USCIRF Statement on Release of New Policy Update on Religious Freedom in North Korea
WASHINGTON, DC – The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) yesterday released a policy update on religious freedom and related human rights in North Korea, where the regime’s approach toward freedom of religion or belief is among the most repressive in the world.
Nov 30, 2018
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 30, 2018
USCIRF Statement on Release of New Policy Update on Religious Freedom in North Korea
WASHINGTON, DC – The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) yesterday released a policy update on religious freedom and related human rights in North Korea, where the regime’s approach toward freedom of religion or belief is among the most repressive in the world. Just this week, North Korea lashed out at the United States for requesting that the United Nations (UN) Security Council meet to discuss the regime’s deplorable human rights record. The December meeting would occur the same month as the UN’s anticipated approval of a resolution condemning North Korea’s human rights violations.
USCIRF Chair Tenzin Dorjee said, “At a time when the United States and other powers are closely engaging North Korean leaders on denuclearization and other security issues, it is imperative to put a spotlight on the egregious abuses of fundamental human rights, including religious freedom, perpetrated by the Kim Jong-un regime. Although the human rights situation there remains atrocious, recent diplomatic overtures and engagement suggest North Korea’s leaders may be willing to listen. Even as we seek to enhance regional stability and the safety of our allies, we must persist in raising religious freedom and human rights concerns as the enjoyment of these are essential for true progress and long-term stability.”
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The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) is an independent, bipartisan federal government entity established by the U.S. Congress to monitor, analyze and report on threats to religious freedom abroad. USCIRF makes foreign policy recommendations to the President, the Secretary of State and Congress intended to deter religious persecution and promote freedom of religion and belief. To interview a Commissioner, please contact USCIRF at [email protected] or Kellie Boyle at [email protected] or +1-703-898-6554.