GNP+ wants to express its concern about the fate and position of HIV activists in South Korea, following police brutality and intimidation during the International Congress on AIDS in Asia and the Pacific (ICAAP) in Busan. We understand that on 27 August Korean police arrested several demonstrators who were protesting peacefully against the impact of Free Trade Agreements which are being negotiated across the region with the European Union and the United States. These agreements will impact the availability of affordable generic medications in the region and worldwide.

According to information received, when demonstrators tried to stop police from arresting their fellow activists, people were hurt and two demonstrators ended up in hospital. Police have intimidated activists, followed and photographed people, and threatened injured activists with criminal charges.

International activists, including GNP+, are seriously concerned about the fate of their Korean colleagues once the ICAAP conference is over. We call on the AIDS Society of Asia and Pacific as ICAAP conference organisers to follow up with Korean authorities and ensure there is no further harassment or police action against these HIV activists.

Different organizations documented the arrests and ensuing protests. Please find pictures and video of the action here:

Pictures 1 - Pictures 2 - Video 1 - Video 2 - Video 3