Human Rights Commissioner Choi Young-ae: "New Coronavirus Should Be Addressed with Humanity, Not Hatred"

Choi Young-ae, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission [Photo by Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Dong-hoon] The Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission expressed that the response to the spread of the novel coronavirus infection (Wuhan pneumonia) should be based on humanity rather than hatred.

On the 5th, Chairperson Choi Young-ae stated in a statement regarding the "spread of the novel coronavirus infection," "Hatred stems from negative notions and prejudices that stigmatize certain groups as inferior beings, promoting discrimination," and added, "I hope that through humanity and solidarity, we can overcome this difficult time together."

Chairperson Choi expressed concern over the recent spread of 'anti-Chinese sentiment' related to the novel coronavirus. She said, "As citizens' anxiety and fear about the spread of the novel coronavirus increase, posts that incite and encourage hatred against Chinese people or ethnic Koreans from China are continuously appearing online, including on social network services (SNS). This is worrisome as such hateful expressions can deepen social conflicts and may justify discrimination or incite hatred against the targeted groups."

She emphasized the need for the media's role and social self-purification. Chairperson Choi stated, "The role of the media during social disasters is very important. Especially when disasters or epidemics occur, it is necessary to understand that hateful expressions often arise and to examine them more closely from a human rights perspective."

She continued, "Self-purification and restraint regarding hateful expressions will demonstrate that our society is prepared to respond to the issue of hatred beyond silence," adding, "The Human Rights Commission will strive for a society free from hatred and discrimination, where each individual's dignity is respected."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.