Universal Periodic Review Working Group – 37th Session

Universal Periodic Review of Georgia

Statement by Australia

26 January 2021

Thank you, [President/Vice President]

Australia welcomes Georgia’s efforts to advance human rights since its last UPR appearance, especially the steps taken to improve prison conditions and police training for the management of peaceful protests.

While a number of challenges with implementation remain, we acknowledge the progress made to enhance the rights of women and girls in Georgia. This includes the ratification of the Istanbul Convention in 2017 and the amendment of several laws to bring them into compliance with the Convention.

Australia also reiterates our concerns over the human rights situation in the breakaway territories of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, including the introduction of the death penalty in Abkhazia.

Australia recommends that Georgia:

1. Guarantee the protection of rights for the LGBTI community and other marginalised groups, including freedoms of expression and assembly.
2. Promote editorial independence in major print and online publications.
3. Target the root causes of child and forced marriage through education, training and public awareness campaigns and provide support services to the survivors of such marriages.
4. Continue to allow and safely facilitate peaceful protests without discrimination.
5. Strengthen the State Inspector’s Service, including by ensuring its independence in the investigation of crimes by law enforcement officials.

[193 Words Total – 92 Words Recommendations Only]