1 18th Session of the Human Rights Council
Item 6: Universal Periodic Review General Debate
Friday, 23 September 2011
Statement by the Republic of Korea Mr. President,
The Republic of Korea notes with satisfaction that, with just one last session of the working group to be held soon, we are approaching the completion of the first cycle of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) process. The UPR has proved to be a very constructive process for most of the countries that have participated so far. States under review, in general, have put forth sincere efforts in preparing their reports and also have displayed great flexibility, openness and a genuine willingness to cooperate with the recommendations presented by other participants in the UPR working group. Along similar lines, states participating in conducting the reviews, for the most part, have contributed to the working group process by making clear, constructive, and pertinent recommendations.
The success of the UPR process ultimately depends on the sincerity with which States respond to the recommendations put forward. Participating states spend great time and effort making recommendations with the expectation that they will be considered seriously and meaningfully by the States under review. It is therefore crucial that the States under review carefully study the recommendations and respond in a clear, transparent and constructive manner.
While we recognize that all States under review have the right to decide whether they support or do not support certain recommendations, we are strongly concerned that tendencies to not grant due consideration to each recommendation or to “categorically reject” all recommendations, will seriously undermine the credibility of the whole UPR process.
Moreover, the UPR is a continuous process in that it is not over when the Council adopts the report. Acceptance of the numerous recommendations by the states under review should be followed by concrete actions and tangible measures to implement them. In this regard, the UPR working groups should also make the most of the UPR reviews by utilizing the sessions as efficiently as possible and ensuring that the thrust of the questions and recommendations presented fully reflect the situations on the ground.
Mr. President,
The Republic of Korea is pleased to see that, as a follow-up to the outcome of the review of the work and functioning of the Human Rights Council, some improvements have been made to the modality and procedures of the UPR working group. Such positive changes include the newly established rationalized modality for deciding the UPR speakers’ list, which will take effect at the beginning of the second cycle next year.
Taking this opportunity, the Republic of Korea reiterates that it attaches great importance to the UPR process and expresses its strong commitment to the process in the future.
Thank you. [END]
