detentions, forced labour, torture and other forms of inhuman, cruel or degrading treatment, as well as enforced disappearance (Argentina);
127.52 Acknowledge the existence of human rights violations and end all State-sanctioned practices that breach fundamental human rights, including arbitrary detention, torture, forced abortion and other sexual violence (New Zealand);
127.53 Accept the findings of the commission of inquiry on human rights in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, and take action to implement all its recommendations, including those on the denial of due process, arbitrary detention, torture and mistreatment of prisoners, the repatriation of abductees, and the death penalty (Australia);
127.54 Fully implement the recommendations made by the commission of inquiry, including releasing all political prisoners and allowing for the establishment of independent media (Iceland);
127.55 Implement the recommendations in the report of the United Nations commission of inquiry on human rights in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (Slovenia);
127.56 Effectively address chronic food insecurity, in particular early childhood malnutrition, and ensure that government policy on access to food is free of discrimination and political considerations (Austria);
127.57 Ensure that the Government’s policies on access to food and distribution are free from discrimination and political considerations (Brazil);
127.58 Stop using food as a way to control its population and ensure the free distribution of food (Spain);
127.59 Prohibit and effectively end exploitative practices that require women who support families through private economy to contribute quotas of goods, money and unpaid forced labour for the Government and military investments (Iceland);
127.60 Ensure that children are protected against all forms of exploitation and forced or hazardous labour, especially as part of their school curriculum (Austria);
127.61 Take further measures to prevent and combat violence against children, child forced labour and exploitation and ensure that all children have access to education (Italy);
127.62 Take measures to prevent the militarization of children and their recruitment (Ukraine);
127.63 Put an end to practices of segregation and exclusion in providing care services to persons with disabilities (Costa Rica).
128. All conclusions and/or recommendations contained in the present report reflect the position of the submitting State(s) and/or the State under review. They should not be construed as endorsed by the Working Group as a whole.
Annex
[English Only]
Composition of the delegation
The delegation of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea was headed by H.E. Mr. Tae Song Han, Permanent Representative of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva, and composed of the following members:
•Mr. RI, KYONG HUN, Director of Legislation Department, Presidium of Supreme People’s Assembly, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea;
•Ms. KIM, SUN HWA, Officer, Legislation Department, Presidium of Supreme People’s Assembly, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea;
•Mr. PAK, KWANG HO, Councillor, Central Court of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea;
•Ms. RI, HYE RYON, Chief Officer, Commission of Education of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea;
•Ms. HAN, CHAE SUN, Bureau Chief, Institute of Public Health Administration, Ministry of Public Health, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea;
•Mr. JANG, IL HUN, Researcher, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea;
•Mr. RO, KWANG SONG, Officer, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea;
•Mr. PANG, KWANG HYOK, Deputy Permanent Representative, DPRK Permanent Mission in Geneva;
•Mr. MUN, JONG CHOL, Counsellor, DPRK Permanent Mission in Geneva.