UN. Commission on human rights urges halt to North Korea abuse, vows international pressure

the UN Human Rights Commission adopted by a large majority a resolution expressing deep concern about torture, public executions, internment of civilians and the "extensive use of forced labour" in North Korea.
It also slated "all pervasive and severe restrictions on freedoms of thought, conscience, religion, opinion and expression, peaceful assembly and association", as well as restrictions on travel. The resolution brought by European countries with the backing of Canada, Japan, and the United States, was approved by 30 countries in the 53-member Commission. Nine countries including China, Cuba, Russia, Indonesia and Malaysia, opposed it, while 14 abstained. North Korea was urged to address the Commission's concerns "by immediately putting an end to the systemic, widespread and grave violations of human rights."
The assembly pledged to ensure that the international community would maintain pressure for change in the closed communist state.
"We believe that a constructive approach on an international level and the active engagement of North Korea in the international cooperation efforts, are both essential to obtain any concrete improvement of human rights on the ground," said Julien Alex, representing the European Union.
North Korea categorically rejected the Commission's move as interference in its internal affairs encouraged by the United States, warning against being put under pressure.
"The fundamental purpose is to overthrow the state system of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea," North Korea's delegate told the meeting.
The Commission reiterated its call for Pyongyang to cooperate with the special rapporteur on human rights in North Korea, Vitit Muntarbhorn, who had not been allowed near the country.