Below is a list of United Nations reports, statements and discussions of the "comfort women" issue, with links where possible. You can download a PDF of this information.
DATE: 2/4/94
DOCUMENT TITLE: QUESTION OF THE HUMAN RIGHTS OF ALL PERSONS SUBJECTED TO ANY FORM OF DETENTION OR IMPRISONMENT
U.N. AGENCY: Commission on Human Rights
SUMMARY: The International Fellowship of Reconciliation puts forth information on comfort women and recommendations for further study - outlines steps for Japanese govt. to abide by obligation under international law
DATE: 4/12/94
DOCUMENT TITLE: REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON THE ELIMINATION OF DISCRIMINATION AGAINST WOMEN, THIRTEENTH SESSION
U.N. AGENCYThe Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women
SUMMARY: Articles 576 and 578 reference fate of comfort women, suggestions of compensating surviving victims without their having to go to court individually, creating women's fund in memory of those who had died, Reference to study undertaken in 1991, findings made public in 1993, Government considering how best to express its remorse.
DATE: 9/5/95
DOCUMENT TITLE: STATEMENT BY H.E. MR. KOKEN NOSAKA, HEAD OF DELEGATION OF THE GOVERNMENT OF JAPAN AT THE FOURTH WORLD CONFERENCE ON WOMEN:EQUALITY, DEVELOPMENT AND PEACE
U.N. AGENCY: UN WOMEN
SUMMARY: NOSAKA’S statement at world conference on women in Beijing mentions comfort women: "Asian Women's Fund" to express Japanese people's atonement to former wartime "comfort women", reflecting Japan's sincere remorse for its past history.
DATE: 9/6/95
DOCUMENT TITLE: STATEMENT BY HER EXCELLENCY YUN GI JONG, MINISTER OF FINANCE OF THE DEMOCRATIC PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF KOREA AT THE FOURTH WORLD CONFERENCE ON WOMEN
U.N. AGENCY: UN Women/UNDP
Statement delivered at Fourth World Conference on Women by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in collaboration with the United Nations Fourth World Conference on Women Secretariat. Includes section on comfort women and issue of “consolation money”.
DATE: 9/6/95
DOCUMENT TITLE: DESPITE RAPID STRIDES, DOORS TO ECONOMIC, POLITICAL POWER ARE 'BARELY OPEN', UNDP ADMINISTRATOR TELLS WOMEN'S CONFERENCE
U.N. AGENCY: UN Women (Press Release)
SUMMARY: At 4th world Conference on Women, Yun Gi Jong comments on the unprecedented human rights violation of Japanese wartime government and fact that this violence remained hidden for half a century.
DATE: 11/15/95
DOCUMENT TITLE: BEIJING PLATFORM FOR ACTION STRONGEST EVER INTERNATIONAL STATEMENT ON WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT, UNITED STATES TELLS THIRD COMMITTEE
U.N. AGENCY: General Assembly (Press Release)
SUMMARY: RI SONG IL (Democratic Peoples' Republic of Korea) in describing Korea’s efforts to solve women’s issues, reiterates concern over comfort women issue and Japan’s cosmetic attempts to reconcile
4/11/96
FURTHER PROMOTION AND ENCOURAGEMENT OF HUMAN RIGHTS AND FUNDAMENTAL FREEDOMS, INCLUDING THE QUESTION OF THE PROGRAMME AND METHODS OF WORK OF THE COMMISSION
COMMISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS
Written statement submitted by Liberation, a non-governmental organization on the Roster, Liberation suggests that (a) the Commission should adopt a resolution approving the six-point recommendation to Japan made by the Special Rapporteur on violence against women
9/9/96
PROMOTION AND PROTECTION OF THE RIGHTS OF CHILDREN
General Assembly
Workshop two focuses on recognizing the urgent need to mobilize public opinion against the use of gender violence as a weapon of war in armed conflict situations - outlines legal system for recognizing use of “comfort women” as crime of war...
8/11/97
CONTEMPORARY FORMS OF SLAVERY
COMMISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS
Views of the Government of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea on crimes committed by Japan against humanity, including the issue of comfort women, challenges Japan’s “positive response”
10/22/97
THIRD COMMITTEE IS TOLD STILL TOO FEW WOMEN OCCUPY SENIOR POSITIONS IN UNITED NATIONS SECRETARIAT
General Assembly Third Committee
(Press Release)
DPRK delegate mentions comfort women (and Japan’s lack of apology/compensation) in statement about eliminating violence against women in the international community
04/01/98
Women 2000- Sexual Violence and Armed Conflict: United Nations Response
Published to Promote the Goals of the Beijing Declaration and the Platform for Action
Division for the Advancement of Women Department of Economic and Social Affairs
Section on Sexual Violence and WWII discusses the comfort women in detail; also mentions recounting of survivor stories at Vienna Conference and Beijing NGO Tribunal.
04/01/98
Statement submitted by New Japan Women’s Association, a non-governmental organization in consultative status with the Economic and Social Council
Commission on the Status of Women
New Japan Women’s Association statement regarding Japanese military’s comfort women, regarding commission’s theme: “Elimination and prevention of all forms of violence against women and girls” - describes backlash movement in Japan, etc.
04/01/98
Written statement* submitted by Asia-Japan Women's Resource Center (AJWRC), non-governmental organizations in special consultative status
COMMISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS
Asia-Japan Women's Resource Center, in cooperation with Violence Against Women in War Network Japan (VAWW-NET Japan), wishes to draw the attention to Japan’s serious failure for many years to comply with various UN and other international recommendations.
10/13/99
THIRD COMMITTEE SPEAKERS STRESS POVERTY, PROBLEMS OF RURAL WOMEN
General Assembly Third Committee
(Press Release)
JONG MYONG HAK calls for concrete changes to advance situation of women, and on Japan to acknowledge its State responsibility over the sex-slave crime of comfort women.
2/29/00
IMPACT OF AIDS DISCUSSED IN COMMISSION ON STATUS OF WOMEN; COMMISSION CONTINUES REVIEW OF FOLLOW-UP TO 1995 BEIJING CONFERENCE
Commission on Status of Women
(Meetings Coverage)
Rep of DPRK cites comfort women as example of unresolved sexual violence
6/8/00
Democratic People's Republic of Korea PERMANENT MISSION TO THE UNITED NATIONS Statement by H.E. Mr. Li Hyong Chol
General Assembly (Statement)
Statement at the Special Session of the General Assembly "Women 2000: Gender Equality, Development and Peace for the Twenty-first Century", calls on president and international community for proper resolution and accusation of failure to apologize and compensate, and of continuing sexual violence against Korean women in Japan.
3/6/01
ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY MUST BE KEY FACET OF STRATEGY TO ELIMINATE DISCRIMINATION, COMMISSION ON STATUS OF WOMEN TOLD
General Assembly Third Committee
(Press Release)
DPRK delegate mentions comfort women in statement about enhancing role of international organizations within the United Nations system in implementing the Beijing Platform for Action, calls on Japan to join community in this effort
09/02/01
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF PAST, COMPENSATION URGED BY MANY LEADERS IN CONTINUING DEBATE AT RACISM CONFERENCE
World Conference against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance
Minister for Gender Equality of Republic of Korea mentions comfort women and recently approved history textbooks rationalizing and glorifying past wrongdoings
9/3/01
STATEMENT BY HEAD OF DELEGATION OF THE DEMOCRATIC PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF KOREA
UN High Commissioner Human Rights
Statement in South Africa at WORLD CONFERENCE AGAINST RACISM, RACIAL DISCRIMINATION, XENOPHOBIA AND RELATED INTOLERANCE. Addresses Japan’s persistent refusal to settle crimes.
10/29/01
THIRD COMMITTEE HEARS CALL FOR RATIFICATION OF OPTIONAL PROTOCOL ON CHILDREN IN ARMED CONFLICT
General Assembly Third Committee
(Press Release)
DPRK delegate discusses children’s rights, comments on Japanese education - Japan falsifying history of aggression and exploitation and glorifying aggression towards Asian countries as a just war to liberate Asia from the domination of whites, includes comfort women
3/5/02
REDRESSING ‘POWER EQUATION’ BETWEEN WOMEN AND MEN, ERADICATING WOMEN’S POVERTY AMONG ISSUES ADDRESSED, AS WOMEN’S COMMISSION CONCLUDES GENERAL DISCUSSION
UN Women’s Commission
DPRK again recalls Japanese war crimes including comfort women, calls for just apology and compensation
3/5/02
REDRESSING ‘POWER EQUATION’ BETWEEN WOMEN AND MEN, ERADICATING WOMEN’S POVERTY AMONG ISSUES ADDRESSED, AS WOMEN’S COMMISSION CONCLUDES GENERAL DISCUSSION
UN Women’s Commission
DPRK again recalls Japanese war crimes including comfort women, calls for just apology and compensation
7/24/02
Written statement* submitted by Japan Fellowship of Reconciliation, a non-governmental organization in special consultative status
COMMISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS
Ms. OKAZAKI’s oral statement representing Members of the House of Councilors of the Japanese National Diet, explains the bill explain the Bill: “Promotion of a Resolution for Issues Concerning Victims of Wartime Sexual Coercion Act”
7/8/03
COMMITTEE EXPERTS, NOTING IMPORTANT PROGRESS IN JAPAN’S LEGAL FRAMEWORK, WELCOME NEW LEGISLATION TO FOSTER GENDER EQUALITY
UN Women
(Press Release)
Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women discussion of gender equality in Japan, including several Committee Expert and Country Response comments on treatment of comfort women issue.
7/30/03
Written statement* submitted by Japan Fellowship of Reconciliation, nongovernmental organizations in special consultative status
COMMISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS
Japan Fellowship of Reconciliation, in cooperation with many Japanese National Diet Members, on enactment of Promotion of Resolution for Issues concerning Victims of Wartime Sexual Coercion Act (Bill)
9/24/03
HEADS OF STATE, GOVERNMENT UNDERLINE NEED FOR CONCERTED ACTION TO PREVENT INERTIA, AS GENERAL ASSEMBLY CONTINUES GENERAL DEBATE
General Assembly
(Press Release)
Back-and-forth dispute between DPRK and Japanese delegates on settlement of comfort women issue
10/16/03
THIRD COMMITTEE SPEAKERS STRESS IMPORTANCE OF MEASURES TO EMPOWER, PROTECT WOMEN, AS DEBATE ON WOMEN’S ISSUES CONTINUES
General Assembly Third Committee
(Press Release)
Back-and-forth replies between Japan and Korea’s delegates on comfort women resolution
4/5/04
CHAIRPERSON OF COMMISSION ON STATUS OF WOMEN CALLS FOR GREATER ROLE FOR WOMEN IN CONFLICT RESOLUTION
Commission on Status of Women
KIM YONG HO said more than a decade had passed since the crime of the “comfort women” had been brought before the Commission, that settling issue is of great significance to establish a legal framework for the elimination of systematic rape and sexual slavery in armed conflicts through the acknowledgement of legal responsibility, calls denial of legal responsibility a violation of honor, calls for closely monitored compliance.
8/9/04
Written statement* submitted by Asia-Japan Women's Resource Center (AJWRC), non-governmental organizations in special consultative status
COMMISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS
Asia-Japan Women's Resource Center, in cooperation with Violence Against Women in War Network Japan (VAWW-NET Japan), wishes to draw the attention to Japan’s serious failure for many years to comply with various UN and other international recommendations.
10/12/05
POLITICAL WILL, STRONGER LAWS NEEDED TO TACKLE PROBLEM OF VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN, ASSEMBLY’S SOCIAL COMMITTEE IS TOLD
General Assembly Third Committee
(Press Release)
DPRK delegate describes military sexual slavery, says mockery of and a challenge to humankind that Japan attempted to occupy a permanent seat on the Security Council, only defeated country that had not done away with its war crimes.
10/9/06
VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN NOT CONFINED TO SPECIFIC CULTURE OR REGION, THIRD COMMITTEE TOLD AS DEBATE BEGINS ON ADVANCEMENT OF WOMEN
General Assembly Third Committee
(Press Release)
DPRK addresses Japan’s crimes and lack of apology/compensation after 10 years of discussion, says mockery to consider Japan for Security Council
10/30/06
INNOVATIVE APPROACHES NEEDED TO ADDRESS CHALLENGES FACING HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL, THIRD COMMITTEE TOLD, AS CONCERNS ARE EXPRESSED ABOUT OVERLAP, DUPLICATION
General Assembly Third Comittee
(Press Release)
Korean delegate confronts double standard of human rights issues acknowledged in Third Committee/EU, compares treatment of Japanese abductees with comfort women - Japan objects.
11/1/06
THIRD COMMITTEE SUSPENDS CONSIDERATION OF FIRST-EVER REPORT OF HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL
General Assembly Third Committee
(Press Release)
DPRK delegate calls Japanese allegations about abductions hypocritical, Japanese delegate claims DPRK’s figures “totally unacceptable”, not relevant or excuse for human rights violations
9/5/07
PROMOTION AND PROTECTION OF ALL HUMAN RIGHTS, CIVIL, POLITICAL ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND CULTURAL RIGHTS, INCLUDING THE RIGHT TO DEVELOPMENT
Human Rights Council
Written statement* submitted by the Foundation of Japanese Honorary Debts
10/16/07
RURAL WOMEN FACE PROBLEMS OF DISCRIMINATION AND MANIFOLD DISADVANTAGES
General Assembly Third Committee
(Press Release)
Back-and-forth dispute between DPRK and Japanese delegates on settlement of comfort women issue
10/17/07
FORMER CHILD SOLDIER TAKES INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY TO TASK FOR FAILURE TO DO MORE FOR CHILDREN LIVING AMID CONFLICT
General Assembly Third Committee
(Press Release)
Back-and-forth dispute between DPRK and Japanese delegates on settlement of comfort women issue
2/8/08
Japan All Solidarity Network for the Settlement of the “Comfort Women” Issue
U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights
NGO report on the issue of ““comfort women”" - outlining the existing framework for the protection of rights of comfort women, the failures of the implementation of this framework, relief by Asian Women’s Fund and judicial system, and measures Japanese government should take moving forward.
11/20/08
GENERAL ASSEMBLY MUST REASSERT ITS CHARTER-MANDATED ROLE AS UN CENTRAL DELIBERATIVE, POLICY-MAKING BODY, SPEAKERS SAY, DEBATING ASSEMBLY REVITALIZATION
General Assembly
(Press Release)
Back-and-forth dispute between DPRK and Japanese delegates on settlement of comfort women issue
7/23/09
Japan Tells Women’s Anti-Discrimination Committee Efforts to Meet Treaty Obligations Bearing Fruit, but Progress Slow by International Standards
General Assembly Committee on Elimination of Discrimination against Women
(Meetings Coverage)
Coverage of Japan’s sixth periodic report to the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women, including Committee experts’ call for more action to make amends for Japanese enslavement of foreign women as sexual “comfort women” during the Second World War.
10/13/09
Efforts to Empower Women, Initiatives to Promote Sustainable Economic Growth Mutually Reinforcing, Say Third Committee Speakers
General Assembly Third Committee
PAK TOK HUN calls WWII worst kind of sexual slavery in history and strongly urges Japan to settle its dirty past.
10/28/09
Speakers in Third Committee Draw Links between Fight to Secure Human Rights, Fight against Poverty, as Three-Day Discussion Concludes
General Assembly Third Committee (Meetings Coverage)
Korean delegate cites comfort women as unresolved human rights issue, Japanese delegate replies mentioning Japan’s apology and Asian Women’s Fund - Korean delegate argues AWF a non-governmental organization...
11/13/09
Convinced that Expanding Size of Security Council is an Absolute Necessity Member States Discuss Ways to Carry Out ‘Delicate Engineering Project’
General Assembly
(Meetings Coverage)
DPRK delegate says Japan not qualified for seat on Security Council, cites comfort women and WWII violence and Japan’s failure to rectify as reasons
10/13/10
To ‘Truly Universalize’ Child Rights Global Community Must Reach Neediest Children in Critical Early Years with Nutrition, Protection, Third Committee Told
General Assembly Third Committee
Korean delegate describes 2010 testimony in which comfort women survivors demanded apology/compensation, claim recommendations of Special Rapporteur on Violence against Women in 1996 had been ignored, both parties exercise right of reply
10/28/10
Third Committee Approves Draft Text Calling for General Assembly Plenary Meeting to Launch International Year of Cooperatives 2012
General Assembly Third Committee
(Meetings Coverage)
Back-and-forth dispute between DPRK and Japanese delegates on settlement of comfort women issue
7/4/11
Progress in the implementation of the Concluding Observations of the Japan NGO Network for CEDAW (JNNC)
See table item 38 for description of efforts of Women’s Active Museum on War and Peace (WAM), Japan Network against Wartime Sexual Violence, Japan All Solidarity Network for the Settlement of the “Comfort Women” Issue, and FUDANREN.
10/11/11
With Equal Rights, Empowerment, Women Can Be ‘Agents of Change’ for Sustained Socio-economic Development, Security around World, Third Committee Told
General Assembly Third Committee
Korean delegate speaks about concern with increasing sexual violence against women in armed conflicts, particularly to sexual slavery, including the “comfort women” - Japanese delegate describes support for comfort women - back-and forth about legal resolution/ lack thereof
10/11/11
COMMITTEE EXPERTS, NOTING IMPORTANT PROGRESS IN JAPAN’S LEGAL FRAMEWORK, WELCOME NEW LEGISLATION TO FOSTER GENDER EQUALITY
UN Women
(Press Release)
Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women discussion of gender equality in Japan, including several Committee Expert and Country Response comments on treatment of comfort women issue.
10/27/11
In Third Committee, States Describe National Efforts Made to Meet Human Rights Obligations; Stress Rights Are Equal, Indivisible, Mutually Reinforcing
General Assembly Third Committee
(Meetings Coverage)
DPRK delegate mentions comfort women issue, Japan refutes, DPRK responds willing to normalize relations if Japan willing to liquidate the issues of the past and abandon its current approach.
10/27/11
HEADS OF STATE, GOVERNMENT UNDERLINE NEED FOR CONCERTED ACTION TO PREVENT INERTIA, AS GENERAL ASSEMBLY CONTINUES GENERAL DEBATE
General Assembly
(Press Release)
Back-and-forth dispute between DPRK and Japanese delegates on settlement of comfort women issue
10/27/11
THIRD COMMITTEE SPEAKERS STRESS IMPORTANCE OF MEASURES TO EMPOWER, PROTECT WOMEN, AS DEBATE ON WOMEN’S ISSUES CONTINUES
General Assembly Third Committee
(Press Release)
Back-and-forth replies between Japan and Korea’s delegates on comfort women resolution
10/15/12
Statement by H.E. Ambassador SHIN Dong-ik
General Assembly
The Republic of Korea Permanent Mission to the United Nations Statement on gender equality at 67th Session of General Assembly. Calls attention to unresolved comfort women case, calls on each state to promote human rights education on the issue of wartime sexual violence and ensure accurate accounts of historical events in the educational curricular in order to prevent the recurrence of such violations.
10/15/12
Pervasive, Continued Violence against Women ‘An Appalling Human Rights Violation;’ Eliminating Such Violence at Core of Women’s Empowerment, Third Committee Told
General Assembly Third Committee/ UN Women
SHIN DONG-IK draws attention to comfort women, urges UN focus on ending such crimes, Japan’s delegate uses right of reply argues that Japan has apologized, legally settled issue, Korean representative replies Japan ignoring repeated international calls to address matter in a sincere manner and draws attention to several reports and committees that affirm that issue remains unresolved.
10/15/12
CHAIRPERSON OF COMMISSION ON STATUS OF WOMEN CALLS FOR GREATER ROLE FOR WOMEN IN CONFLICT RESOLUTION
Commission on Status of Women
KIM YONG HO said more than a decade had passed since the crime of the “comfort women” had been brought before the Commission, that settling issue is of great significance to establish a legal framework for the elimination of systematic rape and sexual slavery in armed conflicts through the acknowledgement of legal responsibility, calls denial of legal responsibility a violation of honor, calls for closely monitored compliance.
10/15/12
POLITICAL WILL, STRONGER LAWS NEEDED TO TACKLE PROBLEM OF VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN, ASSEMBLY’S SOCIAL COMMITTEE IS TOLD
General Assembly Third Committee
(Press Release)
DPRK delegate describes military sexual slavery, says mockery of and a challenge to humankind that Japan attempted to occupy a permanent seat on the Security Council, only defeated country that had not done away with its war crimes.
10/15/12
VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN NOT CONFINED TO SPECIFIC CULTURE OR REGION, THIRD COMMITTEE TOLD AS DEBATE BEGINS ON ADVANCEMENT OF WOMEN
General Assembly Third Committee
(Press Release)
DPRK addresses Japan’s crimes and lack of apology/compensation after 10 years of discussion, says mockery to consider Japan for Security Council
10/15/12
INNOVATIVE APPROACHES NEEDED TO ADDRESS CHALLENGES FACING HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL, THIRD COMMITTEE TOLD, AS CONCERNS ARE EXPRESSED ABOUT OVERLAP, DUPLICATION
General Assembly Third Comittee
(Press Release)
Korean delegate confronts double standard of human rights issues acknowledged in Third Committee/EU, compares treatment of Japanese abductees with comfort women - Japan objects.
11/6/12
Universal Recognition of Inalienable Right to Self-Determination Most Effective Way of Guaranteeing Fundamental Freedoms, Third Committee Told
General Assembly Third Committee
(Meetings Coverage)
DPRK rejects country-specific resolution, says abduction issue with Japan resolved, Japan only diverting from its own unresolved crimes, back-and-forth replies between Korean and Japanese delegates follows
11/6/12
THIRD COMMITTEE SUSPENDS CONSIDERATION OF FIRST-EVER REPORT OF HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL
General Assembly Third Committee
(Press Release)
DPRK delegate calls Japanese allegations about abductions hypocritical, Japanese delegate claims DPRK’s figures “totally unacceptable”, not relevant or excuse for human rights violations
11/6/12
RURAL WOMEN FACE PROBLEMS OF DISCRIMINATION AND MANIFOLD DISADVANTAGES
General Assembly Third Committee
(Press Release)
Back-and-forth dispute between DPRK and Japanese delegates on settlement of comfort women issue
2/6/13
Written statement* submitted by the Foundation of Japanese Honorary Debts, a non-governmental organization in on the roster
Human Rights Council
Resolution issued by the 11th Asian Solidarity Conference for the Issue of Military Sexual Slavery by Japan, December 8-11, 2012
02/06/13
FORMER CHILD SOLDIER TAKES INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY TO TASK FOR FAILURE TO DO MORE FOR CHILDREN LIVING AMID CONFLICT
General Assembly Third Committee
(Press Release)
Back-and-forth dispute between DPRK and Japanese delegates on settlement of comfort women issue
3/11/13
Men, Boys Must Speak Out, Take Action to End Gender-Based Violence, Delegates Tell Commission on Status of Women
Economic and Social Council - Commission on the Status of Women
(Meetings Coverage)
Korean and Japanese delegates - back-and-forth dispute about need for legal settlement/acceptance of responsibility on Japan’s part. Japan claims not political issue, they discuss San Francisco Peace Treaty...
3/11/13
Japan All Solidarity Network for the Settlement of the “Comfort Women” Issue
U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights
NGO report on the issue of ““comfort women”" - outlining the existing framework for the protection of rights of comfort women, the failures of the implementation of this framework, relief by Asian Women’s Fund and judicial system, and measures Japanese government should take moving forward.
3/11/13
GENERAL ASSEMBLY MUST REASSERT ITS CHARTER-MANDATED ROLE AS UN CENTRAL DELIBERATIVE, POLICY-MAKING BODY, SPEAKERS SAY, DEBATING ASSEMBLY REVITALIZATION
General Assembly
(Press Release)
Back-and-forth dispute between DPRK and Japanese delegates on settlement of comfort women issue
3/15/13
Statement submitted by New Japan Women’s Association, a non-governmental organization in consultative status with the Economic and Social Council
Commission on the Status of Women
New Japan Women’s Association statement regarding Japanese military’s comfort women, regarding commission’s theme: “Elimination and prevention of all forms of violence against women and girls” - describes backlash movement in Japan, etc.
3/15/13
Japan Tells Women’s Anti-Discrimination Committee Efforts to Meet Treaty Obligations Bearing Fruit, but Progress Slow by International Standards
General Assembly Committee on Elimination of Discrimination against Women
(Meetings Coverage)
Coverage of Japan’s sixth periodic report to the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women, including Committee experts’ call for more action to make amends for Japanese enslavement of foreign women as sexual “comfort women” during the Second World War.
10/11/13
Speakers Urge ‘Stand-Alone’ Status for Gender Equality, Empowerment in Post-2015 Framework as Third Committee Considers Advancement of Women
General Assembly (Meetings Coverage)
Regarding sexual violence in conflict situations, the representative of the Republic of Korea cited the example of the “comfort women” and called on the Government responsible to recognize its legal liability and take appropriate measure acceptable to the victims.
10/11/13
Efforts to Empower Women, Initiatives to Promote Sustainable Economic Growth Mutually Reinforcing, Say Third Committee Speakers
General Assembly Third Committee
PAK TOK HUN calls WWII worst kind of sexual slavery in history and strongly urges Japan to settle its dirty past.
10/11/13
Speakers in Third Committee Draw Links between Fight to Secure Human Rights, Fight against Poverty, as Three-Day Discussion Concludes
General Assembly Third Committee (Meetings Coverage)
Korean delegate cites comfort women as unresolved human rights issue, Japanese delegate replies mentioning Japan’s apology and Asian Women’s Fund - Korean delegate argues AWF a non-governmental organization...
10/31/13
Third Committee Approves Texts Aimed at Eradicating Illiteracy Worldwide, Boosting Cooperatives as Sustainable Business Enterprises
General Assembly Third Committee
(Meetings Coverage)
Back-and-forth dispute between DPRK and Japanese delegates on settlement of comfort women/Japanese abductions issues
10/31/13
Convinced that Expanding Size of Security Council is an Absolute Necessity Member States Discuss Ways to Carry Out ‘Delicate Engineering Project’
General Assembly
(Meetings Coverage)
DPRK delegate says Japan not qualified for seat on Security Council, cites comfort women and WWII violence and Japan’s failure to rectify as reasons
10/31/13
To ‘Truly Universalize’ Child Rights Global Community Must Reach Neediest Children in Critical Early Years with Nutrition, Protection, Third Committee Told
General Assembly Third Committee
Korean delegate describes 2010 testimony in which comfort women survivors demanded apology/compensation, claim recommendations of Special Rapporteur on Violence against Women in 1996 had been ignored, both parties exercise right of reply
11/19/13
Delegates Hail Human Rights Improvements in Myanmar as Third Committee Approves 8 Draft Resolutions, including 4 Country-Specific Texts
General Assembly Third Committee
(Meetings Coverage)
Third Committee approves draft resolution on human rights situation (Japanese abductions) in DPRK, Korean rep rejects, Japan expresses support and Korean rep cites comfort women in repsonse
11/19/13
Third Committee Approves Draft Text Calling for General Assembly Plenary Meeting to Launch International Year of Cooperatives 2012
General Assembly Third Committee
(Meetings Coverage)
Back-and-forth dispute between DPRK and Japanese delegates on settlement of comfort women issue
11/19/13
Progress in the implementation of the Concluding Observations of the Japan NGO Network for CEDAW (JNNC)
See table item 38 for description of efforts of Women’s Active Museum on War and Peace (WAM), Japan Network against Wartime Sexual Violence, Japan All Solidarity Network for the Settlement of the “Comfort Women” Issue, and FUDANREN.
1/29/14
Speakers Stress Crucial Need to Rebuild Post-Conflict Trust as Security Council Discusses Lessons of War, Quest for Permanent Peace
Security Council
(Meetings Coverage)
Back-and-forth between Japan and Korea’s delegates over legal accountability/ governmental responsibility in comfort women issue and other aspects of Japanese WWII imperialism.
1/29/14
With Equal Rights, Empowerment, Women Can Be ‘Agents of Change’ for Sustained Socio-economic Development, Security around World, Third Committee Told
General Assembly Third Committee
Korean delegate speaks about concern with increasing sexual violence against women in armed conflicts, particularly to sexual slavery, including the “comfort women” - Japanese delegate describes support for comfort women - back-and forth about legal resolution/ lack thereof
1/29/14
In Third Committee, States Describe National Efforts Made to Meet Human Rights Obligations; Stress Rights Are Equal, Indivisible, Mutually Reinforcing
General Assembly Third Committee
(Meetings Coverage)
DPRK delegate mentions comfort women issue, Japan refutes, DPRK responds willing to normalize relations if Japan willing to liquidate the issues of the past and abandon its current approach.
8/6/14
Japan’s stance on ‘comfort women’ issue violates victims’ rights – UN official
UN High Commissioner of Human Rights
(UN News Centre)
Navi Pillay said in a statement that Japan “has failed to pursue a comprehensive, impartial and lasting resolution” to address the rights of “comfort women.”
8/6/14
Statement by H.E. Ambassador SHIN Dong-ik
General Assembly
The Republic of Korea Permanent Mission to the United Nations Statement on gender equality at 67th Session of General Assembly. Calls attention to unresolved comfort women case, calls on each state to promote human rights education on the issue of wartime sexual violence and ensure accurate accounts of historical events in the educational curricular in order to prevent the recurrence of such violations.
8/6/14
Pervasive, Continued Violence against Women ‘An Appalling Human Rights Violation;’ Eliminating Such Violence at Core of Women’s Empowerment, Third Committee Told
General Assembly Third Committee/ UN Women
SHIN DONG-IK draws attention to comfort women, urges UN focus on ending such crimes, Japan’s delegate uses right of reply argues that Japan has apologized, legally settled issue, Korean representative replies Japan ignoring repeated international calls to address matter in a sincere manner and draws attention to several reports and committees that affirm that issue remains unresolved.
10/15/14
Opening Third Committee Debate on Children’s Rights, Top Officials Implore States to Combat Cybercrime, Violence
General Assembly Third Committee
(Meetings Coverage)
Back-and-forth dispute between DPRK and Japanese delegates on settlement of comfort women issue
10/15/14
Universal Recognition of Inalienable Right to Self-Determination Most Effective Way of Guaranteeing Fundamental Freedoms, Third Committee Told
General Assembly Third Committee
(Meetings Coverage)
DPRK rejects country-specific resolution, says abduction issue with Japan resolved, Japan only diverting from its own unresolved crimes, back-and-forth replies between Korean and Japanese delegates follows
10/15/14
Men, Boys Must Speak Out, Take Action to End Gender-Based Violence, Delegates Tell Commission on Status of Women
Economic and Social Council - Commission on the Status of Women
(Meetings Coverage)
Korean and Japanese delegates - back-and-forth dispute about need for legal settlement/acceptance of responsibility on Japan’s part. Japan claims not political issue, they discuss San Francisco Peace Treaty...
3/10/15
At Day Two of Women’s Commission, Delegates Offer Innovative Suggestions on Ways to Integrate Gender Equality into Post-2015 Goals
Commission on Status of Women
(Meetings Coverage)
Rep of Republic of Korea replies to Japanese statement about sexual slavery, urges the Japanese Government to take a “more sincere and courageous stance” that would bring relief to the victims
3/10/15
Speakers Urge ‘Stand-Alone’ Status for Gender Equality, Empowerment in Post-2015 Framework as Third Committee Considers Advancement of Women
General Assembly (Meetings Coverage)
Regarding sexual violence in conflict situations, the representative of the Republic of Korea cited the example of the “comfort women” and called on the Government responsible to recognize its legal liability and take appropriate measure acceptable to the victims.
3/10/15
Third Committee Approves Texts Aimed at Eradicating Illiteracy Worldwide, Boosting Cooperatives as Sustainable Business Enterprises
General Assembly Third Committee
(Meetings Coverage)
Back-and-forth dispute between DPRK and Japanese delegates on settlement of comfort women/Japanese abductions issues
6/25/15
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE NOON BRIEFING BY FARHAN HAQ, DEPUTY SPOKESMAN FOR SECRETARY-GENERAL - U.N. RIGHTS CHIEF CALLS OPENING OF OFFICE TO MONITOR HUMAN RIGHTS IN D.P.R.K. “A BREAKTHROUGH”
High Commissioner for Human Rights
(Briefing highlights)
High Commissioner forHuman Rights, Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein, comments on opening of field office to work on the human rights situation in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, meeting with three comfort women.
6/25/15
Delegates Hail Human Rights Improvements in Myanmar as Third Committee Approves 8 Draft Resolutions, including 4 Country-Specific Texts
General Assembly Third Committee
(Meetings Coverage)
Third Committee approves draft resolution on human rights situation (Japanese abductions) in DPRK, Korean rep rejects, Japan expresses support and Korean rep cites comfort women in repsonse
6/25/15
Speakers Stress Crucial Need to Rebuild Post-Conflict Trust as Security Council Discusses Lessons of War, Quest for Permanent Peace
Security Council
(Meetings Coverage)
Back-and-forth between Japan and Korea’s delegates over legal accountability/ governmental responsibility in comfort women issue and other aspects of Japanese WWII imperialism.
8/27/15
Written statement* submitted by the International Career Support Association, a non-governmental organization in special consultative status
Human Rights Council
Written statement submitted to the S-G, titled “Issue of Comfort Woman”
8/27/15
Written statement* submitted by the International Career Support Association, a non-governmental organization in special consultative status
Human Rights Council
Letter addressed to Chairman of the Human Rights Committee expressing concern that committee urged Japan to rectify comfort women issue, appealing for reinvestigation
08/27/15
Japan’s stance on ‘comfort women’ issue violates victims’ rights – UN official
UN High Commissioner of Human Rights
(UN News Centre)
Navi Pillay said in a statement that Japan “has failed to pursue a comprehensive, impartial and lasting resolution” to address the rights of “comfort women.”
08/27/15
Opening Third Committee Debate on Children’s Rights, Top Officials Implore States to Combat Cybercrime, Violence
General Assembly Third Committee
(Meetings Coverage)
Back-and-forth dispute between DPRK and Japanese delegates on settlement of comfort women issue
8/31/15
Written statement* submitted by the Human Rights Now, a non-governmental organization in special consultative status
Human Rights Council
Statement entitled “Japan’s Military Sexual Slavery”, outlines Japan’s violation of victims’ human rights, denial of historical facts, distortion of history education, etc.
08/31/15
At Day Two of Women’s Commission, Delegates Offer Innovative Suggestions on Ways to Integrate Gender Equality into Post-2015 Goals
Commission on Status of Women
(Meetings Coverage)
Rep of Republic of Korea replies to Japanese statement about sexual slavery, urges the Japanese Government to take a “more sincere and courageous stance” that would bring relief to the victims
10/12/15
Top Officials Hail Milestones from Beijing to Paris on Path to Gender Equality as Third Committee Opens Debate on Women’s Rights, Empowerment
General Assembly Third Committee
(Meetings Coverage)
Republic of Korea rep references Security Council resolution 1325 (2000) and comfort women survivors needing acknowledgment of crimes
10/12/15
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE NOON BRIEFING BY FARHAN HAQ, DEPUTY SPOKESMAN FOR SECRETARY-GENERAL - U.N. RIGHTS CHIEF CALLS OPENING OF OFFICE TO MONITOR HUMAN RIGHTS IN D.P.R.K. “A BREAKTHROUGH”
High Commissioner for Human Rights
(Briefing highlights)
High Commissioner forHuman Rights, Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein, comments on opening of field office to work on the human rights situation in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, meeting with three comfort women.
10/12/15
Top Officials Hail Milestones from Beijing to Paris on Path to Gender Equality as Third Committee Opens Debate on Women’s Rights, Empowerment
General Assembly Third Committee
(Meetings Coverage)
Republic of Korea rep references Security Council resolution 1325 (2000) and comfort women survivors needing acknowledgment of crimes
12/28/15
Statement attributable to the Spokesman for the Secretary-General on the agreement between Japan and the Republic of Korea on issues related to 'comfort women'
Secretary-General (Statement)
The Secretary-General welcomes that the Governments of Japan and the Republic of Korea have reached an agreement on the issues related to “comfort women” at the bilateral Foreign Ministers meeting held in Seoul on 28 December and hopes agreement will contribute to improving bilateral relationship between the two countries.
12/28/15
UN chief welcomes agreement between Japan and Republic of Korea on ‘comfort women’
Secretary-General
(UN News Centre)
Ban Ki-Moon welcomes agreement between Japan and ROK and urges the countries to look toward their futures while recognizing history.
12/28/15
Statement attributable to the Spokesman for the Secretary-General on the agreement between Japan and the Republic of Korea on issues related to 'comfort women'
Secretary-General (Statement)
The Secretary-General welcomes that the Governments of Japan and the Republic of Korea have reached an agreement on the issues related to “comfort women” at the bilateral Foreign Ministers meeting held in Seoul on 28 December and hopes agreement will contribute to improving bilateral relationship between the two countries.
12/28/15
UN chief welcomes agreement between Japan and Republic of Korea on ‘comfort women’
Secretary-General
(UN News Centre)
Ban Ki-Moon welcomes agreement between Japan and ROK and urges the countries to look toward their futures while recognizing history.
12/28/15
Japanese-Korean accord on ‘comfort women’ must be speedily implemented, says UN official
Secretary-General’s Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict (UN News Centre)
Zainab Hawa Bangura gave press release commending Japan and Korea's agreement to resolve comfort women issue and urged its speedy implementation.
12/28/15
United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict, Zainab Hawa Bangura, welcomes agreement on ‘comfort women’
Secretary-General’s Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict (Press Release)
Zainab Hawa Bangura welcomes landmark agreement between Japan and Korea, encourages acknowledgment of crimes and urges both nations to take on leadership role in eradicating conflict-related sexual violence.
12/31/15
Japanese-Korean accord on ‘comfort women’ must be speedily implemented, says UN official
Secretary-General’s Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict (UN News Centre)
Zainab Hawa Bangura gave press release commending Japan and Korea's agreement to resolve comfort women issue and urged its speedy implementation.
12/31/15
United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict, Zainab Hawa Bangura, welcomes agreement on ‘comfort women’
Secretary-General’s Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict (Press Release)
Zainab Hawa Bangura welcomes landmark agreement between Japan and Korea, encourages acknowledgment of crimes and urges both nations to take on leadership role in eradicating conflict-related sexual violence.
12/31/15
Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General
Spokesperson for Secretary-General
Near-verbatim transcript of today’s noon briefing by Stéphane Dujarric - includes questioning about response to S-G’s praising of Japan-Korea comfort women settlement, asked if S-G conferred with victims.
12/31/15
Secretary-General's Remarks to High-Level Panel Discussion at the Human Rights Council "The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and Human Rights"
Secretary-General/Human Rights Council
(Statement)
Ban Ki Moon mentions December 2015 agreement between Japan and expresses hope thathope the faithful implementation of the agreement, guided by the recommendations of UN Human Rights mechanisms, will help wounds to be healed.
12/31/15
Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General
Spokesperson for secretary-General
Question about whether S-G welcoming bilateral Japan-Korea agreement conflicts with UN Committee on the elimination of discrimination against women’ criticism of agreement.
12/31/15
Readout of Secretary-General’s meeting with Ms. Yoon Mee-Hyang, Co-Chair and Representative for the Korean Council for the Women Drafted for Military Sexual Slavery by Japan, and Ms. Gil Won-ok, one of the victims
Secretary-General (Readout)
S-G met with survivors, expressed sympathy and called on continuation of dialogue toward comprehensive resolution.
1/8/16
Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General
Spokesperson for Secretary-General
Near-verbatim transcript of today’s noon briefing by Stéphane Dujarric - includes questioning about response to S-G’s praising of Japan-Korea comfort women settlement, asked if S-G conferred with victims.
1/8/16
Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General
Spokesperson for secretary-General
Spokesperson questioned about whether S-G still supports December Japan-Korea settlement, whether it will be his first meeting with survivors
1/8/16
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE NOON BRIEFING BY STÉPHANE DUJARRIC, SPOKESMAN FOR SECRETARY-GENERAL BAN KI-MOON
Secretary-General (briefing Highlights)
SECRETARY-GENERAL MEETS WITH ONE OF THE SO-CALLED ‘COMFORT WOMEN DRAFTED BY JAPAN DURING SECOND WORLD WAR - expresses sympathy for Ms. Gil Won-ok and suffering of victims.
2/29/16
Secretary-General's Remarks to High-Level Panel Discussion at the Human Rights Council "The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and Human Rights"
Secretary-General/Human Rights Council
(Statement)
Ban Ki Moon mentions December 2015 agreement between Japan and expresses hope thathope the faithful implementation of the agreement, guided by the recommendations of UN Human Rights mechanisms, will help wounds to be healed.
2/29/16
Written statement* submitted by the International Career Support Association, a non-governmental organization in special consultative status
Human Rights Council
Written statement submitted to the S-G, titled “Issue of Comfort Woman”
2/29/16
QUESTION OF THE HUMAN RIGHTS OF ALL PERSONS SUBJECTED TO ANY FORM OF DETENTION OR IMPRISONMENT
Commission on Human Rights
The International Fellowship of Reconciliation puts forth information on comfort women and recommendations for further study - outlines steps for Japanese govt. to abide by obligation under international law
3/7/16
Written statement* submitted by the International Career Support Association, a non-governmental organization in special consultative status
Human Rights Council
Japanese delegation’s address at 63rd UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women -” Issue of Military comfort woman”
03/07/16
Written statement* submitted by the International Career Support Association, a non-governmental organization in special consultative status
Human Rights Council
Letter addressed to Chairman of the Human Rights Committee expressing concern that committee urged Japan to rectify comfort women issue, appealing for reinvestigation
3/8/16
Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General
Spokesperson for secretary-General
Question about whether S-G welcoming bilateral Japan-Korea agreement conflicts with UN Committee on the elimination of discrimination against women’ criticism of agreement.
3/8/16
Written statement* submitted by the Human Rights Now, a non-governmental organization in special consultative status
Human Rights Council
Statement entitled “Japan’s Military Sexual Slavery”, outlines Japan’s violation of victims’ human rights, denial of historical facts, distortion of history education, etc.
3/8/16
Written statement* submitted by the Foundation of Japanese Honorary Debts, a non-governmental organization in on the roster
Human Rights Council
Resolution issued by the 11th Asian Solidarity Conference for the Issue of Military Sexual Slavery by Japan, December 8-11, 2012
3/11/16
Readout of Secretary-General’s meeting with Ms. Yoon Mee-Hyang, Co-Chair and Representative for the Korean Council for the Women Drafted for Military Sexual Slavery by Japan, and Ms. Gil Won-ok, one of the victims
Secretary-General (Readout)
S-G met with survivors, expressed sympathy and called on continuation of dialogue toward comprehensive resolution.
3/11/16
Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General
Spokesperson for secretary-General
Spokesperson questioned about whether S-G still supports December Japan-Korea settlement, whether it will be his first meeting with survivors
3/11/16
Written statement* submitted by Japan Fellowship of Reconciliation, a non-governmental organization in special consultative status
COMMISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS
Ms. OKAZAKI’s oral statement representing Members of the House of Councilors of the Japanese National Diet, explains the bill explain the Bill: “Promotion of a Resolution for Issues Concerning Victims of Wartime Sexual Coercion Act”
3/11/16
Written statement* submitted by the International Career Support Association, a non-governmental organization in special consultative status
Human Rights Council
Japanese delegation’s address at 63rd UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women -” Issue of Military comfort woman”
3/11/16
CONTEMPORARY FORMS OF SLAVERY
COMMISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS
Views of the Government of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea on crimes committed by Japan against humanity, including the issue of comfort women, challenges Japan’s “positive response”
3/11/16
Written statement* submitted by Japan Fellowship of Reconciliation, nongovernmental organizations in special consultative status
COMMISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS
Japan Fellowship of Reconciliation, in cooperation with many Japanese National Diet Members, on enactment of Promotion of Resolution for Issues concerning Victims of Wartime Sexual Coercion Act (Bill)
3/14/16
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE NOON BRIEFING BY STÉPHANE DUJARRIC, SPOKESMAN FOR SECRETARY-GENERAL BAN KI-MOON
Secretary-General (briefing Highlights)
SECRETARY-GENERAL MEETS WITH ONE OF THE SO-CALLED ‘COMFORT WOMEN DRAFTED BY JAPAN DURING SECOND WORLD WAR - expresses sympathy for Ms. Gil Won-ok and suffering of victims.
3/14/16
PROMOTION AND PROTECTION OF ALL HUMAN RIGHTS, CIVIL, POLITICAL ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND CULTURAL RIGHTS, INCLUDING THE RIGHT TO DEVELOPMENT
Human Rights Council
Written statement* submitted by the Foundation of Japanese Honorary Debts
3/14/16
FURTHER PROMOTION AND ENCOURAGEMENT OF HUMAN RIGHTS AND FUNDAMENTAL FREEDOMS, INCLUDING THE QUESTION OF THE PROGRAMME AND METHODS OF WORK OF THE COMMISSION
COMMISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS
Written statement submitted by Liberation, a non-governmental organization on the Roster, Liberation suggests that (a) the Commission should adopt a resolution approving the six-point recommendation to Japan made by the Special Rapporteur on violence against women