Ms Silvia Luthi, Research Officer with the Next Century Foundation, attends the 39th Meeting of the 58th Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council to call upon the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea to re-join the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). The NPT is a landmark international treaty, which aims to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and weapons technology, promote cooperation in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy, and further the goal of achieving nuclear disarmament. Below is the transcript from her oral statement.

Transcript:

Your Excellencies,

I am Silvia Luthi from the Next Century Foundation. I stand before you to urge the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea to reconsider its withdrawal from the Nuclear Non- Proliferation Treaty — a decision that poses a challenge to international security. The world currently faces an era of profound instability, with conflicts such as those in Gaza and Ukraine destabilizing regional security. In this fragile context, international frameworks like the NPT, which promote cooperation rather than competition, are vital.
The impact of the use of nuclear weapons extends beyond their immediate devastation, threatening global stability. Limiting their proliferation is therefore not just important — but
essential.

Since the 1990s, North Korea has built a powerful arsenal of nuclear bombs and intercontinental ballistic missiles. Though it joined the NPT in 1985, it withdrew in 2003, citing concerns over policies of the United States and inadequate security guarantees. However, rejoining the NPT should offer the DPRK legitimate security assurances from major powers, including the United States. Most importantly, it would reduce the risk of further international isolation while fostering regional stability.

We urge the DPRK to take this opportunity — to choose dialogue over division, cooperation over conflict. Rejoining the NPT would be a step toward a safer, more secure future for all.

Thank you.