Australia is a stable, democratic and culturally diverse nation with a highly skilled workforce and one of the strongest performing economies in the world.
Australia recognises African-led diplomatic efforts in support of a peaceful solution in the Eastern DRC and call on regional states and parties to cease support for armed groups perpetrating human rights violations and abuses.
Australia urges the Malian authorities to adopt legal mechanisms to protect children, combat child marriage and take steps to eliminate the practice of female genital mutilation.
Australia notes the Special Rapporteur’s recommendations for both immediate and long-term responses to improve the protection and promotion of human rights for minority peoples.
Australia commends the courageous advocacy of civil society organisations, human rights defenders and others who continue to carry out essential human rights work in difficult circumstances.
Australia is encouraged by improving humanitarian access in northern Ethiopia yet notes many challenges remain. We urge all parties to continue working together to remove barriers to humanitarian assistance reaching all affected communities.
