Topic: 2025-Preserving Free and Fair Elections
Country: Republic of Korea
Delegate Name: Julia O’Brien
If any country knows the importance of preserving free and fair elections, it is the Republic of Korea. Just elections are a principle central to all democracies. Criminal activities and corruption undermine this principle, distorting electoral outcomes and eroding public trust in democratic institutions. The Republic of Korea faces unique challenges in maintaining fair elections, namely with internal corruption, and external geopolitical factors.
The Republic of Korea has a powerful democratic foundation enshrined in our constitution. However, our nation still faces threats of corruption and external influences, challenging the integrity of elections. The Republic of Korea has faced scandals involving government officials and business conglomerates, known as chaebols. These instances have eroded public trust in the government, and increased suspicions of nepotism within the nation.
In order to respond to the threat of corruption influencing elections, The Republic of Korea urges the UNODC to strengthen support for anti-corruption campaigns. Namely this would be encouraging the adoption of laws criminalizing electoral fraud. Additionally, The Republic of Korea believes that UNODC should work with governments in establishing election monitoring bodies, to prevent the suppression of voices online, and disinformation campaigns.
Our constitution hinges on the ideals of democracy and freedom of the press. However, as our nation has seen the dangers of North Korea’s totalitarian dictatorship, there is no room for Pro-North Korean parties within our Republic.
As a result of the increasing use of technology in the electoral process the Republic of Korea supports developing a global framework for safeguarding electoral fairness from digital threats such as cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns. The Republic of South Korea upholds the value of free and fair elections, as outlined in our constitution. The UNODC has been crucial in dealing with these issues, but there is still work to be done. The Republic of Korea calls for continued international collaboration to strengthen anti-corruption measures, promote media freedom, and lastsly to enhance cybersecurity, therefore ensuring free election for future generations.
