Antigua and Barbuda Review - 53rd session of Universal Periodic Review

إعلان مهم.

يرجى من المتحدثين الكرام إلقاء بياناتهم بسرعة معقولة لضمان ترجمة فورية وفية وعالية الجودة.

Speakers are kindly reminded to deliver their.

Statements at a reasonable pace to ensure complete and quality interpretation.

Il est rappelé aux orateurs qu'ils.

Doivent présenter leur déclaration à un rythme raisonnable afin de garantir une interprétation complète et de qualité.

Напоминаем ораторам, что для того, чтобы устный перевод был полным и качественным, необходимо выступать в умеренном темпе.

Se ruega a los oradores que pronuncien sus declaraciones a un ritmo razonable para garantizar una interpretación íntegra y de calidad.

Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, I hereby declare open the ninth meeting of the 53rd session of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review. And we will now proceed with a review of Antigua and Barbuda. Before we begin, please let me remind you that all delegations should upload their oral statements through the online system for inscription on the list of speakers event before the opening of the review they intend to address. In accordance with the Human Rights Council resolution 5/1, the review is based on the national report prepared by the State under review and the compilation of UN information and the summary of stakeholders' information, both prepared by the OHCHR. I now have the honour to give the floor to Ms. Annetta Jackson, Crown Counsel, Office of the Attorney General, to introduce the delegation. You have the floor, please.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. It is a privilege to represent Antigua and Barbuda as head of delegation during its fourth cycle of the Universal Periodic Review and to introduce Antigua and Barbuda's national report. As a nation, Antigua and Barbuda has made significant strides to implement the recommendations received during the third cycle of the Universal Periodic Review, which is evidenced by the comprehensive and robust report that I am pleased to present today. On a global level, Antigua and Barbuda has continued to advance the agenda to address inequalities, highlighting the intersection of human rights and climate justice, which remains a core concern for the nation as a small island developing state. Antigua and Barbuda places the highest importance on the Universal Periodic Review process as a vital mechanism for advancing human rights. Most recently, Madam Vice President, my country hosted the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, which saw distinguished representatives from civil society, national human rights institutions, and high-level government delegations, including His Majesty King Charles III and heads of state and government, who convened to address the key issues facing the people who live within Commonwealth Member States. It is due to this unprecedented exigency and national obligations of hosting this historic gathering and its high-level delegations that the presence of a government minister could not be possible at this session and had to be respectfully excused. Consequently, Madam Vice President, I am before you today as the sole in-person member of Antigua and Barbuda’s delegation at the 53rd session of the Universal Periodic Reviews Working Group. On behalf of myself and the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, I take this opportunity to extend our sincere gratitude to all of the contributing members of the Voluntary Fund for Participation for facilitating our delegation's involvement in this review process. Despite his absence, accommodations have been made for the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Immigration to pre-record Antigua and Barbuda's opening statement. Now, with your leave, Madam Vice President, It is my honor to cede the floor to the Honorable E.P. Chet Green, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Immigration, to deliver the opening statement on behalf of the Government of Antigua and Barbuda via video.

Excellences, distinguished delegates, representatives of civil society, ladies and gentlemen, it is for me an honor and a privilege to represent the government and people of Antigua and Barbuda At this, the fourth cycle of the Universal Periodic Review and the 53rd session of the UPR Working Group. Mr. President, on the 1st of November 2026, my country marked 45 years of independence, and in just a few days, we shall mark 45 years as a member of the United Nations. The grassroots struggle for the rights and freedoms of the person rests at the very core, the bedrock of Antigua and Barbuda's independence movement. By mobilizing masses through the trade union movement to advocate for their rights, political franchise, and freedom of association, Antigua and Barbuda emerged as a sovereign state, adopting the principles of democracy, constitutional supremacy, and the rule of law, not to mention separation of powers. The late Right Honorable Celesta Bryan Bird, national hero and former Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, stated, and I quote, "Freedom is an opportunity for responsibility to develop." End of quote. So strong is our sense of responsibility and our belief in the rights of the person that the fundamental human rights and freedoms enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights are all entrenched in the preamble and in chapter two of our constitution, preserving the dignity and worth of every human being. Our participation here today reaffirms our commitment, our unreserved commitment, to the principles of the United Nations and the vital work of the Human Rights Council. I place on record appreciation and thanks to the High Commissioner for Human Rights and the members of the Trika for their work during this process. We also extend sincere gratitude to the contributing members of the Voluntary Fund for Participation for facilitating our delegation's involvement in this review. Before I begin the substance of my contribution, I wish to update the Council on the significant progress made across key thematic areas since our third cycle review in 2021, addressing Antigua and Barbuda and how we converted recommendations into concrete actions while responding to advanced questions posed by States. Mr. President, our path to progress has not been without obstacles. In recent years, our nation has borne the severe, lasting financial impact of COVID-19, along with the capital cost of rebuilding from the devastation of Hurricane Irma. Hurricane Irma destroyed 95% of all properties, public and private, on the island of Barbuda. And the estimated cost of recovery, so that approximately US $222.2 million. Additionally, the emergence of COVID-19 in 2020 led to the sudden pause in tourism, which accounts for 54%, almost 55, of total GDP. and more than 48% of total employment, and has hampered the economic advancement of Antigua and Barbuda in recent years. As a small island developing state, these compounding crises severely strained our public infrastructure, displaced local populations, and constrained our financial and human resource capacities. Nevertheless, we have remained resilient, prioritizing human-centered recovery and advancing fundamental freedoms despite our structural limits. Mr. President, Antigua and Barbuda reviewed in the 39th session of the UPR in November of 2021. We received 155 recommendations and supported 36 recommendations. While limited resources present inherent constraints to implementation of these recommendations, our government has actively worked to align our national legal framework with the international standards. while enacting policies that align with our supported recommendations. Mr. President, Antigua and Barbuda remains committed to equality, non-discrimination, and the protection of rights and dignity of all persons. During the review cycle, we noted 16 recommendations concerning decriminalization of consensual same-sex relations and protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. In July of 2022, the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court ruled on these matters, bringing the domestic legal framework closer aligned with recommendations raised during the previous cycle. The government continues, including through the Directorate of Gender Affairs, to strengthen policies promoting equality and the protection from discrimination and violence. The forthcoming National Gender Equality and Social Inclusion Policy is intended to further advance these protections while supporting the equal enjoyment of human rights by all persons. Antigua and Barbuda's constitution protects the right to life and ensures that each person benefits from the right to a fair trial and secure protection of the law. For over three decades, we have had a de facto moratorium on the death penalty, and there are currently no individuals on death row at His Majesty's prison. In December of 2024, Antigua and Barbuda voted in favor of the UN General Assembly biannual resolution calling for global moratorium on the death penalty. While we have not ratified the optional protocols to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, we remain committed to upholding fundamental civil and political rights, including protection against torture or cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment. Antigua and Barbuda has enacted legislation to protect against torture, The Constitution further entrenches the principles embodied in the ICCPR. Mr. President, Antigua and Barbuda is a signatory to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Through the Ministry of Social Transformation and the Ministry of Education, we have developed a framework that emphasizes the permanency of the welfare of the child and safeguarding from abuse. The application of corporal punishment in school settings is strictly governed by the Education Act. which limits its use to a last resort measure. It is standard policy that corporal punishment should not be used. The Children Care and Adoption Act of 2015 also provides a robust legal framework for the protection of child and children from abuse and neglect. The Family and Social Services Division also delivers parenting classes and parenting counseling to ensure that parents are steered towards alternative forms of discipline. ensuring that children are not subject to injurious punishment. Antigua and Barbuda has also ratified the optional protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child concerning the sale of children, child prostitution, and child *********** underscoring the nation's commitment to protecting children from abuse and exploitation. Mr. President, Antigua and Barbuda continues to deepen its international commitments in the spirit of cooperation, and in May 2022, We became the first Caribbean nation to ratify the ILO Convention 190, which entered into force domestically in May of 2023. Furthering our commitment to advancing the protection of persons from sexual violence, we have held several broad national consultations on the Workplace Sexual Harassment Bill, which has now been tabled before the Parliament. Mr. President, as a small island state, climate change poses for us and existential threat to the enjoyment and fundamental human rights. The human right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment is one which we continue to champion both locally and on the global stage. Through our Environmental Protection and Management Act, Antigua and Barbuda continues to preserve our natural environment while promoting biodiversity. We also formally ratified the UNBBNJ Treaty in 2025 and continue to focus and work in preserving the right to a safe climate and healthy environment. Further, through government agencies like the Public Utilities Authority, the National Solid Waste Authority, and the Central Board of Health, Antigua and Barbuda continues to ensure that our citizens and residents have access to clean water and adequate sanitation and non-toxic environments in which to live and work. Mr. President, led by Prime Minister Gaston Brown, Antigua and Barbuda successfully sought a landmark advisory opinion from the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, defining state due diligence and accountability obligations regarding greenhouse gas emissions. In 2024, we hosted the fourth International Conference on Small Island Developing States, adopting the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS, as a global action framework. The ABAS focuses on concretizing the implementation actions to build diversified blue-green, and digital economies, foster social equity, human development, and gender equality, while securing reliable energy, water, and food systems alongside climate resilient infrastructure. The CID Center of Excellence established through the agenda serves as a implementing arm for the SIDS outcome document to ensure that states take tangible steps to address the impact of climate change and mitigate against them. Mr. President, Antigua and Barbuda has continued to work toward the integration of environmentally sustainable practices by introducing solar energy for government buildings and schools. Concessions have also been made available for persons importing electric and hybrid vehicles to reduce the reliance on fossil fuels, and since 2018, we've banned importation, distribution, and use of single-use plastic bags and styrofoam. Climate change for us is a human rights matter, and we join other small island states and least developed countries in calling for its continued recognition as such by the Human Rights Council. We also call for the recognition of the vulnerabilities faced by small island states to the impacts of climate change, which affect our ability to implement recommendations emerging from the UPR process. Mr. President, during the third cycle of the UPR, Antigua and Barbuda noted eight recommendations concerning conditions of the nation's primary detention facility, His Majesty's Prison. We acknowledge that a new prison facility is needed to ensure full compliance with international standards; however, lack of funding remains a primary barrier. Despite financial constraints, I'm happy to report major upgrades at His Majesty's prison, with the addition of 170 new beds, retrofitted containers, upgraded sanitation and kitchen facilities, and expanded sewage infrastructure. 42 new correctional officers were recruited in 2025 and trained extensively in human rights and prison management, rehabilitation, conflict resolution, and mental health. In late 2025, targeted criminal justice forms were also launched to streamline prosecutions and reduce remand times, ensuring the efficiency in the delivery of justice. Young offenders are also separated from court system and are brought before the Child Justice Board, which handles initial assessments, inquiries, and diversion programs to children under the age of 18 who are accused of committed offenses. Under the Child Justice Act, The Dennis Bowers Rehabilitation Centre reopened in 2025 as a dedicated rehabilitative facility. Non-violent child offenders and boys requiring state protection are separated from other populations and integrated into the public school system. There have also been significant changes within the court system with the introduction of the Family Proceedings Rules in 2022, which has transformed the family court system in Antigua and Barbuda, providing for more efficient and streamlined access to justice in the country. Following the 2026 general elections, female representation in Parliament reached historic heights, featuring two new female Cabinet Ministers and seven female Senators, including the President of the Senate. Mr. President, women's representation in judicial leadership has also improved with the appointment of a female Chief Magistrate and a female Industrial Court President. Addressing gender-based and sexual violence remains a priority area for the government and people of Antigua and Barbuda. Through the Directorate of Gender Affairs and the Support and Referral Center, survivors of domestic abuse and sexual violence receive forensic medical care, legal aid, and crisis support. Within our criminal justice system, we continue to utilize specialized sexual offenses model court procedures for vulnerable witnesses. Furthering our commitment to preserving the dignity and rights of women and victims of sexual and gender-based violence, the Cabinet approved the construction of a purpose-built emergency shelter for victims of domestic violence. We are aware of the concerns with respect to the criminalization of marital rape. The Government is currently considering an amendment to the Sexual Offences Act, including addressing provisions regarding the age of consent. The proposed amendment to the Sexual Offences Act will be subject to wide public consultation and presentations to the religious community and civil society. Mr. President, Antigua and Barbuda, like the wider Caribbean region, remains a zone of concern for trafficking in persons. We have enacted legislation that addresses the prevention of trafficking in persons, and the Trafficking in Persons Prevention Unit continues to issue annual monitoring reports and coordinate with the Labour Department. family and social services, gender affairs, and civil society. Mr. President, the government is intentional in ensuring that its program and policies continue the goal to eradicate poverty in Antigua and Barbuda. There has also been targeted intervention by the government in the area of housing to ensure that persons have an adequate standard of living. Through the Home Advancement Program for the Poor and Indigent, HAPPY, 111 new homes have been constructed for vulnerable families, with another 53 additional units planned for 2026. Through National Housing and CHAPA, the government also provides low-cost housing options for citizens. Government has implemented a national policy and plan of action on healthy aging, which focuses on promoting the participation of the aging population in social and economic life by improving physical and mental health care while managing chronic non-communicable diseases. The Ministry of Health also continues to deliver free at-home care for the elderly through the GRACE program, alongside funding residential care at the Fines Institute. Nearly 7,000 pensioners and 1,674 vulnerable households receives utility subsidies through vouchers. Antigua and Barbuda continues to reaffirm its commitment to advancement and protection of the rights of persons living with disabilities. Since the enactment of Disabilities and Equal Opportunities Act, the National Vocational Rehabilitation Center for Persons with Disabilities was fully renovated, and since 2024, has been running an aquaponics training and employment scheme. In April of this year, the government opened the Caveau Etienne Centre to house the CARE project, which provides dedicated residential health care for persons with severe disabilities. The Ministry of Education has also ensured that teachers are trained to adapt and to meet the needs of students with disabilities, ensuring that they are properly served and catered to in the education system. Mr. President, mental health has become a major focus of public health efforts in Antigua and Barbuda. We acknowledge that the existing legal framework around mental health care is rooted in stigma and institutionalization, and in an effort to transition the mental health services delivery into modernity, the Mental Health Bill of 2026 was drafted with the guidance and assistance from the Pan American Health Organization. The proposed legislation aims to modernize care and transition the Clearview Psychiatric Hospital into a new behavioral health unit that focuses on people-centered approaches to treatment. We've also marked notable advances in healthcare. The Celeste Byrd Medical Center executed its 13th successful kidney transplant in 2025. And while construction begins on a new renal center to expand dialysis capacity to 39 stations, we have also introduced free nationwide HPV cervical cancer screening for eligible women. Regarding the recommendations for the creation of a national human rights institution, we have explored restructuring the ombudsman office into a hybrid entity, which would also function as a national human rights institution. The Office of the Ombudsman currently exists within our constitutional framework as an independent entity tasked with receiving and actioning complaints against government and its agencies where rights are breached. Antigua and Barbuda recognizes the need for dedicated national human rights institution aligned with the Paris Principles and welcomes technical assistance to map the transition into a hybrid approach for the implementation of a national human rights institution. Furthermore, Antigua and Barbuda lacks a centralized human rights tracking mechanism or dedicated monitoring unit, and remains open to technical assistance and capacity building partnerships for members and international partners to assist in ensuring that we meet our international reporting obligations and that we can effectively implement the recommendations coming out of the UPR process. In conclusion, Mr. President, Antigua and Barbuda participates in this forum, the fourth cycle of the Universal Periodic Review, with total transparency and an unwavering dedication to human dignity. I wish to close with a quote from the nation's leader, the Right Honorable Gaston Browne, from his address at the general debate of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. I quote: If this world is truly better together, let us be accountable together and be accountable to all, not only to a few nations, but to all nations, not only to the present generation, but also to the generations that will follow, not only to those who wield power, but to those against whom power is wielded." End of quote. I assure you of the commitment of the government and people of Antigua and Barbuda to the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms, and to the work of the Human Rights Council and the Office of the Commissioner of Human Rights. We remain open to constructive dialogue, comments, and recommendations from distinguished delegates as we continue building a fair, equal, and resilient society for all. I thank you.

I thank His Excellency for the statement. We shall now begin our interactive dialogue, and before giving the floor to delegations for their questions and comments, I would like to remind you that the speaking time will be one minute and 50 seconds for all delegations. I wish to reiterate that issues of political, bilateral and territorial nature should be kept out of our deliberations. Moreover, United Nations terminology should be used when referring to States and territories. Please be reminded that only the use of words "recommend" or "recommendation" will ensure that the relevant parts of your statements are included in the recommendations section of the Working Group report. Also, allow me to recall that the Human Rights Council strongly rejects any acts of intimidation or reprisal against individuals and groups who cooperate or have cooperated with the United Nations and its representatives and mechanisms in the field of human rights. We will now begin with a list of speakers, and first, i give the floor to Ecuador.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Ecuador would like to thank the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Immigration of Antigua and Barbuda for the report presented. We acknowledge the country’s efforts in tackling climate action, in particular its commitment to achieve zero net greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and measures to reduce plastic pollution. Constructively, Ecuador recommends the following: ratify the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights; 2. Bolster the legal framework in terms of education, considering incorporating the right to education in the Constitution and adopt legislative measures to ensure at least 12 years of primary and secondary free-of-charge education; 3. Adopt measures aimed at combating gender stereotypes. and ensure the full and equal participation of women in public life and in the economy, promoting greater women's representation in decision-making spaces. ECOWAS wishes the best of success to Entouiga Ambabouda at its fourth review cycle. Thank you very much.

I thank you. And next, I give the floor to Estonia.

Estonia welcomes Antigua and Barbuda to its fourth UPR and thanks for the presentation of the national report. Estonia welcomes Antigua and Barbuda's efforts to advance equality and non-discrimination of LGBTIQ+ persons and progress on children's rights, including through measures to ensure access to free education, strengthen child protection legislation, and upholding safeguards for children in conflict with the law. ESTUNO recommends to: 1. Adequately resource the National Strategy Action Plan to End Violence and Gender-Based Violence 2023-2027 to ensure implementation of its prevention, protection, and capacity-building measures. 2. Review and reform legislation restricting access to abortion. to ensure sexual and reproductive health and rights for all women and girls; and three, establish a formal moratorium on the application of the death penalty for all kinds of crimes. We wish Antigua and Barbuda a successful review. Thank you.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to Ethiopia.

Thank you, madam Vice President. Ethiopia welcomes the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda and thanks the delegation for presenting its national report and comment for its continued commitment to the UPR process. We welcome the country's efforts to promote access to education, health care, social protection, and gender equality, as well as its initiatives to strengthen the protection of children and persons with disabilities. In a spirit of constructive dialogue and solidarity, Ethiopia wishes to offer the following three recommendations: One, continue strengthening social protection programs and equitable access to essential services, particularly for vulnerable populations. Two, continue enhancing measures to prevent and respond to gender-based violence and strengthen the protection of women and children. Three, continue integrating human rights considerations into national climate adaptation and disaster risk reduction policies. In conclusion, Ethiopia wishes Antigua and Barbuda a successful outcome of this review and the effective implementation of its UPR recommendations. I thank you, Madam Vice President.

Thank you, Ethiopia. Next, I give the floor to Finland.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Finland welcomes Antigua and Barbuda's engagement in the UPR process. We commend the decriminalization of consensual same-sex relations following the 2022 court ruling. We also welcome ongoing efforts to advance gender equality, strengthen support services for victims and survivors of sexual and gender-based violence, and promote the rights of persons with disabilities. In a constructive spirit, Finland recommends that Antigua and Barbuda: 1. Criminalize marital rape in all circumstances and adopt and effectively implement the National Strategic Action Plan to End Violence against Women and Girls. 2. Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty. 3. prohibit corporal punishment of children in all settings, including schools, and promote positive, non-violent forms of discipline. We wish Antigua and Barbuda a successful review. I thank you.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to France.

Thank you, madam Vice President. France would like to welcome the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda and wish it a successful UPR. France welcomes the progress Antigua and Barbuda has made in combating discrimination against LGBTI persons and measures to protect children. France recommends, firstly, to establish a moratorium on the death penalty and to ratify the second optional protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Secondly, strengthen judicial and legislative responses to human smuggling; thirdly, pursue the fight against gender-based violence, in particular sexual harassment; fourthly, ratify the optional protocol to the Convention against Torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. I thank you. Thank you very much.

Thank you, Madam Vice President.

Georgia warmly welcomes the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda and thanks the delegation for the presentation of the national report. We appreciate the efforts of the Government of Antigua and Barbuda to advance the promotion and protection of human rights since the third cycle of the Universal Periodic Review. We commend Antigua and Barbuda for its leadership in advancing the interests of small island developing states, including by hosting the fourth International Conference on SIDS in 2024, which resulted in the adoption of the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for Small Island Developing States. Georgia notes with appreciation the progress made in alleviating poverty and strengthening social protection systems, as well as the measures taken to improve access to health care. In the spirit of constructive dialogue, Georgia would like to recommend to the Government of Antigua and Barbuda: 1. Continue efforts to protect and promote the rights of the child, including by ensuring access to education and health care; 2. continue implementing policies aimed at mitigating the impact of climate change and enhancing the resilience of communities to climate-related.

Risks and natural disasters.

We wish the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda a very successful UPR.

I thank you.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to Germany.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Germany welcomes the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda and commends the government's efforts to align the country's legal framework with international human rights standards. Germany particularly welcomes the High Court's ruling to decriminalize same-sex relationships. However, Germany remains concerned about the conditions in Antigua and Barbuda's sole prison, partly resulting from overcrowding. Germany also notes with concern that the government has not imposed an official moratorium on the death penalty. Therefore, Germany, in a constructive spirit, recommends that Antigua and Barbuda: 1. Ensure that places of detention comply with the UN Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners, the Nelson Mandela Rules; 2. Establish a formal moratorium as an initial step towards abolishing the death penalty. We wish Antigua and Barbuda a successful review. Thank you.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to Guyana.

Good morning, Madam Vice President. Guyana extends a warm welcome to the Honorable Minister Paul Chet Green and his distinguished delegation of our sister CARICOM state, Antigua and Barbuda. Guyana proposes the following recommendations to the delegation in a constructive spirit. One, urge the development partners to collaborate with Antigua and Barbuda to develop, strengthen, and implement comprehensive strategies to address climate change adaptation and mitigation, and build national resilient capacity.

Two, urge the OHCHR.

And other relevant parties to collaborate with Antigua and Barbuda in establishing national human rights institution and in raising public awareness on human rights issues. Three, collaborate with PAHO/WHO to build on gains in addressing non-communicable diseases.

Four, collaborate with PAHO WHO to ensure the realization of the elimination of cervical cancer as a public health problem.

And five, ensure access to menstrual products for all women and girls and family planning support. We commend the government of Antigua and Barbuda on successfully hosting this week the 2026 meeting of the Commonwealth Heads of Government and the fourth International SITS Conference in 2024. We also commend Antigua and Barbuda on its ratification of the BBNJ Agreement and on being the first Caribbean country to ratify the ILO's Convention 190, violence and harassment in the world of work, and ratifying the ILO's Convention 183, maternity protection. Guyana wishes the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda every success during this review. Thank you.

Thank you. Next, taking the floor to Haiti.

Thank you, Madame Vice President. The Haitian delegation warmly thanks the delegation from Antigua and Barbuda for presenting its fourth national report as part of the universal periodic review. We hail the headway made to promote and protect human rights. In particular, women's representation within the judiciary and the establishment of a register of sex offenders, as well as the extension of maternity leave to 14 weeks. We also welcome efforts undertaken to strengthen women and children's protection and initiatives taken to combat sexual violence. The Haitian delegation encourages Antigua and Barbuda to establish a national human rights institution in line with resolution 48/134 of the United Nations General Assembly. In a spirit of constructive dialogue, Haiti makes the following two recommendations: 1. Reduce prison overcrowding and the use of pre-trial detention. and two, ensure that marital rape is a criminal offense in all circumstances and bolster protection of victims from sexual violence. Haiti reaffirms its commitment to Caribbean solidarity and to regional cooperation to promote and protect human rights. We wish Antigua and Barbuda a successful review. I thank you, Madam Vice President. Thank you.

I give the floor to Iceland.

Madam Vice President, Iceland welcomes the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda and its national report. In the spirit of constructive engagement, Iceland recommends the following: 1. Ratify the second optional protocol to the ICCPR and abolish the death sentence, or the death penalty. 2. Criminalize all forms of gender-based violence, including marital rape. Three, legalize abortion in all circumstances and ensure access to sexual and reproductive health services. Four, ensure access to comprehensive sexuality education in and out of school settings. Five, enact legislation protecting the rights of intersex children, including by prohibiting medically unnecessary surgeries. Six, adopt comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation that explicitly prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sex characteristics. And seven, ban conversion therapy. I wish Antigua and Barbuda all success for its review. I thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to.

We present to Antigua and Barbuda: 1. Continue strengthening measures to address the effects of climate change and natural disasters, with particular attention to protecting vulnerable communities and safeguarding their access to housing, health care, and other essential services.

2.

Continue advancing gender equality and take further measures to prevent and combat gender-based and domestic violence.

We wish the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda all success in its review.

Thank you.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to Indonesia.

The participation of Antigua and Barbuda in the fourth cycle of UPR. We acknowledge Antigua and Barbuda's leadership, particularly among the small island developing states, in advancing climate resilience and environmental protection. We especially applaud Antigua and Barbuda's commitment to the right to development, as demonstrated through various measures aimed at improving living standards and livelihood of its people. The provision of newly constructed homes for persons in vulnerable situations under the Home Advancement Program for the Poor and Indigent is a commendable step to ensure the right of its people to adequate housing. In support of human rights in Antigua and Barbuda, Indonesia offers the following recommendations. One, consider acceding to the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of all Migrant Workers and Members of their Families. Two, take all necessary steps to establish an independent national human rights institution to strengthen the promotion and protection of human rights. Three, intensify efforts to increase women's representation and participation in political and public life, including in leadership positions. And four, enhance access to inclusive education and equal employment opportunities for persons with disabilities. Finally, we wish Antigua and Barbuda every success in its UPR. I thank you.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to Iraq.

Thank you, Vice President. We welcome the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda, and we acknowledge their efforts in preparing the report. We equally welcome the positive developments in the field of environment policy and tapping into renewable energy and sustainable development. Constructively, we provide the following recommendations: increase access to education free of charge and providing it with funding; banning corporal punishment in all levels of education. Secondly, combat human trafficking, following the important steps taken by the Government and the judiciary. In closing, we wish Antigua and Barbuda a successful UPR. Thank you, Vice President.

I thank you. Next, I give the floor to Ireland.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Ireland thanks the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda for its presentation today. We welcome Antigua and Barbuda's efforts to advance human rights domestically and note progress made since the last UPR cycle, including the announcement of reforms to reduce.

The backlog in the criminal justice system and improve prison infrastructure in order to reduce prison overcrowding.

Ireland also recognises the ruling of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court and High Court of Justice of Antigua and Barbuda for striking down the criminalisation of consensual same-sex sexual conduct in 2022. Ireland regrets that gender-based violence remains a concern in Antigua and Barbuda, and the High prevalence of domestic violence against women. We encourage Antigua and Barbuda to take steps to address training gaps around gender-based violence laws for police officers, judges, and employers, including in the context of disaster response strategies. Ireland recommends that Antigua and Barbuda: 1. Adopt comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation to protect individuals on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sex characteristics; Two, improve enforcement of gender-based violence laws, including mandatory training for police, judges, and employers on gender-based violence laws.

We wish Antigua and Barbuda every success in the CUPR cycle.

I thank you.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to Italy.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Italy thanks the distinguished delegation of Antigua and Barbuda, and welcomes the decriminalization of consensual adult same-sex relations, as well as the efforts undertaken to prevent trafficking and sexual exploitation of women and girls. Italy offers the following recommendations: Formalize at EU a moratorium on executions and adhere to the second optional protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, with a view to formally and fully abolishing the death penalty. 2. Continue efforts to strengthen prevention and protection mechanisms to address violence against women and girls, including domestic violence. 3. Undertake the necessary legislative reforms to prohibit corporal punishment of children in all settings. We wish Antigua and Barbuda a successful review. I thank you.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to Jamaica.

Thank you, madam Vice President.

Jamaica warmly welcomes the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda, Ms. Annette Jackson, to Geneva, and thanks the delegation for its comprehensive national report presented by the Honorable E.P.

Chet Green, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Immigration.

We commend Antigua and.

Barbuda's leadership on climate justice, including its hosting of the fourth International Conference on Small Island Developing States, and the adoption of the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS.

We also note with appreciation the Early Warning for All initiative.

Which will strengthen the country’s multi-hazard early warning system. Jamaica welcomes the adoption of the Gender-Based Violence Action Plan and the establishment of the Dennis Bowers Rehabilitation Centre, underscoring a rehabilitative approach to juvenile justice. The increase in the minimum pension, the opening of the Kevorn Etienne Centre for Persons Living with Severe Disabilities, and the reopening of the renovated National Vocational Rehabilitation Centre for Persons with Disabilities further demonstrate a commitment to supporting the most vulnerable. Jamaica congratulates Antigua and Barbuda for the successful hosting of the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting earlier this week and the adoption of a communique which underscored the importance of the protection and promotion of human rights. In a constructive spirit, Jamaica recommends that Antigua and Barbuda: 1) continue its efforts to promote gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls; and 2) continue to strengthen support services for survivors of gender-based violence, including through partnerships with civil society. Our Jamaica wishes Antigua and Barbuda, or CARCOM, the island developing state a successful review. Thank you, Madam Chair.

Thank you very much. Next, I give the floor to Jordan.

We welcome the head of Antigua and Barbuda, and we wish them success in the presentation of the national report in the context of this UPR session. We highly value progress achieved in order to reinforce the rights of persons with disability by providing them with shelter, health care, particularly those of severe disability, and also establishing a rehabilitation center for them. We welcome also efforts to combat poverty and reinforce social security and health care so that citizens get access to medical treatment of non-infectious diseases. Constructively, we offer the following: Continue reinforcing the rights of persons with disabilities, particularly with regards to access to services, educational facilities, and job opportunities. Secondly, double efforts to combat human trafficking and ensuring the provision of protection, care, and rehabilitation of victims. In closing, we trust that Antigua and Barbuda will implement the recommendations and achieve further human rights and development. Thank you very much, President.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to Lao People's Democratic Republic.

Thank you, madam Vice President.

My delegation warmly welcome the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda to this UPR.

Session and thanks them for presenting the country report. We appreciate Antigua and Barbuda for its constructive engagement with the human rights mechanism and its effort in implementing the recommendation of the previous.

Cycle.

We commence its effort to strengthen and the promotion and protection of human rights, particularly through relating to education, healthcare, gender equality, and the protection of children. In a constructive spirit, the LaPDR would like to offer two recommendations. First, further strengthen the promotion and protection of children rights by ensuring equitable access to inclusive and quality education. Second, enhance its efforts to prevent gender-based violence and promote the economic empowerment. We wish Antigua and Barbuda a successful review.

I thank you, Madam Vice President.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to Lesotho.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Lesotho welcomes the delegation from Antigua and Barbuda and thanks it for its continued engagement with the UPR process. We further applaud Antigua and Barbuda for the enactment of the Suppression of Torture Act, criminalizing torture and incorporating elements of the Convention against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, while prohibiting torture and inhuman or degrading treatment. In the spirit of constructive dialogue, Lesotho offers the following recommendations to Antigua and Barbuda: One, to consider enshrining the right to education in the constitution. Two, to provide adequate resources to the Trafficking in Persons Prevention Committee as a national coordinating mechanism responsible for effective implementing of anti-trafficking policies. Three, conduct awareness raising and advocacy on the National Strategic Action Plan to End Violence and Gender-Based Violence 2022-2027, and ensure the plan is endorsed by the relevant national authorities. Lesotho wishes Antigua and Barbuda a successful review. I thank you.

I thank you, and next I give the floor to Luxembourg.

Thank you, Madame Vice President. Luxembourg would like to thank Antigua and Barbuda for presenting its national report. We welcome the headway made within the context of decriminalizing consensual same-sex relations and the ratification of several international instruments, including Convention 183 of the International Labour Organization. Luxembourg recommends that Antigua and Barbuda complete its national legislation to guarantee non-discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sexual characteristics. Two, strengthen the fight against gender-based violence and explicitly criminalise marital rape in all circumstances. Three, abolish the death penalty in national legislation. Luxembourg wishes a full success to Antigua and Barbuda in implementing the recommendations. Thank you. Thank you very much.

The floor to Malaysia.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Malaysia welcomes the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda and appreciates the presentation of its national report. We commend Antigua and Barbuda for its continued efforts to advance human rights, including through the expansion of social protection programs and promoting climate resilience and sustainable development. In the spirit of constructive engagement, Malaysia recommends the following: one, continue efforts to strengthen national human rights framework, including by advancing the establishment of an independent national human rights institution in accordance with the Paris Principles; and two, strengthen measures to prevent and address gender-based violence including by fully implementing the National Strategic Action Plan to End Violence and Gender-Based Violence 2023-2027. Malaysia wishes Antigua and Barbuda a successful review. Thank you.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to Maldives.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. The Maldives warmly welcomes the high-level delegation from Antigua and Barbuda to this fourth cycle review and thanks them for their presentation today. The Maldives commends Antigua and Barbuda for its leadership in climate action and the priorities of small island developing states, notably through the fourth International Conference on Small Island Developing States in 2024. We further highlight efforts to strengthen the health care through the national multi-sectoral action plan for the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases. In a constructive spirit, the Maldives presents the following recommendations: one, Strengthen targeted social assistance programs to support vulnerable communities in line with the National Social Protection Act 2020. Two, accelerate the efforts to implement the National Health Insurance Program to advance universal health coverage. We wish our fellow small island developing state Antigua and Barbuda a very successful review. I thank you.

I thank you. Next, I give the floor to Marshall Islands.

Thank you, madam Vice President. The Marshall Islands warmly welcomes the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda to its fourth UPR cycle and thanks them for the national report. As a fellow CEDAW, we commend Antigua and Barbuda for the progress made since the last review in advancing women's rights. In particular, we welcome the continued operation of the Support and Referral Centre for survivors of gender-based violence and the election of a national expert to the CEDAW Committee. We note, however, that there are some implementation gaps, including the need for formal endorsement of the National Strategic Action Plan on Gender-Based Violence. We also note reports that the effectiveness of the Sexual Offenses Court has been undermined by limited coordination and resources. In the spirit of constructive dialogue, we recommend the following: Formally endorse and implement the National Strategic Action Plan to end violence and gender-based violence with adequate resources for the support and referral center of the Sexual Offenses Court. Two, fully criminalize marital rape by amending the Sexual Offenses Act. And strengthen the investigation and prosecution of human trafficking cases, including by allocating dedicated resources and training to the Trafficking in Persons Prevention Unit. and by improving the formal identification of support for victims. In closing, we wish the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda all success during this UPR cycle.

Kumul tata and thank you.

Thank you very much. Next, I give the floor to Mauritius by video.

Thank you, Chair. Mauritius welcomes the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda for this fourth cycle of the UPR. We congratulate the country for hosting the fourth International Conference on SIDS, which adopted, amongst others, the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS and the 10-year blueprint for sustainable development. We also welcome the setting up of the SIDS Centre of Excellence to support coordination, technical alignment, and long-term capacity across SIDS. We also commend Antigua and Barbuda for its leadership role in the fight against climate change. We also acknowledge the constant efforts of the authorities towards the vulnerable, including the Home Advancement Programme for the Poor and Indigent. In a constructive spirit, we recommend that Antigua and Barbuda establishes a National Human Rights Institution in line with the Paris Principles, and increases its efforts to combat human trafficking, especially targeting women and children. We wish Antigua and Barbuda a successful review. Thank you, Chair.

Thank you, Excellency. Next, I give the floor to Mexico.

Thank you very much, Madam Vice President. We thank Antigua and Barbuda for its report. And we acknowledge the Supreme Court's ruling, which declared unconstitutional the provisions criminalizing consensual same-sex relations. Constructively and respectfully, Mexico recommends: 1. Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. 2. Review the Offences Against the Person Act. so as to broaden access to abortion in step with international human rights standards, and guarantee quality post-abortion care. Three, strengthen the implementation of legislation on gender violence, in particular partner violence and marital rape, and step up public awareness in this respect. We wish Antigua and Barbuda every success at this review cycle. Thank you very much.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to Montenegro.

Vice President, Montenegro welcomes the distinguished delegation of Antigua and Barbuda and its constructive engagement with the UPR mechanism. We thank the delegation for presenting its national report and commend the country's efforts to strengthen its national human rights protection framework and fulfill its international obligations. Such commitment is particularly appreciated given the challenges posed by limited administrative resources and institutional capacity, as well as the significant impact of climate change on the enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms. We welcome the increased representation of women in senior government positions following the last two electoral processes, alongside efforts to develop a national policy on gender equality and social inclusion. We particularly commend the landmark court ruling decriminalizing consensual same-sex relations. We also acknowledge the government's efforts to transform the Office of the Ombudsman into a national human rights institution, including its request for UN technical assistance, and encourage the completion of this important process. Montenegro recommends that Antigua and Barbuda, one, establish an official moratorium on executions, building on its support for the 2024 UN General Assembly resolution on a moratorium on the use of the death penalty.

As a further step towards its full.

Abolition, and to further strengthen the legislative and institutional framework to combat trafficking in persons, including by enhancing victims' access to comprehensive psychosocial support, legal assistance, and health care. We wish Antigua and Barbuda a successful review. Thank you.

Thank you very much, Excellency. I now give the floor to the delegation to address observations and comments that have been raised so far. Please, you have the floor.

Thank you, madam Vice President. Firstly, I would like to thank the delegations who have made recommendations so far for their constructive contributions during this interactive dialogue. Regarding the recommendations made by the delegations of Ecuador and Lesotho, The government of Antigua and Barbuda places the utmost importance on the right to education. I am pleased to report that in 2025, Antigua and Barbuda made significant strides to ensuring access to education for all. Students who are in their final year of secondary education no longer pay fees to sit the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate examinations. The government also offers free primary and secondary education and, since 2026, has guaranteed free tertiary education by making tuition free for the Antigua and Barbuda College for Advanced Studies and free tuition for first bachelor degrees offered through the University of West Indies Five Islands Campus. Regarding the concerns raised on the floor about the issue of the death penalty, it is reiterated that the death penalty is not actively implemented in Antigua and Barbuda. And the legal precedent set in Pratt and Morgan by our apex court, the Privy Council, reserved the death penalty for only the worst of the worst cases under very strict circumstances. Madam Vice President, while Antigua and Barbuda has not ratified the optional protocols to the International Convention on Civil and Political Rights, we remain committed to upholding fundamental civil and political rights, including the protection against torture or cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment. Madam Vice President, I would like to focus the remainder of this intervention on addressing concerns raised during this interactive dialogue surrounding the issue of gender and human rights, as these issues have become the recent subject of public concern and consultation for the people of Antigua and Barbuda. Regarding the questions raised about sexual orientation and gender identity, During the third cycle of the UPR, Antigua and Barbuda received 16 recommendations explicitly addressing gender identity and discrimination based on sexual orientation and noted all of them. Since the last review, however, progress has been made to ensure effective protection against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Antigua and Barbuda reiterates that our constitution provides robust protection against discrimination, which extends to sexual orientation and gender identity. This is evidenced by Antigua and Barbuda's court's ruling in Auden David versus the Attorney General to quash the provisions of the Sexual Offenses Act, which criminalized consensual same-sex relations. The court in that ruling underscored that the constitutional right to protection from discrimination on the grounds of sex includes sexual orientation and gender identity. In handing down the judgment, Justice Marisa Robertson stated that it would be self-defeating to the constitutional provision if the notion of sex were to be separated from matters of sexual orientation and sexual identification, since the concept of sex as a physical gender carries with it a perception of how people identify and are oriented, even in those instances where the identification and orientation are stereotypical or traditional in nature. While this court ruling marks a change in the legal position on sexual orientation and gender identity, the government acknowledges that due to longstanding societal attitudes, barriers exist. Through the Directorate of Gender Affairs, Madam Vice President, The government has partnered with civil society actors to ensure that these attitudes are challenged through education and awareness campaigns. Now, turning to concerns and questions raised about gender-based violence, Antigua and Barbuda has also marked progress from the third cycle on noted recommendations concerning gender-based violence and violence against women. States recommended changes in legislation to address sexual harassment, and the development of policies to combat gender-based violence, which were noted on the last occasion. As previously stated, it remains Antigua and Barbuda's position that our constitution is a robust and comprehensive piece of legislation, which guarantees the protection of women and girls from discrimination. In addition to entrenched constitutional protections, the Sexual Offenses Act, the Domestic Violence Act, and the Children Care and Adoption Act all create a robust legal framework that is designed to protect women and girls from sexual violence. However, despite noting recommendations regarding legislation and policy during the last review cycle, Antigua and Barbuda has heavily invested in its national gender machinery, the Directorate of Gender Affairs, and has, with the support of international development partners, been able to take further policy and legislative measures to address the pervasive issue of gender-based violence. Antigua and Barbuda has benefited from technical assistance to develop a strategic action plan to end gender-based violence, which has been the guiding framework of the Directorate of Gender Affairs' interventions since 2023. At the heart of the implementation of the revised strategic action plan is the Support and Referral Centre, or the SARC, which remains the only one-stop shop location in Antigua and Barbuda, providing immediate care and psychosocial support to victims, and this has already emerged as a best practice for neighboring territories in the Caribbean region. This Strategic Action Plan, which extends until 2027, has provided a comprehensive strategy for improving confidence in the existing reporting mechanism, has expanded emergency shelter offerings, and introduces perpetrator rehabilitation. The action plan also identified gaps within the current GBV response framework, including the need for cohesive data collection across government departments so that the gender-based violence database accurately reflects the current reality on the ground. It must be noted that the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda also recently placed on the record its commitment to establishing and funding a shelter for victims of domestic violence. Madam Vice President, looking specifically at the concerns raised today regarding the prevention of harassment in places of work and violence against children, the government acknowledges that violence against women and girls extends beyond the home, affecting women and girls in spaces where they work and learn. In 2022, as stated, Antigua and Barbuda became the first Caribbean country to ratify the ILO Convention 190 on the Elimination of Violence and Harassment in the World of Work. Beyond ratifying the convention, The government has taken the decisive step, through the Directorate of Gender Affairs and the Labor Department, to begin extensive national consultation on the development of a workplace harassment prevention bill, which would explicitly define and prohibit unwanted conduct of a sexual nature in the workplace and codify the protection of persons who come forward to make reports. The bill underwent several rounds of national consultation, and members of the public had an opportunity to shape the proposed legislation before it was tabled in Parliament. This progressive move shows Antigua and Barbuda's commitment not only to the ratification of treaties that advance protection, but also our commitment to implementing those treaties locally in ways where the principles of the treaties are integrated within local systems. The issue of violence against girls specifically is also an area of deep national concern. Recognizing the need to ensure effective standards and safeguards for children in Antigua and Barbuda, the Ministry of Public Safety operationalized the National Sex Offender Registry, and this legislation and registry requires the registration of individuals convicted of sexual offenses, whether locally or outside of Antigua and Barbuda, and it empowers the Royal Police Force to maintain and manage a database of these offenders. The information is not publicly accessible, but however, is available to certain categories of individuals, which includes school administrators upon request to the Commissioner of Police. Beyond the monitoring of sexual offenders, Antigua and Barbuda has also taken extensive measures to monitor technology-facilitated violence against women and girls. Through our Electronic Crimes Act, we have also broadened our protection and measures to ensure the prevention of virtual harassment, cyberstalking, alongside the criminalization of child ***********. The Government of Antigua and Barbuda remains firmly committed to creating safe spaces for all women and girls within the digital world. In August of this year, Madam Vice President, the Ministry of Social Transformation convened its first ever National Child Protection Town Hall aimed at confronting child abuse and strengthening the systems responsible for the protection of children across Antigua and Barbuda. Through our Child Protection Unit and the Special Victims Support Unit within the Royal Police Force, these cases are handled delicately and victims are assigned a welfare officer to provide psychosocial support. At the National Town Hall, the Director of Family and Social Services disclosed that the Family and Social Services Division handled 287 child protection cases in 2026, including more than 30 sexual assault matters. In serious cases, The Director of Family and Social Services removes children who experience abuse from their homes and arranges an alternative placement for them using the welfare checklist framework codified under the Children, Care and Adoption Act of 2015. Madam Vice President, regarding the concerns and recommendations about our introduction of a comprehensive gender policy, all of our approaches to gender are priority. and gender equality and gender discrimination have been captured in Antigua and Barbuda's National Gender Equality and Social Inclusion Policy, which is forthcoming. The policy's overarching mandate and goal is to advance gender equality through strategic actions across the public and private sector. This policy presents a framework for promoting social justice, shifting negative gender norms, and building an inclusive and equitable society. Madam Vice President, Despite all of the progress made in these areas, there is much more to be done, and as we move towards ensuring women and girls in Antigua and Barbuda have full, free, and equal participation in all areas and at all levels of public and private life, the Government of Antigua and Barbuda remains committed to actively advancing gender equality and the human rights of women and girls. I thank you, Madam Vice President.

Thank you very much for this presentation. We will now continue with our interactive dialogue, and I will give the floor to Morocco.

Thank you, madam Vice President. The delegation warmly welcomes the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda and thanks them for their presentation of their national report. Morocco commends the ratification of ILO Convention No. 183 on maternity protection, alongside the extension of maternity leave to 14 weeks. We also welcome Antigua and Barbuda's commitment to climate resilience and sustainable development, notably through hosting the fourth International Conference on Small Island Developing States. Acknowledging these efforts, and in a constructive spirit, Baroque would like to make the following three recommendations. First, pursue ongoing efforts towards establishing an independent national human rights institution in accordance with the Paris Principles, drawing on available technical assistance and cooperation. Second, continue efforts to establish a national mechanism for implementation, reporting, and follow-up, supported by capacity building and a system for tracking human rights recommendations. And third, Build on existing initiatives to prevent gender-based violence by advancing the formal endorsement and implementation of the National Strategic Action Plan 2023-2027, with appropriate resources and coordinated support services for survivors. Morocco wishes Antigua and Barbuda every success in this review. Thank you, Madam Vice President.

I thank you. And next, I give the floor to Mozambique.

Madam Vice President, Mozambique welcomes the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda and congratulates it on the presentation of its national reports within the framework.

Of the fourth cycle of the Universal Periodic Review.

Mozambique commends Antigua and Barbuda for.

Its continued engagement with the Universal Periodic Review mechanism and the progress achieved in promoting and protecting human rights particularly in areas of social protection and climate change action. In the spirit of constructive engagement, Mozambique would like to make the following recommendation: One, continue efforts to eradicate violence against women and girls; and two, strengthen mechanisms for the identification, protection, and rehabilitation of victims of human trafficking. Mozambique wish Antigua and Barbuda every success in this review process.

I thank you.

I thank you. And next, I give the floor to Nepal.

Nepal welcomes the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda to the fourth cycle of UPR and thanks them for the presentation of national report. We appreciate Antigua and Barbuda for its constructive engagement in the international human rights mechanisms and its efforts to implement the recommendations of previous cycle review. We congratulate Antigua and Barbuda for becoming the first country in the Caribbean to ratify International Labour Organization, ILO, Convention 190 on violence and harassment in the world of work and take positive note of its efforts to promoting equality and non-discrimination in the labor market and protecting the rights of workers. In a constructive spirit, Nepal recommends Antigua and Barbuda the following: One, continue efforts to protect communities from the impacts of climate change through appropriate adaptation and mitigation measures and disaster risk management strategies. 2. Redouble efforts to strengthen health care infrastructure and enhance access to quality health care services for all. 3. Step up measures to promote gender equality and empowerment of women through enhancing access to education and participation in decision-making bodies. We wish Antigua and Barbuda all success in its review. I thank you.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to the Netherlands.

Thank you, madam Vice President.

The Kingdom of the Netherlands warmly welcomes the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda to the UPR.

Working group session and thanks them for the presentation of their national report. We appreciate the country's engagement with the UPR mechanism and the progress.

It has made since the previous cycle, especially when it comes to strengthening its response to violence against women and girls.

We believe, however, that measures relating to the prevention of gender-based violence could be further strengthened, including by ensuring effective investigation and prosecution of cases and access to appropriate protection and support services for survivors. In a spirit of constructive cooperation, the Netherlands makes the following two recommendations to Antigua and Barbuda.

1.

Repeal Articles 12 and 15 of the Sexual Offences Act that criminalise consensual sexual relations between adults of the same sex.

And adopt comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation explicitly protecting persons from discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity. 2. Establish a formal moratorium on the death penalty with a view to.

Its full abolition and ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

Aiming at the abolition of the death penalty. The Netherlands wishes Antigua and Barbuda every success with the follow-up and implementation of all recommendations it has received during this fourth cycle. Thank you, Madam Vice-President.

I thank you. Next, I give the floor to New Zealand.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. New Zealand warmly welcomes the delegation from Antigua and Barbuda and commends recent measures it has taken, including the decriminalization of consensual same-sex relations. New Zealand recommends that Antigua and Barbuda: 1. Establish a formal legal moratorium on executions and amend domestic legislation with a view to the full abolition of the death penalty; Two, strengthen the implementation of measures to prevent and respond to gender-based violence, including the full criminalization of marital rape. And three, further strengthen protections based on sexual orientation and gender identity, including enacting comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation. We thank the delegation for their participation today and wish them a successful review. Thank you.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to Paraguay.

Thank you, Vice President. Paraguay would like to greet the distinguished delegation of Antigua and Barbuda and thank it for its national report. We appreciate the efforts to implement the recommendations from the previous cycle, in particular the fight against violence against women through the National Strategic Action Plan against Gender Violence 2023-2027, in line with the recommendation made previously by Paraguay. However, we are concerned that the death penalty continues to be enforced in criminal legislation and the legal persistence of corporal punishment at school. In order to consolidate these efforts, respectfully, Paraguay recommends: 1. Consider ratifying the key pending international human rights instruments, in step with the recommendations made in previous cycles. 2. make the necessary changes to explicitly prohibit corporal punishment in all settings, including exceptions set forth in the current Education Act; three, formally abolish the death penalty in the legal system and ratify the second optional protocol to the ICCPR; and four, step up efforts to establish a national standing mechanism for the implementation reporting and follow-up to human rights recommendations, considering technical international assistance to overcome operational and data collection limitations. Thank you very much.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to Peru.

My Vice President, Peru would like to welcome the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda and thanks it for presenting its report. We acknowledge the efforts made and progress made in promoting and protecting human rights, in particular, the ratification of Convention ILO 190. In a constructive spirit, Peru would like to make the following recommendations: continue to make progress with establishing a national human rights institution which is independent, in line with the Paris Principles; Strengthen prevention, protection, and care measures as regards violence faced by women and children by consolidating national policies and extending access to comprehensive support and assistance, victim assistance services. Strengthen adaptation policies to climate change and risk management of disasters, incorporating a human rights-based approach. Peru wishes success to Antigua and Barbuda at this new review cycle, and we very much hope that it will comply with the enjoyment of all human rights for its population. Thank you.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to Philippines.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. The Philippines warmly welcomes the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda and commends its constructive engagement in this important review process. We positively acknowledge Antigua and Barbuda's ratification of ILO Convention Nos. 190 and 183 and its efforts to advance the welfare of older persons, including through the GRACE Home Care Program and higher minimum pensions. We also welcome progress on third cycle recommendations, including those offered by the Philippines on gender mainstreaming and support for trafficking victims. We likewise commend initiatives aimed at addressing the human rights impacts of climate change, as well as the ratification of the Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction under UNCLOS. In a constructive spirit, the Philippines respectfully recommends that Antigua and Barbuda: 1) enhance normative frameworks for combating gender-based violence, including by adopting the National Strategic Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, and fully criminalize marital rape; 2) strengthen mechanisms for the protection of migrant workers' rights, including foreign healthcare professionals; and 3) Sustained initiatives on women empowerment through human rights education and training, among others. The Philippines wishes Antigua and Barbuda a productive review. I thank you.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to Portugal.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Portugal welcomes the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda and thanks for the presentation of its national report. We welcome Antigua and Barbuda's efforts to eliminate human trafficking, including by taking part in regional cooperation and participating in Caribbean anti-trafficking initiatives. Portugal respectfully recommends that Antigua and Barbuda: 1) ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty; Two, ratify the optional protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. Three, develop a medium-term strategy to ensure the right to inclusive, equitable, and quality education for all, promoting equal opportunities and addressing barriers to access and participation. Portugal wishes Antigua and Barbuda a successful review. I thank you.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to Russian Federation.

Thank you, madam Vice President. We welcome the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda and thank it for the presentation of the report. We commend efforts by Antigua and Barbuda to fulfill recommendations from the third UPR cycle. In this context, we note steps taken by the authorities to strengthen legal instruments for the protection of human rights, including the ratification of the international human rights treaties and incorporation into the national system thereof. We commend the Government's policy to shoulder its international human rights obligations, including by adopting new laws at the national level to strengthen national capacities for the protection and promotion of human rights. We recommend continued targeted steps to enhance national legislation, including to protect human rights and freedoms. We note progress by Antigua and Barbuda in terms of ensuring equality between the sexes, sustainable development and protection of the environment, preventing trafficking in persons, ensuring transparency and efficiency in government, and functioning of the health care system. However, we note that there is no national independent human rights mechanism which would be in accordance with the Paris Principles. We recommend that Antigua and Barbuda create such an institution. Thank you.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to Rwanda.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Rwanda welcomes the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda. We commend Antigua and Barbuda for its achievements in public health, particularly for leading efforts in the Eastern Caribbean to eliminate cervical cancer by providing free HPV screenings. In a spirit of constructive dialogue, Uganda offers the following recommendation: Continue to advance gender mainstreaming in public policy by integrating gender perspectives into national development strategies and expanding leadership opportunities for women across public and private sectors. Uganda wishes Antigua and Barbuda a successful review. I thank you once again, Madam Vice President.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to Seychelles.

Thank you, madam Vice President. The Seychelles welcomes the delegation from Antigua and Barbuda. We commend Antigua and Barbuda for enacting the Suppression of Torture Act, which criminalizes torture and incorporating elements of the Convention against Torture and other cruel, inhumane, or degrading treatment or punishment, whilst prohibiting torture and inhumane or degrading treatment. In the spirit of constructive dialogue, Seychelles offers to Antigua and Barbuda the following recommendations: One, consider reviewing the constitution to incorporate all human rights, including the right to education. And two, adopt and implement policies to improve parity between men and women participation at the national parliamentary level. Seychelles wishes Antigua and Barbuda every success in its UPR. Thank you, Madam Vice President.

Thank you very much, Excellency. Next, I give the floor to Slovenia.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Slovenia commends the Government of Antigua and Barbuda for its commitment to the UPR process and the presentation of its national report today. We welcome Antigua and Barbuda's continued cooperation with international human rights mechanisms and encourage further concrete measures to strengthen national human rights protection. In a constructive spirit, Slovenia wishes to recommend to Antigua and Barbuda to: one, establish an independent national human rights institution in accordance with the Paris Principles; with an adequate mandate, sufficient resources, and safeguards for independence to monitor human rights obligations and ensure.

Effective remedies for victims of violations; and two, to establish an official moratorium on execution as an immediate step towards.

Abolishing the death penalty, commuting existing death sentences, and acceding to the Second.

Optional Protocol to the ICCPR aiming at the abolition of the death penalty.

We wish Antigua and Barbuda every success in their review. I thank you.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to South Africa.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. South Africa thanks the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda for the presentation of its national report and commend it for its constructive engagement with the UPR process. We welcome progress achieved since the previous review, including efforts to strengthen social protection programs. promote the rights of persons with disabilities, combat trafficking in persons, advance gender equality, and address the impacts of climate change as a small island developing state. We further welcome measures aimed at strengthening support services for survivors of gender-based violence, expanding access to health care and education, and promoting climate change climate-resilient and sustainable development. In the spirit of constructive dialogue, South Africa recommends that Antigua and Barbuda consider the following: 1. Establishing an independent national human rights institution in accordance with the Paris Principles; 2. Strengthen measures to improve detention conditions in line with international human rights standards; And three, enhancing institutional capacity for the collection of human rights data and the implementation of follow-up treaty body and UPR recommendations. South Africa wishes Antigua and Barbuda a successful review and looks forward to continued cooperation. I thank you.

Thank you, South Africa. Next, I give the floor to Spain.

Thank you very much, Madam Vice President. Spain welcomes the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda and thanks it for presenting its national report. We welcome the progress made on accessibility and non-gender discrimination, and the decriminalization of consenting same-sex relations. Also, we take a positive view of the moratorium in place since 1991 on the application of the death penalty. Spain recommends: abolish the death penalty in national legislation and accede to the second optional protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights; 2. adopt comprehensive legislation against discrimination, which explicitly includes sexual orientation and gender identity as prohibited grounds for discrimination, and guarantee the effective protection of LGBTI persons from violence and hate speech; 3. adopt legislation regulating gender equality, which would include a definition of discrimination against women in line with article 1 of the CEDAW Convention; expedite the full implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, guaranteeing universal accessibility in public buildings, education, employment and public services. Thank you very much.

Thank you. Next, Takiyeddine Fourte to Suriname.

Thank you, Mrs. Vice President.

Suriname warmly welcomes the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda and thanks it for the presentation of its national report.

We commend Antigua and Barbuda for its continued commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights, particularly its efforts to strengthen support for survivors of gender-based violence.

Advance workplace protections, and promote climate resilience. We also acknowledge its important leadership in advocating for the interests of small island developing states. In a spirit of constructive.

Dialogue and regional solidarity, Suriname recommends that Antigua and Barbuda, one, continue strengthening protection for survivors of gender-based violence, including through the completion and operationalization of the planned shelter, and improved access to comprehensive support services. Advance the adoption and effective implementation of legislation to prevent violence and harassment in the workplace, in accordance with ILO Convention No.

190.

And three, establish a permanent national mechanism for implementation, reporting, and follow-up to strengthen the monitoring of international human rights recommendations and fulfillment of reporting obligations.

Suriname wishes Antigua and Barbuda every success in its.

Fourth Universal Periodic Review and reaffirms its commitment to continued regional cooperation.

Thank you, Mrs. Vice President.

Thank you, Suriname. Next, I give the floor to Togo.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. The Togolese delegation would like to bid a cordial welcome to the delegation from Antigua and Barbuda and thanks it for presenting its national report. Togo hails the progress made in protecting human rights, in particular the enactment of the 2010 Act on the Prevention of Human Trafficking, which means that all forms of trafficking are a criminal offence, provides for harsh sanctions and attaches protection measures to victims. In a spirit of constructive dialogue, we recommend the following: expressly prohibit corporal punishment in schools based on the 2008 Education Act; overcome prison overcrowding and the failures in infrastructure, sanitation, and access to medical care; officially adopt the National Strategic Action Plan to Combat Gender-Based Violence 2023-2027, and explicitly ensure that marital rape is a criminal offense in all circumstances; By way of conclusion, my delegation wishes every success to Antigua and Barbuda in implementing the recommendations stemming from this review. I thank you, Madam Vice President.

Thank you very much. Trinidad and Tobago.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Trinidad and Tobago warmly welcomes our sister CARICOM delegation of Antigua and Barbuda to its fourth cycle review and thanks the country for its comprehensive report and consistent engagement in this process. Mindful of the inherent vulnerabilities and increasingly complex challenges faced as a fellow small island developing state, Trinidad and Tobago commends Antigua and Barbuda's continued commitment to the fulfillment of its obligations under various human rights treaty bodies and welcomes the progress made since the third cycle. This includes ratification of the BBNJ Agreement, the development of a new gender-based violence action plan in 2023, and the establishment of a shelter for such victims, and the increase in social benefits to vulnerable groups. As Antigua and Barbuda continues to pursue policies to improve the implementation of its human rights obligations, and in a constructive spirit, Trinidad and Tobago recommends that it: 1) continue to pursue technical cooperation and capacity building opportunities with the ongoing support of the OHCHR regional office and other international partners to strengthen data collection and to meet its reporting obligations to treaty bodies; and to continue efforts to ensure the implementation of the National Gender-Based Violence Action Plan. In closing, we also commend Antigua and Barbuda for its demonstrated commitment to multilateralism and to amplifying the voice of SIDS, in particular through its leadership on the climate front and its hosting of key international meetings such as the SIDS Conference in 2024 and Chaguam earlier this week. We wish the delegation a successful review. I thank you.

I thank you. Next, I give the floor to Ukraine.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Ukraine thanks the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda for its presentation and participation in this process. We commend Antigua and Barbuda for its efforts and welcome the establishment of support services for survivors of gender-based violence and the adoption of the National Child Protection Policy. In the spirit of constructive dialogue, Ukraine would like to recommend that Antigua and Barbuda strengthen legal protections against discrimination against women and intensify efforts to prevent and combat gender-based violence, improve detention conditions, and ensure timely access to justice and medical care for detainees, strengthen the protection of the right to education, including by prohibiting corporal punishment in schools and ensuring access to free and compulsory education. We wish Antigua and Barbuda every success in its efforts to further strengthen the protection and promotion of human rights. I thank you.

Thank you. And now, i give the floor to the delegation again to address observations and comments that have been raised so far. Please, you have the floor.

Thank you once again, Madam Vice President. I would also like to reiterate my thanks to the delegations who are making recommendations for their constructive contributions so far. Regarding the concerns raised on the floor about women's empowerment and leadership, in addition to our work at a national level to address the issue of gender-based violence, we have also been working to ensure that women are empowered in positions of leadership and governance. The Directorate of Gender Affairs continues to partner with the Caribbean Institute for Women in Leadership to deliver programs that expose young women to parliamentary procedures, which culminates in the hosting of a mock parliamentary session. The Directorate has also developed the Emerging Female Leaders Program to empower young women, build confidence, foster leadership skills, and expand professional networks. The Work and Life Skills Program run by the Directorate also focuses on empowering women who are interested in entrepreneurship. It is the firm belief of the Government of Antigua and Barbuda that every woman should have an equal opportunity to lead, to innovate, to influence, and to succeed. Regarding concerns raised about technical capacity and assistance surrounding the issue of climate change, Antigua and Barbuda has benefited from several capacity building initiatives and training to improve the preservation of human rights in the context of climate disasters. Through the GCF funded 12.3 US million dollar Early Warning for All project, as well as the UNDP and Gender Initiative, we have actively strengthened multi-hazard early warning systems. worked to update our disaster legislation and trained first responders on protecting vulnerable populations during natural disasters. Antigua and Barbuda also understands the importance of having women at the center of the conversation surrounding climate change, as they remain one of the most vulnerable populations to the socio-economic effects of natural hazards. Women are actively included in the conversations around shelter management and disaster risk management within the National Office of Disaster Services, and several women serve as district disaster coordinators who are actively on the ground coordinating relief during emergencies. The Department of Environment, who is headed by a woman, also advises on the board of the Development Control Authority, assisting in ensuring that the nation's building codes consider climate change adaptation measures and vulnerable populations. The department, through its Gender, Environment, Social Inclusion Advisory Committee, also strengthens women's participation in the development of our nationally determined contributions and our national adaptation plans. Madam Vice President, I would like to focus the remainder of this intervention on the issues raised today day relating to the National Human Rights Institution, the NHRI, and the National Mechanism for Implementation, Monitoring, Reporting, and Follow-up, the NMIRF. During the third cycle of the UPR, Antigua and Barbuda noted all of the recommendations received regarding the establishment of an NHRI and the implementation of an NMIRF. Our noting of these recommendations, Madam Vice President, was not an outright rejection, but rather an acknowledgement of our capacity constraints to fully commit to implementing those recommendations at that time. Antigua and Barbuda remains committed to engaging effectively in the UN human rights mechanism. We see taking tangible steps towards the realization of both an NHRI and an NMIRF as essential to improving our ability to engage meaningfully with the treaty bodies and to monitor, protect, and preserve the human rights of individuals. Madam Vice President, in this vein, Our government is actively considering the establishment of a national human rights institution that is compliant with the Paris Principles, ensuring that the human rights of citizens are effectively safeguarded. We acknowledge that, as a sovereign state, we have a solemn responsibility to fight for the survival of justice, of equity, peace, and human dignity itself. With these commitments in mind, and recalling our resource and capacity constraints as a small island developing state, we have sought to scale up our existing constitutional safeguarding mechanism to effectively monitor, investigate, and resolve human rights breaches. Presently, one such constitutional safeguard is the Office of the Ombudsman, which exists to champion the constitutional rights of the people. The Ombudsman is an independent officer of the Parliament appointed under Section 66 of Antigua and Barbuda's Constitution. The main function is established under Section 5(1) of the Ombudsman Act, which is to investigate any complaint relating to any decision or recommendation made, or any act done or omitted by any officer of the government or statutory body in any case in which a member of the public claims to be aggrieved or appears to the Ombudsman to have sustained injustice as a result of the exercise of the administrative functions of the officer or body. In essence, Madam Vice President, the Ombudsman investigates, mediates, advises, and reports findings and recommendations after considering complaints against government institutions such as bias, unfair discrimination, and procedural inaction. It is the view of the Government of Antigua and Barbuda that the function of this office is not far removed from the role and function of a national human rights institution, and we hope to expand the scope of this office to safeguard not only against constitutional breaches and governance complaints, but also to look broadly at addressing human rights concerns in Antigua and Barbuda. It is understood that the Office of the Ombudsman, in its present state, does not function in a manner that protects human rights broadly. We acknowledge that to receive full accreditation as an NHRI, we would need to transition into a model that twins the constitutionally mandated functions of the Office of the Ombudsman with those of an entity that monitors the contraventions of international human rights instruments. On the heels of the recently concluded Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting convened in Antigua and Barbuda, we also hosted the Commonwealth Forum of National Human Rights Institutions Biennial Conference. At this convening, the Minister of State within the Ministry of Social Transformation, the Honorable Kiss Johnson, underscored the importance of working towards a truly independent human rights monitoring entity. She emphasized that human rights should remain a priority alongside economic development, as, and I quote, "Strong communities are built not only through economic development, but also through fairness, inclusion, and institutions that inspire public trust." End quote. Madam Vice President, Antigua and Barbuda is also transitioning into the role of vice chair of the Commonwealth Forum of National Human Rights Institutions. and recognizes the need for sustained partnerships to accelerate investment in human rights. We continue to underscore the need for technical assistance and the sharing of best practices from states that continue to recommend our transition to a Paris Principles compliant NHRI to ensure that we can implement these recommendations. in a manner that ensures our vision for a hybrid NHRI that promotes accountability and strengthens our commitment to human rights. Madam Vice President, Antigua and Barbuda also understands that alongside a commitment to transitioning the Office of the Ombudsman into a Paris Principles compliant NHRI, there must also be a coordinated framework in place responsible for coordinating the implementation of recommendations during the UPR review. Across the past three cycles of the UPR, Madam Vice President, Antigua and Barbuda has received hundreds of recommendations and has actively worked to take a hands-on, whole-of-government approach to implementing the accepted recommendations. The government underscored this commitment by making a voluntary pledge on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights to establish a formal national mechanism for implementation, reporting, and follow-up, NMIRF, for UN treaty bodies, the Universal Periodic Review, and the special procedures of the Human Rights Council. Madam Vice President, We acknowledge that our reporting record to the UN treaty body mechanisms is not up to date, and have actively sought assistance from development partners to assist with ensuring that we become more compliant with our reporting obligations. It is our hope to build out a national mechanism that has stakeholders from across government, civil society, and other organizations who can inform how we coordinate, share expertise, prepare reports for, and engage with regional and international human rights mechanisms. Madam Vice President, we hope to realize this commitment within the next national fiscal year. Madam Vice President, despite the absence of an NMIRF, The Ministry of Legal Affairs has continued to successfully coordinate the process of communication and follow-up for recommendations received during the Universal Periodic Review, whether accepted or noted, and convenes an intergovernmental focus group to collate information necessary for compiling the national submission for the Universal Periodic Review. The Ministry has consistently adopted approaches to implementing recommendations that engage members of the Cabinet, heads of government departments, and civil society actors to mainstream the implementation of UPR recommendations, facilitating our nation's compliance with international obligations. Further, beyond our voluntary submission to the Universal Periodic Review, Niche government agencies, like the Directorate of Gender Affairs and the Department of Family and Social Services, have continued to take charge in preparing our reports to the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women and the Committee on the Rights of the Child, respectively. Madam Vice President, through the targeted work of departments like these within government, Antigua and Barbuda has been able to address other human rights recommendations that do not emerge from the UPR process. Madam Vice President, we have also submitted a voluntary national review on the implementation of the 2030 Agenda, which has allowed us to engage in a stock-taking exercise of actions, policies, and programs that advance sustainable development and have cross-cutting implications for the advancement of human rights. Madam Vice President, for this process, we used inclusive and participatory approaches that included stakeholder consultation through meetings and the distribution of questionnaires to stakeholders to ensure that their inputs were reflected in this report. This consultative model has been adapted for the UPR process, and we also engaged stakeholders in online sessions, going through the recommendations and the steps towards implementation to ensure that there was consensus on what the country represents at this session of the UPR working group. It remains our hope to expand the intergovernmental committee that is convened to support UPR preparation. into a concretized framework for implementation, reporting, and follow-up, which goes beyond covering UPR recommendations, but also monitors observations generated by the UN Human Rights Treaty Bodies and coordinates implementation actions across government, state agencies, and Parliament. Madam Vice President, Human resource and capacity building remains key challenges faced by Antigua and Barbuda in keeping up with the successive human rights reports. We have received much needed technical assistance and guidance from the Commonwealth Small States Office in Geneva to address these gaps, and with their guidance, have been able to finalize draft submissions to the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination and the Committee Against Torture. Madam Vice President, Antigua and Barbuda acknowledges that the Universal Periodic Review is a vital tool designed to promote accountability and enable States to share the complexities we face in our efforts to address structural vulnerabilities in a forum built on mutual respect and cooperation. Antigua and Barbuda is committed to the pledge of the 2030 Agenda to leave no one behind. and sees the implementation of an NMIRF and the establishment of an NHRI as part of that commitment. Thank you.

Thank you very much for all the information provided. We will now continue with the interactive dialogue, and I give the floor to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Excellency, you have the floor.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. The United Kingdom warmly congratulates Antigua and Barbuda for their successful organization of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting this week. We welcome Antigua and Barbuda's participation in the Universal Periodic Review and thank the delegation for its engagement. Moreover, we welcome the change in sentencing guidelines in 2020, which will further reduce the likelihood of the death penalty being applied. We urge the Government to consider what further reform is needed to continue to tackle pressing concerns, such as ensuring equal rights for all and domestic violence. It is in this spirit that the United Kingdom recommends that Antigua and Barbuda, firstly, maintains the de facto moratorium on executions and undertake a review of legislation on the death penalty with a view to abolition. Number 2, strengthen legal and policy protections against discrimination and violence, including for LGBT+ people, and take steps to ensure equal enjoyment of human rights without discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Number three, to continue strengthening the structures already in place to ensure judicial independence is respected and upheld. Once again, the United Kingdom looks forward to continued engagement with Antigua and Barbuda on human rights issues. Thank you.

I thank you. Next, I give the floor to Venezuela.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. We would like to bid a warm welcome to the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda and thank it for its presentation. We take a positive view of the social programmes and policies that the State has undertaken to guarantee the promotion, protection and enjoyment of all human rights, including the right to development. Some of these plans include the program to promote housing for persons in a poverty and extreme poverty situation, and the program to care for older persons. Also, we appreciate the legislative progress made to decriminalize same-sex relations. We commend the State on stepping up efforts to eliminate all forms of discrimination. In light of the above, and in a constructive spirit, we recommend: 1. Continue its efforts to adopt a draft bill on the prevention of violence and harassment in the workplace; two, continue the implementation of the national gender equality and social inclusion policy; and three, maintain efforts to implement public policies to mitigate the effects of climate change. To conclude, we wish the country the best of success at its Universal Periodic Review. Thank you very much indeed, Madam Vice-President.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to Vietnam.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Vietnam thanks the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda for presenting its national UPR report and commends the country for its continued efforts in promoting and protecting human rights. We particularly welcome Antigua and Barbuda's progress in strengthening social protection, including the provision of housing for vulnerable families, increased pension benefits, and support for older persons. We also appreciate its efforts to improve access to health care, notably through free cervical cancer screening and the expansion of specialized medical services. In education, we recognize the government's commitment to accessible education, including tuition-free tertiary education and measures to support children with disabilities. Furthermore, we commend the country's leadership in advancing climate resilience and sustainable development. In a constructive spirit, Vietnam would like to make the following two recommendations. First, continue strengthening inclusive education and vocational training opportunities for persons with disabilities, ensuring their full participation in society and economic life. Second, further enhance national disasters preparedness and community resilience. including through strengthened early warning systems and continued attention to the needs of vulnerable groups affected by climate-related challenges. Vietnam wishes Antigua and Barbuda every success in this UPR review cycle. I thank you.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to Angola.

Thank you, Madam Vice President.

Angola warmly welcomes the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda and commends it. continued commitment on the promotion and protection of human rights. Angola welcomes the country's efforts to strengthen climate resilience, expand renewable energy, and promote sustainable development, alongside social protection programs aimed at reducing poverty and improving living conditions for vulnerable communities. In the spirit of constructive dialogue, Angola recommends that Antigua and Barbuda Continue strengthening climate resilience and sustainable development policies, particularly through renewable energy. Consider establishing a specialized mechanism for human rights data collection and reporting to international human rights mechanisms. And further, promote women's participation in leadership and decision-making positions through appropriate measures to advance gender equality. We wish Antigua and Barbuda a successful review.

Thank you, Madam Vice President.

I thank you. And next, I give the floor to Armenia.

Thank you, Madam Vice President.

Armenia warmly welcomes the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda and thanks it for presenting its national report. We commend Antigua and Barbuda for its continued efforts to expand access to education.

Armenia, as the CBD COP 17 presidency, also acknowledges the country's active engagement on climate change and ocean protection, including

its ratification of the Agreement on Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction. In a spirit of constructive dialogue, Armenia recommends that Antigua and Barbuda:

one, continue to strengthen its cooperation with United Nations human rights mechanisms while advancing its efforts towards the establishment of a national human rights institution in accordance with the Paris Principles; two, continue its efforts to guarantee

through the Education Act free and quality primary and secondary education for all children, with particular attention to children with disabilities;

Armenia wishes Antigua and Barbuda every success in advancing its human rights commitments and implementing the recommendations

received during this review.

Thank you, Madam Vice President.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to Australia.

Vice President, we thank the delegation for its presentation. Australia welcomes the repeal of legislation in Antigua and Barbuda that criminalize same-sex relations. We also welcome ongoing efforts to address gender-based violence. Australia recommends Antigua and Barbuda, one, enact legislation to explicitly prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. Two, establish a formal moratorium on the death penalty with a view to becoming party to the second optional protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. And three, establish an independent national human rights institution in compliance with the Paris Principles. Thank you.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to Bahamas.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. The Bahamas warmly welcomes the delegation of our sister CARICOM state, Antigua and Barbuda, and thanks it for the presentation of its national report. We commend Antigua and Barbuda for its recent investments in inclusive

and climate resilient education in conjunction with the Caribbean Development Bank, initiatives to strengthen social protection and healthcare, including the People's Benefit Program, and its leadership on climate justice. In a constructive spirit, the BALMUS recommends that Antigua and Barbuda, one, continue strengthening national mechanisms for implementation, reporting, and follow-up on international human rights obligations. including through technical assistance to enhance institutional capacity, data collection, and coordination; two, continue efforts towards the implementation of the proposed National Health Insurance Program, with a view to expanding equitable access to affordable health care, particularly for vulnerable populations; and three, strengthen measures to prevent and address gender-based violence, including through the formal adoption and effective implementation of the National Strategic Action Plan to End Violence and Gender-Based violence. As a fellow SIDS, we recognize the challenges posed by climate vulnerability and structural capacity constraints. We therefore encourage Antigua and Barbuda to continue availing itself of human rights technical assistance and capacity building, including through the OHCHR Regional Office for the Caribbean, and call upon the international community to cooperate with the country at its request in the provision of sustained needs-based support. We wish Antigua and Barbuda every success in this UPR process.

I thank you.

I thank you. Next, I give the floor to Bahrain.

Thank you. We welcome the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda, and we commend this country's efforts to promote human rights in a constructive spirit. We have the following recommendations: first, continue to promote national initiatives to empower women and ensure their participation in all spheres. Second, continue to develop the education system and increase initiatives for education and training for young people. In conclusion, we wish this country a successful UPR. Thank you.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to Bangladesh.

Madam Vice President, Bangladesh warmly welcomes the distinguished delegation of Indigo and Barbuda and thanks them for the presentation of their national report. We commend the Government for its efforts to strengthen social protection, promote the rights of persons with disabilities, and provide support services for victims of violence. We also appreciate its leadership in addressing the human rights impacts of climate change and strengthening community resilience. In a spirit of constructive cooperation, Bangladesh would like to recommend the following: 1. Continue efforts to establish a national human rights institution in accordance with the Paris Principles; 2. Step up measures to combat trafficking in persons, including through improved victim identification, protection, and assistance; three, strengthen climate resilience and disaster preparedness, with particular attention to women, children, and persons with disabilities. We wish Antigua and Barbuda a successful review. I thank you, Madam Vice President.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to Brazil.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Brazil welcomes the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda. We commend Antigua and Barbuda's High Court decision declaring sections 12 and 15 of its Sexual Offences Act unconstitutional, thereby decriminalizing consensual same-sex relations. Brazil also welcomes Antigua and Barbuda's support for UN General Assembly Resolution 79/179 on the global moratorium on the use of the death penalty, encouraging its accession to the second optional protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. In a spirit of constructive cooperation, Brazil recommends that Antigua and Barbuda: one, enhance access to sexual and reproductive health care by expanding legal protections, improving rural and youth-friendly primary care coverage, and ensuring full respect for women's reproductive rights. Two, review asylum and reception policies, guaranteeing protection against refoulement, access to free legal assistance, due process and status determination, and adequate reception conditions in line with international human rights and refugee law. Brazil wishes Antigua and Barbuda a successful review. I thank you.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to Brunei Darussalam.

Vice President, Prime Minister Arusalam thanks the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda for the presentation of the national report. We acknowledge the progress made by Antigua and Barbuda since its previous UPR, particularly in improving access to health care, improving the prevention and management of non-communicable diseases, and promote climate adaptive development. In this spirit of constructive engagement, we offer two recommendations. First, to continue strengthening initiatives aimed at the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases, while further promoting access to mental health services and overall well-being. And second, to continue strengthening national policy and measures to enhance resilience to climate change and mitigate its adverse impact. Madam Vice President, Brunei Darussalam wishes Antigua and Barbuda a successful review. I thank you.

I thank you, and next I give the floor to Canada.

Thank you, Vice President. Canada thanks Antigua and Barbuda for participating in the UPR process and welcomes its consistent commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights, including efforts undertaken since its last review. Canada recommends that Antigua and Barbuda first, continue strengthening efforts to combat trafficking in persons, including through enhanced victim identification and protection measures, and the effective investigation and prosecution of trafficking offences. Second, build on efforts to strengthen measures to prevent and respond to gender-based violence, like adopting a national sex offender register act, by improving access to justice and survivor support services. And third, abolish the death penalty. Madam Vice President, Canada welcomes the July 2022 High Court ruling finding the criminalization of consensual same-sex relations unconstitutional, while noting that the relevant legislative provisions have yet to be repealed. and broader protections against discrimination remain limited. Thank you.

Merci, Canada. Next, I give the floor to Chile.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Chile would like to welcome the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda and values positively its efforts to promote and protect human rights. In particular, We commend it on being the first country in the Caribbean to ratify the Convention on the Elimination of Violence and Harassment in the Workplace of the International Labour Organization. In a constructive spirit, Chile makes the following recommendations: 1. Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities to guarantee the full enjoyment of their rights, promoting their autonomy and effective participation; 2. reduce the judicial backlogs, ensuring the processing and timely resolution of cases by fully respecting the right to a fair trial and to be judged within a reasonable time frame. Three, strengthen national capacities of investigation and criminal prosecution developed by the Convention on Trafficking in Persons with results in terms of investigation. And four, abolish the death penalty through the repeal of domestic measures which still provide for its implementation and accede to the second option protocol to the Convention on Civil and Political Rights. We wish Antigua and Barbuda a successful UPR. Thank you.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to China.

Madam Vice President, the Chinese delegation welcomes the constructive engagement of Antigua and Barbuda in the UPR process, and commends its efforts and progress in promoting and protecting human rights. As a small island developing country facing resource limitations and natural disaster effects, Antigua and Barbuda has always adhered to a human-centred approach in securing economic and social rights, combating poverty and promoting the rights of women, children, and persons with disabilities, and perfecting administration of justice and legal systems, while actively participating in international cooperation in the field of climate change. My delegation would like to make two recommendations to Antigua and Barbuda. Firstly, continue efforts to promote sustainable economic and social development, raise people's living standards as a firm foundation to ensure the enjoyment of human rights by all people, especially the rights of women, children, and persons with disabilities, and promote gender equality. Secondly, gradually and incrementally beef up its institutional and capacity building in the field of human rights in the light of national conditions and resource availabilities. I wish Antigua and Barbuda every success in this round of UPR. I thank you.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to Colombia.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Colombia would like to welcome the distinguished delegation of Antigua and Barbuda. We recognize its efforts in the field of human rights, in particular when it comes to education and access to education, and highlight its outstanding participation in international discussions on the relationship between the environment and human rights. On this occasion, and in a constructive spirit, Colombia makes the following recommendations: make progress on processing the draft bill on the prevention of violence and harassment in the workplace; two, explore measures to establish an independent national human rights institution in line with the principles related to the status of national institutions for the promotion and protection of human rights, the Paris Principles; and three, continue efforts undertaken so that the minimum age of admission to employment is at least 15 years, in step with applicable international law. We wish Antigua and Barbuda the best of success in its participation in the fourth cycle of the UPR. Thank you.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to Costa Rica.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Costa Rica thanks Antigua and Barbuda for presenting its report. We commend it on the awareness-raising activities it has undertaken in schools on the importance of the transition to renewable energy sources. Constructively, Costa Rica recommends: 1. Broadening and institutionalizing community programs and participation spaces, recreation and leisure for young people and children with a human rights-based approach aimed at preventing the improper use of drugs; 2. Formally abolish the death penalty; and in the meantime, establish a de jure moratorium, roll out awareness raising campaigns against the death penalty with the participation of civil society, and amend the 2006 Defense Act to eliminate the provisions on the capital punishment which are incompatible with the Constitution. Three, adopt standards which establish special measures such as parity and rotation in candidacies to expedite the participation and women's representation in political and public life. considering structural factors such as single motherhood. Four, promote the human right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment by extending access to housing and infrastructure which is resistant to the climate, by strengthening sustainable management of water resources, and supporting investments in access to drinking water; and, five, establish an independent national human rights institution in step with the Paris Principles and grant it with sufficient resources to effectively discharge its duty. Costa Rica restates its desire to continue collaborating with Antigua and Barbuda in promoting and protecting human rights, and we wish them success at this UPR cycle. Thank you.

I thank you. Next, I give the floor to Cuba.

Madam Vice President, Cuba would like to welcome the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda. We acknowledge the country's commitment, the Caribbean country's commitment, to the UPR. We hail the progress made in promoting the right to the health of its citizens, including in the care for non-communicable diseases. In a constructive and respectful spirit, we make the following three recommendations: one, continue to promote training programs and at the community level to raise awareness as to the effects of climate change and increase resilience of the communities. Two, maintain subsidies for water and electricity rates for persons over the age of 80 as part of the strengthening of the social protection system. Three, continue to promote the facilities of renewable energy to ensure that the nation can adapt to climate change. We wish Antigua and Barbuda success at this review and in implementing the recommendations accepted. Thank you very much.

Thank you. Next, I give the floor to Cyprus.

President, Cyprus warmly welcomes the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda and thanks it for presenting its national report.

We recognize Antigua and Barbuda's leadership on climate action, including its hosting of the 2024 SIDS Conference.

As a fellow Commonwealth member, Cyprus also commends Antigua and Barbuda for hosting the recent Commonwealth meeting, which advanced dialogue.

On human rights, equality, and inclusive development. We also commend the ratification of the ILO Convention 190.

Survivor support provided through the Support and Referral Center, and the landmark 2022 ruling decriminalizing consensual same-sex relations.

Building on the above, Cyprus recommends that Antigua and Barbuda continue its efforts to adopt and implement a national gender.

Equality and social inclusion policy and the gender-based violence action plan, while.

Fully criminalizing marital rape and strengthening survivor-centered support services; consider strengthening child.

Protection by prohibiting corporal punishment in educational settings and raising the minimum age of employment from 14 to at least 15 years; Consider expanding access to free education, including one year of free and compulsory pre-primary education, and take further steps towards abolishing the death penalty in law and ratifying the second optional protocol to the ICCPR. We wish Antigua and Barbuda a successful review and implementation of the recommendations it takes on board. Thank you.

I thank you. And next, I give the floor to Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Thank you, madam Vice President. The Democratic Republic of the Congo welcomes the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda and thanks it for the presentation of its national report. My delegation welcomes progress made since the last cycle, including the ratification of the 2019 Convention, Violence and Harassment Convention, and the 2000 Maternity Protection Convention. In a spirit of constructive dialogue, the DRC makes the following recommendations: first, ratify the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights; second, ratify the UNESCO Convention against Discrimination in Education; third, establish a national human rights institution that is independent and fully in conformity with the Paris Principles. In conclusion, my delegation wishes every success to Antigua and Barbuda for the remainder of its UPR. Thank you. Thank you.

I give the floor to Dominica.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Dominica warmly welcomes the distinguished delegation of Antigua and Barbuda, a fellow OACES and CARICOM member state, and expresses sincere appreciation for the country's comprehensive national report. We commend Antigua and Barbuda for its leadership in advancing climate justice and for successfully hosting the fourth International Conference on SIDS and the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting. We also acknowledge progress achieved since its previous review, particularly in advancing gender equality, strengthening protections against gender-based violence, and expanding social protection for vulnerable groups. In a constructive spirit, DOMINICA recommends that Antigua and Barbuda: 1. Consider establishing a national mechanism for the implementation, reporting, and follow-up of international human rights recommendations with technical assistance and support from regional and international partners. Two, continue to invest in climate resilient infrastructure and sustainable housing to mitigate the impacts of climate related disasters on vulnerable persons and communities. We wish the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda every success during the UPR process. I thank you.

I thank you. And the last speaker on my list is Dominican Republic. Excellency, you have the floor.

Thank you very much, Madam Vice President. The Dominican Republic would like to thank the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda for presenting its national report. As a small island developing state and a sisterly Caribbean country, we recognize the challenges that it faces, particularly when it comes to climate change. We would like to commend Antigua and Barbuda on the progress made in social protection, the prevention of gender-based violence, and education. as also its international leadership in climate matters and its contribution to the development of international law for the benefit of small island developing states. In a spirit of constructive dialogue, we recommend: 1. Continue to bolster the legal framework of the right to education. by moving towards the guarantee that at least for 12 years there will be free of charge primary and secondary education and one year of free pre-school education. Two, step up efforts to prevent and combat violence against women and girls by strengthening the implementation of national policies, protection mechanisms, and comprehensive victim support services. And three, consider establishing a national human rights institution which is independent. The Dominican Republic reaffirms its solidarity with Antigua and Barbuda and its commitment to strengthen bilateral cooperation to promote and protect human rights. Thank you very much.

I thank you. Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, this was indeed the last speaker on my list for this review. And I now give the floor back to the delegation to address observations and comments that have been raised and to make final remarks. Please, you have the floor.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, I take this opportunity on behalf of the Government and people of Antigua and Barbuda to thank each and every one of you who contributed to today's interactive dialogue for your thoughtful recommendations during this fourth cycle of the Universal Periodic Review. It has been my greatest honor and privilege to represent Antigua and Barbuda as head of delegation during its fourth cycle of the UPR, and to engage in this highly constructive interactive dialogue emanating from the submission of Antigua and Barbuda's comprehensive national report. Madam Vice President, This unique peer review process continues to provide key insight into the implementation of varying policies tackling similar human rights concerns faced by Member States, and provides an opportunity for us to learn from each other. The Government of Antigua and Barbuda remains fully committed to the UPR mechanism. and has always been firmly committed to protecting and promoting the fundamental human rights and freedoms of every person living within our twin island state and visiting our shores. To ensure that each recommendation received today receives the full and proper consideration it deserves, Antigua and Barbuda reserves its position on the recommendations received today and hopes to engage in active consultation on the outcome of this process with a view to responding as soon as possible in full accordance with the Council’s procedures. There are a few areas that I would like to highlight as part of this closing that have been raised on the floor today and observed during this review process. As previously stated, Antigua and Barbuda is a constitutional parliamentary democracy whose constitution entrenches the fundamental rights and freedoms of the person. Regarding the issue of human trafficking, Antigua and Barbuda continues to work diligently to ensure the prevention of trafficking in persons. The Trafficking in Persons Prevention Unit continues to issue annual monitoring reports and is resourced with the assistance of the Labour Department, the Immigration Department, and the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda. In 2024, the unit investigated 13 suspected cases, 13 suspects, sorry, across nine cases, ensuring that all potential victims were provided with medical care, legal assistance, psychosocial interventions, and safe shelter options. On the issue of gender discrimination, Antigua and Barbuda reiterates that our constitution provides robust protection against discrimination, which extends to sexual orientation and gender identity, in light of the landmark July 2022 ruling of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court in Antigua and Barbuda in the case Auden David versus the Attorney General of Antigua and Barbuda, which quashed sections 12 and 15 of the Sexual Offences Act, which had previously criminalized consensual same-sex relations. We also welcome constructive dialogue and technical assistance on refining our approach to the delivery of programming through the Directorate of Gender Affairs to ensure that long-standing societal attitudes are challenged through education and awareness campaigns to ensure that we have a free and equitable society for all. Regarding the right to education, Madam Vice President, Antigua and Barbuda places the utmost importance on the right to education. Regarding the recommendations raised today about enshrining it as a right, we have worked to ensure free access to education for all, and we codify this, the right of education, through our Education Act. We would like to state that constitutional changes require special procedures, including a two-thirds parliamentary majority and a referendum for amendment, thus posing a challenge to reform. Further, our legal systems require enacting legislation to bring certain international conventions into domestic law. Despite this, our government has worked actively to align our national legal framework with international standards, and enacted policies and programs that align with all of the recommendations. Regarding the issue and challenge of mental health, Madam Vice President, speaking to the 80th United Nations General Assembly, the Honorable Prime Minister Gaston Brown warned that mental illness touches every nation and community, but remains, and as I quote, "hidden in silence, shrouded in stigma, and excluded from priority in global health." He stressed, and I quote again, "We can no longer afford this neglect. Mental health is not a weakness. It is a matter of human rights, social justice, and sustainable development." End quote. We also underscore our commitment to protecting the rights of persons living with disabilities and persons facing mental health challenges in Antigua and Barbuda. As indicated, Antigua and Barbuda renovated the National Vocational Rehabilitation Center, which operates an aquaponics and employment scheme, and we opened the Kevon Etienne Center for Persons with Severe Disabilities in April of this year. We are also introducing mental health legislation under the guidance of PAHO to replace obsolete frameworks with a modern behavioral health unit. Antigua and Barbuda has consistently called on world leaders to elevate mental health to the forefront of the global development agenda, as our Prime Minister, the Right Honorable Gaston Browne, declared it, and I quote, "the great invisible crisis of our time." Madam Vice President, turning to the issue of the climate crisis and human rights. Climate change directly impacts the fundamental human rights of individuals living in Antigua and Barbuda, including the rights to life, health, clean water, adequate sanitation, food security, and housing. Antigua and Barbuda emits a negligible fraction of global greenhouse gases, yet our nation bears hundreds of millions of dollars in loss and damage as a result of climate-induced disasters. Our twin island state lives with the harsh reality of these impacts, which was most notably demonstrated by Hurricane Irma, which destroyed 95% of all properties on Barbuda, with an estimated total recovery cost in the hundreds of millions of United States dollars. We are still recovering from this crisis. Antigua and Barbuda, however, has continued to stand as a champion for small island developing states and the issue of climate change on the global stage. Working towards this, we have introduced solar energy for government buildings and schools, offered concessions, and have also done this for persons importing electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles, and, through the Department of Environment, begun a project to construct a wind turbine farm to supplement our renewable energy initiatives. Madam Vice President, we see the climate crisis as a fundamental human rights issue and urge more developed states to ensure that climate finance is prioritized to preserve human dignity in vulnerable island nations. As climate hazards worsen, the vulnerabilities of small island developing states are compounded by restricted access to climate finance, and we have also championed this issue at a global level. Looking at the issues on the floor today about the eradication of gender-based violence and other gender issues, addressing gender-based violence and eliminating discrimination against women and girls continues to remain a paramount national priority for the government and people of Antigua and Barbuda. To convert our human rights obligations into local impact, Antigua and Barbuda conducted broad national consultations before our Parliament tabled the Workplace Violence and Harassment Prevention Bill. Further, Madam Vice President, supported by our Strategic Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence 2023-2027, The Directorate of Gender Affairs operates the Support and Referral Centre, the SARC, which is a regional best practice and provides targeted emergency care for persons who experience gender-based violence in Antigua and Barbuda. It is noted that the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has also approved a new purpose-built emergency shelter facility for domestic violence survivors. Through our operationalization of the National Sex Offender Registry Act of 2022, the hosting of our National Child Protection Town Halls, and our forthcoming National Gender Equality and Social Inclusion Policy, we are building an equitable society. We gratefully request continued technical collaboration from international partners and states to refine our cohesive strategy to gender-based violence, our gender-based violence data collection, and the way that we implement our support services for victims. Looking at the issues on the floor about national human rights institutions and the NMIRF, Antigua and Barbuda recognizes the need for a dedicated human rights institution aligned with the Paris Principles, and again welcomes technical assistance to map our transition to a hybrid approach for the implementation of an NHRI. Furthermore, Madam Vice President, Antigua and Barbuda lacks a centralized human rights tracking mechanism for dedicated monitoring, and we remain open to technical assistance and cooperation, as well as capacity-building partnerships from members and international partners to assist in ensuring that we meet our international reporting obligations and can effectively implement recommendations arising out of this interactive dialogue and the UPR process on a whole. Madam Vice President, in conclusion, I wish to express our deep appreciation to all of those who have made this review process possible. While we have been able to accomplish much, even in the face of challenges that may seem at times insurmountable, we cannot forget that we are a small, vulnerable economy amid an oftentimes volatile global environment and that we must maneuver to survive. We extend our sincere gratitude and thanks to the members of the Troika selected for Antigua and Barbuda’s review at this session, namely, the distinguished representatives of the Dominican Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Indonesia, for their steadfast support and cooperation throughout this session. We also owe a debt of gratitude to our colleagues within the Commonwealth Small States Office in Geneva for providing much needed technical expertise during the preparation of our report and for hosting a simulated review prior to our involvement today. We also extend our deepest and heartfelt thanks to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. the UPR Secretariat, and the contributing members of the UN Voluntary Fund for Participation for facilitating our delegation's involvement in Geneva today. We'd like to underscore the importance of contributing to the UPR Voluntary Fund and the SIDS-LDCs Trust Fund, as these mechanisms remain the only avenue for Antigua and Barbuda to be visible in this space, as we no longer have a functional permanent mission in Geneva. Madam Vice President, I extend my heartfelt thanks to all of the Council members, observer States, and stakeholders who participated in this critically important review for Antigua and Barbuda. We recognize that the Universal Periodic Review reinforces international collaboration, constructive dialogue, and mutual accountability. This exercise of self-reflection represents a beacon of hope and action for states as the ultimate guarantors of human rights. Madam Vice President, our people and their welfare are paramount in the minds and plans of the Government of Antigua and Barbuda. We assure you that preserving the dignity, honor, and fundamental rights of every citizen and resident is the driving force behind our national effort. In closing, I leave you with the words from the address of the Right Honorable Gaston Brown, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, at the opening session of the 28th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, which recently convened in Antigua and Barbuda. "Countries of an equal size and power, united by common purpose, can shape a more just, stable, and prosperous future." End quote. Antigua and Barbuda reaffirms our commitment to upholding this sense of shared responsibility, keeping the protection, promotion, and fulfillment of all human rights as an integral part of our national journey. Once again, thank you to each and every one of the distinguished delegates here today. Madam Vice President, I thank you.

I thank the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda for all information provided, your responses to observations and questions of the delegation, and, of course, for your participation in this review. The report of the review will be prepared by the members of the TOICA, namely the representatives of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Dominican Republic, and Indonesia. In accordance with the procedure implemented in 2015, the recommendations section of the report is scheduled for distribution on Tuesday, November 10, at 6:00 PM. In addition, let me recall that according to President's statement PRST/OS/19/1 adopted on December 8, 2025, The recommendations section of all reports of the working group will be considered for adoption on Friday, November 13, in the last meeting of the session from 2:30 PM. The full report, including the summary section, will be distributed by email on Friday, November 20, 2026. And this brings us to the end of this meeting. We will reconvene this afternoon at 2:30 PM for the review of Eswatini. Speaking time will be one minute and 30 seconds for all this afternoon. Inscribed speakers who wish to withdraw from the list are kindly invited to use the online system event for withdrawals at the latest 30 minutes before the start of the review. And I hereby close the ninth meeting of the 53rd session of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review.