The government continued to exercise total control over all aspects of life, severely restricting the rights to freedom of expression, access to information and free movement. Thousands of people, including those accused of dissent or attempting to flee the country, were detained in prison camps. Prisoners were subjected to torture and other ill-treatment. Public executions were reported. Forced labour was systematically used as a form of control and to keep the economy running. Food shortages worsened but the government continued to reject international aid.
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