Human Rights Commissioner Song Doo-hwan: "Government Must Establish 4th National Human Rights Policy Framework"

Song Doo-hwan, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission of Korea (NHRCK), expressed concern over the delay in establishing the 4th National Human Rights Policy Basic Plan (Human Rights Basic Plan) and urged its prompt formulation.

Song Doo-hwan, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission [Photo by Yonhap News]

On the 3rd, Chairperson Song stated in a press release, "The 3rd Human Rights Basic Plan ended last year, and even after one year has passed, the 4th Human Rights Basic Plan has not been established, leaving the country without a mid- to long-term comprehensive plan for human rights." He added, "There is also no visible discussion on what human rights issues and policies should be included in the 4th Human Rights Basic Plan."

The Human Rights Basic Plan is a nationwide mid- to long-term action plan established to protect and promote human rights. It is recommended to be formulated in the 'Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action' adopted at the 1993 World Conference on Human Rights. South Korea has also established and implemented the Human Rights Basic Plan three times at five-year intervals since 2007.

Chairperson Song pointed out, "The Human Rights Basic Plan is an important means to protect and enhance the fundamental human rights of all people," adding, "It demonstrates the government's plans and commitment to improve and change laws, systems, practices, and social awareness." During the 4th Universal Periodic Review of the human rights situation conducted by the United Nations Human Rights Council in January, other countries also recommended that the Korean government establish the 4th Human Rights Basic Plan with the participation of various stakeholders.

Chairperson Song stated, "Considering that there are many human rights issues in our society that urgently require policy improvements, the 4th Human Rights Basic Plan needs to be established promptly," and urged, "The government should promptly establish the 4th Human Rights Basic Plan through active communication with civil society and the participation of social minorities."

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