UN General Assembly
2014

had pledged “never again” in the aftermath of the genocides in the former Yugoslavia and Rwanda in the 1990s. Yet, we are witnessing today a different type of humanitarian disaster unfolding in Syria and Iraq. The Republic of Korea is actively participating in the efforts of the United Nations to prevent such humanitarian tragedies. The Republic of Korea strongly supports United Nations policies to protect human rights, such as the Rights Up Front initiative and the Secretary- General’s “open gate” policy. Even as we speak, Korean troops are taking part in United Nations peacekeeping missions in South Sudan and Lebanon, helping with peacebuilding, reconstruction and the protection of civilians and human rights. The Republic of Korea also attaches great importance to preventing human suffering, particularly of women and children, who are most vulnerable, in conflict situations. In that context, during its presidency of the Security Council in February 2013, Korea presided over an open debate (see S/PV.6917) on the protection of civilians in armed conflict and helped raise global awareness. Korea is also participating in and