Pathways to Justice: Addressing Sexual and Gender-Based Violence in DPRK Prisons

In June, we hosted a high-level interactive dialogue for states in Geneva, focusing on justice pathways for sexual and gender-based violence in the DPRK penal system. This event, co-organised with Justice Rapid Response and the Missions of Australia & Costa Rica to the UN, highlighted the findings from our collaborative work, including a guide on best practices for documenting such violence. Key takeaways emphasised the heightened vulnerability of women and girls in DPRK prisons, the complexities of addressing their trauma, and the necessity for judicial remedies and reparations. Additionally, the discussion underscored the importance of professional documentation standards, gender mainstreaming in advocacy, and the role of targeted human rights sanctions in driving accountability and change.

The UN Special Rapporteur opened proceedings.