44th session of the Universal Periodic Review
Universal Periodic Review Working Group – 44th Session
Universal Period Review of Burkina Faso
6 November 2023
Statement by Australia
Thank you, [President/Vice President]
Australia commends Burkina Faso for its ongoing commitment to combat female genital mutilation by establishing pathways to report suspected cases. We welcome the implementation of a UN protocol ensuring the transfer of recruited children from military forces to civilian authorities.
Australia is concerned by reports of conflict-related sexual violence against women and girls and other violations of international humanitarian law. We are also concerned by unconstitutional changes of government in Burkina Faso.
Australia recommends Burkina Faso:
- Investigate allegations of conflict-related civilian killings and sexual violence and hold perpetrators to account.
- Repeal laws that inhibit freedom of expression.
- Abolish the death penalty for all crimes by removing it as a sentence before military courts.