Rep. Chris Smith, Co-Chair of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, will chair a congressional hearing on North Korea’s human rights situation on April 28.
The hearing will focus on the challenges and prospects for the North Korean human rights movement, as well as obstacles faced by advocates. The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea is described as having one of the most severe and closed human rights environments in the world, with strict controls over expression, movement, and access to information enforced by a strong security apparatus and penal system.
The event will address how advocacy for North Korean human rights is being affected by changing conditions within North Korea and shifts in international dynamics. According to a press release from Rep. Smith’s office, “Human rights advocacy related to North Korea faces new challenges today, due to the changing conditions facing North Korean civilians, as well as the evolving international and regional environment affecting human rights work and information flows concerning the country.” Witnesses scheduled include Tara O—author and member of Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation—and Suzanne Scholte—Chair of both the North Korea Freedom Coalition and Free North Korea Radio.
Chris Smith has served in Congress representing New Jersey’s 4th District since 1981 according to Wikipedia. He replaced Frank Thompson that year as reported by House history records. Smith was born in Rahway, New Jersey in 1953 and now lives in Manchester Township according to his official biography. He graduated from The College of New Jersey with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1975 as reported by his alma mater.
The hearing will take place at 12:30 PM at Room 2118 Rayburn House Office Building and will also be livestreamed.
