9 July 2024

Australian Statement

Thank you President / Vice President

Australia thanks the High Commissioner for the report, along with the States who contributed case studies used to inform the findings.

Australia engages all countries through their Universal Periodic Review (UPR) process. Its universality and the range of stakeholders, including civil society and National Human Rights Institutions, are cornerstone to our belief that this process is an opportunity for all States to identify achievements, and reflect on challenges, in meeting obligations to protect and fulfill human rights.

Australia acknowledges the important role of the Voluntary Fund for Participation in the Universal Periodic Review and the Voluntary Fund for Financial and Technical Assistance in the Implementation of the Universal Periodic Review.  Along with National Mechanisms for Implementation, Reporting and Follow-up, these funds fill a vital gap in supporting States to implement recommendations from the UPR process.  

It is essential that the objective information gathered through the UPR process, along with advice of independent experts, including from the OHCHR, human rights treaty bodies, and Special Procedure Mandate Holders is harnessed to establish a blueprint to address pressing human rights challenges, and prevent anyone being left behind.

Australia encourages civil society, States and development partners to link recommendations from the UPR process with corresponding Sustainable Development Goals when designing and delivering development programs.

Australia asks, what role can the OHCHR play in promoting greater alignment between UPR outcomes and other UN reporting mechanisms, to encourage closer coordination at the country-level?