Universal Periodic Review Working Group – 44th Session

Universal Period Review of Cameroon

14 November 2023

Statement by Australia

Thank you, [President/Vice President]

Australia welcomes the Republic of Cameroon’s efforts to address human rights issues, including its de facto abolitionist stance towards the death penalty.

Australia is concerned about restrictions placed upon media organisations in Cameroon, including violence directed at journalists. We are also concerned about the ongoing discrimination faced by persons with disabilities, women and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Australia recommends Cameroon:

1. Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
2. Take legislative measures to end discrimination against people based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.
3. Implement legislative reform to ensure the ability to peacefully exercise the rights to freedom of expression, association and assembly.