Universal Periodic Review Working Group – 40th Session

Universal Periodic Review of Togo

Statement by Australia

24 January 2022

Thank you, [President/Vice President]

Australia welcomes the recent constitutional amendment that embeds the abolition of the death penalty in Togo’s Constitution. However, Australia remains deeply concerned by reports of torture and excessive use of force by security and law enforcement officials.  

Australia recommends that Togo:

1. Guarantee freedom of expression and assembly by removing legislative provisions that limit free speech and public demonstrations; and ensure a safe and enabling environment for civil society, human rights defenders and journalists.
2. Decriminalise consensual same sex relations.
3. Eliminate the use of torture and excessive force by security and law enforcement officials, including by aligning the legal definition of torture with the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment.
4. Take legislative measures to prevent and respond to sexual and gender-based violence, including by ensuring the penalty for marital rape is addressed with appropriate gravity, in line with other forms of rape.

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