Bangkok: Two U.S. lawmakers have reintroduced a Senate bill to reauthorize the 2004 North Korean Human Rights Act aimed at promoting rights and freedom in the reclusive state, Congress' website showed Thursday, as the act expired in 2022.
According to Yonhap News Agency, on Wednesday, Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-AK) submitted the bill to the upper chamber. First adopted in 2004, the North Korean Human Rights Act has been reauthorized periodically. It was extended in 2008, 2012, and 2018, with the last extension expiring in September 2022.
The bill calls for reauthorizing humanitarian aid and democracy programs until 2030; requiring a report from the U.S. government if the State Department position of the special envoy for North Korean human rights is vacant; and modifying the 2016 North Korean sanctions act to sanction Chinese and Russian officials responsible for forcibly repatriating North Korean defectors.
Sen. Tim Kaine emphasized the need to continue pressuring North Korea to cease the oppression of its people, citing the regime's long-standing abuses. Kaine expressed pride in introducing the bipartisan bill and committed to working towards its passage.
Sen. Dan Sullivan highlighted the bill's role in reaffirming America's dedication to fundamental freedoms and human dignity for North Koreans. He stated that ongoing efforts to confront the authoritarian regime and support North Korean citizens would promote stability and security on the Korean Peninsula.
Previously, in November, Rep. Young Kim (R-CA) introduced a similar bill to the House of Representatives, co-sponsored by Rep. Ami Bera (D-CA). While the House passed the reauthorization bill in 2024, the Senate's inaction thwarted hopes for its passage during the preceding Congress.