UN Human Rights Council Universal Periodic Review – 46th Session

Universal Periodic Review of Cyprus

30 April 2024

Statement by Australia

Thank you, Vice President.

Australia welcomes Cyprus' adoption of whistleblowing legislation and creation of an Independent Authority against Corruption. We also welcome efforts to safeguard the rights of LGBTQIA+ people, including by criminalising conversion therapy.

Australia remains concerned about human trafficking into Cyprus and the Cypriot Government's management of Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking Children.

Australia recommends Cyprus:

1. Increase efforts to eliminate human trafficking of asylum seekers, including through cooperation with Turkish Cypriot representatives and establishment of best-interest procedures for Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking Children.
2. Adopt legislation to allow the legal change of name and gender for people over the age of 18.
3. Implement measures to ensure the meaningful participation of women in the peace process, including in key negotiation roles.