Human rights

The 44th session of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) is a United Nations process that considers the human rights record of each UN Member State. It is a mechanism of the UN Human Rights Council.

Today we want to focus on mayors of towns and cities Russia has attempted to illegally annex. At least 30 mayors have been detained since 24 February 2022. At least six remain in Russia’s custody.

It is our responsibility to recognise early warning signs and react swiftly and decisively to protect populations at risk, but also to confront deeply entrenched racism.

Today we want to focus on mayors of towns and cities Russia has attempted to illegally annex. At least 30 mayors have been detained since 24 February 2022. At least six remain in Russia’s custody.

Our countries are committed to adopting continued and effective long-term health policies that protect Indigenous Peoples communities and individuals’ rights.

We are convinced that parties to conflict can prevent crimes against children and protect children by abiding with their international law obligations.

We are committed to championing the work of human rights defenders, including young activists; amplifying their experiences; countering narratives that discredit their work; and engaging them on opportunities to ensure a better future.

The pledge to “Leave no one behind” made by UN member States at the adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development means that implementation of the SDGs should take into account the specific needs of vulnerable countries.

All of us joining this statement today hope that understanding and addressing the root causes of this disastrous event will prevent the occurrence of a similar tragedy in the future.

Australia commends those states that have engaged with the Council and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and those who have sought technical assistance to improve the human rights situation in their country.