In recent years increasing attention has been paid to human rights. Human rights are standards that recognize and protect the dignity of all human beings. Article 10 of the Constitution of the Republic of Korea declares that ‘All citizens shall be assured of human worth and dignity and have the right to pursuit of happiness.’

Despite this firm law, human rights violations due to sexual harassment, sexual assault, violence, and racism often occur around us. Many people hesitate to tell their worries to the people around them, and struggle alone even though they have experienced or witnessed such incidents. So, I would like to introduce the ‘DU Human Rights Commission’, which can help people like this.

<Interviewer> L.L.F reporter, Hyeon-Bin Song

<Interviewee> Jae-In Kim, a researcher and counselor in the ‘DU Human Rights Commission’

Q1. Can you introduce me to the DU Human Rights Commission?

A1. The ‘DU Human Rights Commission’ was established to protect the human rights of DU students and to realize their dignity and value as human beings. Our commission is in charge of consulting human rights violations, sexual harassment, sexual violence, and handling reported cases. In addition, we provide preventive education about them and sometimes hold cultural events to improve human rights awareness on campus. We also have the 'Self Healing Lounge' to help students relax their minds.

Q2. Who can use the services provided by the DU Human Rights Commission?

A2. It is available to all DU students. If you are one of the complainants or the accused, you can request a consultation A third party can also report on behalf of the victim, but only if the victim agrees to it.

Q3. When is the DU Human Rights Commission available?

A3.

- When you want to know if what you’ve been through applies to human rights violations.

- When you have difficulties or need knowledge related to sex or human rights.

- When you have experienced conflict of abuse in a dating relationship.

- When you want to participate in activities to guarantee human rights.

Q4. How do reports and counseling work?

A4. Once the request for counseling is received, the counselor will consult with the victim. After that, we will report by a due process of law depending on the victim's decision. It is okay to apply for an initial consultation without reporting procedure. You can contact the DU Human Rights Commision by telephone, email, fax, or by visiting the counseling center. You can check the information about them on their website (https//hrc.daegu.ac.kr).

Q5. What would you like to say to DU students?

A5. If you have experienced problems such as human rights violations, sexual harassment, sexual violence, or witnessed your friends suffering from them, don't hesitate to contact us. We will provide you with detailed information on your problem and help you solve it. We are always ready to talk to you.

I hope more people will pay attention to the DU Human Rights Commission and participate in activities for human rights protection. The most important thing is to respect and care for each other.

L.L.F reporter Hyeon-Bin Song