Universal Periodic Review Working Group – 44th Session

Universal Period Review of Cabo Verde

7 November 2023

Statement by Australia

Thank you, [President/Vice President]

Australia commends Cabo Verde’s continued leadership to protect and promote LGBTQIA+ rights through draft legislation criminalising acts of discrimination based on any grounds, including against LGBTQIA+ persons. We also welcome collaboration with Cabo Verde through the UN LGBTI Core Group.

Australia acknowledges efforts by Cabo Verde to achieve gender equality through the National Action Plan for Gender Equality 2021-2025, however remains concerned by the high rates of gender-based violence and discrimination.

Australia recommends Cabo Verde:

1. Enact legislative measures to reduce and criminalise gender-based violence.
2. Improve prison conditions and reduce rates of incarceration.
3. Fully implement the National Action Plan for Gender Equality.