28th Meeting - 60th Session of Human Rights Council

Good afternoon, dear colleagues, excellencies. I hereby declare open the 28th meeting of the 60th session of the Human Rights Council. We will continue with the general debate under agenda item 5, and we proceed with the list of speakers for the national human rights institutions and the non-governmental organizations. Now I invite the representative of Al-Bashir Foundation for Development. Who is not? Then I invite the representative of CIRID, Centre independent de recherche et d'initiative pour le dialogue.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. India's commitment to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is central to its vision of a developed India by 2047. Rooted in a human rights-based, uh, and inclusive approach, India serves as a model for global institutional cooperation. Domestically, welfare schemes are driving SDG progress. The multidimensional poverty index has helped lift 248 million people out of poverty, demonstrating India's focus on data-driven inclusive development. India's global leadership, especially for the global south, is evident through the International Solar Alliance. and the Coalition for Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure, promoting cross-cutting solutions for climate action. Through the India-UN Development Partnership Fund, India has pledged 150 million to support SDG projects in developing countries based on mutual respect and non-conditionality. The Clean India Mission has made the country achieve open defecation-free, building over 100 million toilets, achieving SDG 6 ahead of time. India also leads in health with the world's largest public health insurance scheme covering over 40% of the population. Clean cooking fuel access, empower women and financial inclusion support poverty eradication, advancing SDG 1, 3, 5, and 7. Thank you, Mr. President.

I thank you. Now I invite the representative of Citoyens en Action pour la Démocratie et le Développement.

Vice President, the economic empowerment of women and young people is an essential pillar for shoring up the enjoyment of human rights. 2025 reports highlight major challenges, a growing digital divide, legal and cultural discrimination, low political and economic representation, as well as a lack of support in emergent sectors. So global efforts are needed to guarantee equal economic opportunities, promoting justice and stability. The UAE offers a pioneering model through comprehensive policies such as the National Strategy for Empowerment of Women 2331, the Youth Council, initiatives to support entrepreneurship and funding SMEs, boosting the participation of women in public office, as well as focused programs developing technical and economic skills for young people. Also, supporting international initiatives to empower young women in crisis areas and economic empowerment to integrate social peace and equality. We recommend that the Council continues its efforts to support economic empowerment through sustainable initiatives, integrating women and young people into digital and green economies, and to tackle systemic discrimination which limits their effective participation in development. Thank you.

I thank you. Now I invite the representative of.

Vice President, recession or the drop in support and respect for international humanitarian law and human rights is a tragedy for us representing Civil society, we urge all to ask why this has happened. States must do more. International bodies and parties must support the mandate holders' decisions. Algeria's implementation of recommendations affects all persons in Algeria, including the Sahrawi in Tindouf. We have seen that some recommendations of mechanisms have not been implemented, notably the mechanism against torture, forced disappearances, as well as concerning extrajudiciary actions. working closely with the group on forced disappearances or with the group responsible for arbitrary detention. We call on Algeria to accept invitations by mandate holders to carefully consider the cases of extrajudicial actions and torture that supposedly have taken place in Tindouf and other camps against the Sahrawi. We call on your council to encourage Algeria to sign the treaty on forced disappearances and the Rome Treaty.

Time is up. I'm sorry. Now I invite the representative of the World Muslim Congress.

Mr. Vice President, now human rights defenders are.

Branded as enemies of the state, arrested, intimidated and imprisoned under draconian laws. This is not isolated, it is systematic. Nowhere is this more stark than in Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

The work of human rights defenders has been effectively criminalised.

After leading, defender Khurram Parvez and his colleagues were arrested on fabricated sedition charges.

The JKCCS, Kashmir's premier human rights organisation, was sealed, its records confiscated.

Passports of advocates like Parvez Imroz and Parveen Ainger have been revoked or withheld. Journalists are barred from reporting on human rights violations.

The message is clear: silence or suffer.

This is not merely repression; it is a calculated assault on the UN system itself. When states criminalise cooperation with UN mechanisms, undermine the very foundation of international human rights law. On 24 September 2025, in Ladakh, Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, forces killed four and injured more than 70 peaceful protesters. We call on this Council to act decisively, condemn reprisal, demand the immediate release of detained defenders, detained defenders of Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, impress upon the Government of India to fulfill its obligations and ensure that cooperation with the UN is not a crime but a protected right. The credibility of this Council depends on its willingness to defend those who defend human rights.

Thank you.

Thank you. Now I invite the representative of Zero Poverty Africa.

Mr. President, we wish to express To this esteemed Council, our deep concern regarding the grave and systematic violations committed by the Sudanese army and allied militias against civilians, which amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity, particularly the so-called Al-Saied Force, responsible for the use of chemical and internationally prohibited weapons against civilians. The Sudanese army has carried out ethnic massacres, used internationally banned weapons, and deliberately targeted civilians and vital civilian infrastructure, including schools and hospitals, Numerous reports have documented horrific violations, including arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances, the besiegement of areas, and obstruction of humanitarian aid delivery, causing immense human suffering and the spread of famine that has reached catastrophic levels, according to the United Nations, for 2025, with over 30 million facing acute food insecurity, half of them women and children. Mr. President, we stress the need to strengthen the work of the Independent Investigation Committee, mandated to document violations. We also urge the Council to demand full cooperation by the Sudanese army with the United Nations mechanisms and to end impunity through the imposition of strict international sanctions. We further emphasize that achieving peace requires the activation of measures to ensure justice, the protection of civilians, and the end of the suffering of the Sudanese people. Thank you, Mr. President.

I thank you. Now I invite the representative of VIVAT International.

Mr. Vice President, Vivat International and allies continue to re-echo the voices of the victims of the Jotunmo project in Flores, Indonesia. All too saddening is the shrinking living space, land, water, forest, and socio-cultural resources for impacted communities, the more reason the project is being vehemently opposed. Equally distressing is the failure of the Flores-Lamberta Geothermal Task Force team to engage civil society and stakeholders in the impact evaluation process. The team's denigration of dissenting voices as lacking in knowledge is dialogically counterproductive. Undoubtedly, civil societies and stakeholders have relevant capacity to assess the environmental impacts geothermal plants pose to the communities. Enough lessons have already been learned from the experience of victims of the Rotai project in Mataloko. Vivat International, Alta BKGf and other allies strongly urge the United Nations to invoke its environmental and indigenous peoples protection rights mechanisms to compel the Indonesian government not to implement the biased evaluation by the task force team that recommends developing JETAMA plants, but rather focus transition policies on developing energy sovereignty for indigenous communities which guarantees social and ecological justice. Thank you.

I thank you. Now I invite the representative of Association Caritative Etudiante pour la Jeunesse. Okay. Then I invite the representative of Broad National Movement Limited.

Vice President, ladies and gentlemen, a war continues in our country, which has led to widespread killing.

The interpreters apologize, but the quality of sound is not sufficient for interpretation of quality.

and the provisions of many international treaties, which protect civilians during wartime, to activate them to stop the war, to help and provide humanitarian and medical aid, to deliver medicine and food.

Okay, now I invite the representative of New Era Asia Peace Academy.

Not in the room. another video hopefully this one is good more more from model European Parliament Italia.

President I have the honor to speak on behalf of the model European Parliament and many students across Europe who for over 30 years have shared in its political educational mission to promote a free world founded in human rights protection telling again we are confronting with systematic violation of international monit law some of these have drawn the word attention by clear abuses in high profile conflicts such as full-scale invasion of Ukraine, yet for too many, continue to unfold amid the near indifference of the international community. The consequences are undeniable. The protection of civilians is upheld inconsistently and selectively, undermining and jeopardizing its effectiveness. Russian aggression has unmasked a fragile multilateral system, marred by politicized responses. In such double standards, the credibility of the system gradually erodes, affirming the universality of rights yet undermining it through selective application. Conflict is not only a source of suffering but also to assign an institutional failure, who by imputing the inequality and disregard for international law and human rights. Ignoring conflicts reveals a hierarchy of whose lives matter more than the others. In the light of such reality, we consider urgent to advance some recommendations. First, we propose the establishment of full cooperation between special procedure and treaty bodies, reinforcing credibility of the UN human rights mechanism. Secondly, we advocate for a universal ratification of the Rome Statute and core human rights treaty backed by national legislation, ensuring prosecution and cooperation. Finally, we call for an independent monitoring body to expose double standard in addressing violation through annual reports.

Okay, now I invite the representative of Images for Inclusion.

We welcome the ability of human rights mechanisms and bodies to promote human dignity worldwide. Its work of credibility is based on transparency, impartiality, and accountability. This deep concern, which we are deeply concerned about a recent situation which is challenging these principles. The unedited advanced version of the permanent forum's document this year included a recommendation to the government of Chile to implement recommendations, including legislative measures from the report from the Commission on Peace and Understanding between the government and the Mapuche people. This document is not a public document and has not been presented to the President of Chile. Thankfully, the Forum listened to us and got rid of that recommendation. We need to look at the principle of free, prior and informed consent to ask for the consent of Indigenous peoples for actions that affect their lands and resources, which is a violation of international law if it doesn't happen. We urge the the Council and other Member States to character an investigation and demand transparency with regards to the permanent forum and to urge the independent expert and the MBRIP to guarantee the human rights of indigenous peoples established under international law in particular the free prior and informed consent principle. Thank you.

Thank you. And now I invite the representative of Centre USA Group, Le Droit de l'Homme.

Monsieur le Vice-President. Vice-President, since the recent Israeli attack, the Iranian authorities have launched a wave of arbitrary arrests, targeting thousands of people in the country. Minorities of multiple different ethnicities, as well as the Baha'i and religious minorities, have been targeted, particularly with systemic discriminations and repressions. In parallel, executions have seen an alarming increase, often after rapid trials without guarantee of equality. They have been accused of serious crimes, but there are also peaceful protesters. Those detained for political reasons have been exposed to poor treatment, forced confessions, and torture. These intimidations are aimed at reducing into silence every possible dissident and marginalizing the community that remains. We call through this body for consequences for the Iranian government that refuses to cooperate with the special procedures. We call on this Council to denounce these violations and demand the release of those detained for their opinions or for their identity, and to recall to Iran its international obligations. Thank you.

Thank you. This was the last speaker on, uh, on our list. With this last intervention, we have concluded the general debate under agenda item five. Now, distinguished colleagues, I understand that a number of delegations have requested, um, to exercise the right of reply in relation to statements made under item five.

I would now like to give the floor to the distinguished representative of Burkina Faso. You have three minutes.

Sir.

President. My delegation wanted to exercise our right to reply following a statement made by an observer body claiming to represent nomads in Burkina Faso after an interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on indigenous peoples. Burkina Faso recognizes the rights of indigenous peoples We do not recognize the allegations. The international community must reject the accusation that the minority is repressed. Our constitution guarantees the same rights for all, and formally prohibits in Article 1, paragraph 2, discrimination of all kind, notably that founded on ethnicity, race, skin color, gender, language, religion, caste, and so forth, political opinions, either, or place of birth. This prohibition is supported by other articles also, 302, 303, and 304 of the Criminal Code, which ban all forms of discrimination on the basis of these provisions. following the -- there is criminal liability for hate speech, and we would like to take this opportunity to recall once again that the fight against terrorism in Burkina Faso does not have an ethnic dimension and is not targeted against any particular community. The forces fighting against terrorism are drawn from all ethnic groups in the country, and that battle strictly complies with the articles of our constitution and criminal justice, with the requirement to collect evidence supporting any such allegations and wherever people are detained during operations. As regards violations of the law, we would also like to recall that our armed forces have the duty of protecting the population and the integrity of our territory. This requires collecting information, violation of human rights, military figures regularly are trained in cooperation with the human rights bodies of the United Nations, and we welcome such cooperation. My delegation would also like to underscore that the Burkina Faso government have put in place a working group, bringing together different ministries to resolve all allegations of violations of human rights within the framework of our fight against terrorism and to make a contribution to preventing violation of human rights by capacity building. We have also taken a place, a new plan for follow-up and early warning of cases of violation and possible abuse, working with the High Commissioner's Office. And this has been assessed by all relevant stakeholders. To conclude, we would like to urge all actors to a high level of responsibility, and we invite them to official information sources instead of allegations.

Interruption due to lack of time. The Vice President would like to thank you.

That was more than three minutes.

Now I invite the representative of Argentina to take the floor.

Thank you very

much, uh, chair, Mr. Vice President, the Center for Legal Social Studies at non-governmental organizations sometimes really does… speak on behalf of the opposition and said that we have a racist and racial policy when we had the indigenous peoples' discussion. We've never denied the existence of indigenous peoples. And let me say it even more clearly, Argentina, there is no racial hatred. What we do have is a state which is strengthening institutions, a state which, through the National Institutes for Indigenous Affairs, is opening up spaces for participation, opens up bridges with the provinces and dialogue. These are facts. This is not propaganda. To speak of structural racism sounds academic and wonderful, but it is absolutely false. Our reality is totally different. Our constitution recognises the existence of indigenous peoples, but to recognise, Mr Vice-President, is not to give privilege. To recognise does not mean that, in the name of a right, you infringe other rights, such as private property or national sovereignty. The duty of the state is also to be balanced. The Government is paying tribute to our civilians and military personnel as if to recognise them was a sin. No, it is not. Rather, it is the opposite. It is to accept that, thanks to them, we have today a unified homeland that is free and sovereign. To recognise the shadow does not mean that we should not recognise the light in which we walk. Let us remember We are a federal state. Each province expresses its vision. Each province takes decisions according to its reality. The national government respects this independence, but it also ensures that any community which accredits its existence has access to the legal tools which the constitution and international treaties provides for them. This is balance. Federalism with unity, independence with responsibility. The path towards a fair relationship is not victimisation nor confrontation. It is law, the law which makes us all indigenous, regardless of our categories. Without privileges, without exceptions, without racial hatred. This is our commitment, Mr Vice-President. The government in Argentina is not ready to use the map. guide the destiny of Argentinians, but on the contrary, it has chosen the only path to keep alive the promise of a nation that is just and sovereign and who's decided forever to live in peace. Thank you.

Thank you, Ambassador. Now I invite the representative of Indonesia.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. My delegation exercises its right of reply to the statement delivered by a few NGOs during yesterday's interactive dialogue with expert mechanism on the rights of indigenous peoples and during the general debate item five just now. Indonesia firmly rejects the misleading and factually incorrect narrative that distorts the reality in the Papua provinces, which are an integral part of the Republic of Indonesia. First, let me underscore that the rights of all Indonesian citizens, including the customary law communities in Papua and Flores, are guaranteed and protected by our constitution. These rights are not abstract, and protections are evident. Since 2016, Indonesia has formally recognized over 400,000 hectares of customary forests, benefiting more than 76,000 indigenous families, including in Papua provinces. Since 2021, around 3.8 million hectares of customary land have been identified and mapped nationwide. In Papua, a pilot project issued land rights certificates to the Sawo Hnia community in Jayapura. And in 2024, Merauke Regency recognized over 445,000 hectares of Yai tribe customary land. Second, on the National Strategic Project, or NSP, in Merauke and geothermal project in Flores, allegations of dispossession and lack of consent are false. The NSP framework is guided by law, due diligence, and meaningful consultations. Land designated for NSP Merauke lies within the production forest area, hence legally covered by cultivation rights title. Companies operating in the area have also signed formal MOUs with local villages to establish community cooperatives and prioritize local workers. Moreover, the Ministry of Human Rights has held direct dialogue with affected communities to ensure that any allegations are properly investigated and addressed. This also applies to businesses and development projects in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara Province, as well as in other provinces in Indonesia, where all enterprises are required to comply with strict legal requirements and monitoring, with firm measures imposed on any violations. Third and our final point, Indonesia categorically rejects the attempt by one NGO to mischaracterize the status of Papua. This description is not only offensive, but factually wrong. Papua is an inalienable and sovereign right part of Indonesia. In fact, Papua provinces enjoy greater autonomy than other provinces under special autonomy law. Likewise, the rhetoric of militarization is irresponsible. Finally, allegations of intimidation against Papua New Guinea civil society have been duly examined and investigated. Indonesia continues to ensure a robust civic space for all. Thank you.

I thank you. Now I invite the representative of Djibouti.

Thank you, Vice-President. My delegation is taking the floor to exercise our right to reply following a statement by Luxembourg on behalf of Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands under the interactive dialogue on the report of the Secretary-General on reprisals. I categorically reject the allegations of reprisals. And we express our deep concern with respect to unfounded allegations separated from the reality. They're allegations that are not even in the official report. And we call on those countries to abstain from such fallacious allegations. We have heard the allegations about reprisals against human rights defenders. However, any None have been detained for such activities. We fully respect the right of human rights defenders to operate, and we understand the criticism, do not understand the criticism presented to us behind these allegations. As far as we know, representatives of civil society have been free to fully participate in processes in Djibouti. We support and have always supported all initiatives aimed at protecting human rights defenders, notably in the United Nations General Assembly, and we place particular attention on this issue. Thank you very much.

I thank you, and I give the floor to the representative of China.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Yesterday, in their statements, Germany and a few NGOs abuse the platform of the Council by using the banner of human rights to interfere wantonly in China's internal affairs and judicial sovereignty. China hereby expresses its strong dissatisfaction and resolute opposition to this. China is a law-abiding country, and its public security departments and judicial organs handle and adjudicate cases in accordance with the law. Measures are taken against criminal suspects on the basis of sufficient evidence and facts. In this process, the lawful rights of those involved and their defense lawyers are fully guaranteed. China firmly opposes attempts by certain countries to shield criminals under the guise of human rights. Hong Kong is a society governed by the rule of law, where adherence to the law is a fundamental principle. Jimmy Lai and Chow Hang-tung are known for their activities that undermine China and disrupt Hong Kong. Their collusion with external forces and their incitement of separatism have long been exposed. The courts of the Hong Kong SAR adjudicate cases impartially and resolutely crack down on such acts. This is a legitimate step in safeguarding national security and upholding the dignity of the law, and is beyond reproach. China urges certain countries to abandon their hypocritical double standards and political posturing, to genuinely respect China's sovereignty, and to cease interfering in Hong Kong and Chinese internal affairs. China is committed to cooperation with international human rights mechanisms and is party to six core human rights treaties and has responded earnestly and timely to communications from special procedures with a constructive attitude. Human rights can always be improved. China will continue to move in the right direction, strengthening exchanges and cooperation with all parties. By contrast, certain countries that brag about their cooperation with UN human rights mechanisms have, in fact, engaged in double standards. They remain silent on the atrocities committed by their allies while singling out developing countries for scrutiny. Their behavior are hardly convincing in the eyes of the international community. Sovereign states are the biggest defenders of human rights. China urges the relevant parties to bear in mind the importance of fostering a constructive atmosphere in the Council and stop making provocative remarks, but rather focus on taking concrete actions to promote and protect human rights. Thank you, Mr. Vice President.

I thank you. Now I invite the distinguished representative of Sudan.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. In response to the grave violation caused by some organizations today, When it comes to Resolution 1969 of '69, I say the following. The accusations by some NGOs that misuse their right to speak at the Human Rights Council and the false allegations on the use of chemical weapons by the Sudanese armed forces, why haven't the same organizations spoken Haven't they heard, haven't they witnessed videos of torturing, for example, a girl until she died and she was hanged by a tree? Haven't they heard about the siege of El-Fasher for a year and a half? Haven't those heard about the bombing by militias of houses of worship, including a mosque that has taken the lives of 70 worshippers? Why don't they speak about all this in front of the Human Rights Council? Because their sponsors would never accept that. How could they focus on in false allegations about the use by the armed forces of chemical weapons, while ignoring all those blatant facts based on anonymous sources. Mr. President, our commitment to the prohibition of chemical weapons, we are an integral party to this convention, and our commitment is not subject to doubt. It is an integral part of our legal framework. When some sides have propagated those false accusations, we have put together a committee that comprises all stakeholders, including the National Apparatus for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, based on a scientific, accurate, professional manner, including field survey, taking biological samples, and the report of this specialized committee will be decisive to put an end to all those lies and the accusations fabricated by those organizations and their sponsors. We are fully aware that the representatives of such organizations, all they care about is to come here to propagate allegations, and then immediately after the They send the link to their sponsors. This is a breach of the standards that govern the work of NGOs. Mr. President, the Sudanese army is supported by all aspects of the society. Thank you.

Thank you, Ambassador. This was the last speaker on my list. Is there any other delegation requesting to exercise the right of reply in relation to statements made under agenda item 5? As I can see none, then we will take now a short break, technical break, before opening the agenda item 6 and proceeding with the adoption of the UPR outcomes. Please, uh, could you join us, one of you from Kyrgyzstan, here at the podium? Okay, back in business. I declare open the agenda item six entitled Universal Periodic Review. We will now proceed with the adoption of the UPR outcomes of the 14 states which were examined during the 49th session of the UPR working group held in May 2025, namely Kyrgyzstan, Kiribati, Guinea, Lao PDR, Sweden, Lesotho, Kenya, Armenia, Guinea-Bissau, Spain, Grenada, Turkey, Guyana, and Kuwait, as well Nicaragua, which was examined during the 47th session of the UPR Working Group held in November last year, 2024. The UPR outcome adoption process will take place in accordance with the established modalities. The process will last up to one hour for each state under review. The hour will be divided into three equal segments of up to 20 minutes each. First, for the state under review, second, for the member and observer states of the council, as well as for United Nations agencies and intergovernmental organizations, and lastly, third, for other stakeholders. In line with resolution 5.1, the State concerned and the member and observer States of the Council, as well as relevant stakeholders, will have the opportunity to express their views and make general comments on the outcome of the review. If the adoption of the outcome for any State under review lasts less than one hour, the next adoption will be advanced. Therefore, I kindly request delegates to be available for the entire duration of the UPR segment and to follow the announcements made in order to be in room just on time. I would also like to recall that in line with the Council resolutions 5/1 and 16/21, all recommendations are an integral part of the outcome document. The state under review needs to clearly communicate its position on all recommendations, either by supporting or by noting the recommendation concerned. In addition, all interventions made during the UPR segment shall focus on the outcome documents. The interventions should not aim at reopening debates that already took place during the working group session. I would like also to recall that the Council rejects any act of intimidation or reprisal against individuals and groups who cooperate or have cooperated with the United Nations and its representatives and mechanisms. I urge states to prevent and ensure adequate protection against such acts, especially against national human rights institutions and NGOs. Finally, let me kindly remind all speakers to respect the speaking time. The full statements will be uploaded on the extranet. I thank you for your understanding and cooperation. Now, we will proceed with the consideration of the outcome on Kyrgyzstan. The outcome is based on the report of the Working Group on the UPR of Kyrgyzstan and its addendum. These documents, together with the additional information that will now be provided by Kyrgyzstan, whose representative is on my right, will constitute the outcome of the review. and shall be adopted by the Council through a standardized decision. Now, I have the pleasure to give the floor to Mr. Maratek Moldaliev, Deputy Permanent Representative of the Kyrgyz Republic to the United Nations in Geneva, to present the additional information on the review. Sir, you have the floor.

Thank you, President. Esteemed members of the Human Rights Council, your excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, for me it is an honor to present the delegation of my country at the 60th session of the Human Rights Council of the United Nations Organization. At the outset, I would like to express Our sincere and deep gratitude to the members of the Troika, specifically the delegations of Cuba, Ethiopia and the Maldives, as well as the UPR Secretariat, for their tireless support rendered to Kyrgyzstan during this fourth cycle. I would also like to offer our gratitude to all Member States and civil society organizations for the concrete ideas and proposals presented in relation to assessing the situation around human rights in Kyrgyzstan. Esteemed delegates, after the presentation of the national report of Kyrgyzstan under the fourth UPR cycle, A total of 299 recommendations were presented to us, and I would like to inform you that of those 299, we supported 249 recommendations, which is 83.3% of the total number, while 50 recommendations were taken note of. the recommendations we supported means that we have already implemented them, are implementing them, or we plan to implement them. All of these recommendations were discussed broadly with representatives of civil society, the UN agencies, and the regional office of the High Commissioner's Office for Human Rights in Central Asia in Bishkek. President, your excellencies, Please allow me to underscore once again that Kyrgyzstan is committed to constructive interaction with the international community within the framework of the UPR and also the fundamental noble values of the Declaration of Human Rights. We place great importance on the UPR mechanism. and we see it and the promotion of human rights to be systemic in our future. We will stand ready to happily cooperate with the Human Rights Council and all of the UN agencies in the area of human rights, as well as representatives of society, in order to work together to promote human rights in our country. We are strongly committed to protecting and promoting human rights, and we stand ready to cooperate with the Human Rights Council and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. Thank you for your

Hi, thank you for the presentation. I will now open the floor to the member and observer states for their comments on the outcome of the review. I remind you that the speaking time is set to one minute and 30 seconds. First, I invite the representative of Jordan.

Mr Vice-President, we welcome the efforts made by Kyrgyzstan and their cooperation with the Human Rights Council in the context of the UPR, which attests to the fact that this country is determined to have international partnerships and is wishes to benefit from human rights experiences, we welcome the efforts made in the area of sustainable development and in the area of the implementation of projects, health projects and gender equality projects and women empowerment projects and projects to protect disadvantaged groups, including children and persons with disabilities. We wish this country every success in the implementation of the recommendations for the well-being of the people of Kyrgyzstan. Thank you very much.

Thank you. Kazakhstan, please.

Thank you, Mr. President.

Kazakhstan warmly welcomes the Kyrgyzstan delegation and would like to express its appreciation for the detailed presentation of the national report. We highly value Kyrgyzstan's commitment to the UPR process And we positively note that Kyrgyzstan supported most of the recommendations made, including all recommendations of my country.

Kazakhstan welcomes Kyrgyzstan's efforts to promote and protect human rights, in particular its

ongoing reforms in the field of education and digital governance. To conclude, Kazakhstan supports the adoption of the presented final outcome UPR report and wishes Kyrgyzstan every success

in the implementation of re- recommendations it has accepted.

Thank you, Mr. President.

I thank you. Kuwait, please. Uh,

Mr. Vice President. We welcome the delegation of Kyrgyzstan in our midst this afternoon. We thank the delegation for the updated information we have heard. With regards to the recommendations at the 49th session of the UPR, we welcome the fact that Kyrgyzstan has accepted a significant number of recommendations to improve the human rights situation in the country, including our two recommendations designed to help the country to continue to extend their program on women leadership by 2030, as well as a recommendation to continue efforts to implement the policy they have to combat crime covering the period 2022-2028. We wish Kyrgyzstan every success in the implementation of accepted recommendations. We recommend that the Human Rights Council adopt a report for the UPR of Kyrgyzstan. Thank you.

Thank you. Lao PDR.

Mr. Vice President, my delegation warmly welcome the delegation of Kyrgyzstan to this UPR adoption session and congratulate it on the successful participation in the constructive dialogue in the fourth cycle UPR working group session. We commend Kyrgyzstan for the progress made in advancing human rights in the country by investing in the national program, including the education development, the national sustainable development strategy, the family support and child protection program, among others, in order to improve well-being of citizens. We appreciate that Kyrgyzstan had accepted the majority of recommendations received during the constructive dialogue, including two recommendations made by the Lao PDR. We wish Kyrgyzstan every success in implementing the accepted recommendations. In conclusion, we support the adoption of the UPR outcome of Kyrgyzstan by consensus. I thank you, Mr. Vice President.

I thank you. Malawi, please.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Malawi warmly congratulates Kyrgyzstan on undergoing this review. We appreciate Kyrgyzstan's cooperation throughout this important human rights mechanism. We welcome the country's demonstrated political will to strengthen democracy and the rule of law through its reported political, legal and institutional changes. The development reflects the country's commitment and dedication to the implementation of the recommendations. In light of Kyrgyzstan's progress and its acceptance of key recommendations, Malawi fully supports the adoption of its UPR report. I thank you.

Thank you, Maldives.

Thank you, Mr. President. The Maldives warmly welcomes the distinguished delegation from Kyrgyzstan to the adoption of the UPR report and compliments Kyrgyzstan's commitment to the UPR process. We commend the government of Kyrgyzstan for accepting majority of the recommendations, including the two recommendations made by the Maldives during the UPR working group session in April. We wish the Government of Kyrgyzstan success in the implementation of the accepted recommendations and request the Council to adopt the UPR outcome report of Kyrgyzstan by consensus. Thank you.

Thank you. Morocco, please.

Mr. President, my delegation wishes to acknowledge Kyrgyzstan's active participation in the Universal Periodic Review process, which demonstrates its determination to strengthen the protection and promotion of human rights. We welcome in particular Kyrgyzstan's decision to endorse the recommendations made by Morocco, notably those aimed at providing the Office of the Ombudsman with the necessary authority and resources to fully comply with the Paris Principles, advancing inclusive education by ensuring that children with disabilities benefit from equal opportunities in the school system. These commitments highlight Kyrgyzstan's willingness to reinforce democratic institutions and foster a more equitable society. Morocco looks forward to the effective implementation of these measures and wishes Kyrgyzstan every success in pursuing its human rights agenda. Thank you, Mr. President.

I thank you. Nepal.

Mr. Vice President, Nepal warmly welcomes the delegation of Kyrgyzstan to the adoption of the UPR outcome and thanks them for their constructive engagements with the human rights mechanisms. We thank Kyrgyzstan for accepting both the recommendations that we offered. We appreciate Kyrgyzstan's efforts to prevent gender-based violence and promote gender equality. Nepal wishes Kyrgyzstan all success in implementing the accepted recommendations and supports the adoption of the UPR outcome report by consensus. I thank you.

I thank you Oman please

say thank you Mr vice president we welcome head of delegation in our midst. We welcome the cooperation between Kyrgyzstan and the UN human rights mechanisms, as well as its commitment to strengthen its legal system to protect democracy and the rule of law in the country. We have considered the outcome of Kyrgyzstan's UPR, which took place in a context with a constructive dialogue and fruitful interaction. We welcome the fact that Kyrgyzstan has accepted our recommendation pertaining to the digitization of the judicial system, as well as the support for low-income families and the improvement of the legislative framework for the management of drinking water. We finally recommend that Kyrgyzstan's UPR report be adopted by the Council. We wish every success to Kyrgyzstan and prosperity, success with regards to the implementation of accepted recommendations, that is. Thank you very much.

Thank you. Pakistan, please.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. My delegation thanks the Kyrgyz delegation for presenting a follow-up on recommendations received during its fourth UPR and commends it for accepting majority of them, including those made by Pakistan. We appreciate the progress made by the Kyrgyzstan on several facets of human rights and welcome its efforts to promote and protect human rights. Pakistan wishes the Kyrgyz Republic every success in the implementation of accepted recommendations and request the Council to adopt the UPR outcome report with consensus. I thank you.

I thank you. Philippines.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. The Philippines welcomes the delegation of Kyrgyzstan to this session. We commend Kyrgyzstan's constructive approach in the UPR mechanism by accepting majority of the recommendations. We appreciate Kyrgyzstan's support for the three recommendations from the Philippines to strengthen the independence and capacity of the Office of the Ombudsman in line with the Paris Principle, to continue to provide adequate resources to competent institutions for the effective implementation of policies and programs to combat trafficking in persons, and to strengthen efforts to combat gender-based violence through awareness-raising campaigns and capacity building for law enforcement and the judiciary. Mr. Vice President, the Philippines supports the adoption of the UPR report on Kyrgyzstan and wishes Kyrgyzstan every success in implementing all accepted recommendations. Thank you.

I thank you. Qatar, please.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. We welcome the delegation of Kyrgyzstan in our midst. We thank the delegation for having presented to us the recommendations At the UPR, we welcome the fact that a significant number of these recommendations have been accepted by the country, attesting to the fact that Kyrgyzstan is committed to human rights. We welcome the fact that Kyrgyzstan has accepted our two recommendations with regards to the protection of the family and the improvement of the quality of education in the country and the provision of education to the disadvantaged, including children with disabilities. We also welcome the cooperation which took place between Kyrgyzstan and the international community for the implementation of the recommendations. We wish this country every success and we recommend that the UPR report for the country be adopted. Thank you.

Thank you. Russian Federation, please.

Thank you, Vice-President. We welcome Kyrgyzstan going through the fourth UPR cycle. We thank the delegation for the information presented on the recommendations presented. We note the majority of, including Russia's recommendations, have been adopted. This demonstrates that Bishkek is committed to expanding and promoting human rights and stands ready to continue to cooperate with international monitoring bodies. We note major progress in the country in human rights, notably modernizing legislation, protecting rights and freedoms of the population, also steps by the government to protect children, people with disabilities, the elderly and women and other such groups. This is a very important area of activity. We welcome the authorities' efforts to boost living standards, to eradicate poverty, to provide greater financial support to the poor and to open up participation by women in the government. We congratulate them. Thank you.

Thank you, Saudi Arabia.

Thank you, Vice President. We would like to highlight the position on recommendations, and we have followed the situation with a lot of interest. We note Kyrgyzstan underscoring its serious cooperation with human rights bodies. My country's delegation hails the tireless efforts undertaken by Kyrgyzstan in the human rights area, and we welcome the opening up of this country to international monitoring bodies. We note the positive openness of the country and the acceptance of most of the recommendations, and We wish every success and progress to this country and recommend the adoption of the report. Thank you.

I thank you. Sierra Leone.

Mr. President, Sierra Leone welcomes the distinguished delegation of Kyrgyzstan to the adoption of their fourth cycle of Universal Periodic Review report and thanks them for their continued commitment to the UPR process. Sierra Leone takes note that Kyrgyzstan has accepted majority of recommendations received during the review, including all recommendations made by Sierra Leone. We fully support the adoption of the report and wishes Kyrgyzstan every success in the implementation of the accepted recommendations. Thank you.

Thank you. Singapore.

Mr. Vice President. Singapore congratulates the delegation of the Kyrgyz Republic on its fourth UPR. We commend Kyrgyzstan for its engagement with the UPR process and its consideration of the various recommendations put forward by delegations. We thank Kyrgyzstan for accepting both of our recommendations, first, to continue its efforts to improve its provision of safe drinking water and sanitation for its people; second, to continue in its efforts to combat domestic violence and other gender-based violence; and in facilitating women's representation in leadership positions. Singapore supports the adoption of the Working Group's report on Kyrgyzstan's UPR. Thank you.

I thank you. Sudan, please.

Thank you, Vice-President. Sudan hails progress in the area of protection of human rights in Kyrgyzstan. We congratulate them on their positive process through the UPR, the presentation of the report, as well as the acceptance of recommendations, notably those of my country, which call for continuing efforts to economically empower women, ensuring that they can participate in decision-making posts and within the Parliament itself. as well as shoring up legislation on human rights. And so we recommend adoption of the report, and we wish that country even more success in implementing the recommendations approved. Thank you.

Thank you. Tajikistan.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Tajikistan welcomes the delegation of Kyrgyzstan and expresses appreciation the presentation of the national report. We positively note that Kyrgyzstan supported the majority of the recommendations made. We support also the positive steps taken by Kyrgyzstan to empower women and eliminate all forms of discrimination. We commend the adoption and implementation of the national strategy to achieve gender equality by 2030. as well as the program to support women's leadership and develop women's entrepreneurship. We recommend that Council adopt Kyrgyzstan report, and we wish Kyrgyzstan success in implementing the supported recommendations. I thank you.

I thank you. Uh, this was the last speaker we could, uh, accommodate for this segment. Let me remind you all that the statements, including those which could not be delivered due to time constraints, should be uploaded online. I will now give the floor to the other, we will go into the third segment and I will give the floor to the other stakeholders to make their general comments on the outcome. The speaking time has been set at two minutes for all. So first, it's a video message from ILGA World.

Mr. President, this statement is delivered in consultation with the LGBTQI+ community of Kyrgyzstan. We thank the states that issued 17 recommendations to Kyrgyzstan on the rights of LGBTQI+ persons. In this cycle, we welcome the acceptance of two recommendations, including on strengthening anti-discrimination measures and adopting protections against discrimination on all grounds. This acknowledgement is a step forward in addressing inequality. However, we are deeply concerned that the majority of recommendations, particularly those calling for comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation, explicit inclusion of SOJEZ as protected grounds in the penal code, and criminalization of hate crimes, were merely noted. As a result, crucial reforms such as protected LGBTQI+ persons in law, addressing hate crimes and ensuring equal recognition for transgender and non-binary persons remain unaddressed. We are further concerned that recommendations from previous cycles remain largely unimplemented, creating persistent gaps in legal protection and accountability. This continued inaction risks leaving LGBTQI+ persons vulnerable to violence, exclusion and systemic discrimination without effective remedies. We therefore urge Kyrgyzstan to move beyond noted commitments and take concrete steps to: Adopt a comprehensive anti-discrimination law covering all grounds, including sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics; and strengthen the criminal code to ensure hate crimes are explicitly criminalized, investigated, and punished. We remain ready to collaborate with the government of Kyrgyzstan and international partners to advance these reforms and ensure equal rights and protections for all persons. Thank you, Mr. President.

Now I invite the representative of United Nations Watch.

Thank you, Mr. President. United Nations Watch welcomes this review of Kyrgyzstan's human rights record and are deeply alarmed by recent developments in the country. Just two days ago, President Japarov signed legislation to dissolve Kyrgyzstan's National Center for the Prevention of Torture, a move that violates the country's obligations under the Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture. By abolishing it, Kyrgyzstan has dismantled a critical safeguard against abuse, leaving vulnerable detainees without protection or recourse. We therefore call on Kyrgyzstan to immediately restore a truly independent torture prevention body, with the mandate and resources to act effectively. Such measures suffocate democratic debate and chill civil society. Equally troubling is the assault on freedom of expression. Last month, the government imposed a new draconian law mandating all media outlets to register with the state, a clear tool for greater censorship and control. And just last week, journalists Yumat Dulatov and Alexander Alexandrov of the media outlet Kloop were sentenced to five years in prison on politically motivated charges. The prosecution failed. to present credible evidence, and the verdict was used to silence independent media. The Kyrgyz authorities insist they safeguard journalists. The truth, however, Mr. President, is the opposite. Kyrgyzstan is systematically curtailing press freedom, actively dismantling safeguards, and jailing critical voices. We urge Kyrgyzstan to repeal its repressive laws, release imprisoned journalists, and reinstate independent safeguards against torture. Anything less is a betrayal of its treaty commitments and of the human rights of its citizens. I thank you.

Thank you. Now I invite the representative of Human Rights Watch.

We welcome Kyrgyzstan's support for the majority of recommendations, including on combating domestic violence, protecting children's rights and rights of people with disabilities, and strengthening anti-corruption measures. We regret, however, that Kyrgyzstan did not support recommendations to repeal its repressive foreign representatives law, which unlawfully and severely restricts civil society organizations receiving foreign funding. The right to seek, receive, and utilize resources from national, international, and foreign sources is an inherent part of the right to freedom of association as established by numerous international and regional human rights mechanism. Kyrgyzstan also did not support multiple recommendations on freedom of expression and media freedom. The government's failure to repeal restrictive media legislation and release imprisoned journalists contradicts its constitutional guarantees and international human rights obligations. Of particular concern is the closure of Clock Media and the continued harassment of its workers, including the very recent convictions of four staffers on charges of public calls for mass unrest for allegedly participating in the production of YouTube videos critical of the government. Kyrgyzstan did not support any of the recommendations on LGPT people rights, most of which focus on basic anti-discrimination protections, safety from violence, and access to justice. We also regret Kyrgyzstan's failure to support ratification of the ICC Rome Statute. The government position undermines accountability for the apparent war crimes committed by forces of both sides during the recent border conflicts in Tajikistan. We urge Kyrgyzstan to reconsider its position on recommendations it is yet to support. Doing so would be in line with Kyrgyzstan commitment to be an active part of international human rights structures and mechanisms, including this council of which it is a member. We call on the UN human rights system and member states to continue pressing Kyrgyzstan to implement all accepted recommendations while working to address the human rights gaps left by rejected recommendations. Thank you.

I thank you. Now we have a message from, uh, the video message from, um, Amnesty International.

Mr. President, Amnesty International welcomes Kyrgyzstan's.

Support for recommendations to implement further effective measures to prevent and eliminate all forms of gender-based violence, including domestic violence. These are pressing matters in Kyrgyzstan and require additional actions. Violence against women and girls remains widespread, despite amendments to legislation on domestic violence, bride kidnapping, and forced marriage. Disappointingly, Kyrgyzstan noted all recommendations to repeal or amend legislation on foreign representatives and mass media. These curb the legitimate activities of human rights defenders, non-governmental organizations, and journalists. They also severely restrict the exercise of the rights to freedoms of association and expression. We are especially concerned that human rights activists and journalists continue to be imprisoned for their peaceful attempts to hold the authorities accountable for human rights violations. We urge Kyrgyzstan to respect and uphold freedom of expression and association and commit to implementing these recommendations in full compliance with international human rights law. Finally, we encourage Kyrgyzstan to implement supported recommendations as soon as possible and in good faith.

We urge the Government to submit a mid-term report on progress towards.

Their implementation and to use an item 6 general debate to bring this to the attention of UN Member States. Thank you.

Okay, this was the last speaker we have on the list. Before giving the floor to the delegation of Kyrgyzstan for concluding remarks, Allow me to inform you that 299 recommendations received. Out of 299, 249 enjoyed the support of Kyrgyzstan, and 50 are noted. And now I would like to give the floor to the representative of Kyrgyzstan for the concluding remarks, if any.

Please.

Thank you very much, Vice-President. I would like to thank warmly all delegations who have spoken today as a part of our UPR cycle. I offer my gratitude to the NGO delegations also, who supported or indeed expressed their own concerns with respect to certain circumstances. We take note of all of this. Thank you.

Thank you. And I thank the delegation of Kyrgyzstan for the constructive participation throughout the entire UPR process. And now I propose that the Council adopts the decision on the outcome of the Universal Periodic Review of Kyrgyzstan as it appears on the screen. Have a brief look at it. And if I see no objection, And I see no objection. The decision is adopted. We will briefly suspend the meeting before the consideration of the outcome of Kiribati, and I hope the delegation is in the room. So short break. Okay, welcome back. We will now proceed with the consideration of the outcome of Kiribati. The outcome is based on the report of the working group on the universal periodic review of Kiribati and its addendum. This document, together with the additional information that will now be provided by Kiribati, will constitute the outcome of the review and shall be adopted by the Council throughout a standardized decision. I now give the floor to Ms. Abiteta Teiti Buabe, the Charg d'Affaires ad interim of the Republic of Kiribati to the United Nations Office in Geneva to present the additional information on the review. Madam, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. Dear Excellencies, colleagues, and friends, from the Benin Melt and a warm welcome to you all. The session today marks the conclusion of a long reporting process that the government of Kiribati has fulfilled through a whole of government approach. Just a few months ago, the process culminated when we received feedback on our report. We thank you wholeheartedly and value all the helpful input from our peers. Now is the beginning of the end. the adoption. On that note, I would like to introduce our honorable minister, Martin Morris, Minister for Justice of the Republic of Kiribis, to offer his remarks. Thank you, Chair.

Mister President, distinguished delegates, members of the Troika, ladies and gentlemen. Greeting from Kiribis, from the it is an honor to address you today. Kiribati expresses its deep appreciation to the members of the Troika, to the 65 delegations who actively participated in our fourth cycle Universal Periodic Review. Your engagement demonstrates the international community's commitment and the interest in Kiribati's human rights journey. During this review, Kiribati received 183 recommendations, of which 120 were supported. These supported recommendations will guide the ongoing effort to promote and protect human rights. Our priorities include integrating human rights in climate change policies, strengthening restoration to safeguard groups in their vulnerable situations, and advancing gender equality. Kiribati's National Human Rights Task Force, led by the Ministry of Justice, will coordinate the implementation of these recommendations in close cooperation with external partners. We value the support of relevant UN entities, international and regional organizations, and civil society. In particular, the engagement of the OHCHR Pacific Regional Office and the Pacific community will be instrumental in ensuring progress. Mr. President, in regards of the 63 noted recommendations, Kiribati will continue to consult the domestic stakeholders as well as the regional and international partners to carefully assess our capacity and determine the feasibility of implementation. This inclusive approach will help ensure that decisions are both well-informed and responsive to the national priorities. Kiribati attaches great value to the UPRA process. We recognize its role in fostering cooperation, strengthening peer learning, and promoting best practices among member states. We deeply appreciate the constructive recommendations provided by our peers and remain committed to building on the spirit of cooperation. Moving forward, we will prioritize the implementation of supported recommendations in partnership with our stakeholders. Philippines remains firmly committed to advancing our human rights agenda and safeguarding the rights and dignity of all citizens. Our efforts will focus on building an inclusive and resilient society where all people can thrive. This includes ensuring government facilities are accessible to persons with disabilities, improving access to clean water, and sanitation in Nauru to promote public health and ease the burden of women and girls, and the integrating human rights consideration into climate change policies. We will also continue strengthening legislation to protect groups in vulnerable situation while advancing gender equality and the sustainable development to the historic human-based approach. Mr. President, we call upon our donor partners to cooperate with us, particularly in areas where financial and technical support would be critical to achieving meaningful progress. With the continued partnership of our development allies, Kyrgyzstan is confident in its ability to successfully implement the support recommendations. On behalf of Kyrgyzstan, I extend our sincere gratitude to the Human Rights Council, to all participating states, to all diplomatic partners for their continued support and engagement. Your contributions are vital to advancing our shared commitments human rights. In conclusion, I bestow our traditional blessing of the Maori, the. Wishing you health, peace, and prosperity.

Thank you once again, Chair. Dear Excellencies, colleagues, and friends. We would like to express that all of your comments and recommendations have been carefully heard, and we are committed to working diligently to implement them where appropriate. We greatly value and welcome your support. Our heartfelt thanks also go to the members of our troika, Albania, Costa Rica, and Vietnam, for their dedicated efforts in ensuring the smooth and conduct of this process, and for their hard work in organizing and compiling all recommendations received. We further extend our appreciation to OHCHR for the invaluable assistance and for facilitating the participation of experts in Kiribati, which enabled our delegation to attend remotely while upholding the highest standards of integrity in the UPR process. As we remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring that all citizens of Kiribati fully enjoy their human rights, Your active engagements will be instrumental in helping us achieve the shared goal. I thank you.

I thank you. Also, I thank His Excellency, the Minister of Justice, for the presentation. I will now open the floor for the members and the observer states for their comments on the outcome of the review. I remind you that the speaking time has been set at one minute and 30 seconds. So I will take the first speaker, and I invite the representative of Venezuela.

Thank you, Mr. Vice-President. We welcome the delegation of Kiribati and we thank them for their presentation. We take note of their cooperation with the UPR mechanism, convinced that these voluntary mechanisms, not the imposed mechanisms, are those that generate greater results in the promotion, protection and enjoyment of human rights. We are grateful for the acceptance of the four recommendations made by the State of Venezuela during the interactive dialogue, pertaining to access to drinking water, to sanitation, the right to health, improved of national programs to guarantee access to housing and food and in particular for persons who live in rural areas and cooperation with UN specialized agencies on the basis of their necessities and their national realities. We encourage the country to scale up efforts to guarantee the promotion, protection and enjoyment of human rights for its peoples, including the right to development. For all the aforementioned reasons, we recommend that their report be adopted. Thank you.

Thank you. Vietnam, please.

Mr. Vice President, Vietnam commends the Kiribati delegation for its meaningful and cooperative participation in the fourth cycle of the universal periodic review. We once again commend Kiribati for integrating gender responsive and disability inclusive approaches in its national climate

policies, as well as for the

expansion of its social protection system, which included supports for senior citizens, persons with disabilities and the unemployed. We appreciate Kiribati for accepting our recommendation on further consolidate and expand social protection system to ensure sustainable coverage and accessibility for all beneficiaries, including those living in remote areas, and continue to strengthen efforts to enhance community resilience to climate change by promoting inclusive adaptation strategy that take into account the needs of vulnerable group.

Mr. Vice President, we now express its strong support for the Council's

consensual adoption of Kiribati's UPR outcome and extend its best wishes for the successful implementation of unaccepted recommendation.

I thank you.

I thank you. Now, we'll invite Bahamas.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. The Bahamas congratulates Kiribati on its active engagement in the fourth cycle of the UPR. We note that Kiribati received 183 recommendations and accepted 120 of them, including one of the three recommendations

made by the Bahamas encouraging expanded technical assistance to support treaty implementation and future ratifications. As a fellow SIDS, we appreciate Kiribati's commitment to strengthening health systems, addressing gender-based violence,

and adapting the significant threats posed by climate change. We also encourage Kiribati to continue its efforts in the area of expanding access to education, improving

childhood nutrition, and enhancing digital infrastructure

for students in remote and outer islands, all of which remain vital for promoting inclusive development and equal opportunities. Lastly, we underscore the importance of sustained international cooperation, including through tailored technical and financial support, to enable the full realization of Kiribati's sustainable development and human rights goals. We reaffirm our solidarity with Kiribati and extend our full support as the country seeks to implement its accepted recommendations.

I thank you.

Thank you. China, please.

China recognizes Kiribati's constructive participation in the current cycle of UPR. Since the last review, the country has made efforts to promote equality, combat discrimination, address climate change, enhance adaptation, develop healthcare and education, protect the rights of

women, children, people with disabilities, promote social and economic development, and improve people's living standard. This progress should be recognized by the international community. China appreciates Kiribati's active consideration of China's recommendations. We suggest that the country continue to increase its investment in education, healthcare, and other public services, continue to

take effective measures to address the barriers facing women, children, and vulnerable groups. China supports the adoption by the Council of the UPR outcome of Kiribati.

Thank you.

Thank you. Cuba, please.

Mr Vice-President, thank you.

We extend a warm welcome to the delegation of the Republic of Kiribati in Amman, and we thank them for their commitment to the Universal Periodic Review process. We recognise the efforts made by Kiribati to strengthen its institutional and legal framework on human rights, despite the challenges, structural ones, it faces, in particular those stemming from climate change and the limited capacity or resources. We welcome measures adopted by Kiribati to extend access to education and to improve health services, maternal health services. We welcome the fact that you're working on your national laws and governmental policies to promote human rights and scaling up programs to social protection programs, promoting access to sexual and reproductive health services, and strengthening the full participation of women in all spheres of political and social life. We recognise the many efforts made by Kiribati to make progress in the promotion of human rights, and we reiterate the readiness of our Government to share experiences, good practices, and technical assistance on the basis of mutual respect and solidarity. We wish Kiribati Every success in the implementation of the recommendations accepted and we support the adoption of the report by consensus. Thank you very much indeed.

Thank you, Dominican Republic.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. We commend Kiribati for its commitment to the Industrial Periodic Review and for having cooperated throughout the process. We also are grateful for the readiness of Kiribati to welcome favorably all recommendations presented by our country, Dominican Republic, which amount to a valuable contribution, we believe, in the strengthening of their policies and the promotion of their human rights with a gender perspective. The Dominican Republic reiterates its solidarity with Kiribati and its commitment to creating a united Pacific and Caribbean area to defend human rights, climate justice, We wish her success in the UPR, and we recommend that the Council adopts the UPR report by consensus. Thank you.

Thank you. India, please.

Mr. Vice President, India warmly welcomes the delegation of Kiribati for the adoption of the UPR

Working Group's report on its fourth UPR. The review saw substantive participation, with 59 delegations taking the floor and making a total of 183 recommendations.

We appreciate the constructive engagement of the delegation of Kiribati during the entire review. which reflects their commitment to the UPR process. India appreciates that as many as 120 recommendations have been accepted by Kiribati, including two out of three recommendations made by us. While recommending the adoption of the UPR report, we congratulate the delegation of Kiribati on a successful review and wish them success in their efforts towards implementing the accepted recommendations.

I thank you.

Thank you. Kazakhstan, please.

Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Kazakhstan. Kazakhstan welcomes the continued engagement of Kiribati in the universal periodic review process. We previously note that we positively note that Kiribati supported most of the recommendations made. The Republic of Kazakhstan is particularly pleased with the acceptance of its recommendations and welcomes

Kiribati's efforts to promote gender equality,

strengthen social protection, and address the serious humanitarian and environmental consequences of nuclear weapon testings. To conclude, Kazakhstan supports the adoption of the presented final outcome

report and wishes Kiribati every success in the implementation of the recommendations it has accepted.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

All right, thank you. The Maldives.

The Maldives warmly welcomes the distinguished delegation from Kiribati to the adoption of the UPR report and compliments Kiribati's commitment to the UPR process. The Maldives commends Kiribati for accepting the majority of the recommendations it received during the UPR working group session in April, which includes the two recommendations made by the Maldives. We wish the Government of Kiribati success in the implementation of the accepted recommendations and request the Council to adopt the UPR outcome report of Kiribati by consensus. Thank you.

Thank you. Morocco, please.

Mr. President, my delegation wishes to commend Kiribati for its constructive engagement in the universal periodic review process and for the attention given to the recommendations made by Morocco. This demonstrates Kiribati's commitment to advancing the human rights agenda. We particularly welcome Kiribati's efforts to continue improving access to education for children, with a special focus on girls, which is crucial for ensuring equality and protecting them from any form of rights violations. Morocco supports the adoption of the Universal Periodic Review outcome of Kiribati and wishes Kiribati every success in implementing the recommendations it has accepted. Thank you, Mr. President.

I thank you. Nepal, please.

Mr. Vice-President, Nepal warmly welcomes the delegation of Kiribati to the adoption of the UPR outcome and thanks them for their constructive engagements with the human rights mechanisms. We thank Kiribati for accepting both the recommendations that we offered. We appreciate the efforts made by Kiribati towards climate change mitigation and adaptation. Nepal wishes Kiribati all success in implementing the accepted recommendations and supports the adoption of the UPR outcome report by consensus. Thank you.

Thank you. New Zealand, please.

Thank you, Mr. Vice-President. New Zealand welcomes the delegation of Kiribati and thanks their Minister of Justice for his presentation. We appreciate this opportunity to comment on the Republic of Kiribati's Universal Periodic Review outcome. We commend the Republic of Kiribati on its continuing efforts to reduce violence against women and children, including by providing greater access to legal protection and support services for outer island communities. New Zealand recommends that the Republic of Kiribati continue its efforts to ensure media freedom and freedom of expression. New Zealand appreciates Kiribati's engagement in this Universal Periodic Review, looks forward to continuing to work in partnership with Kiribati on human rights issues. Thank you.

Thank you. Philippines.

Mr. Vice President, the Philippines warmly welcomes the distinguished delegation of Kiribati to the adoption of its UPR outcome report. We thank Kiribati for the support of the Philippine recommendations to intensify efforts to eliminate child labor and to strengthen measures to combat all forms of gender-based violence, including through the prompt investigation and prosecution of cases, as well as the provision of comprehensive support for survivors. Mr. Vice President, to conclude, the Philippines strongly endorses the adoption of the UPR outcome report of Kiribati and wishes the government of Kiribati every success in implementing all accepted recommendations. Thank you.

Thank you. Russian Federation.

Mr. Vice President, the Russian delegation notes with satisfaction about you going through this recent UPR cycle. We note that the country has adopted all the Russian recommendations and many others. We positively assess the country's policies and we welcome the adoption of new legislation aimed at shoring up the national potential in the area of protecting rights and promoting human rights. We know with satisfaction that the Republic has constructively been cooperating with UN human rights bodies and is a signatory of key treaties in human rights. In 2023, Kiribati became the first Pacific state to present its report under the CAT. The Russian Federation recommends that the report is adopted. Thank you.

Thank you. Samoa, please.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. We extend our appreciation to the delegation of Kiribati for supporting Samoa's recommendations on strengthening its NMI-RF, as well as improving climate adaptation and mitigation measures. We commend Kiribati's commitment to implement various UPR recommendations, such as enhancing women's empowerment and participation. addressing climate change and displacement, strengthening health services, including sexual and reproductive health services, and improving education. Kiribati is one of the most climate-vulnerable island states, with low-lying atolls at the front line of the climate crisis. It is constrained by limited resources and would require international assistance and cooperation to fulfill and implement these recommendations. In this regard, we convey our sincere support to Kiribati and recommend the adoption of its report. I thank you.

Thank you. Singapore, please.

Mr. Vice-President, Singapore congratulates the delegation of the Republic of Kiribati on its fourth UPR. We commend Kiribati for its engagement with the UPR process and its consideration of the various recommendations put forward by delegations. We thank Kiribati for accepting our recommendations: First, to enhance its efforts to ensure gender equality in its society, including the inclusion of women in leadership positions. Second, to continue its efforts to ensure access to safe drinking water and sanitation for its people, especially those in the outer islands. Third, to continue its efforts to safeguard maternal health and reduce infant mortality. Singapore supports the adoption of the Working Group's report on Kiribati's UPR. Thank you.

Thank you. UN Women.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. UN Women applauds Kiribati's renewal of the eliminating sexual and gender-based violence policy and implementation of the family peace. We look forward to supporting the delivery of quality, life-saving essential services and advancing whole-of-government approaches to sustainable prevention and response to violence, including developing a coasted national prevention framework and the coasting of essential services. Renewing and implementing the national policy on gender equality and women's development offers an opportunity to strengthen women's labor and social protections and expand their access to finance, training, and markets. UN Women stands ready to support these efforts. We recognize the continued challenge of women's underrepresentation in Parliament, with women currently holding 11.1% of seats following the 2024 elections. We are committed to working alongside the government to explore temporary special measures, address discriminatory gender norms, prevent violence against women in politics, and promote women's full and equal participation in elections. UN Women comments Kiribati's efforts to strengthen women's resilience to climate change and disasters, including implementing inclusive disaster risk reduction frameworks and gender responsive planning. We look forward to deepening collaboration to promote women's leadership, integrate gender-based violence protection into response protocols, and safeguard women's access to resources and livelihoods in the face of escalating climate impacts. Thank you.

Thank you. UNFPA.

The United Nations Population Fund, UNFPA, congratulates Kiribati on the completion of its fourth cycle of the Universal Periodic Review process successfully. We would like to commend Kiribati for its revision of the family life education curriculum as well as the family planning curriculum in line with international standards. Kiribati is training teachers and health workers who are now on the front line and will ensure access to quality sexual reproductive health information as well as services. UNFPA stands ready to support the implementation of the in-school and out-of-school family life education program, as well as the expansion of health services. UNFPA is proud to partner with Kiribati to address social norms, working with men and boys, working with community leaders, religious leaders, youth, to counter harmful gender stereotypes, and norms. We look forward to continuing our work together to create more spaces that promote gender equality and prevent violence against women and girls. UNFPA stands in solidarity with Kiribati as it champions climate justice. Before, during and after disasters, we are committed to ensuring the rights and protection of all women and girls. I thank you.

Now I invite the representative of UN-Habitat.

UN-Habitat welcomes Kiribati's support to all recommendations addressing adequate housing and women's equal access to land rights. Over the past four years, the government has made important progress towards ensuring adequate housing for all, including through the South Tarawa informal settlement upgrading strategy. This strategy aims at improving access to an adequate standard of living in the capital's informal settlements, where residents live in overcrowded conditions and lack adequate access to safe water and sanitation. This leaves residents vulnerable not only to public health risks, but also to the very high risks of climate change, including tsunamis and coastal flooding. Women, girls, and marginalized groups are disproportionately impacted by these risks, including because of the gender wage gap that puts women at a disadvantaged position economically, and their work in the informal economy that excludes them from national labor protections. In the context of land rights, women are also excluded from equal access, with customary law provisions traditionally favouring men, including in inheritance matters. Such exclusions leave women at a much higher risk of extreme poverty, homelessness and abuse. Addressing historical injustice in inheritance, ownership and use rights to land requires legal and policy reform, but also encouragement for change in entrenched cultural practices. UN-Habitat appreciates Kiribati's efforts to address this inequality. Thank you.

Thank you. So basically we have exhausted the list of speakers. Let me remind you that all statements, including those which could not be delivered due to time constraints, which is not the case, obviously, should be uploaded online. I will now give the floor to the other stakeholders to make their general comments on the outcome. I remind you all that the speaking time is set to two minutes for each of you. First, I invite the representative of Edmund Rice International Limited to present the joint statement, please.

The human rights situation in Kiribati is defined by an existential crisis where climate change and overpopulation are inextricably linked. Therefore, our coalition commends the efforts made by the Government of Kiribati to enhance collaboration with international partners to strengthen the enactment of the Joint Implementation Plan for Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management 2019-2028. The nation is at a profound risk of losing its physical territory to rising sea levels. On behalf of the youth of Kiribati, we express our deep concern not only for the potential loss of homeland but for the irreparable loss of traditions, culture, identity and language. This environmental threat is the primary driver of a compounding overpopulation crisis. Climate-induced internal displacement is forcing people from their home islands to Tarawa Island, which is perceived as the most well-serviced island. This concentration of people severely strains essential resources and public services, including housing, agriculture, and healthcare. The high population density leads to the easy spread of disease, requiring more resources for medical services. Edmond Rice International and FMSI welcome the acceptance of recommendations 102.105, 102.106, 102.107, 102.114, and 102.121. However, we call on the government of Kiribati to establish a joint UN-Kiribati action plan to address climate migration and ensure the preservation of cultural rights and improve living conditions on other islands to decentralize the population and explore innovative solutions like creating artificial land. The situation in Kiribati is a powerful call for international solidarity, climate justice, and a global response that protects the country's physical future as well as its unique cultural identity. Thank you.

I thank you. Now I invite the representative of the Union of Arab Jurists also for a joint statement.

Thank you, Mr. President. Mr. Vice President, sorry. We commend the Republic of Kiribati for its willingness and efforts to constructively engage with international treaties and mechanisms. Whether it be through its periodic reports to the Committee Against Torture or its cooperation with special procedures such as the UPR, Kiribati has demonstrated its commitment to upholding international standards and improving its human rights situation. The various public policies and plans it implemented in follow-up to the previous cycle underline that Kiribati is taking concrete steps to translate international commitments into national action while respecting customary and traditional practices. We strongly encourage Kiribati to continue its efforts towards promoting and protecting all human rights. We urge the Republic to further this commitment by acceding to the International Covenants for Civil and Political Rights and for Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. We note the importance of strengthening the protection of these fundamental rights, which are fully aligned with its leadership in climate change resilience. Kiribati is facing a unique challenge that few others in this Council are currently facing. As a low-lying island nation, it is greatly vulnerable to climate change. This challenge undermines nearly the entire spectrum of social and economic rights, from access to food and water to housing, health, work, education, culture, and even collective rights, such as self-determination. Kiribati's commitment to upholding international standards is vital not only for its own people, but also for the global fight against climate change. By linking human rights protection with climate resilience, Kerebas shows that international solidarity and cooperation are essential in ensuring that no state is left behind in the protection of fundamental rights threatened by the climate crisis. Thank you.

Thank you. Now we have a video message from Advocates for Human Rights.

Mr. President, the Advocates for Human Rights, as a member of the World Coalition Against the Death Penalty, is deeply concerned by Kiribati's ambiguous stance on the death penalty. While Kiribati's penal code has never authorized the death penalty, its constitution still envisions the possibility of capital punishment, creating legal uncertainty. We therefore urge Kiribati to take concrete steps to remove any reference to the death penalty from its constitution. As of September 2025, Kiribati has not taken any steps toward ratifying the ICCPR or its second optional protocol aimed at the abolition of the death penalty, nor did it signal any intention to do so during the interactive dialogue. We regret that Kiribati noted many recommendations to ratify or accede to the ICCPR and its second optional protocol, as well as recommendations merely to consider ratification. Kiribati has nonetheless affirmed that it will continue to engage with the international community and reflect on the recommendations it noted in line with its priorities and capacities. We therefore encourage abolitionist states to engage with Kiribati on OP2 ratification so that the government can honor this commitment. With the World Day Against the Death Penalty approaching on the 10th of October, emphasizing the theme that the death penalty protects no one, we take this opportunity to call on Kiribati and all UN member states to work toward ratification of the Second Optional Protocol, and for states that have ratified OP2 to join the Friends of the Second Optional Protocol to extend support, encouragement, and technical assistance to advance this process.

Thank you.

Thank you. Okay, now it's another video from the international lawyers.org.

We thank the government of Kiribati for its continued engagement with the UPR process and the significant progress it has achieved since the last review. Notably, we commend the important legislative measures state leaders have taken to strengthen the protection of marginalized groups, particularly women who have historically been sidelined in social protection efforts. The amendments to the Family Peace Act of 2014 and the creation of local initiatives, such as the Peaceful Village Project, represent significant steps forward in protecting women and victims of sexual violence. We also welcome the efforts undertaken to address child labor and child prostitution, as well as the joint work with the International Labor Organization to enhance protections for migrant workers. Kiribati's accession to both the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court and the Convention against Torture in August 2023 underscores its commitment to upholding international legal standards and marks a historic milestone as the first Pacific Island nation to submit a report to the Committee against Torture. As a nation at the forefront of the climate crisis, we further commend Kiribati's adoption of the Joint Implementation Plan and the Disaster Management and Climate Change Act, which leverage Indigenous knowledge to build cost-effective seawalls and plant mangroves to protect shores and mitigate future climate-related catastrophes. Nevertheless, we remain concerned by the persistent nature of sexual and gender-based violence and are troubled by the narrow constitutional safeguards for women. Women's access to decision-making positions remain limited, and the citizenship law still prevents women from conferring nationality. While we note that the immediate threats posed by climate change to water, health, and food security place significant human and financial restraints, we nonetheless urge Kiribati to strengthen civil rights, enhance nonviolent policing efforts, expand donor networks to strengthen human right mechanisms, and prioritize transparent engagement with civil society. Thank you.

Now I invite the representative of Center for Global Nonkilling.

Dear human beings, excellencies, Mr. Vice President, excellencies, everyone everywhere, dear delegation and authorities of Kiribati, welcome to Geneva.

Dear people of Kiribati, surely I will be very happy to visit you and to live with you the Pacific way if I feel safe.

I honor your constitutional absence of military forces.

Living human rights in peace requires a global legal framework and reciprocal care.

It starts locally with the constitution, yours.

One example, if I was killed in a riot or a similar situation, unless it is changed, the constitution of.

Kiribati would talk about the killer, not the victim. Life deserves better.

You deserve better.

States have a duty to protect and promote life and to prevent death.

And you have a right to participate in public affairs.

People of Kiribati, it is time to give a better protection to life in your constitution.

Dear authorities of Kiribati, in your national report and your introduction to the working group, you state you are considering ratifying the Genocide Convention. With the ratification of the Rome.

Statute and the disposition on genocide in your criminal code, the legal backgrounds are in place.

All it takes for this ratification is an act of government.

Protecting against genocide is recognizing the right of everyone to an identity.

And giving the right to life to everyone is giving humanity an identity.

In these times in which so many persons need to be protected from genocide, why not the recommendation?

Please, the authorities of Kiribati, urgently ratify the Genocide Convention. Thank you.

Thank you, sir. Now, this was the last speaker on the list of the third segment. And before giving the floor to the delegation of Kiribati for concluding remarks, allow me to inform you that out of 183 recommendations received, 120 enjoyed the support of Kiribati and 63 are noted. And now I give the floor back to the delegation, to the representative of Kiribati for the concluding remarks, please.

Thank you, Chair. We thank Member States and NGOs who have engaged and contributed to our UPR outcome adoption today, and we look forward to working with the OHCHR UPR regional advisor in Fiji for implementation and follow-up. Thank you.

Thank you, Madam. Thank you very much. Now, and also I thank you and the entire delegation for the constructive participation throughout the UPR process. And now we propose that the Council adopts The decision on the outcome of UPR for Kiribati as it appears on the screen. Okay. If there is no objection, the decision is adopted. We will now take a brief break to suspend and to get the consideration for the outcome on Guinea. Okay, welcome back. We'll now proceed with the consideration of the outcome of Guinea. The outcome is based on the report of the working group on the universal periodic review of Guinea and its addendum. These documents, together with the additional information that will now be provided by Guinea, will constitute the outcome of the review and shall be adopted by the Council through a standardized decision. Now, I have the pleasure to give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Yaya Kairaba Kaba, the Minister of Justice and Human Rights of Guinea, to present the additional information on the review. Excellency, sir, please, you have the floor.

Thank you, Vice-President, delegates, ladies and gentlemen. It is an honour for me to take the floor before this august Assembly to bring you the official response of the Guinean Government following the recommendations presented to it as our country, between 29 April and 2 May this year, went through the fourth UPR cycle. At the outset, however, I would like to discharge my duty of transmitting to you the warm congratulations and gratitude of His Highness President of the Republic, General Mamady Doumbouya, for the support rendered to our country in its difficult but exulting march towards building a society that is democratic and respectful of human dignity and human rights. It is thus that we have worked together, cooperating with international bodies, promoting and protecting human rights wherever they may be. Since 2010, Vice-President, the Republic of Guinea has regularly presented itself, submitting for your consideration its achievements in the area of protecting and promoting human rights. Guinea has worked tirelessly and with courage to implement the recommendations formulated by Member States, because these recommendations are contributions which nourish the growth of human rights in our country. In May 2025, 257 recommendations were made for Guinea, not just to consolidate our achievements, but also to allow our tireless continuing march towards the construction of a rule of law state. On 2 May 2025, following the conclusion of the review by my country, I requested and obtained that my delegation, in line with the full authorities delegated to it, are able to contact all local, institutional, political and social actors and stakeholders to hear views on the various recommendations. And this is how, upon the return to our country, through a national workshop, a vast information and awareness raising campaign on the recommendations was effectively conducted in order to allow all stakeholders to better understand them where they feel concerned by the implementation of these recommendations. Following this exercise, 246 recommendations were accepted of the 257, while 11 others were noted. The detailed table in the appropriate format was subsequently submitted in good time. The Government of the Republic of Guinea takes note of the recommendations accepted, and we commit ourselves to implement them. President, dear delegates, ladies and gentlemen, challenges in the area of human rights deserve to be met because they are imperatives which are vital for the work of all governments, the absolute condition of peace and justice, remain the focus of human rights, and the fight for their efficacy is a fight for human dignity, freedom and justice for every citizen. It is thus with honour and determination that my government will wage this battle, counting on the valuable support of all parties. To conclude, Mr. Vice-President, I would like to reiterate our gratitude to all the countries which, through recommending new actions for Guinea have demonstrated the interest and attention that they offer our country. I thank you for your kind attention.

Your Excellency, I thank you. I will now open the floor to the Member and Observer States for their comments on the outcome of the review. The speaking time has been set at one minute and 30 seconds for all States. I invite the representative of Cameroon.

Thank you, Vice President. Cameroon welcomes the delegation from Guinea. We thank them for presenting their report. My country notes with satisfaction that Guinea has accepted the vast majority of the 257 recommendations that flowed from the UPR of 29 April 2024. 246 were accepted, 11 were noted. This includes those formulated by my own delegation. To conclude, my delegation supports the adoption of the final report of the Guinean UPR, and we wish them every success in implementing the recommendations accepted.

I thank you.

I thank you, too, and give the floor to the representative of Chad.

Thank you, Vice-President. Chad expresses our warm congratulations to the Republic of Guinea for the complementary information presented in connection with the adoption of the final report under the fourth cycle of the Universal Periodic Review. Chad hails the commitment and pertinent measures taken by the Government of Guinea aimed at shoring up its legal framework for protecting and promoting human rights and to create a number of institutions and bodies aimed at defending those rights. Chad hails major legal reforms conducted by Guinea on the laws on access to public information, the protection and promotion of the rights of people with albinism, the fight against human trafficking, gender-based violence, and the implementation of an institution supporting reparations for victims and access to justice. Chad encourages Guinea to continue these praiseworthy efforts, and as was said by the Minister, in this very difficult march towards fully promoting and protecting freedoms and human dignity. We invite the technical and financial partners of Guinea to render all support necessary. Chad calls on this Council to adopt by consensus the final report on the Guinea UPR, and we reiterate our hopes of full success in operationalizing all of the recommendations accepted. Thank you, Vice-President.

I thank you, and I give the floor now to the representative of China.

Mr. Vice President, China commends Guinea's constructive participation in the first round of UPR and welcomes the progress made by the country in the promotion and protection of all types of human rights. These include implementing national development strategy to reduce poverty, to enhance public services such as healthcare, education and public security, and to strengthen constructive cooperation with UN human rights mechanisms, including the Council and the treaty bodies. China commends Guinea for accepting the recommendations made by China and hopes that Guinea will continue to increase input in healthcare, advance the implementation of relevant poverty reduction policies and measures, and better safeguard the rights and interests of specific groups. China wishes Guinea further progress in promoting and protecting all human rights. China supports the Council's adoption of the outcome report of Guinea's UPR. Thank you. Mr. Vice President.

Thank you. Now I have the representative of Congo.

Thank you, Vice President. Congo warmly welcomes the delegation from Guinea, and we thank them for the presentation to this Council of additional information adjacent to its national report. We are happy to see Guinea accept the majority of the recommendations presented to it, notably those of my own country on overpopulation of prisons and reforms related to diversifying professional and technical training offers available. This indicates that Guinea is determined to shore up and consolidate its achievements in protecting and promoting human rights. We would like to warmly congratulate Guinea for its clear cooperation with UN mechanisms responsible for promoting human rights. The Republic of Congo wishes every success to Guinea. in its implementation of the recommendations it accepts, and we invite the members of the Council to adopt the final report by consensus.

Thank you.

I thank you, and the Vice-President invites the representative of Cote d'Ivoire.

Thank you, Vice-President. Cote d'Ivoire offers its warm Greetings to the delegation of Guinea upon the event of the adoption of its final UPR report. My delegation commends the significant progress achieved by Guinea in protecting and promoting human rights, notably by the adoption of a new Code of the Child, banning corporal punishment, as well as measures aimed at driving down poverty amongst vulnerable groups, including people with albinism. Cote d'Ivoire encourages the Guinean authorities to continue these efforts to eradicate violence against women and girls and to ensure better protection for human rights defenders. To conclude, Cote d'Ivoire recommends to the Council the adoption of the final report of Guinea.

I thank you.

I thank you and give the floor to the representative of Cuba.

Mr.

Vice President, we extend a warm welcome to the delegation of the Republic of Guinea. We welcome progress made by the country in the promotion and protection of human rights. We welcome positively what the country has done to strengthen its institutional and legal framework and measures implemented to extend access to education and health services, and in particular focusing on rural areas. We highlight the voluntary commitments shouldered by Guinea to continue to improve the human rights situation of its people, including in the areas of justice, combating impunity, and protecting civil and political rights. We welcome efforts geared to strengthening the judicial system through the creation of new courts, legal bodies and the training of judges. We conclude by encouraging Guinea to continue to make progress in implementing accepted recommendations and we support the adoption of the report by consensus. Thank you.

Thank you. I invite now the representative of UNFPA.

On behalf of the UNFPA, I would like to congratulate the Republic of Guinea for its commitment during the fourth UPR cycle and progress achieved in implementing recommendations accepted previously by Guinea affecting the UNFPA mandate, in particular with respect to the joint mission, the UN country team in Guinea. In recent years, we've seen the revision and adoption of several legal texts for vulnerable groups, notably people with HIV/AIDS, victims of gender-based violence, and other harmful practice focusing on women and girls. Together with the UN system and our development partners, UNFPA stands with Guinea and its institutions, civil society, the population, the most vulnerable, isolated people, to see an accelerated implementation of measures to achieve new progress in sexual and reproductive rights, gender equality, intergeneration equity in line with the country's commitments under the Council and the Programme of Action in the International Conference on the Population and Development. We work with relevant stakeholders to improve access to maternal health and family planning services. More money is needed and strengthening the prevention of violence against women and girls, including against female genital mutilations and child marriages, which are still widely practiced despite being criminalized. This is all to help ensure rights and choices for all. I thank you.

Now I invite the representative of Gabon.

Thank you, Vice President. The Gabonese delegation would like to welcome the delegation from Guinea. We thank them for the additional information provided, which illustrates the full and complete cooperation by this country with the UPR mechanism, cooperation which has manifested itself in the acceptance of a large number of recommendations formulated during the last cycle. We would like to express our recognition and gratitude to Guinea for accepting the recommendations which we formulated. We note with satisfaction progress achieved in protecting and promoting human rights, notably shoring up the legislative and institutional framework, as well as positive measures taken to better fight gender-based violence and female genital mutilation. In this respect, we recommend that the Council adopts the final report of the UPR for Guinea, and we wish every success to this country in implementing the recommendations it has accepted. I thank you, Vice-President.

Thank you, Ivo, the representative of India.

Mr. President, India warmly welcomes the delegation of Guinea for the adoption of the UPR Working Group's report on its fourth UPR held on 29th April 2025. The review saw substantive participation with 87 delegations taking the floor and making a total of 257 recommendations. We appreciate the constructive engagement of the delegation of Guinea during the entire review which reflects their commitment to the UPR process. India appreciates that Tasmania's 246 recommendations have been accepted by Guinea, including the four recommendations made by us. By recommending the adoption of their UPR report, we congratulate the delegation of Guinea on a successful review and wish them success in their efforts towards implementing the accepted recommendations. I thank you.

Okay. Maldives, please.

The Maldives warmly welcomes the distinguished delegation from Guinea to the adoption of the UPR report and compliments Guinea's commitment to the UPR process. The Maldives commends Guinea for accepting the majority of the recommendations it received during the UPR Working Group session in April, which includes the two recommendations made by the Maldives. We wish the Government of Guinea success in the implementation of the accepted recommendations and request the Council to adopt the UPR outcome report of Guinea by consensus. Thank you.

Thank you, Molly.

Please.

Thank you, Vice-President. I would like to warmly welcome the delegation from the sisterly Republic of Guinea, led by its Justice Minister. My delegation congratulates Guinea for having accepted a large number of recommendations flowing from the UPR, notably those of Mali, on shoring up access to healthcare and improving its quality to better fight maternal infant mortality, shoring up access to drinking water, particularly in rural areas, and prioritizing investment in rural areas where there is a great disparity, notably in education. We wish every success to Mali in implementing its recommendations, and we call on the Council to adopt the report. Thank you.

Thank you. And now I invite the representative of Morocco to take the floor.

Vice President, the Kingdom of Morocco. welcomes the commitment by Guinea to implement recommendations accepted during the UPR. My own recommendations have been approved, notably the ratification for the International Treaty for the Protection of All Persons against Forced Disappearances, continuing capacity building of the national application body, follow-up mechanisms, as well as accelerating efforts to provide a better living conditions for people deprived of their liberty, notably by expanding, renovating and building new prisons. We would like to conclude by expressing our support to the country and wishing every success in implementing the recommendations accepted.

Thank you.

Thank you. And now I invite Nepal to take the floor.

Mr. Vice President, Nepal warmly welcomes the delegation of Guinea to the adoption of the UPR outcome and thanks them for their constructive engagements with the human rights mechanisms. We thank Guinea for accepting all three recommendations that we offered. We take good note of the legislations adopted and institutions established by Guinea to further protect and promote human rights in the country. Nepal wishes Guinea all success in implementing the accepted recommendations and supports the adoption of the UPR outcome report by consensus. I thank you, Mr. Vice-President.

I thank you. Oman, please.

Mr. Vice-President, the delegation of the Sultanate of Oman welcomes the head of the friendly Republic of Guinea, and it commends its cooperation with all human rights mechanisms and for taking measures aiming at the protection and welfare of children. We have viewed with interest the outcomes of the UPR on the friendly Republic of Guinea that has taken place under constructive dialogue and fruitful interaction. We express our appreciation for its acceptance of the recommendations submitted by the Sultanate of Oman on improving education in rural areas, the empowerment of women in economic activities, and the integration of persons with disabilities in development programmes. In conclusion, we recommend the adoption of the outcome report of the UPR of Oman, and we wish it all success in implementing the recommendations it has accepted. Thank you.

Thank you. Philippines, please.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. The Philippines welcomes the esteemed delegation of Guinea to this session and commends Guinea's decision to accept 246 out of 257 recommendations. In particular, my delegation appreciates Guinea's favorable consideration of our recommendations to step up efforts to effectively address persistent discrimination against women and girls and promote equitable access to economic opportunities and education in line with its international obligations. Conduct awareness raising campaigns against gender-based violence, including FGM, and ensure prompt, impartial investigations and hold perpetrators accountable. and enhance efforts to combat child labor through stricter law enforcement and expanded support services for affected children. Mr. Vice President, the Philippines respectfully recommends that the Council adopt the UPR report on Guinea and extends its best wishes to Guinea for the successful implementation of all accepted recommendations. Thank you.

I thank you. The Russian Federation, please.

Thank you, Vice-President. We note that all three Russian recommendations were adopted, accepted by Guinea for implementation. Despite some progress in protecting human rights, the human rights situation in the country continues to be highly complex. We note that the government of Guinea is applying some efforts to overcome negative trends in the human rights arena. However, this is not yet enough. We hope that by the next cycle of the DPR, Guinea will report on measures to overcome torture and poor conditions of detention in prisons, which are traditional problems. Also, for persons with albinism, there are problems in the judiciary. and penitentiary system, we hope that the recommendations will be duly implemented to make it possible to overcome the barriers to full enjoyment of different rights in the country. We will be tracking carefully the implementation by Guinea of all of the, and we recommend the adoption of the report, but we will be looking to see full implementation of recommendations. Thank you.

Thank you. Now I would like.

To give the floor to Senegal.

Vice-President, Senegal would like to warmly welcome the delegation from the Republic of Guinea and we thank them for the information, now updated, which it has brought to the attention of the Council. My delegation takes note of progress achieved by the Guinean Government in implementing these commitments to protect and promote human rights. In this respect, Senegal is happy to see the ratification of the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons against Forced Disappearances, as well as the Optional Protocol on the Eradication of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. Finally, whilst recalling the adoption of its report and calling for that adoption, Senegal reiterates to the Guinean delegation its wish for every success in implementing the recommendations accepted. Thank you.

I thank you, and I now give the floor to the representative of Sierra Leone.

Mr. Vice President, Sierra Leone welcomes the distinguished delegation of the sisterly Republic of Guinea to the adoption of their fourth cycle of the Universal Periodic Review report. We thank Guinea for their continued commitment to the UPR process and the mechanisms of the Human Rights Council. We note with satisfaction that the Republic of Guinea has accepted majority of the recommendations received during the review, including all the recommendations of Sierra Leone. We consider Guinea's remarkable efforts as a show of faith in and commitment to the UPR process. We fully support the adoption of the report and wish the Republic of Guinea every success in the implementation of these recommendations. Thank you, Mr. President.

I thank you. Dear colleagues, this was the last speaker that we could accommodate in this second segment. And let me remind you that all statements, including those which could not be delivered due to time constraints, should be uploaded online. I will now give the floor to the other stakeholders in the third segment to make their general comments on the outcome. I remind you that the speaking time has been set at two minutes for all. So first, I invite the representative of Equilibre Population, uh, for a joint statement.

Vice President, I take the floor on behalf of the Alliance Feministe Francophone, which is an initiative aimed at shoring up participation by French-speaking women in multilateral spaces. We commend the adoption of the report of the UPR for Guinea. to shore up the fight against discrimination and gender-based violence, together with protecting human rights defenders. Their role is vital in effective rule of law state. The recommendations are all the more important in a pre-electoral context with a shrinking civic space, which is of concern, and increasing intimidation and forced disappearances. Sexual and gender-based violence, such as femicide, FGM and rape, affecting women and girls, but also sex workers, affect the entire population. The LGBTQI+ population remains discriminated against systemically in a climate of total impunity. We regret that a number of recommendations, which are crucial, were not accepted by the Government. At the time of we of this implementation, we call on the state of Guinea to focus on three priorities: putting in place a mechanism of operational follow-up that is transparent for recommendations, focusing on civil society and feminist organizations; two, to adopt a draft law on protection of human rights defenders as soon as possible; three, apply a genuine policy of zero tolerance for impunity for the perpetrators of gender-based violence. This for access to justice to be guaranteed and for all survivors of violence to be engaged in this struggle. We call on genuine political commitment for transformation. This requires that the freedoms of expression association are respected as they are the foundation of all democracies. Thank you.

Thank you. Now we have a video from the Advocates for Human Rights.

Mr. President, the Advocates for Human Rights congratulate Guinea on their participation in the UPR. In Guinea, people who identify as LGBTI+ experience violence and discrimination from both state and non-state actors. Article 274 of the criminal code criminalizes consensual same-sex sexual activity, and individuals face violence and harassment based solely on their actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity, and/or gender expression. We are pleased that Guinea has accepted Chile's recommendation to establish a legal prohibition on discrimination, including based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and sex characteristics. We note with concern, however, that Guinea did not accept similar recommendations by Cyprus or Iceland to enact comprehensive anti-discrimination measures, nor did it accept recommendations to repeal Article 274. Guinea cannot fully protect LGBTI+ individuals while criminalizing consensual same-sex sexual activity between adults. Without decriminalization and a comprehensive anti-discrimination law, Guinea will undermine the protections it committed to provide in CILA's recommendation. The Advocates for Human Rights urges Guinea to follow the recommendations of 10 states, including Colombia, to decriminalize consensual same-sex sexual activity and establish comprehensive anti-discrimination protections for LGBTI+. While we commend Guinea for taking first steps by agreeing to prohibit discrimination against individuals on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, and sex characteristics, we hope that the government will work with civil society, especially civil society that provides services to LGBTI+ people, on implementing these changes to anti-discrimination legislation. Thank you.

Now, there is another video from the Centre du Commerce International pour le Développement.

Thank you, Mr. President. Once again, Guinea appears before the Human Rights Council for its fourth universal periodic review.

The interpreters apologize. The quality of the video is not good enough for accurate interpretation.

Journalists censored, threatened, and prevented from informing freely. Political prisoners held without trial in inhumane conditions.

Women mutilated, violated, and forgotten by the justice.

A justice corrupted, instrumentalized, and incapable of protecting fundamental rights.

For several years, the Guinean society has been suffocated.

Fundamental freedoms are trampled. Opposition parties are gagged, their seats closed by force, their leaders persecuted or imprisoned. pacifiques sont violemment réprimées, des dizaines de jeunes sont tués ou blessés, des centaines de citoyens simples militants sont détenus arbitrairement sans jugement parfois pendant des mois. La parole libre est devenue un danger, les médias indépendants sont censurés, intimidés, parfois suspendus, les journalistes sont traqués pour avoir simplement fait leur métier et pendant ce temps les institutions restent silencieuses.

La justice est sous contrôle, la commission nationale des droits de l'homme est absente, les lois sont utilisées.

Comme des armes pour écraser la dissidence. Nos organisations demandent avec vigueur.

La fin des violences d'État et de l'impunité, la libération immédiate des détenus politiques, la protection effective des droits des femmes et des.

Enfants, une réforme en profondeur de la justice et des forces de sécurité. Nous exigeons la libération immédiate des prisonniers politiques, le rétablissement du pluralisme politique, la protection des libertés publiques et une réforme profonde des forces de sécurité. La Guinée ne peut plus vivre dans la peur. Pour 2025 ne soit jamais.

La répétition de cet échec, le peuple guinéen a droit à la liberté, à la dignité.

Now I invite the representative of United Towns Agency for North-South Cooperation.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. It's an honor for me to speak today in order to shed light on the experience of the Republic of Guinea, which is a country which is an example of the South-South cooperation spirit. It has been shown that South-South solidarity is not just an option, but an uncircumventable path to strengthen our national capacities, share our know-how, and build together answers to solve our current problems through its initiatives in the area of agriculture, natural resources, energy, and education. Guinea attests as to how South-South partnerships favouring not only economic empowerment but also social resilience and environmental is positive. The Guinean experience shows that it's possible to combine national identity and regional openness by creating synergies within Africa and with other regions of the South. Today, I would like to restate that South-South cooperation, inspired by examples such as that of Guinea, must continue to be supported and enlarged in order to build build a development which is fairer, more inclusive and more long-lasting, sustainable for all.

Thank you.

Thank you. Now a video message from the RADO, Rencontre Africaine pour la Defense.

Des Droits de l'Homme.

Porridge is once again, the sound of this video is not good enough for accurate interpretation.

Est d'accord avec moi que loin des réformes brandies, le rapport n'a aucun sens si il ne mentionne pas les moments les plus sombres avec plusieurs cas de disparitions forcées d'opinions contradictoires. Et cela sans aucun acte de justice qui donne de l'espoir aux familles des disparus et à l'opinion publique. En plus, contrairement à toutes les lois et conventions en vigueur, y compris la charte de la transition, que dire de la criminalisation et la répression des sans état d'âme par les autorités la transition, de toute volonté d'opposition à la mauvaise gouvernance, y compris les manifestations pacifiques. Par ailleurs, la tenue du procès du 28 septembre 2009, avec l'indemnisation des victimes, qui est tout le monde à saluer, aurait eu beaucoup plus de sens s'il a d'impact positif en matière de respect de la vie et la dignité humaine sur la conduite des autorités politiques et judiciaires qui l'ont porté. Malheureusement, la restriction gravissime des libertés de presse et de l'espace public devient la norme du of the.

Representative of the RESO.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Our organizations have taken note of the recommendations, 7 from the 4th, report of the UPR of Guinea. However, despite the tireless efforts of the United Nations to support the country to reform in terms of human rights, since it's the first UPR cycle, the situation remains really alarming. I'm a survivor of the crackdown against human rights defenders, journalists, and political leaders after the military coup on the 5th of September, 2021. We find that what is riddling society are, inter alia, bad administration of justice, governance, corruption, injustice, poverty, bureaucracy, rampant insecurity, as well as the inability of the state to maintain and protect solid and long-lasting institutions. Furthermore, we speak out against systematic suppression of any contest, the hallmark of which are targeted killings of hundreds of civilians and officers by the defence forces, which remains unpunished. The disappearances of a number of civil society activists including Fodio Keimengue Bilou, Sabah, Saoudou Niama, the journalist Mawane Camara, as well as many citizens, especially wearing uniforms. They suspect death in detention of several people, Mohamed Diouate, General Sadi Bakou Libali, and Colonel Pepe Serestem, Billy Vogi. Kidnappings followed by cruel and human degradation, restriction of punishment of leaders such as Abdou Saku from the FFSG and Mr. Mohamed former head of the bar, prosecutions, arbitrary conviction of political leaders such as Aliouba, the gagging of the press and the closing of radios that are critical and closing down the internet and social media. To conclude, we ask the members of the Council to renew their support of the people of Guinea, which seeks liberty, social justice and good democratic governments.

Thank you very much.

I thank you. Africa Culture International, you have the floor. Mr. Vice President, ladies and gentlemen, ACI Human Rights welcomes the delegation of Guinea and recalls that the UPR remains a crucial tool to promote human rights. Guinea has gone through significant stages, namely institutional reforms, ratification of international conventions, education initiatives, health and social protection initiatives. These efforts attest to the government's determination to align its standards to universal standards. However, major challenges remain: restrictions to fundamental freedoms, gender-based violence, limited access to justice, and deep seated social inequalities threaten national cohesion. Structural poverty, in particular in rural areas, weakens the impact of the reforms and slows down real progress towards equality among citizens. Which is why ACIOM writes, restates that the UPR is a single, unique opportunity to consolidate democratic governance and the rule of law. We call upon the government of Guinea to translate the recommendations it has received into tangible action. actions, and we join the international community to provide solidarity-based technical support. Today, our mission must remain dignity and justice for all. Thank you.

Thank you.

Guinea Humanitaire, you have the floor. Mr. Vice President. Our NGO, Guinea Humanitaire, pays vibrant tribute to you and to the distinguished members of the Council at this session. We voice our tribute also to the delegation of the Republic of Guinea for having been involved in the work of the UPR, which is a mechanism which is unique, original one, to promote human rights. the Republic of Guinea. Since the last UPR, it has registered significant reforms of its institutions, it has acceded to many international conventions, it has developed bold initiatives in the area of education and health and social protection, and more than anything else, it has organized a referendum on the new constitution. Those measures are therefore deemed by the public to be a testimony to the determination of the Government to conform to universal standards. However, we should say that, in the country, there are real economic difficulties and the impact of climate change, the ongoing existence of social inequalities, have put pressure on national unity, which is also jeopardised by structural poverty and the vulnerability of the rural populations. Those endogenous parameters limit the impact of the reforms and make impossible the translation into reality of the real equality of citizens before the law. Despite these difficulties, Guinee Humanitaire continues to believe that the UPR represents an opportunity to move forward democratic governance and the rule of law in the country and encourages the government to trans... The Vice President interrupts, indicating that the times are up.

Thank you for accommodating for this segment. Before giving the floor to the delegation of Guinea for concluding remarks, allow me to inform that out of 257 recommendations received, 246 enjoy the support of Guinea and 11 are noted. And now I give the floor back to His Excellency, the Minister for the concluding remarks. Excellency, you have the floor.

I would like to thank the members of the Council, the delegation of Guinea, first of all, thanks. All stakeholders here today who have contributed and provided their support through the expression of views based on the reality prevailing in Guinea. On behalf of the government, may I extend to them our heartfelt thanks. Mr. Vice-President, we have taken note, and very with much satisfaction, the recommendations and the views which each and everyone have voiced this afternoon and during the UPR cycle. In this respect, I would like to once again reiterate the unshakable and unconditional support of my country and of its government and of its first head, Mr. General Dumbuya, to make our country a true rule of law country, taking into account the recommendations received here when, in April 2025, we underwent our fourth UPR review. Ladies and gentlemen, far from me the idea of creating any controversy here. We take note and we will react with concrete actions with the NGOs who have described in their own way, subjective way, the reality of the country as if in the country today even oxygen was denied the average Guinean, which is a true example of non-rights. But the reality on the ground is a totally different one. Guinea has noted all opinions voiced. We thank you all for your opinions voiced because they are a kind of compass guiding us in our endeavours to promote and protect human rights in our country. The diverging views we have heard, which contrast with the reality on the ground in our view, are the best response to any other attempt to shroud reality. Ladies and gentlemen, members of the Council, distinguished delegates, on behalf of the government, on behalf of my delegation, these were my concluding remarks. Once again, the delegation takes due note of our next scheduled meeting, at which you will be able to see what we have accomplished in addition to what we have already accomplished. This we will present to you in our next report. Thank you.

I thank you, Excellency, says the Vice-President. May I also thank the whole delegation from the Republic of Guinea for having been involved constructively throughout this process.

And now, I propose to the Council to adopt the decision on the outcome of the Universal Periodic Review of Guinea as it appears on the screen. Yes. And if there is no objection, and I see none, the decision is adopted. We'll briefly take a break and back on to start the UPR on low PDR. Okay, welcome back. We will now proceed with the consideration of the outcome of the Lao PDR. The outcome is based on the report of the working group on the universal periodic review of the Lao PDR and its addendum. These documents, together with the additional information that will now be provided by the Lao DPR, will constitute the outcome of the review. and shall be adopted by the Council through a standardized decision. I now have the pleasure to give the floor to His Excellency, Dao-Vi Vong Sai, the Ambassador Permanent Representative of Lao People's Democratic Republic to the United Nations Office in Geneva to present the additional information on the review. Ambassador Excellency, please.

Mr. Vice President, distinguished delegates, on behalf of the Lao delegation, It is my great honor to address this 60th session of the Human Rights Council on the adoption of the fourth cycle of the UPR of the Lao PDR. My delegation would like to express our sincere appreciation to all member states for their constructive engagement, comments, and recommendation extended to the Lao PDR during the interactive dialogue held in last April. We are grateful for the recognition of progress made in our national socioeconomic development, as far as our continued efforts to promote and protect human rights of the Lao multi-ethnic people. In particular, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to the members of the UPR Working Group, the Troika members, Burundi, Chile, and the Marshall Islands. and the Secretariat for their dedicated support and facilitation throughout this process. The Lapidia attaches great importance to the UPR mechanism, which is one of the most important mechanisms, in our view, of the Human Rights Council for the promotion and protection of human rights worldwide. Mr. Vice-President, during the fourth cycle UPR review, The Lao PDR received 257 recommendations from the members and observers of the Human Rights Council. Subsequently, the Department of Treaty and Law, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as the secretariat of the National Committee on Human Rights, conducted debriefings and consultation with line ministries, embassies, UN agencies, international organizations, mass organization and civil societies organization in the country. The government has carefully considered the comments and opinions received from all stakeholders on those recommendations. In this connection, I'm pleased to formally inform the Council that the Lao PDR fully support 189 recommendation partially supports seven recommendations, and take notes of 61 recommendations. The 189 recommendations, which is more than 70% of all recommendations endorsed by the LOPDR, are consistent with our constitution, laws, regulation, socioeconomic development plans, and cultural context. They are also aligned with the country's national priorities. The seven partially supported recommendations include proposals which the Lapidia either does not fully concur, disagreed with specific wordings, or supports in principle but cannot fully implement. The 61 noted recommendations are considered inconsistent with the Constitution laws and existing legal framework, or based on inaccurate assumption, contained erroneous information, or are not appropriate within the specific national context of the LA-PDRA. Mr. Vice President, allow me to outline the LA-PDRA's position on several noted recommendations. On ratification of treaties, The Lao PDR is not yet in a position to support immediate ratification of certain optional protocols to core human rights treaties, as well as the Arms Trade Treaty. These instruments remain under careful review, taking into account the existing capability of relevant authorities and significant reporting obligation associated with these treaties. The current institutional capacity to manage and fulfill these obligations remain limited. Therefore, any future ratification will depend on national readiness and the ability to meet reporting and compliance requirements. Regarding standing invitation to UN special rapporteurs, the Lao PDR will continue cooperating with special procedures of the Human Rights Council and reaffirms its policies and practices of considering invitation to UN special reporters on a case-by-case basis. On national human rights institution, the Lao PDR has established national mechanisms consistent with its current national circumstances, including National Committee on Human Rights, the National Commission for the Advancement of Women, Mothers and Children; the National Committee for Persons with Disabilities; the National Steering Committee on Anti-Human Trafficking; and the National Assembly's Complaint Mechanism. Current efforts and priorities focus on strengthening these existing bodies to be more effective. For anti-discrimination, indigenous people, and gender identity, the Lao PDR officially recognizes 50 ethnic groups without classification of any ethnic groups as indigenous people. Therefore, indigenous people are not applicable in our context. And its legal framework recognizes only male and female gender categories. All individuals, regardless of ethnicity or gender, are considered equal under the constitution and the domestic laws, enjoy the same rights and obligations. The government remains committed to the principle of non-discrimination and dignity for all. Anti-discrimination principles are progressively mainstreamed into broader socio-economic policies rather than addressed through a standalone comprehensive legal instrument at this stage. On the death penalty, the LAPIDIA is not in a position to support recommendation related to abolishing the death penalty, as it remains enshrined in the national penal code as a deterrent for the most serious crimes, consistent with Article 6 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Nevertheless, a de facto moratorium on executions have been observed since 1989. The government has undertaken legislative reforms by reducing the number of offenses subject to capital punishment from 18 to 12 crimes in 2018, and strengthening procedural safeguards and expanding access to justice, including legal aid and judicial review mechanisms. Furthermore, the application of policies on amnesty and commutation of sentences reflects our commitment to ensuring proportionality and fairness in the administration of criminal justice. Mr. Vice President, I wish to emphasize the La Paz's strong commitment to multilateralism and to the UPR process, while underlining that national context must always be undertaken into account, must be taken into account in the advancement of human rights in the country. In conclusion, I reaffirm the La Paz's unwavering commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights, as well as to the principle upheld by this council. The progress achieved in socioeconomic development and in advancing the rights and well-being of all Lao multi-ethnic people during the previous UPR cycle would not be -- would not have been possible without Lao government policies and the invaluable support and cooperation of the international community. In this regard, the LAPIDIA expresses its sincere appreciation to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, UN agencies, international organizations, development partners, and all stakeholders involved for their continued support and cooperation, particularly in the field of human rights. Finally, the LAPIDIA welcomes further constructive views from members and observer states of the Council and relevant stakeholders on the adoption of its UPR today. With that, I thank you, Mr. Vice President.

Thank you, Ambassador. Excellencies, thank you so much, and thank you for accepting to split the adoption with the first two, the rest to be done tomorrow morning, given the fact that we reached the 18 hours. So, dear colleagues, we will reconvene tomorrow morning at 10:00 a.m. to continue the consideration and the adoption of the outcome on Lao PDR, and also the adoption and the outcomes for the rest of the States examined during the 49th session of the UPR Working Group. So, uh, hereby I declare close the 28th meeting of the 60th session, see you tomorrow at 10, 10 in the morning, thank you.