UN Human Rights Council Universal Periodic Review – 46th Session

Universal Periodic Review of Uruguay

1 May 2024

Statement by Australia

Thank you, Vice President.

Australia commends Uruguay for its efforts to address recommendations from its last review, including through the adoption of a National Plan on Human Rights.

Australia remains concerned by high incarceration rates and prison conditions. We are also concerned by the incidence of child marriage and inadequate shelters for domestic violence survivors, particularly in rural areas.

Australia recommends Uruguay:

1. Reduce overcrowding in prisons and provide detainees access to rehabilitation and integration opportunities.
2. Raise the minimum age of marriage to 18 years, consistent with international standards.
3. Provide adequate resourcing to implement the Gender-Based Violence Law and strengthen support services for survivors, including increased access to shelters.