Universal Periodic Review Working Group – 41st Session

Universal Periodic Review of Brazil

Statement by Australia

14 November 2022

Thank you, [President/Vice President]

Australia welcomes Brazil’s engagement with the Universal Periodic Review process. We acknowledge Brazil’s efforts to improve human rights through the introduction of economic measures  to support vulnerable communities during the COVID-19 pandemic, including temporary income support through the Emergency Aid program. However, we are concerned that progress since Brazil’s last Universal Periodic Review in 2017 has been limited.

Australia recommends Brazil:

1. Promote the rights of Indigenous Peoples, including by strengthening the enforcement of laws around demarcated Indigenous lands in accordance with constitutional obligations; ensuring that Indigenous policy agencies are adequately resourced; and continuing to progress implementation of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
2. Take urgent measures to prevent and investigate attacks against human rights defenders including environmental activists, Indigenous Peoples, members of traditional communities, and LGBTI rights activists, and prosecute those involved.
3. Establish an independent mechanism to oversee the conduct of law enforcement officials and ensure effective investigation into disproportionate use of police force.
4. Ensure the right of women to freely access safe and legal abortions is guaranteed, without bureaucratic obstacle or discrimination, and in conditions that meet the need for privacy, respect and support.

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