The Forced Repatriation Crisis: China’s Controversial Return of 500+ North Koreans

China Forcibly Returns More than 500 North Korean Escapees, Heightening Human Rights Concerns

Introduction

Chinese authorities have recently forcibly repatriated over 500 individuals who had escaped from North Korea. The returnees, mostly women, now face the imminent risk of detention in forced labor camps, as well as torture, sexual violence, enforced disappearance, and execution. This alarming development comes amidst the North Korean government’s decision to reopen its borders, which had been sealed at the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. The situation underscores the urgent need for international action to address the dire human rights situation in both China and North Korea.

The Act of Forced Repatriation

According to Stephen Kim, an underground missionary with extensive contacts in North Korea and China, the Chinese government transported the North Koreans in vehicle convoys across five separate border crossings on the night of October 9. Some detainees managed to inform their family members in South Korea about their situation through Chinese guards. Alarmingly, this is not an isolated incident; similar forced returns have taken place in August (with 80 individuals), September (with 40 individuals), and July (with nearly 50 individuals).

The Status of North Korean Escapees

It is crucial to recognize the precarious status of North Koreans who leave their country without permission. In light of the severe consequences imposed by the North Korean government for unauthorized exit, such individuals should be seen as de facto refugees. Leaving without permission is considered a crime of “treachery against the nation,” and perpetrators can face punishment ranging from death to detention in abusive forced labor camps. Therefore, any North Korean who leaves or remains outside their country without permission deserves protection as a “refugee sur place.”

China‘s Violations of International Obligations

China has routinely labeled undocumented North Koreans as “economic migrants” and has refused to allow them to seek asylum or resettlement. Instead, China deports these individuals back to North Korea based on a 1986 bilateral border protocol. However, it is important to note that China is a signatory to both the United Nations Refugee Convention and the Convention Against Torture, which prohibit the forced return of individuals at genuine risk of persecution or torture. The Chinese government’s actions therefore contravene its international obligations.

UN’s Warnings and Calls for Action

Human Rights Watch, alongside numerous other organizations, has called on China to suspend forced returns of North Koreans. In a letter to Chinese leader Xi Jinping, the group highlighted that officials involved in such repatriations risk criminal liability for abetting crimes against humanity. The UN Commission of Inquiry on Human Rights in Korea previously warned the Chinese government in 2013 about the potential for criminal liability. In light of these warnings, it is imperative that governments worldwide condemn China‘s latest actions and advocate for an end to forced returns.

The Way Forward

In order to protect the welfare of North Korean escapees, several steps must be taken. First and foremost, the Chinese government should grant UN authorities access to these detainees to ensure their safety and well-being. Additionally, China should either extend refugee status to North Koreans or facilitate their safe passage to South Korea or other countries willing to offer them protection. International pressure, diplomatic negotiations, and multilateral cooperation will be vital in resolving this humanitarian crisis.

Editorial: The Moral Imperative to Act

The forcible return of North Korean escapees by China represents a grave violation of human rights and a betrayal of China‘s international obligations. The international community must recognize its moral imperative to intervene in this crisis. By providing support to organizations working to protect refugees, advocating for diplomatic pressure on China, and working towards a comprehensive solution to the human rights crisis in North Korea, we can help ensure the safety and well-being of these vulnerable individuals.

Advice for Individuals and Governments

Individuals can make a difference by contributing to organizations dedicated to protecting the rights of refugees, such as Human Rights Watch. Governments should play an active role in denouncing China‘s forced returns and emphasize the need for protection of North Korean escapees. Countries should also offer support, both financially and diplomatically, to UN efforts in resolving the underlying human rights crisis in North Korea. Through collective action and a steadfast commitment to human rights, we can strive towards a world where no individual is subjected to such grave abuses and forced returns.

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