Min Dong-seok, 2nd Vice Foreign Minister, delivered an opening address at the International Conference on the Strengthening of Regional Cooperation to Promote Democracy, hosted by the Korean government. In the address, he assessed democracy around the world and stressed the importance of regional cooperation to promote global democracy. He also addressed Korea’s experience in democratization and its efforts to advance global democracy.
Citing the Freedom House Report, Vice Minister Min appreciated the worldwide spread of democracy in the last couple of decades, and pointed out that the spread of democracy has stalled in the past 5 years. Concerning the situation in the Middle East and North Africa, he stated that he sees a glimmer of hope for democracy as a universal value and is reminded of how arduous the path of democratization is.
Vice Minister Min emphasized the importance of regional cooperation to share experience and best practices, to effectively respond to a threat to democracy, and to foster regional peace and stability and economic development. He also pointed out that today’s environment, where SNS enable the instant propagation of information, holds significance in cooperation among countries to enhance democracy.
Vice Minister Min noted with satisfaction the sustained development of regional cooperation for the promotion of democracy around the world, especially in Eastern Europe. He also said that Asia, a late-starter, has strengthened cooperation to improve democracy in recent years. Expressing regret at the continuing dictatorship in North Korea, Vice Minister Min called on the international community to help the North improve its human rights situation and move towards democracy.
Vice Minister Min said that Korea has achieved democracy and economic growth at the same time based on a free-market economy in a single generation, and despite many adversities, Korea has realized democracy with a firm determination. He added that building upon such achievements, Korea is putting much effort into regional and international cooperation for global democracy.
