United Nations
Universal Periodic Review Working Group – 36th Session
Universal Periodic Review of Jamaica
Statement by Australia
Wednesday 11 November 2020
Thank you, [President/Vice President]
Australia acknowledges Jamaica’s progress in strengthening human rights and its improved Freedom House democracy score. We welcome progress and urge further action on measures to improve prison conditions and on security force related killings as a result of excessive use of force.
Australia is deeply concerned the death penalty remains part of the Jamaican legal framework.
Gender-based violence in Jamaica is increasing and we urge an accelerated, systematic approach in implementing the national strategy launched in 2017. We encourage further action to promote and protect the rights of LGBTI persons, including through legislative reform and engagement with initiatives such as the United Nations Free and Equal campaign.
Australia recommends that Jamaica:
- Abolish the death penalty and ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
- Expand resources for gender-based violence awareness campaigns, legal aid, shelters and health, education and employment services for victims and survivors.
- Decriminalize consensual same-sex relations.
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