Universal Periodic Review Working Group – 42nd Session

Universal Periodic Review of Zambia

Statement by Australia

30 January 2023

Thank you, [President/Vice President]

Australia commends the Zambian Human Rights Commission’s achievement of full compliance with the UN Paris Principles. We welcome the formal abolition of the death penalty.

Australia is concerned by reports of discrimination and threats of violence against LGBTI persons.

Australia recommends that Zambia:

1. 1. Decriminalise consensual same-sex sexual conduct and pass laws to address discrimination and inequality based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
2. 2. Strengthen gender equality by increasing women’s political participation and addressing gender-based violence.
3. 3. Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women.

[100 words]