Read by Rev. Kang Shin-seok at the Closing Ceremory of Asian Conference to Commemorate Kwangju Uprising and to Declare Asian Human Rights Charter

17 May 1998

It is quite clear that the Kwangju Massacre and the response of the Kwangju people as well as the south Koreans to this event is a landmark in the development of human rights movement in Asia. The prosecution of two former presidents, Chun Doo-hwan and Roh Tae-woo, who had played vital roles in this massacre, is one of the most unique achievements in the Asian context for the vindication of rights of people and affirmation of the sacredness of life. Further, keeping of the memory of the victims of this massacre is also quite unique. This whole experience has taught many valuable lessons to the human rights movement in Asia.

This declaration of ASIAN HUMAN RIGHTS CHARTER takes place in the context of massive economic crisis that is affecting the Asian region which was seen till recently as a region achieving continuous economic progress. The crisis of the currencies causes enormous problems for the people living in this region. It is essential to try to understand the impact of the Asian crisis on human rights of the people living in the region. Of utmost important are the human rights problems of the poorest sections of the society and those of women and children.

We affirm our solidarity for all the victims of human rights both in the sphere of political and civil rights as well as economic, social and cultural rights. It has brought together a group of very committed persons from all over Asia to meet together with Koreans. The discussions during the conference should give rise to important future initiatives for the promotion and protection of human rights in the Asian region.

We affirm that we need Asian solidarity to fight back the forces of repression in each of our country. Some of us suffer more than others do. They also need greater support. People of Kwangju have taught us that solidarity is not only a matter of sentiment, but primarily a matter of action, a consistent and persevering action. In that spirit let us commit ourselves in this new age of fast communications to be in touch with each other more, to inform each other more and to stand by each other more.