Topic: 2025-Combating Transnational Organized Crime
Country: Republic of Korea
Delegate Name: Julia O’Brien
The Republic of Korea recognizes the grave danger of transnational organized crimes, specifically the trafficking of humans, drugs, wildlife, and illegal goods. The Republic of Korea is committed to fighting organized crime through domestic legislation and through international collaboration. However, challenges remain, and global efforts must adapt and evolve to confront the growing complexity of transnational crime.
The Republic of Korea has taken a proactive approach to stop human trafficking, through providing assistance to victims and cooperating with international law enforcement. The Republic of Korea has created victim identification guidelines, increased sentencing for convicted traffickers, and creating a national hotline for any who observe signs of human trafficking. However, trafficking still remains a serious issue, specifically when it comes to trafficking of immigrants, who are then put into forced labor.
The Republic of Korea experiences limited arms trafficking due to strict laws on firearm possession, however, it has nevertheless implemented initiatives to reduce the flow of illicit arms. Weapon seizure programs have been particularly successful in removing illegal firearms. Notably, citizens are not allowed to carry automatic rifles, handguns, or any guns for personal protection. Additionally the max penalty for illicit firearm possession is up to 15 years. The Republic of Korea supports expanding these initiatives on a global scale to reduce the trafficking of illicit arms.
The Republic of Korea has become a destination for trafficking wildlife products such as ivory and rhino horns. The Republic of Korea supports efforts by international organizations to label specific shipping routes, such as the Republic of Korea-China route, as high-risk zones for wildlife trafficking.
Despite the significant measures mentioned above, The Republic of Korea still faces challenges in addressing transnational crime. Though The Republic of Korea has made progress in fighting forced labor, there are still gaps in enforcement, particularly regarding migrant workers. These workers lack access to legal protection and face systematic exploitation due to fear of deportation. The Republic of Korea must enhance labor protections and guarantee that migrant workers are fully integrated into the legal framework to prevent exploitation by criminal organizations.
The Republic of Korea is ready to leverage our advanced technological capabilities to combat organized crime. Through enhancing the use of surveillance technologies, data analytics, and AI, The Republic of Korea can track and disrupt illegal criminal networks. Furthermore, international collaboration on technological advancements would strengthen efforts to fight cyber related crimes.
The Republic of Korea calls for increased global coordination, improved use of technology, and stronger anti-corruption measures to tackle organized crime networks and protect human rights. By working together, the international community can build a safer, more secure world free from the dangers of transnational crime.
