North Korea allegedly deployed over 10,000 soldiers to Russia to assist Moscow's war in Ukraine, and two soldiers were captured by Ukrainian forces on the battlefield in Russia's Kursk region last month.
"International humanitarian law (IHL) requires POWs to be treated humanely at all times and with respect for their honour in all circumstances," UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR) spokesperson Liz Throssell told Voice of America, a U.S. government-funded news network.
"The detaining authorities must give due consideration to their obligations under the principle of non-refoulement. We call for strict adherence to IHL which includes obligations to respect and protect POWs, to minimize civilian harm, and to ensure accountability," she added, urging Ukraine to comply with its obligations under the principle of non-refoulement, which prohibits the forcible return of individuals to countries where they may face persecution.
Elizabet Salmón, the UN special rapporteur on human rights in North Korea, also expressed concern about the risks the solders may face if repatriated. "My main concern is the safety of these prisoners of war. Regarding the Third Geneva Convention, we should interpret it combined with non-derogable human rights even at a time of war, including the right to life and freedom from torture."
Salmon also pointed out North Korea’s longstanding record of human rights abuses. "The international community is concerned about the human rights situation in [North Korea] for a long time. We need to take this into consideration and respond affirmatively to preserve their safety based on their requests," she said.
Meanwhile, South Korea reaffirmed its policy of accepting defectors from North Korea. "North Korean soldiers are considered compatriots under the Constitution. Respecting their choice about repatriation complies with international law, and no one should be sent back to a place where they might face persecution," the Foreign Ministry here said earlier this week.
The ministry added that Seoul will provide "protection and support to all who wish to come to this country."
reporter
Im Yoon-seo
lyseo0330@ajupress.com
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.
View more comments