UNHCR urges humanitarian solution for detained North Koreans

Briefing Notes, 24 February 2012

This is a summary of what was said by UNHCR spokesperson Adrian Edwards – to whom quoted text may be attributed – at the press briefing, on 24 February 2012, at the Palais des Nations in Geneva.

UNHCR, the UN refugee agency, is closely following the situation of a group of around 25 North Koreans who were arrested in China in February.

UNHCR has been in communication with the Chinese authorities on this group and has called on the Chinese government to uphold the non-refoulement principle.

UNHCR is encouraging all parties concerned to find a viable humanitarian solution in the best interests of these individuals and to ensure their safety.

UNHCR reaffirms its commitment to continue to work with all parties on this issue.

For further information on this topic, please contact:

• In Geneva: Adrian Edwards on mobile +41 79 5579120
• Andrej Mahecic on mobile +41 79 2007617