The Problem
An important issue in North Korea today is the fact that there is no freedom of movement out of the country. Citizens must get "permission" from the government in order to leave the country. More unfortunately, the government does not want any of their citizens to leave. This is an issue that must be solved because North Koreans are stuck in the country when some wish to leave and resume life somewhere else. Many additional issues within the country only make more and more citizens wish to leave. Another issue in North Korea is that there is no freedom of speech. Public criticism regarding the national government is something that can result in that person (and sometimes their family as well) being taken and put in a prison camp run by the government. Other similar issues include the lack of the freedom of religion, poor public health, and severe food shortages. Overall, it is the lack of freedom in North Korea that so many other issues stem from. With the help of others, there is a much greater hope of change for the future. |
|
To the right is a video of a North Korean refugee currently living in the United States talking about his struggles of living in North Korea.
|
The solution
The solution is easy. What we can do is raise awareness for these issues taking place in North Korea. These problems should not and cannot go unacknowledged. Raising awareness can be simply talking about the topic with family and friends, or even publicly speaking of it on social media/networking. By raising awareness, more people can help the few fundraisers that have been established. These fantastic organizations with the fundraisers intend to help North Koreans looking to leave their country and start a new life somewhere else. In addition to raising awareness, I also propose raising money to donate to the organizations that are looking to help North Koreans in need. By donating any amount of money, you can help make a change.
WHere you can go
To the right is a link that will take you to the home page of an organization called Liberty in North Korea. This organization is one that helps refugees from North Korea escape. They have recorded escape routes established relationships with enough civilians within North Korea that they are able to help smuggle refugees out and into a safer country. They also have a Resettlement Assistance Program that is designed to help recently escaped North Korean refugees overcome the challenges of resettlement. On their website you will also find ways in which you can donate to show your support to the organization and aid in their work.
|
|
Citations
- ""Life Inside North Korea."" United States Commission on International Religious Freedom. N.p., 22 Jan. 2014. Web. 25 May 2017.
- "North Korea." Human Rights Watch. N.p., 02 May 2017. Web. 24 May 2017
- "The People's Challenges." Liberty in North Korea, www.libertyinnorthkorea.org/