Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: South Korea
Delegate Name: Sara Griffith
School: Mattawan High School
Topic page: background guide and all position papers All South Korea position papers GLIMUN 2011 committees
"All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood." In article one of the Declaration of Human Rights, the United Nations conclude that people are created equal; they should treat each other in this fashion as well. However, the United Nations has failed in eradicating such violence. Today, such countries like South Africa still battle major struggles with xenophobic violence. The United Nations must take further steps in reducing xenophobic violence in countries.
South Korea believes the xenophobia is prevalent in their society. Most of South Korea's population has light skin, and anyone with darker skin or different skin tone is discriminated against. The country's people do not accept foreigners, immigrants or any persons with darker skin. People who are different in race or ethnicity struggle to find employment and respect in South Korea.
The constitution states that all persons are created equal in South Korea regardless of religion, gender, nationality, race, skin color etc. The are, however, no anti-discrimination laws or acts in place that enforce the constitution. Without any regulations, citizens are allowed to discriminate without and reparations.
It is important that the United Nations enforce anti-discrimination policies in countries in order to prevent acts of xenophobic violence. In order to address the violence, the United Nations must act at the problem's roots. South Korea believes in the prevention of xenophobic violence starts with legislation preventing discrimination.
