Human Rights Commission "Concerns Over Human Rights Violations in Military... Urges Introduction of Military Human Rights Officer for External Oversight"

Choi Young-ae, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission, is delivering an opening remark at the plenary meeting held on the 25th at the National Human Rights Commission in Jung-gu, Seoul. The Commission submitted the results report of the ex officio investigation into sexual harassment by the former Seoul mayor as an agenda item for resolution and discussion at the plenary meeting. Photo by Joint Press Corps

[Asia Economy Reporter Donghoon Jeong] Choi Young-ae, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission, expressed concern over recent human rights violations within the military.

On the 8th, Chairperson Choi stated in a press release, "From the Minister of National Defense to all soldiers in frontline units, there must be a renewed awareness of human rights to transform the military into a human rights-friendly force. We urge the National Assembly to introduce a Military Human Rights Protection Officer to strengthen victim protection and active external oversight of the military." She pointed out, "Due to the closed and hierarchical culture, victims repeatedly face isolation, coercion, and disadvantages, leading to despair."

She continued, "The recent sexual violence incidents demonstrate that the systems for protecting victims have not functioned properly," adding, "According to the 2017 National Human Rights Commission’s ex officio investigation and the 2019 survey results, weak punishment and discipline for sexual violence perpetrators, attempts by units including peers and superiors to conceal incidents, and a lack of awareness regarding victim protection remain prevalent." Chairperson Choi also noted, "As the proportion of women in the military increases, there is a growing need for an organization dedicated to addressing human rights violations such as sexual violence against women."

She stated, "Even considering the unique nature of the military and national security, when fundamental human rights are violated in this way, soldiers cannot perform at their best combat capability," and warned, "If such incidents continue to recur, military morale will decline, ultimately leading to internal collapse."

She added, "While responding to human rights violations in the military when they occur is important, prevention through continuous monitoring is even more crucial," and urged, "We call on the National Assembly to begin discussions on introducing a Military Human Rights Protection Officer."

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