Universal Periodic Review Working Group – 45th Session

Universal Periodic Review of the Republic of Mauritius

24 January 2024

Statement by Australia

Thank you, Vice President

Australia commends Mauritius for introducing a National Gender Policy, National Strategy to End Gender-Based Violence and Children’s Act.

We welcome the decriminalisation of same-sex relations and Mauritius’ support for the UN moratorium on the use of the death penalty.

Australia remains concerned by ongoing gender-based violence, police brutality, pre-trial detention delays and barriers facing people with disabilities.

Australia recommends Mauritius:

1. Strengthen legal measures to combat gender-based violence and improve victim support, including through the National Strategy to End Gender-Based Violence.
2. Ratify the Optional Protocol to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and enact a Disability Rights Act.
3. Ensure effective investigation of police brutality allegations and reduce delays in criminal prosecutions.