28th Meeting - 63rd Session of Human Rights Council

Excellencies, distinguished participants, I hereby declare open the 28th meeting of the 63rd session of the Human Rights Council. And we will now proceed with the consideration of the outcome of Paraguay. The outcome is based on the report of the working group on the Universal Periodic Review of Paraguay and its addendum. These documents, together with the additional information that will now be provided by Paraguay, 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, Mr. Mario Raul Cano Ricciardi, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Permanent Representative of Paraguay, to present additional information on the review. Excellency, you have the floor.

Madam Vice President of the Human Rights Council, distinguished Member State representatives and observers, ladies and gentlemen, Five years ago, when we completed the third cycle of the Universal Periodic Review, we came before this Council to express our firm conviction that the UPR is, in addition to a peer assessment exercise, an opportunity to reflect and for states to evaluate themselves. We then made a commitment to follow up on the recommendations we received. And through our national mechanism, Cimorey Plus, strive to ensure that those recommendations had a real impact on people's lives through our action. Five years on, we come before the council once again, and this body provides us with a particularly valuable opportunity for us to look back on the path we have followed over the past five years. I'd like to recall the circumstances at the outset, recognise the challenges that we've managed to overcome and assess the progress achieved and responsibly take on the recommendations which will guide our work over the next five years. The cycle which is concluding today started off in extraordinary circumstances. In 2021, Paraguay, like every other country, still faced the huge impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our institutions strove to reorganize their priorities, adopt new forms of work, and focus significant efforts in responding to an unprecedented health, social and economic emergency. The very review which was held here had to be conducted virtually because of the circumstances we faced. As we gradually returned to institutional normality, we faced another challenge, which was to resume and reorganise institutional work in order to implement the recommendations received. And Simore+ played a vital role in this. What started off as a tool for organizing international recommendations has been gradually enhanced to become a true working method for Paraguayan institutions. We have a network of focal points which has enabled us to assign the recommendations, analyze them and link them up to existing public policies and follow up on them throughout the cycle. So this meant that the recommendations were not just commitments made in the UPR, but they found a specific interlocutor among our country's institutions, which would be responsible for turning them into action. This ownership by our institutions of the recommendations was reflected in the way in which we prepared the fourth national report. This was coordinated through Cimore Plus, and some 66 state institutions took part in it. What is particularly relevant is that in this new cycle, Paraguay has once again received recommendations directed at further strengthening the mechanism, its sustainability, and state institutions ability to follow up on recommendations and to participate. During the past five years, we held elections, which led to a new period of government, the renewal of our authorities, the reorganization of our state entities, and the definition of our priorities, programs, and public policies. This obviously poses new challenges for continuing with any state agenda, but it also creates opportunities. The new public policies allowed us to incorporate human rights commitments into the initiatives which started to take shape, and others could be strengthened or redirected. The recommendations continue to offer us a common framework of reference for all our institutions. This means to say that even though they may have different areas of work, they share responsibilities for implementing recommendations. In this regard, one of the strengths of the Universal Periodic Review is exactly its ability to provide continuity. Governments change, structures develop, new needs and responses emerge. Nevertheless, the state remains responsible. There is also a roadmap which allows us to follow up on the commitments which go beyond the term of one government. Madam Vice-President, as we look back over this cycle, we can see some significant progress in various walks. One of the areas was exactly the strengthening of our human rights institutions. Last year, the Ombudsman's Office recovered its A rating, as it was once again recognized as being in line with the Paris Principles. This was one of the areas of progress that Paraguay highlighted during our review in May and was recognized in turn by a number of different delegations. During this period, my country also extended its international human rights commitments. This included our ratification of the UNESCO Convention on Combating Discrimination in Education, and we also acceded to the Inter-American Convention on Protecting the Human Rights of Older Persons. Now, when it comes to economic and social rights, we launched a national school food program, which currently provides a daily meal to over 1 million pupils and has been implemented in all 263 districts in my country. Now, this is a policy which doesn't only contribute to the right to food, but also fosters children staying longer at school, good nutrition and well-being. We've also overhauled the Paraguayan prison system, We've reorganised the places of detention and we have separated convicts from those who are in pre-trial detention. We've built new premises, trained our prison staff and we have a management model which strives to bring together security, dignity and social rehabilitation. These are major changes which are ongoing, and we realise that we still face significant challenges in this area. Now, I could detail a lot more progress which has been achieved over the past five years, but our aim is not just to present our achievements as exclusively being the result of the UPR. All the progress that we make is the result of national decisions, developing public policies and constant work of a number of institutions and public officials. What we do want to recognize is the value of the peer review mechanism of the UPR. The UPR compels us to analyze our work at home, to organize what we have achieved, to measure progress, to transparently recognize what we haven't yet achieved and see how other states look on the situation in our country. So this is a way of being able to look at each other respectfully, constructively, and so all states without exception are assessed through the same exercise and thus we contribute to mutually improve our systems for promoting and protecting human rights. This is one of the greatest values of the mechanism for Paraguay. On the 6th of May of this year, Paraguay came before the working group for its fourth review. 85 delegations took part in the interactive dialogue. We listened to recognition of the progress we've achieved, observations about ongoing challenges, a number of proposals about actions which we could take as part of our efforts over the next few years. Thus, I would like to express our sincere thanks to each and every one of the states that devoted time to studying the situation in Paraguay and taking part in the review. We'd like to thank those who recognize our progress, those who encouraged us to go further, and those who highlighted outstanding challenges and made recommendations with a view to contributing to our country's efforts. I would also like to thank Ecuador, Kuwait and Slovenia, the members of our troika, for their work. I would also like to thank the Council presidency, the secretariat and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights for their support throughout the process. Madam Vice-President, as a result of this exercise, Paraguay received 266 recommendations. Their analysis meant once again that our institutions had to undertake a significant amount of work. Each of the recommendations was distributed to the competent national institutions and examined individually, bearing in mind the content. the domestic legal framework, existing public policies, and the possibility of taking on board the commitment proposed. As a result of the process, Paraguay has accepted 238 recommendations, partially accepted three, and taken note of 25. Above all, these figures reflect my country's will continue to working on a broad human rights agenda. Amongst others, the recommendations encompass strengthening our institutions and Simorei+, reducing poverty, promoting social protection, access to justice, improving the prison system, combating human trafficking and child labor, freedom of expression, protecting journalists and human rights defenders, health, education, women's rights, the rights of children, adolescents, of indigenous peoples. of persons with disabilities, as well as protecting older persons and migrants. For my country, when we accept a recommendation, it means more than just agreeing with the proposal. It means that we take on board a commitment on which our institutions will have to work and then report back to you. And that is why we've worked to provide you with a thorough and transparent response. We decided to partially accept three of the recommendations because they contained various components which required differentiated responses. There were aspects which we could commit to and others which required a different position. There were 25 recommendations which we noted, and I'd like to explain why we took this decision. Taking note of a recommendation doesn't undermine a state's participation in the dialogue. It means that in the exact terms in which the recommendation of that state was formulated, Paraguay was not in a position to take on the commitment. And there are different reasons for this. For some of the recommendations, we found that they were incompatible with our constitution or our law in force. And others, there were concepts or categories which aren't mirrored in our domestic legal framework. And there are also recommendations which depicted our country in a different way to the way in which we see it, even though we maintain our commitment to continue to working in general on the problem which was highlighted. That's why our decision to accept or take note of a recommendation doesn't mean that this is our assessment of the state which made the recommendation. It's just a transparent way of showing that Paraguay, following the evaluation of the recommendation by our institutions, was in a position to accept it as a commitment or not. And we believe that being sincere also strengthens the UPR. A true dialogue among peers requires openness to listen to recommendations from others, but also the responsibility to clearly express which we are going to take on board and which we have a different position on. Paraguay has approached this process openly, respectfully and responsibly. Madam Vice-President, five years ago, we took a commitment before the Council to deploy efforts to translate recommendations into tangible action. Today we can look back on this period and we can see that many times Our work has led to significant change in our country, and we will continue to implement recommendations and tackle the challenges which have still not been resolved. We have a new series of recommendations before us today, and we will address them with the same spirit. I'd like to thank you for the time, attention, the contributions, all the states that took part in the review, and we're aware of the responsibility that we have with regard to your recommendations. And lastly, the true value of the UPI is not only measured by the number of recommendations accepted, but our ability to translate those commitments into stronger institutions, more effective public policies, better protection and enjoyment of human rights by all our citizens. It's in this belief that Paraguay once again reiterates its commitment to the UPR and the work which we must now carry out on the basis of the recommendations made by the Council. Thank you very much.

I thank His.

Excellency for this presentation, and I will now open the floor to 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. The first speaker is Armenia.

President, Armenia values the constructive participation of Paraguay in the Universal Periodic Review, which underscores their continued commitment to promoting human rights. We note with appreciation Paraguay's acceptance of Armenia's recommendations. We commend Paraguay's dedication to strengthening national implementation and follow-up frameworks by advancing digital tools, such as CMOR+, thereby ensuring effective coordination, comprehensive monitoring, and inclusive participation. We further recognize Paraguay's efforts to prevent and combat in persons and child exploitation. Armenia also welcomes Paraguay's ongoing initiatives to reinforce measures aimed at preventing and responding to violence against women, girls, and adolescents, notably through robust legislative implementation and appropriate resource allocation. Armenia supports adopting the working group's report and wishes Paraguay a highly successful implementation cycle. I thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Botswana. Botswana seems to be absent, so next I give the floor to Brunei Darussalam.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. Brunei Darussalam appreciates the updates provided by the delegation of Paraguay on the advancements made since its review. We thank Paraguay for accepting all three recommendations proposed by Brunei Darussalam on strengthening policies and programs aimed at reducing poverty, ensuring quality education as a common good, and enhancing efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change. In this regard, we recommend the adoption of the UPR Working Group report and wish Paraguay every success in the implementation of the accepted recommendations. Thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Cameroon.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. Cameroon welcomes the esteemed Paraguayan delegation and thanks it for presenting its final report. My delegation welcomes Paraguay's interest in all the recommendations made by my country during its UPR, which was during the 5th meeting of the 52nd session on 6 May. My delegation is also pleased to note that Paraguay accepted the vast majority of recommendations made, that is to say 241 out of 266. 238 were fully accepted and three partially. Hence, my delegation fully supports the adoption of the outcome document on Paraguay and wishes it every success in implementing accepted recommendations. Thank you.

Thank you.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. Chile bids a cordial welcome to Paraguay and would like to thank you for the constructive spirit which has underpinned your participation in this fourth cycle of the UPR. We particularly welcome the fact that you have accepted 238 recommendations, particularly your exception of our recommendation on criminalizing torture as a standalone offense in line with relevant international standards and the ban and punishment of having child servants. We're pleased to see that you continue to study the law on non-for-profit organizations with a view to ensuring that civil society can go about its work in a safe and enabling environment. We do hope that you will continue to examine the recommendations that you've taken note of as part of your work to promote human rights. We wish Paraguay every success in this process and we are sure that this work will result in better protection and promotion of human rights. Thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to China.

Madam President, China has taken note of Paraguay's active implementation of its fourth Human Rights Network Action Plan and its national development and poverty reduction plans, as well as its efforts to improve public health. Regrettably, however, Paraguay's level of economic and social development remains low, discrimination against certain groups, continues to be widespread, organized crime and trafficking in person remains a serious. China encourages Paraguay to sustain its commitment to economic social development in order to create favorable conditions for the enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms to effectively combat discrimination and violence against women, children, indigenous people, and other groups, and to continue combat trafficking in person vigorously through legislation and policy measures. China supports the adoption by the Council of the UPR outcome report of Paraguay. Thank you, Madam Vice-President.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Colombia.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. Colombia congratulates Paraguay on its genuine will to achieve its international commitments in the area of human rights. This will benefit its people. Paraguay is open to international scrutiny by the universal human rights system. We appreciate Paraguay's efforts in the area of human rights, and we'd like to underscore your acceptance of Colombia's recommendations on strengthening compensation for victims, strengthening the ability to follow up and monitor access to primary health care for vulnerable people, Colombia encourages Paraguay to pursue the recommendations made on eradicating discrimination. We wish Paraguay every success in implementing its commitments, which will certainly result in improved protection and promotion of human rights in the country. Thank you.

Thank you.

I will next give the floor to Costa Rica.

Gracias.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. Costa Rica welcomes the Paraguayan delegation. We would like to congratulate you on the completion of your Universal Periodic Review. We would also like to offer our thanks to Paraguay of having accepted our recommendations on searching for disappeared persons and supporting their family members, on strengthening the education system, on women's political participation and a total ban on child marriage, as well as the recommendation to ratify the optional protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. We'd like to encourage Paraguay to continue its constructive cooperation with the Human Rights Council, the UPR, the special procedures and treaty bodies. We wish you every success, Paraguay, in implementing accepted recommendations. Thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Cuba.

Madam Vice-President, We'd like to extend our greetings to the Paraguayan delegation, and we appreciate your commitment to the UPR and the fact that you've accepted Cuba's three recommendations. We urge Paraguay to take effective measures to combat abuse of children and protect children's rights. We also, we call for you to step up your fight against gender-based discrimination as well as against hate speech against the LGBTI community. We wish Paraguay every success in implementing recommendations accepted, and we support adoption of your outcome report. Thank you, Madam Vice-President.

Djibouti welcomes the Paraguayan delegation. We'd like to thank you for your presentation of additional information, which highlights efforts and commitments to promote and protect human rights as we now move to the adoption of your outcome report. Furthermore, we'd like to congratulate Paraguay for having accepted a large number of recommendations during the fourth cycle of the UPR, and we're particularly pleased to see that Paraguay accepted the three recommendations that Djibouti made. Lastly, Djibouti wishes Paraguay every success in implementing accepted recommendations, and we recommend that the Council adopts the outcome report of the fourth cycle of the UPR on Paraguay.

Thank you.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. The Dominican Republic congratulates the government and people of the fraternal Republic of Paraguay on its UPR and for having accepted the vast majority of recommendations made during this cycle. We particularly appreciate the fact that you have accepted the four recommendations presented by the Dominican Republic concerning strengthening SIMEORE+, preventing human trafficking, strengthening inclusive education policies and promoting the rights of indigenous peoples. We wish Paraguay every success in implementing accepted recommendations and we reiterate that we stand ready to continue promoting cooperation, exchange of experiences within the framework of the UPR. Lastly, we'd like to encourage the Council to adopt the outcome report on Paraguay's fourth UPR by consensus. Thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to El Salvador.

Thank you very much, Madam Vice-President. The Republic of El Salvador congratulates Paraguay on having accepted 238 recommendations during its fourth cycle of the UPR. We appreciate the constructive spirit in which Paraguay took part in this process, and we also appreciate the inter-institutional evaluation of the recommendations. We particularly welcome the fact that you have accepted our delegation's three recommendations and we are sure that you will continue to make progress in tackling outstanding challenges in the area of human rights. Lastly, we wish Paraguay every success and we support the adoption of this outcome report. Thank you very much.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Equatorial Guinea. They are absent. So, next, I give the floor to India.

Mr. President, India warmly welcomes the delegation of Paraguay for the adoption of the UPR Working Group's report on its fourth UPR, held on 6 May 2026. The review saw substantive participation, with 85 delegations taking the floor and making a total of 266 recommendations. We appreciate the constructive engagement of the delegation of Paraguay during the entire review, which reflects their commitment to the UPR process. India appreciates that as many as 238 recommendations have been accepted by Paraguay, including all three recommendations made by us. While recommending the adoption of their UPR report, we congratulate the delegation of Paraguay on a successful review and wish them success in their efforts towards implementing the accepted recommendations. I thank you.

Thank you.

This was the last speaker we could accommodate. 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 other stakeholders to make their general comments on the outcome. The speaking time has been set at two minutes for all. The first speaker is International Communities Organisation Limited. They seem to be absent, so we move on. And next, I give the floor to Istituto Internazionale Maria Ausliatrice delle Salesiane di Don Bosco for a joint statement.

IMA and Vides commend Paraguay for its constructive engagement in its fourth UPR. On the right to education, we welcome the acceptance of recommendations 109.175, 179 and 182. We remain concerned by persistent school dropout and unequal access to quality education. On the rights of children, we welcome the acceptance of recommendation 109.205 and 221, as sexual violence against children and girls, as well as gaps prevention and specialized support still persist in Paraguay. Concerning the rights of women, we welcome the acceptance of recommendations 109.201 and 209. We are deeply alarmed by gender-based violence and femicide, as we note weaknesses in early warning mechanism and unequal access to protection services. IMA and Vidas recommend Paraguay to: 1. Ensure equal access to education for all children, especially those in rural and indigenous communities, and children with disabilities, by strengthening inclusive and quality education as key condition to address school dropout. 2. Strengthen protection for children affected by violence and sexual abuse, facilitating reporting of abuses and providing specialized assistance and psychological support. Three, strengthen the prevention of femicide by ensuring timely risk assessment and protection measures, including access to shelters, legal assistance, and psychological support. I thank you.

I thank you.

Next, I give the floor to ILGA World.

Thank you.

This statement has been prepared in collaboration with REPAR+, a civil society organization dedicated to the promotion, protection and rights of LGBTIQ+ persons in Paraguay. We regret that Paraguay has taken note of all recommendations regarding sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, addressing discrimination, violence, hate speech, freedom of association and the recognition of same-sex couples. Paraguay. has invoked constitutional considerations in relation to gender identity. However, Article 46 guarantees equality and prohibits discrimination. We urge the adoption of comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation, measures to address hate speech and violence, and accessible avenues for remedy. Paraguay took note of the recommendation to protect LGBTIQ+ organizations and guarantee freedom of association by amending or repealing restrictive provisions of the NGO law, maintaining that Law 7363 of 2024 promotes transparency and accountability. These objectives must respect freedom of association as guaranteed by Article 42 of the Constitution. Paraguay took note of the recommendation legally to recognize same-sex couples, citing constitutional incompatibilities. We urge their legal recognition and equal protection. We stand ready to engage constructively with the government towards the full implementation of these recommendations. Thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Christian Council International.

I deliver this statement on behalf of Christian Council International. We thank the State of Paraguay for its continued engagement with the UPR process and commend its Constitution's protection of life from conception and its recognition of the family as a foundational unit of society and of marriage between a man and a woman. We also commend Paraguay for upholding equal dignity for all, noting that international human rights law does not require States to recognize sexual orientation or gender identity as protected categories or to legalize same-sex marriages. On the accepted recommendations, regarding sexual and reproductive health services, we encourage the State of Paraguay to implement them consistent with its constitutional protections for the unborn and not to interpret them as including abortion. Finally, comprehensive sexuality education has no binding definition in international law and states retain the right to adopt educational approaches consistent with their own national values, including value-based and abstinence-based approaches. Thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to CIVICUS, World Alliance for Citizen Participation.

Thank you, President.

CIVICUS and Alma Civica welcome the Government of Paraguay's engagement with the UPR process since its last review. Paraguay has only partially implemented 4 out of 21 recommendations relating to civic space. While in the previous cycle, the Government accepted recommendations 2 to 20, it appears to have backtracked on this commitment in this cycle. Law 7363 of 2024 and its implementing regulations impose disproportionate obligations on non-profit organizations, centralize sensitive institutional information, and raise serious concerns regarding privacy, access to funding, and so forth. In December 2025, a broad coalition of civil society organizations filed a constitutional challenge. Stigmatization and harassment of civil society actors, criminalization of peaceful protests, and impunity for attacks continue,

we regret that the sound is not good enough for the interpretation to continue.

Instamos a Paraguay a modificar o derogar la ley número 6363/2024 y su reglamentación, y así establecer un mecanismo de protección independiente, investigar estos ataques y garantizar un entorno seguro y propicio para la sociedad civil.

Muchas gracias. Thank you, and we apologize that the sound quality didn't allow to interpret the entire statement. Next, I give the floor to Association for Progressive Communications.

Thank you, President. I speak on behalf of the Association for Progressive Communications, TDIC, and Derechos Digitales. We welcome Paraguay's engagement in the UPR process. In a joint submission, we documented concrete human rights risks in the digital environment in Paraguay, state surveillance, the absence of regulations implementing comprehensive data protection, and the exposure of human rights defenders and journalists to technology-mediated forms of harassment and control. We urge Paraguay to accept, implement, and translate into verifiable measures recommendations that link personal data protection to the necessary reform of the law on control of non-profit organizations, that call for comprehensively addressing all forms of digital violence against women and for measures to enhance protection for defenders. We encourage Paraguay to implement and sustain these in the long term for protection of human rights in the digital sphere. These recommendations offer a formal anchor within the UPR to demand concrete progress. However, we note with concern that the central issues for digital rights in Paraguay were not reflected in the UPR. state surveillance and the interception of communications, pending since the 2016 cycle, the rollout of technologies without human rights impact assessments, and the absence of a data governance and artificial intelligence framework. We urge Member States to incorporate these issues in the follow-up of Paraguay's UPR, and we urge Paraguay to show concrete progress before the next cycle. Finally, we call for Paraguay to establish dialogue with civil society for the implementation of these recommendations. I thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Sexuality and Gender Working Group, Civil Association.

Thank you. I make a statement on behalf of the Beca SD and Sexual Rights Initiative. We appreciate the recommendations made to Paraguay in the CPR, particularly as related to sexual and reproductive health and rights of girls, adolescents and women. We value the recommendations aimed at guaranteeing comprehensive education in sexuality, scientific, secular and with a focus on human rights, inside and outside schools. These recommendations are particularly relevant in light of the restrictions adopted by the Ministry of Education and Science and the exclusion of fundamental content on gender, sexuality and rights. The urgency of these recommendations is reflected in figures that cannot be ignored. In 2025, 3,521 births of girls and adolescents were registered. Of these, 345 births were to girls between 10 and 14 years of age. In 2024, of the 4,691 abortions registered, 580 involved girls and adolescents. The barriers that still exist in access to sexual and reproductive health and comprehensive sexuality education continue to worry us. These barriers are a risk to the life and health of girls, adolescents and women. Thus, we highlight the recommendations to guarantee universal access to sexual and reproductive health services and modern contraceptives to prevent early pregnancies and reduce maternal mortality. We also welcome the recommendations to prevent and respond comprehensively to sexual violence against children and adolescents. including a national plan and access to comprehensive sexuality education. We urge Paraguay to implement the recommendations received effectively, with adequate resources and with participation by civil society, including women's organizations, youth and indigenous communities. The UPR should not end with the adoption of recommendations; it should be translated into public policies capable of transforming realities. Thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Congregation of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd.

Thank you. The Congregation of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd, together with Fundacion Buen Pastor, welcome the recommendations made during Paraguay's 40th Universal Periodic Review on preventing and responding to trafficking in persons, particularly women and children. We support the recommendations calling on Paraguay to strengthen child protection and anti-trafficking frameworks, improve victim identification and assistance, ensure effective investigation and prosecution, and guarantee justice, redress, and reintegration for victims. We particularly emphasize inter-institutional coordination and meaningful civil society participation, as well as stronger action in border and high-risk areas. where women and girls are especially vulnerable to trafficking. From our experience with vulnerable communities, we stress the need for early identification, specialized protection, and sustained support for victims, backed by adequate resources. We welcome the recommendations addressing creyadasko, which exposes children to exploitation and forced or unpaid domestic labor. Stronger legislation, prevention, and social protection are essential to eliminate this practice. They must be protected against all of these, and in particular, girls experience violence in rural areas and in vulnerable communities. We call for culturally and linguistically appropriate services for indigenous women and girls who experience violence. We urge Paraguay to implement these recommendations with adequate resources Effective coordination, strong victim protection and meaningful civil society participation, because behind every case of trafficking is a life and dignity that must be protected and restored. Thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to World Jewish Congress.

Thank you. My name is Humberto Javier Ismaelich Schumstein, President of the Jewish Community of Paraguay. It is an honor to address you on behalf of the World Jewish Congress. Our community is immensely grateful to the state of Paraguay, since during the Holocaust, Paraguayan diplomats risking their lives granted visas and passports to Jews who wished to escape Nazi barbarism and it was one of the few countries that received Jews escaping the Holocaust. Another important moment in our relationship was Paraguay's decisive vote for the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948. And from then on and forever, Paraguay was in excellent relations with the community and the State of Israel. Currently, following 7th of October 2023, a date that marked a before and after in the Jewish world, the Paraguayan state was in charge of protecting our entire community from any local or international threat, which made us feel extremely safe in our beloved country, Paraguay.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to RSKS.

Thank you, Mr. President. Uruguay's Universal Periodic Review offers an important moment not merely to assess progress, but to renew a common commitment to human dignity through cooperation, dialogue and national ownership. Its outcome is before this Council under agenda item 6. We appreciate Uruguay's constructive participation in the UPR mechanism and its willingness to engage with recommendations aimed at strengthening the enjoyment of human rights for all. Mr. President, the most meaningful reforms are those that to be felt beyond institutions, in a classroom, in a rural community, in access to justice and in the confidence of every person that their dignity will be respected. We therefore encourage Paraguay to continue strengthening inclusive public policies, social protection, equality, access to essential services and meaningful participation, particularly for indigenous people, women, children and communities facing disadvantages. We also encourage sustained engagement with civil society and international partners in implementing accepted recommendations. May this UPR outcome serve not as the conclusion of a review, but as the beginning of an even stronger chapter of national progress. Thank you.

Thank you.

This was the last speaker on my list. And before giving the floor to the delegation of Paraguay for concluding remarks, Allow me to inform that out of 266 recommendations received, 238 enjoy the support of Paraguay and 25 are noted. Additional clarification was provided on another three recommendations, indicating which parts of the recommendations were supported and which parts were noted. And I now give the floor back to His Excellency for concluding remarks.

Thank you, Madam President. In concluding this adoption of the outcome of the fourth Universal Periodic Review of Paraguay, I wish to reiterate our thanks to all who have contributed to this. We thank the States that participated in our review and made recommendations. the members of the Troika for the work they have done; the Presidency of the Council, the Secretariat and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights for the assistance provided throughout. We also acknowledge the participation of civil society organisations, which have contributed to the process by submitting their own information, observations and perspectives on the human rights situation in our country. These contributions are part of the plurality of sources that characterizes the UPR and contributes to broadening analysis of progress made and challenges requiring attention. Paraguay welcomes this participation and recognizes the importance of maintaining spaces for dialogue that enable the various stakeholders to contribute from their respective spheres of action to strengthening the protection of human rights. We express particular thanks to the offices of the United Nations system in Paraguay and our region, as well as their agencies, funds and programs, which, within the framework of their own mandates, have accompanied and sustained committed manner the efforts of the Paraguayan State for the promotion and protection of human rights. Their technical cooperation specialized assistance and support have provided a valuable input to the strengthening of our capacities, policies and initiatives in this area. Today's adoption formally concludes the review phase of Paraguay's fourth cycle. However, the conclusion of this stage means a new outlook in work for the years to come. The experience accumulated during successive cycles has enabled Paraguay to progressively strengthen national capacities to address this task. In particular, SIMOR+ has established itself as the national mechanism that coordinates follow-up to international human rights recommendations and facilitates coordination among the institutions responsible for implementation. As from today's adoption, we will need to begin this inter-institutional work. The recommendations accepted must be incorporated into the national follow-up processes, identifying competent institutions, corresponding measures and the progress that can be achieved throughout the cycle. Paraguay considers that this follow-up process is inseparable from the constructive nature of the UPR. and we welcome recognition of the progress made, but we also value identification of the areas where further work is needed. We believe that the implementation of these recommendations must be considered in the broader context of the international obligations assumed by Paraguay, its national priorities, and the public policies developed by the relevant institutions. Paraguay will continue with the promoting of the follow-up and implementation of the recommendations accepted and participating actively in this Council and other international human rights mechanisms, convinced of the value of dialogue, cooperation and the exchange of good practice to support national implementation efforts. At the conclusion of this fourth UPR, we reiterate our commitment to continue working to ensure that the recommendations adopted are translated into concrete and sustainable progress in the promotion and protection of human rights in Paraguay. Thank you.

I thank His Excellency for this presentation and for the constructive participation of Paraguay throughout the UPR process. I now propose that the Council adopts the decision on the outcome of the Universal Periodic Review of Paraguay as it appears on the screen. I see no objection, so the decision is adopted. And we will briefly suspend the meeting before consideration of the outcome of Belgium. Excellencies, Chair, participants, we will now proceed with the consideration of the outcome of Belgium. The outcome is based on the report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review of Belgium and its addendum. These documents, together with additional information that will be now provided by Belgium, 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 Mr. Christophe Bayeux, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Permanent Representative of Belgium, to present additional information on the review.

You have the floor, please.

Thank you, Vice-President. Madam Vice-President, distinguished colleagues, distinguished delegates, it is an honour for me to address the Human Rights Council on the adoption of the report of the Working Group on the Fourth Universal Periodic Review of Belgium. Given the increasing pressure on human rights, the rule of law and democracy globally, Belgium strongly reaffirms its commitment to defending them. Human rights are universal, indivisible, interdependent and mutually reinforcing. Belgium is working with conviction to promote and protect them. These are essential foundations of effective multilateralism to which we remain deeply committed. The UPR as a peer review is an essential instrument for protecting human rights and strengthening their implementation in each of our countries, including Belgium. Belgium attaches great importance to this exercise, as confirmed during the presentation of our national report and the interactive dialogue before the working group on the UPR, held on 6 May last. In presenting the human rights situation in Belgium, we recognise that no country can boast of a perfect report, since there is always room for improvement in principle. Belgium takes its commitments seriously and takes a clear-eyed look at the points where progress is still needed. Thus, while pointing to the significant progress made in many areas, Belgium has not ignored the challenges it faces and has transparently discussed both what works and what could still be improved. Belgium continues to strengthen its legislative, legal and political framework in order better to respect, protect and fulfill human rights in our country. As Belgium is a federal state based on a cooperative federalism, human rights protection is ensured simultaneously by several levels of government, the federal state, but also the federated entities that are the regions and the communities. The national report presented last May, thus, is the result of close consultation among the various authorities, including the federated entities. This institutional framework implies responsibilities at different levels of government and shared responsibility on certain subjects. Belgium thanks the States that took the floor for the time and effort they devoted to familiarising themselves with the human rights situation in our country and for their cooperation in making this UPR a substantial, constructive, in-depth exchange. Belgium also thanks civil society for its contributions, which have nourished and enriched the exchanges. The protection of human rights requires permanent attention and constant dialogue with all components of society. Belgium has a long tradition of cooperation with civil society, non-governmental organizations and human rights defenders, including through structured channels for consultation and public cooperation. As we indicated in the closing speech on 6 May last, as in previous cycles, exchanges with stakeholders will continue. A debriefing on the interactive dialogue and its follow-up in the context of the EPR was also organised with them last June. Following the interactive dialogue, and as stated in the report of the EPR working group, Belgium already supported immediately a majority of the recommendations, as mentioned in paragraph 43 of the report, in other words, 165 recommendations out of the 300 expressed. However, it reserved its position on 104 recommendations, reproduced in paragraph 44 of the report. And please inform me that since made, the Belgian authorities, concerned both federal and federated, have been carefully examining all of these recommendations. Permit me, Madam Vice-President, today to present the replies given to them in accordance with the information provided in the addendum submitted to the Council. Of the 104 recommendations, Belgium supported 62. As to the recommendations of which we took note, our country has taken care clearly to justify its decision in the document. Thus, of the 300 recommendations made during the interactive dialogue, Belgium undertakes to implement 227. Belgium noted that some of the accepted recommendations were already being implemented or in the process of being implemented. Many of them also relate to topics that it had itself identified in this national report as requiring special attention and the continuation of actions already undertaken. Belgium's commitment to human rights is guided by a spirit of dialogue and collaboration, the same spirit that drives the EPR. It is precisely in this spirit that we welcome exchanges with delegations and representatives of civil society. Thank you.

I'd like to thank His Excellency for the presentation.

To 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. And the first speaker is Sierra Leone.

Madam Vice-President, Israel takes the floor to welcome the adoption of the UPR report of the Kingdom of Belgium and to express our appreciation for the constructive engagement demonstrated throughout this review process. We welcome Belgium's steadfast commitment to human rights and to the international multilateral system. In a global landscape marked by increasing pressures on fundamental freedoms, Belgium's continued advocacy for the rule of law and democratic institutions remains vital. We also recognize the tangible progress Belgium has achieved in its ongoing efforts to ensure a dignified life for all its citizens, including advancements and protection of persons with disabilities and efforts to combat gender-based violence. CERLUM particularly appreciates acceptance of both recommendations put forward by our delegation. This constructive approach reflects the spirit of cooperation that should define this mechanism. We fully support the adoption of this report and wish the Kingdom of Belgium every success in the implementation of the accepted recommendations, and assure the Council of our continued partnership in the shared pursuit of human rights for all. Thank you, Madam Vice-President.

I thank you.

And next, I give the floor to Sri Lanka.

Madam Vice-President, we appreciate the constructive engagement of Belgium during its fourth UPR review cycle in May 2026. Sri Lanka welcomes Belgium's acceptance of a majority of recommendations made during the review, including three recommendations by Sri Lanka. We commend the Government of Belgium's effort to advance gender equality, specifically through the reduction of both the gender pay gap and the pension gap. In a constructive spirit, we encourage Belgium to continue its efforts to promote children's rights, particularly by advancing inclusive education and by addressing homelessness. Sri Lanka recommends the adoption of the fourth UPR report of Belgium and wishes Belgium every success in its implementation of the recommendations. Thank you.

I thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Sudan.

Thank you.

Thank you, madam. We thank Belgium for achieving its progress, notably in improving the conditions in place of detention, in tackling racism and protecting persons of African descent, as well as its implementation of the national strategy on persons with disabilities. We also welcome its constructive commitment with the UPR process and accepting recommendations including Sudan's on protecting migrants, combating human trafficking and strengthening international cooperation for development. We recommend the adoption of the outcome report and we wish Belgium every success in implementing accepted recommendations. Thank you very much, Madam Vice-President. Thank you.

To Suriname.

Thank you, Madam President, Vice President. Suriname commends the commitments of the Republic of Belgium to the UPR mechanism. We compliment Belgium on Belgium's efforts in addressing and implementing the recommendations. In the area of discriminatory profiling by police officers, Belgium's efforts through the Standing Committee on Police Monitoring are to be seen as progress in combating racism. In its effort to promote awareness as part of the first decade for people of African descent, Belgium has shown its first efforts in embracing the theme of reparatory justice. Suriname expresses its support to the adoption of the report by consensus. Thank you, Madam Vice-President.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Syrian Arab Republic.

Thank you, Vice President.

We welcome the delegation of Belgium to the UPR session and express our appreciation to the national report, which underscores.

Belgium's commitment to human rights. It shines a light on the progress achieved in the implementation of recommendations. through cooperation between the government, NGOs and independent institutions, while taking.

Into account the observation of these institutions in a manner that reinforces and protects human rights. We applaud the mechanisms and measures undertaken by Belgium.

To implement the recommendation on the basis of a structured approach that included ratification of international instruments, as well as activating the role of the Federal Human Rights Institute, which is independent and has an inclusive mandate.

We applaud the Government's efforts in reinforcing accessibility.

Of inclusive education to children and ensuring that unaccompanied foreign minors have access to education. with regards also to combating xenophobia, racism and combating displacement, poverty, while cooperating with international human rights organizations.

In closing, we wish Belgium success in the implementation of the recommendations and we support the adoption of the report. Thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Turkey. Turkey is absent, so next I give the floor to Uzbekistan.

Thank you, Chair. Uzbekistan warmly welcomes the delegation of Belgium for the adoption of the report of the working group on its fourth cycle of the universal periodic review. We note the active participation of 119 delegations during the review, resulting in a total of 300 recommendations.

We welcome that.

269 recommendations have been supported by Belgium, and we appreciate the delegation's constructive engagement throughout the UPR process. We commend Belgium for strengthening its national human rights framework, including through the further development of independent human rights institutions and mechanisms for the prevention of torture. We also welcome the progress made in combating racism and discrimination, advancing gender equality and addressing gender-based violence, as well as strengthening the protection of rights of children and persons with disabilities. We congratulate the delegation of Belgium on the successful completion of its review and wish it every success in implementing the accepted recommendations. I thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Vietnam.

Madam Vice-President, Vietnam congratulates the delegation of Belgium on the successful completion of the first cycle of the UPR. We welcome Belgium's constructive engagement throughout the review process and its continued efforts to advance human rights. In this regard, we appreciate Belgium's support for our recommendation to strengthen protection and support for accessible services for women in vulnerable situations. as well as Belgium's favourable consideration of our recommendation to promote social services for children, such as childcare, educational support and school meals. We also hope that Belgium will foster a dialogue and cooperation in a constructive manner with Member.

States in the field of human rights.

In conclusion, Vietnam supports the adoption of the UPR outcome report of Belgium by consensus and looks forward to continued cooperation between the two countries. I thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Zambia.

Madam Vice-President, Zambia warmly welcomes the delegation of Belgium and thanks it for its constructive engagement during the Universal Periodic Review. We acknowledge Belgium's strong institutional and legal framework for the promotion and protection of human rights. Zambia nonetheless encourages Belgium to pursue implementation of the recommendations received, including measures aimed at strengthening equality, combating discrimination and protecting persons in vulnerable situations.

We welcome Belgium's continued engagement with the international human rights system.

And wish it every success in implementing its UPR outcome.

Zambia supports the adoption of the UPR report of Belgium.

I thank you.

Hi, thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Albania.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. We extend our greetings to Belgium and hail continuing cooperation with the UPR. We are pleased that Albania's recommendations were accepted. They focused on speeding up the ratification of the optional protocol to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and to ensure that development and use of artificial intelligence is backed up by strong responsibility mechanisms in order to prevent human rights violations. Our third recommendation concerning strengthening measures to promote and protect the rights of linguistic minorities. We're pleased to see that an inter-ministerial working group has been set up for this purpose and we will listen carefully to the outcome of its work. We support the adoption of the outcome report by consensus. Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Armenia.

Madam Vice-President, Armenia values the active engagement of Belgium in the UPR process, which demonstrates its ongoing and steadfast commitment to the UN human rights system. We express our gratitude to Belgium for accepting recommendations put forward by Armenia. We commend Belgium's efforts to advance equality and combat discrimination by developing coordinated frameworks and inclusive policies across all levels of governance. We further welcome the specific measures undertaken to address the challenges faced by girls in situations of vulnerability. Additionally, Armenia appreciates Belgium's dedication to fostering robust international cooperation at the intersection of gender equality and digital technologies, supporting inclusive, rights-based innovation and the exchange of best practices. Lastly, Armenia fully supports the adoption of the Working Group's report and wishes Belgium a highly successful implementation cycle. I thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Bahrain. Bahrain is absent, so next I give the floor to Botswana. And Botswana is equally absent, so we move on. And next I give the floor to Brunei Darussalam.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. Brunei Darussalam thanks the delegation of Belgium for the updates provided today on the encouraging steps undertaken since its review. We appreciate Belgium for its engagement with the UPR process. We welcome Belgium's acceptance of UNHCR's recommendation to further strengthen the protection of the rights of persons with disabilities and promote their full and effective inclusion across all aspects of society. In this regard, we recommend the adoption of the UPR working group report and wish Belgium every success in the implementation of the accepted recommendations. Thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Burkina Faso.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. Madam Vice-President, Burkina Faso would like to welcome the Belgian delegation and thank it for the additional information provided to the Council. My delegation commends Belgium on its acceptance of the large number of recommendations accepted 227 in total. This reflects Belgium's commitment to cooperate with human rights mechanisms, including the Universal Periodic Review, and also its commitment to continuing its efforts to improve the human rights situation in the country. In conclusion, we wish Belgium every success in implementing accepted recommendations, and we recommend that the Council adopt the outcome report on Belgium by consensus. Thank you very much. Thank you very much.

Let me remind you that all statements, including those which could not be delivered due to the time constraints, should be uploaded online. I will now 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. And first I give the floor to United Nations Watch.

Belgium tells this Council it is "committed to stepping up the fight against racism and discrimination." Yesterday, its foreign minister told the General Assembly that human rights include "freedom of conscience and religion, that every human being counts." Today we ask, do Belgium's Jews count? In March, an explosion damaged a synagogue in Liege. In Antwerp, a Jewish teenager was assaulted on his way home from religious study, and a car was set ablaze in the Jewish quarter in a suspected anti-Semitic attack. Soldiers are needed to guard Jewish schools and synagogues. Is this what safety looks like for Belgian Jews? Meanwhile, authorities have imposed prohibitions or restrictions on core Jewish religious practices, such as ritual slaughter and circumcision. Communities warn that legal proceedings against ritual circumcisers threaten their ability to practice their faith. Belgium must protect children's health, but why has it failed to find a way to do so in a manner that also safeguards a central Jewish religious practice? And we ask, Why did three publicly funded Belgian universities suddenly decide to jointly confer an honorary doctorate on a UN rapporteur whose conduct has drawn unprecedented condemnation from Germany, France, and Canada? Canada's anti-Semitism envoy accused this individual of Holocaust distortion and inversion. France and the Netherlands have questioned her compliance with UN ethical standards, and they called for her resignation or non-renewal. Germany's foreign minister called her untenable in her position, and yet, these three Belgian universities praised her as a symbol of respect for the international order. Today we ask, did the Belgian university rectors examine these objections before placing their institution's highest honor in her hands? Will Belgium's education authorities ask them to account publicly for this highly questionable decision? Thank you.

Let me remind all speakers that we are currently addressing under agenda item 6 the UPR adoptions and we are currently considering the review of Belgium. So all speakers are reminded to frame their statement in the context of the agenda item at hand. I thank you. And next I give the floor to Christian Council International.

Thank you. I deliver this statement on behalf of Christian Council International. CCI thanks the Government of Belgium for its continued engagement with the Universal Periodic Review process. We commend Belgium for noting the recommendation to remove all legal, administrative and practical barriers to accessing safe abortion services, including references to a mandatory waiting period. We first want to emphasize that there is no international legal right to abortion. Removing all restrictions on abortion could lead, of course, to an increase in the number of abortions. Furthermore, abolishing the mandatory reflection period facilitates ill-considered and impulsive abortions with irreversible consequences. I know from personal experience how terrible it is to regret having had an abortion. When we talk about abortions, we talk about it like it's comparable to removing a tooth, but it is significantly different. We all know deep inside that it's true. It's a human being. Science agrees on that fact that it is a human life that begins at conception. Open any biology book in school and you'll read the same message. So, this is a human's right issue we are talking about.

We talk about human lives and it.

Should always be about doing everything we can to save human lives, not to kill them. The information that clinics offer is terrible and unrealistic. When I looked up what happens during this procedure of an abortion, there was and still is a video that doesn't show what is actually going on, and that is the removing of the fetus inside of your womb. On the imagery is not a fetus to be found. Women are being fooled, and it has to stop. Thank you.

I would like to reiterate once more that all speakers are reminded to frame their statements in the context of the agenda item we are currently considering. I thank you. We move on and I give next the floor to Alliance Defending Freedom.

Threats that for the second consecutive review cycle, Belgium has rejected recommendations to protect persons with disabilities and other vulnerable situations from harms of its euthanasia regime, including through the development of genuine alternative care. Euthanasia deaths in Belgium reached a record high in 2025, now accounting for 4% of all deaths in the country. Disturbingly, a growing number of these deaths involve persons suffering from treatable psychological and psychiatric conditions. Many of these requests come from women with histories of maltreatment, abuse, and behavioral disorders. This pattern is not incidental. Reports show that social, psychological, medical, and economic vulnerabilities, not autonomy and self-determination, are fueling the rising demand for euthanasia. Mr. Vice President, a society that responds to suffering with death rather than care has redefined what it means to protect life. At its core, euthanasia rests on the premise that some lives are less worth preserving, offering state-sanctioned death as a solution rather than prioritizing genuine care and support. Belgium is thereby falling short of its obligation to uphold the right to life of all persons without discrimination and to ensure access to affordable, accessible, and comprehensive health care and support services. These grave concerns are not ours alone. UN treaty bodies and special procedures have echoed them with increasing urgency, and successive UPR cycles have surfaced the same warnings from States themselves. The cost of the Belgian government's refusal to engage will be shouldered once again by the most vulnerable. For these reasons, ADF International strongly urges Belgium to reconsider its position on euthanasia and take decisive action to ensure dignity remains a lived reality and not an empty promise. Thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Defense for Children International.

I'm taking the floor on behalf of NGO Coordination for Children's Rights. We represent children's rights during both before the UPR and during it. Before the UPR, we raised concerns about current government's trend to undermine structural mechanisms of social protection, which predated their term of office. and to strengthen individual accountability for persons living in poverty. We congratulate Belgium for having stated that it is committed to combat child poverty and, in the same thrust, accepted significant recommendations to combat child poverty and implement the European Child Guarantee. Such commitments require consistent implementation. Our organizations will carefully watch the measures adopted over the past two years in view of these new commitments. Belgium also accepted recommendations to follow up on the rulings of national and European courts concerning asylum seekers' reception. That's an important commitment and a cornerstone of the rule of law. but we must see where implementation leads. Belgium also accepted a number of recommendations to explicitly ban all forms of violence against children in law, and at the same time, though, believes that existing legal framework already bans such practices. We'll see how the commitment is translated into practice. We're also raising our concern about recommendations 44.90 and 44.94, which call for keeping the ban on child detention and families with children for reasons linked to their migratory status. The fact that these recommendations weren't accepted is of particular concern because when there is an important way of protecting children's rights, we believe that it's vital that it be continued over time and never questioned.

Thank you.

Thank you. Next is Ingenieurs du Monde.

Can we please play the video by Ingenieur du Monde? There seems to be a technical problem, so we may move on. And I next give the floor to Institute for NGO Research.

Thank you, Mr. President. Belgium claims to be taking steps to address antisemitism. Yet discrimination, exclusion, and violence against the country's tiny Jewish minority continues. As noted by the US ambassador, quote, "There is unacceptable harassment of the Jewish community. Ancient Jewish religious practices are under threat of legal prohibition. Leaders accuse the Antwerp prosecutor of effectively criminalizing the act of circumcision." The government also claims it has adopted a zero-tolerance policy, but every Jewish school, synagogue, and community center operates under reinforced police surveillance. Attacks in Brussels, Antwerp, and elsewhere highlight the dangers of a Bondi-type mass attack. Threats of violence due to widespread anti-Semitism in Belgian society are the result of moral failure. Anti-Semitism is promoted as legitimate criticism of Israeli responses to terrorist atrocities and presented as merely anti-Zionism. double standards, post-Holocaust blood libels, and lies like genocide, uniquely deny the rights of self-determination and self-defense to the Jewish people. Author Herman Brusselmans wrote that Israel's bombing of Gaza made him want to "ram a sharp knife through the throat of every Jew." The Ghent criminal court acquitted him of inciting hatred and violence. Belgium is also a haven for Islamists and far-left extremists seeking to destroy Israel, including through so-called NGOs registered in Belgium after being banned elsewhere, promoters of hate and violence. In July 2023, Viva Salud and Pax Christi Flanders joined in calling for dismantling of what they called "roots causes of settler colonialism," meaning erasing Israel as the nation-state of the Jewish people. Not only has Belgium failed to confront society-wide antisemitism, but state officials are actively blocking effective measures. Renowned professor Joel Kotek was removed from Belgium's delegation to the very important International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance after he spoke factually about the country's failures. Thank you.

I will next give the floor to Humanists International.

Mr. President, I speak on behalf of the Mens Nu, a member organization of Humanists International. We thank the delegation for its presentation. We were deeply disheartened, however, to see the rejection of recommendations on abortion. International human rights law recognizes abortion as a part of the right to sexual and reproductive health and rights, as well as the right to health, bodily integrity and autonomy. Last year, over 40% of abortions involving people living in Belgium were performed either illegally in Belgium or abroad, or legally abroad. Every year, between 330 and 800 people travel to the Netherlands for a termination after Belgium's 12-week legal limit, at their own expense. Belgian law also imposes a mandatory six-day waiting period. The WHO has recognized that such waiting periods demean women as competent decision-makers and has recommended that states eliminate them. These restrictions disproportionately affect people in vulnerable and marginalised circumstances. The additional time, consultations and costs can make access particularly difficult. Whilst work by my colleagues at Companions help bridge this gap by accompanying on average one person each week by car to the Netherlands, the state should not be outsourcing its human rights duties. Access to safe abortion is a human right and should not depend on whether someone has the means or ability to cross a border. Thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Mart for Peace, Development and Human Rights Association.

Thank you, Mr. President. MAD regrets Belgium's refusal to commit to specific near-term timelines for ratifying the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and for establishing a national human rights institution that covers all fundamental rights across the entire national territory, a step necessary to upgrade its accreditation status from the current B status to A status. Mr. President, Belgian government policy has begun to shift toward restricting migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers. This is evident in its support for proposals to establish return centers outside the European Union. Furthermore, Belgium refuses to ratify the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers. In May 2025, the Council of Ministers approved a draft law that tightens conditions for accessing the labor market and increases penalties for violations related to labour migration. MADD calls upon the Belgian government to comply with its international obligations and ratify the International Convention on the protection of the rights of all migrant workers. We also urge the government to improve migrant reception policies and amend its migration and asylum laws to ensure the full rights of refugees within its territory and provide them with adequate living conditions. Finally, MAD hopes that Belgium will take positive steps to amend the legislation governing its national human rights institution, enabling it to achieve A status accreditation in full compliance with the Paris Principles. Thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Amnesty International.

Mr. President, we welcome Belgium's commitments to ratify OPCAT and establish a Paris Principles compliant national human rights institute.

The same commitments have been repeated since the.

First cycle of reviews, highlighting that more efforts are needed towards effective implementation. We welcome Belgium's commitment to strengthen training and oversight mechanisms to prevent ethnic profiling, as well as to strengthen data collection systems and standardise reporting methodologies on discrimination.

Amnesty International regrets that Belgium did not support recommendations calling for an explicit prohibition of ethnic profiling in legislation. It is alarming that since.

October 2021, Belgium has failed to provide reception to thousands of asylum seekers, despite more than 11,000 domestic court rulings and two judgments of the European Court of Human Rights. Amnesty International will closely monitor Belgium's implementation of the commitment to comply with court.

Decisions on asylum reception and to respect the rights of people seeking international protection.

We welcome Belgium's stated commitment to reduce prison overcrowding, ensure detention conditions comply with international standards, and prioritize.

Alternatives to detention.

However, we remain concerned as similar commitments have been made before, while conditions on the ground have continued to deteriorate and as prison overcrowding reached record levels in 2026. Amnesty International regrets that Belgium did not support important recommendations, including pertaining to the prohibition of the detention of children for migration-related purposes, to the right to peaceful assembly, and about access to safe abortion services. To conclude, we call on Belgium to ensure effective implementation of the commitments.

It made and to continue to engage with civil society throughout the process.

Thank you.

I will next give the floor to RSKS.

Mr. President, the universal periodic review is at its strongest when it becomes a bridge between national responsibility and international cooperation. In this spirit, we warmly welcome Belgium's engagement with the UPR process and the consideration of its outcome under agenda six of this council. Guided by the purposes and principles of UN Charter, we recognize the value of constructive dialogue, civil inequality and cooperation in advancing universal human rights. Mr. President, Belgium has an opportunity to transport this review into renewed momentum for equality, social inclusion, non-discrimination and the protection of all persons. particularly those who may remain at the margins of progress. We respectfully encourage continued cooperation with civil society, national institutions, and affected communities, together with transparent follow-up to UPR recommendations. We further encourage the sharing of good practices internationally, because human rights progress becomes stronger when experiences is exchanged rather than isolated. The UPR should never be merely a diplomatic exercise. It should become a practical pathway from commitment to dignity in everyday life. We wish Belgium continued success. Thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I will give the floor to Imam Ali's Popular Students Relief Society.

Thank you. We regret that the nine recommendations calling for the removal of legal exceptions allowing marriage under 18 have not been accepted. For many years, the Committee on CEDAW and the Committee on CRC, whose conventions Belgium has ratified, have made it clear that 18 should be the minimum legal age for marriage without exceptions. We also regret that recommendations 44.82, 83 and 85 have not been accepted. Every child has the right to grow up free from violence, including violence still permitted or insufficiently prohibited by law. Furthermore, we profoundly regret that recommendations 44.90 and 94 have not been accepted. These recommendations could provide an absolute guarantee that children and families will never be detained for migration-related reasons. In this context, We must urgently raise a grave violation concerning the principle of non-refoulement. Coercive deportations executed by Belgian authorities place vulnerable individuals at risk of chain refoulement. A stark illustration is the case of Mr. Shahriar Hassani, an asylum seeker who fled persecution due to political activities. Despite his family residing in Belgium and offering full sponsorship, Belgian police deported him to Bulgaria, despite clear evidence that he previously escaped inhuman treatment and abuse in Bulgarian border camps. Sending an individual back to a transit country where they face an imminent threat of chain refoulement to Iran constitutes an obvious violation of international human rights obligations. Thank you.

Thank you.

This was the last speaker we could accommodate at this debate. Before giving the floor to the delegation of Belgium for concluding remarks, allow me to inform that out of 300 recommendations received, 238 enjoy the support of Belgium and 62 are noted. I now give the floor back to His Excellency for concluding remarks. Please, you have the floor.

Thank you, Vice-President. Distinguished delegates, at the outset, I thank you for your constructive interventions. These exchanges are crucial for the success of the UPR as a whole. To respond to the comments that have just been made, I would like to share the following. First, I will not reopen the discussion of the comments on the recommendations that we have accepted 227 of those. A number of you mentioned the importance of combating racism, racial discrimination and intolerance. We have an inter-federal plan of action which is ambitious and currently under development to mobilise all levels of government, Belgium is stepping up its fight against racism and discrimination through ambitious policies. It has always sought to have a comprehensive policy incorporating measures to combat all forms of racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance. On combating hate speech and hate crimes, Belgium is very committed to freedom of expression under the Constitution. This is needed for the smooth operation of a democratic society, but must take into account the criminal framework regarding hate speech. Under Belgian law, certain crimes are characterised as hate speech, there is also legislative work under way to ensure that there is no impunity for hate speech online. In Belgium, ethnic profiling is already prohibited. On protection of religious freedom, guaranteed under the Constitution mean that religious services are supported by our legislation, and there is freedom of religion. All confessions, including Islam and Judaism, are protected by the anti-discrimination legislation. I reconfirm that Belgium consistently unequivocally condemns all forms of anti-Semitism and racism in our country and abroad. Combating anti-Semitism, hatred and discrimination are priorities, absolute priorities for Belgium. They're a cornerstone of our rule of law.

and on rigorous medical guarantees. Euthanasia can only be practiced on the explicit request of the patient, or, in the case of an unconscious person.

On the basis of a declaration made while they were capable of expressing themselves. I refer you to paragraph 38 of the addendum on the UPR report. foreign language on the legal age for marriage and the call to review our legislation in order To prevent marriages under 18, I would recall, as was the case last May, that this possibility is an exception in our legislation. There must be agreement between the two minors concerned, their parents or legal guardians, and, I emphasize, a decision by a judge from the family court. And this is only for serious motives, such as a particular family situation, or a couple of minors who already have a child or are expecting one, and there are legal conditions regarding the maturity of the young people. Forced marriage is strictly prohibited by the law in Belgium. I Finally, we would like once more to reiterate our gratitude to the delegates of the troika countries and the UPR secretariat responsible for reporting on the review of Belgium. We appreciate their excellent work, commitment, support and cooperation. Once more, I publicly thank them. The adoption of the UPR Working Group's report marks the last stage of this fourth cycle of the UPR of Belgium here in Geneva. However, it is not an end in the road, since it is also the starting point for the preparation of the fifth cycle, with continuation of work to strengthen the framework for the respect, protection and enjoyment of human rights in Belgium. Belgium has taken this fourth UPR cycle as a real opportunity to stimulate reflection and dialogue, multilaterally, nationally and in society. Through its constructive spirit, its universal character and the participation of civil society, the UPR has made it possible to enrich and deepen the dialogue. It thus provides a tangible opportunity for progress on the implementation of human rights. And it is precisely this universal nature that strengthens the added value and credibility of the principle of peer review, an invaluable instrument from which no country should shy away. Belgium will therefore continue fully to participate in the UPR and actively to promote its principles and objectives. On behalf of Belgium, I thank you once more for your participation in our UPR, and I thank the colleagues of the Secretariat and the interpreters whose valuable assistance has facilitated our work. I thank you, Vice-President.

I thank His Excellency for this presentation and the constructive engagement of Belgium throughout this UPR process. I now propose that the Council adopts the decision on the outcome of the Universal Periodic Review of Belgium as it appears on the screen. And I see no objection, so the decision is adopted. We will briefly suspend the meeting before the consideration of the outcome of Denmark. Excellencies, dear participants, we will now proceed with the consideration of the outcome of Denmark. The outcome is based on the report of the working group on the Universal Periodic Review of Denmark and its addendum. These documents, together with the additional information that will now be provided by Denmark, will constitute the outcome of the review and shall be adopted by the Council through a standardized decision. I have now the pleasure to give the floor to Ms. Jane Werngren Rosales, Deputy Permanent Representative of Denmark, to present additional information on the review. You have the floor, please.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. It's my honour to address the Council at the adoption of the outcome of the Kingdom of Denmark's fourth UPR. The Kingdom of Denmark is firmly committed to the promotion and protection of human rights and to the full implementation of all international human rights obligations. We greatly appreciated the constructive dialogue with the 98 delegations that took the floor during our review on 7 May. The UPR is a process for the Kingdom of Denmark as a whole. The preparation of our national report was closely coordinated between relevant authorities in Denmark, Greenland and the Faroe Islands. Civil society and our national human rights institution contributed actively throughout this process, including through public discussions held across the country. We greatly value this engagement and intend to continue it as we move from review to implementation. We have carefully considered all recommendations received during our review. Of the 265 recommendations received, Denmark accepts 174 and notes 91. A particularly prominent theme was racism and discrimination. Denmark has a well-established legal framework prohibiting racial discrimination, complemented by a national action plan against racism presented in February 2025. The action plan includes initiatives across areas such as housing, children and young people, the labour market, nightlife, hate crimes, and racially motivated extremism. Denmark also continues to strengthen its response to hate crimes. With a new financial agreement for Danish police and prosecution service, From December 2025, it was agreed to establish a hate crime coordinator in every police district to strengthen the police response and cooperation with affected communities. Gender equality and the prevention of violence against women and girls were also raised. Denmark has achieved a high degree of gender equality, but we recognize that de facto equality has not yet been reached. Combating partner violence and femicide remains a key priority. Our current action plan against partner violence and partner killings focuses on early detection, effective intervention, and holding perpetrators accountable. Victims of violence in close relationships have access to shelters, psychological, legal, and social support. Recent initiatives have further strengthened the police response to victims at risk and efforts to prevent intimate partner homicides. A significant number of recommendations concerned the rights of persons with disabilities, including inclusive education, participation in the labour market and access to justice. Denmark is committed to ensuring the full and equal participation of persons with disabilities in society. We are also continuing our long-term efforts to strengthen psychiatric care. Treatment against a patient's will must be a measure of last resort, and Denmark has set a goal of reducing the use of coercive measures by 30% by 2030. We also received a number of recommendations concerning the criminal justice system, including pre-trial detention, solitary confinement and detention conditions. Denmark continues to work to improve our criminal justice system, including by considering alternatives to detention where appropriate. Migration and asylum were also among the issues raised. Denmark remains committed to an asylum and migration system that respects our international obligations and provides protection to those in need. We have carefully considered all the recommendations received in this area. The value of the UPR ultimately lies not only in the review itself, but in what follows from it. The Kingdom of Denmark will work with relevant authorities and stakeholders on implementation of the recommendations that we have accepted. Before opening the dialogue, I will read out a statement on behalf of Nalaka Suissut, the Government of Greenland. On behalf of the Government of Greenland, I would like to thank States that have made recommendations to Greenland during this UPR review. We appreciate the constructive dialogue and the engagement shown by Member States. Greenland is an Arctic society in development, and we are firmly committed to working towards a society where all citizens, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, geography or disability, live in safe and dignified conditions. We note with gravity the recommendations concerning gender-based violence, as well as the recommendation on combating sexual harassment. Greenland has taken concrete steps in this area. In 2022, the Parliament of Greenland decided that Greenland should accede to the Istanbul Convention. As part of this process, work is underway to criminalize psychological violence in intimate relationships under criminal law. Furthermore, a new equality and anti-discrimination act is being drafted, which will, among others, which will, among other things, establish a complaints board for sexual harassment and discrimination. We acknowledge that gender-based violence remains one of the most pressing challenges in our society, and we are committed to continuing and strengthening this effort. We acknowledge that the recommendations on suicide prevention and mental health and we share the gravity reflected in these recommendations. In 2023, the government of Greenland adopted a national suicide prevention strategy, KAMANI, for the period of 2023 to 2028. We are also working to establish a national psychiatric emergency function. We are not blind to the fact that the suicide rate rose to its highest level since 2018 in 2025. This underlines the need for a continued and strengthened structural effort, and we are committed to intensifying our work and improving data collection. We take the recommendation on sexual and reproductive health for women and girls in Greenland seriously. It is a goal for the government of Greenland that all citizens, regardless of their geographic location, have access to relevant health services. We are working to strengthen the health system across the country, including through increased use of digital solutions and telemedicine. We share the concern regarding sexual abuse of children in Greenland. This is one of the most serious challenges in our society. We have implemented concrete measures, including a nationwide center for abused children and young people. and Reisehallet, which offers psychological and therapeutic support to adults with late effects of childhood sexual abuse. We are also reforming the children's rights institution, MIU, to give children better opportunities to file complaints and have their cases handled. We furthermore note the recommendation from the Republic of Moldova on the Optional Protocol on the Convention on the Rights of the Child and will include it in our further deliberations. We note the recommendation on human rights monitoring and protection of Greenland's indigenous people, as well as the recommendation on culturally grounded mental health services in accordance with UNDRIP's Article 24. These concerns are reflected in the Kamanis strategy's focus on locally and culturally anchored solutions. The Government of Greenland is actively working to strengthen the rights and self-determination of the people of Greenland. The Article 21 Commission continues its work in this regard. The Commission was tasked with, among other things, clarifying how the steps towards independence set out in the Self-Government Act are to be understood. The Government coalition is now committed to significantly increasing self-determination during this electoral period. The future of our country must be shaped by us and for us. We acknowledge the recommendation on access to upper secondary education and are concretely working to establish a youth education program in Ilulissat so that young people do not have to leave home at an early stage to pursue further education. We acknowledge the recommendation on access to justice for persons with disabilities and are undertaking a reform of the disability area with a focus on real inclusion and access for all. The Government of Greenland is committed to following up on recommendations received in close collaboration with other authorities of the Kingdom of Denmark. We view the UPR process as a valuable opportunity to strengthen human rights efforts in Greenland, not merely as an international obligation, but as an expression of our shared responsibility towards our citizens. Thank you. I will now read out a statement on behalf of the Government of the Faroe Islands. It has been an honour for the Faroe Islands to contribute to this fourth UPR. Throughout this process, the Faroe Islands have highlighted key areas where we have taken concrete steps to strengthen and promote human rights, while also recognising where further efforts are needed. We appreciate the constructive and valuable recommendations put forward. The Government has accepted some recommendations and noted others, taking into account our existing legal and institutional framework and the work already under way. The Government considers that the Faroe Islands already have a number of well-functioning publicly funded bodies that contribute to the promotion, protection and monitoring of the covenant rights and human rights more generally. Our institutional framework has been further strengthened with the establishment of the disability ombud. The disability ombud promotes, protects and monitors the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and raises awareness of their rights. Gender equality remains a firm priority. The Gender Equality Office has been strengthened, and the Gender Equality Act is underway, and measures are being taken to address the gender pay gap and improve gender-disaggregated data. We also remain committed to preventing and combating violence against women and violence in intimate and close relationships. The criminalization of psychological violence and stalking, together with strengthened prevention and support services, represents important progress in this area. The well-being and rights of children remain fundamental. Targeted measures are being taken to address the economic situation of single-parent families and to strengthen data on income and living conditions. A child welfare reform is also underway with the aim of placing the child at the center of public services and strengthening the participation of children and young people in matters affecting them. Finally, the new parliamentary act on integration provides a framework for supporting the inclusion of newcomers and their children in the Faroese society. On this note, We greatly value the excellent cooperation with colleagues in Denmark, Greenland and the Faroe Islands, as well as the Danish mission in Geneva, and the valuable contributions of civil society and the public. Thank you. Madam Vice-President, on behalf of the Kingdom of Denmark, we look forward to hearing views of Member States, our national human rights institution and civil society representatives. I thank you.

I thank Ms. Verne Green Rosales for this presentation. And in accordance with paragraph 13 of the annex of Human Rights Council resolution 16/21, I will now give the floor to the Danish Institute for Human Rights.

Chair, Excellencies, the Danish Institute for Human Rights welcomes the fourth UPR outcome of the Kingdom of Denmark. I would like to acknowledge the government's closer engagement with us and the Danish civil society, especially the consultation process and the outcome of this UPR review is an example of this engagement. 174 out of 265 recommendations have been accepted, including on key issues such as violence against women and the use of pre-trial detention. During the review in 2021, I regretted the lack of acceptance of recommendations on an action plan against racism and on limiting the use of prolonged solitary confinement as a disciplinary measure. But change is possible, despite initial reluctance. Since 2021, the use of prolonged solitary confinement as a disciplinary measure has reduced significantly. Likewise, an action plan against racism was adapted in 2025, with measures aimed at combating discrimination against Greenlanders and hate crimes. The UPR gives us a platform for dialogue on human rights, and this review provides an important indication of human rights priorities from a newly elected government. As National Human Rights Institution of Denmark and Kalaallit Nunaat, we will keep working for human rights through our monitoring and reporting activities. We look forward to continuing our cooperation with the authorities in Denmark and Kalaallit Nunaat on the implementation. Because without implementation, today's declarations will ring hollow. Without action, promises are meaningless. Distinguished members of this Council, I thank you for your attention.

Thank you very much.

I will now open the floor to members 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. And we start with Cuba, please.

Madam Vice President, We bid a cordial welcome to the Danish delegation and acknowledge your commitment to the UPR process. We appreciate the fact that you accepted Cuba's recommendation. We encourage Denmark to combat poverty amongst vulnerable people, and we wish Denmark every success in implementing accepted recommendations. We fully support acceptance of this report. Thank you.

Thank you.

I will next give the floor to Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President.

My delegation takes note of the outcome of the universal periodic review of Denmark.

We remain concerned about the number of issues, particularly regarding discrimination.

The treatment of migrants and refugees, and the rights of minorities.

We are concerned about the legislation and policies affecting vulnerable communities, including the so-called parallel societies approach, which may lead to discrimination and social exclusion. The rights of migrants, asylum seekers, and their families should also be fully respected, including the right to family life and protection from arbitrary detention and ill treatment. We are also concerned about the situation of the indigenous population in Greenland and believe that their rights and interests should be fully respected, including their right to self-determination and equal access to essential services.

My delegation calls on Denmark to address these concerns through genuine dialogue and to ensure equal rights and protection for all persons without discrimination.

I thank you, Madam Vice-President.

Thank you.

Next, I will give the floor to El Salvador.

Thank you very much, Madam Vice-President. The Republic of El Salvador has taken note of the fact that Denmark has accepted 174 recommendations made during its fourth Universal Periodic Review. We appreciate Denmark's participation in this process and the additional information presented today concerning the recommendations received. In particular, we've taken note of Denmark's position on the three recommendations made by El Salvador, two of which were supported. We encourage Denmark to pursue efforts in the areas addressed by these recommendations as part of the follow-up to this cycle. We wish Denmark every success and support adoption. Thank you.

Thank you.

I will next give the floor to Ghana.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. Ghana congratulates Denmark for its successful participation in the fourth cycle of the UPR. We commend Denmark for its continued efforts to strengthen human rights in in the country as well as his commitment to promoting and protecting the well-being and rights of his population. We welcome the acceptance by Denmark of 174 of the 265 recommendations received, including one recommendation put forward by my delegation. In closing, we reaffirm our support for Denmark's UPR report and encourage its efforts to implement the accepted recommendations. We wish them continued success in promoting human rights and sustainable development. Thank you.

Thank you.

I will next give the floor to Iran.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. The Islamic Republic of Iran welcomes the adoption of the outcome report of Denmark and value its constructive engagement throughout the review process. Iran is pleased that Denmark has supported some of its recommendations concerning the protection of refugee and migrant children, as well as ensuring accountability for homicide and violence against women. At the same time, Iran regrets Denmark's decision to merely note recommendations concerning the widespread concern over Islamophobia, racial profiling, and discriminatory policies affecting Muslims. These concerns warrant concrete attention and effective measures, particularly where discrimination affects the equal enjoyment of rights of individuals and communities. Iran encourages Denmark to address these remaining concerns with the same seriousness demonstrated to supported ones. Iran remains ready to engage with Denmark in constructive dialogue and cooperation on these issues. Thank you, Madam Vice-President.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Jordan.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. We bid a warm welcome to the friendly delegation of Denmark. We highly value their constructive engagement with the UPR. We commend the efforts undertaken by Denmark to promote and protect human rights, particularly to address discrimination, racism and promoting coexistence. We also appreciate the contributions of Denmark in humanitarian actions and supporting the hosting communities, which reflects the importance of international cooperation and sharing of responsibilities. We reaffirmed the recommendations we made during the UPR on developing prevention programs, programs to prevent crimes amongst young people through schools and social centers, and to continue efforts to address hate speech. In conclusion, we wish all success to Denmark in promoting human rights and we recommend that the UPR report be adopted. Thank you.

Thank you.

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

Madam High President, my delegation warmly welcomes the delegation of Denmark to this UPR adoption session and thanks for the constructive engagement with the human rights mechanisms. The Lapidia comments Denmark for its continuous effort to create concrete measure in order to combat violence against women, promote gender equality and support the full participation of the person with disability in the society. We also appreciate Denmark accepting the majority of recommendation, including two recommendation made by the Lapidia. reflecting its commitment to promoting and protecting human rights in the country. We wish Denmark every success in implementing the accepted recommendations, and we support the adoption of this UPR outcome by consensus. I thank you, Madam Vice-President.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Maldives.

Madam Vice-President, the Maldives warmly welcomes the distinguished delegation from Denmark to the adoption of the UPR report. and appreciates Denmark's commitment to the UPR process. The Maldives comments Denmark for accepting the majority of the recommendations it received during the UPR working group session in May 2026, including two recommendations by the Maldives. We wish the government of Denmark success in implementing the accepted recommendations and request that the Council adopt the UPR outcome report for Denmark by consensus.

I thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Morocco.

Madame Vice-President, the delegation of Morocco welcomes the delegation of Denmark and is pleased to support the adoption of its UPR report today. We commend Denmark for its constructive engagement in the Universal Periodic Review process, particularly for its ratification of the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance. Morocco particularly welcomes Denmark's support for recommendations aimed at allocating adequate human and financial resources for the full implementation of the national action plan to combat domestic violence, as well as for those calling for continued efforts to combat hate speech, notably by strengthening the capacity of law enforcement agencies. The voluntary acceptance of these recommendations demonstrates Denmark's commitment to human rights values. Morocco expresses its full support for Denmark during this implementation phase. Thank you, Madam Vice-President.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Nepal.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. Nepal welcomes the delegation of Denmark to the adoption of the UPR outcome and thanks them for their constructive engagements with the human rights mechanisms. We thank Denmark for accepting two of our recommendations, namely ensuring equality and non-discrimination in the labour market and combating climate change and supporting vulnerable communities to design and implement appropriate adaptation and mitigation measures. We take note of the progress made by Denmark in promoting gender equality and combating gender-based violence. Nepal wishes Denmark all success in implementing the accepted recommendations and supports the adoption of the UPR outcome report by consensus. I thank you, Madam Vice-President.

I thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Nigeria. Nigeria is absent. So next, I give the floor to Pakistan. Pakistan is absent. So next, I give the floor to Philippines.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. The Philippines warmly welcomes the delegation of Denmark. Its engagement demonstrates the value of the Universal Periodic Review in advancing human rights through constructive dialogue and genuine cooperation. The Philippines takes note that Denmark accepted two of our recommendations. First, to enhance family court safeguards to ensure that in custody and visitation cases, the concept of parental alienation is not applied in a manner that undermines the best interests of the child and the protection of victims of domestic violence. And second, to consider establishing an appropriate mechanism to safeguard the rights of migrant technical interns to fair working conditions, safety nets and access to remedies. Madam Vice President, the Philippines recommends the adoption by consensus of the report and wishes Denmark in the implementation of all accepted recommendations.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Russian Federation.

Thank you, Vice-President. We note that two of the three recommendations by Russia to Denmark were adopted, but at the same time we are seriously concerned regarding the rise in racial discrimination, xenophobia, ethnic and religious hatred against Muslims, Jews and Roma and we note the neo-Nazi organizations which seek to inflame intolerance and racism. We hope that the recommendations made during the UPR will be duly implemented and improve the promotion and protection of human rights in the country. We'll be following the implementation. We recommend adopting the report on Denmark's fourth cycle of the UPR. I thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Rwanda. Rwanda is absent. So next, I give the floor to Sri Lanka.

Madam Vice-President, Sri Lanka commends the engagement by the Kingdom of Denmark with this Council during the fourth cycle of the Universal Periodic Review in May 2026. We take note that Denmark has accepted three out of the four recommendations made by Sri Lanka. In a constructive spirit, we encourage Denmark to continue strengthening legal protections afforded to migrant workers and their families. In conclusion, Sri Lanka recommends the adoption of the fourth UPR report of the Kingdom of Denmark and wishes success in its implementation. Thank you.

I thank you. This was the last speaker we could accommodate. 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 to make their general comments on the outcome. Their speaking time has been set at two minutes for all. And we start with the Fondation Vida.

The UPR outcome report of Denmark. We welcome Denmark's first national action plan against racism, yet regret its shortcomings. It named only Jewish and Greenlandic communities, omitting Muslims, Afro-descendants, Roma and migrants. We reiterate recommendations: discontinue the stigmatizing non-Western classification, review the discriminatory parallel societies.

And set clear goals covering minorities.

On freedom of religion or belief, we welcome the Office of the Special Representative for Freedom of Religion or Belief and encourage cooperation with civil society. We reiterate calls to protect religious minorities and ensure accountability for violence based on religion or belief. We regret penal code section 110E on improper treatment of religious objects, remain vague and chills free expression. We deplore eight incidents against Jehovah's Witnesses and normalized Islamophobic remigration rhetoric by political leaders at the Copenhagen.

March of 5 September 2026.

In conclusion, we urge Denmark to broaden its plan, guarantee equal protection of religious minorities, and reject discourse degrading people because of their faith. I thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Christian Council International.

Christian Council International thanks the Government of Denmark for its continued engagement with the Universal Periodic Review process. We commend Denmark for noting the recommendation to ensure universal access to comprehensive sexuality education in and out of school settings. There is no legally binding international instrument that defines comprehensive sexuality education. Moreover, both its content and its effectiveness remain subjects of debate. We take note of Denmark's new legislation that extended the legal limit for abortion from 12 to 18 weeks. We deeply regret this extension of the right to abortion because it is incompatible with the fundamental and inalienable right to life as enshrined in Article 3 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, as well as Article 6 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child. According to biological science, human life begins at the moment of fertilization and therefore unborn children too should enjoy our full protection. We also take note that Denmark introduced co-fatherhood, which allows both men in a same-sex couple to be recognized as legal parents. Christian Council International is a defender of family values and wishes every kid a father and a mother. We believe that a father and a mother, both with their own character and strengths, together are best able to provide what the child needs. Moreover, this legislation stimulates surrogacy whereby the child is separated from its biological mother to become part of a household with two fathers. This does not serve the best interests of the child, which have to be a primary consideration according to Article 3 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child. Thank you.

Thank you, Nick.

I give the floor to Humanists International.

Mr. President, and thank you to the Danish delegation for the presentation. I make this statement on behalf of Humanist International and the Danish Humanist Society. In an increasingly diverse country, there is a need to broaden the concept of Danishness to be inclusive of all religions and belief. The understanding of the term belief in Danish society and legislation should be expanded to incorporate identity shaping convictions beyond traditional forms of religion. This would include amendments to the law of faith organizations to allow for equal recognition of non-religious life stance organizations like the Danish Humanist Society. Unfortunately, not one of the 265 recommendations received by Denmark addresses this, despite it being directly raised in a joint submission by almost 30 organisations. We hope that Denmark's acceptance of recommendations around the treatment of religions or belief minorities can extend to this. The right to equal treatment is especially important in the context of children's education. In public schools, knowledge of Christianity is a compulsory subject, regardless of personal belief. Children can only opt out if their parents or guardian provides an alternate form of religious knowledge education for them. We recommend that the public school syllabus encourage universal human rights-based values, such as critical thinking, and refrain from preaching any one religion. We commend Denmark for accepting recommendations on the need to uphold the right to freedom of religion or belief in the asylum system. Currently, the needs and values of non-religious asylum seekers are poorly understood, which can result in discrimination in terms of how their case is assessed. We recommend that Denmark develop guidelines and train officials in order to better protect asylum seekers who are vulnerable to this form of persecution. Thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Maud for Peace, Development and Human Rights Association.

Thank you, Mr. President. MIGHT remains concerned about the policies pursued following the fourth cycle, concerning housing policies based on ethnic origin. The Parallel Societies Act continues to have tangible effects on the ground. In the Milnerparken neighborhood in Copenhagen alone, 260 housing units had already been sold to private sector investors and re-rented at approximately three times higher rents as of June 2026. The case remains before the Danish Supreme Court after the Court of Justice of the EU concluded that the law could constitute direct discrimination on grounds of ethnic origin. The Danish government also continues to support return centres for refugees and asylum seekers, and Denmark is leading efforts with five European countries to establish centres for the return of irregular migrants outside of the European Union. MAD stresses that this approach may not be consistent with the principle of non-refoulement. Mr. President, Maastricht is concerned that the mandate of the Danish Institute for Human Rights, the national human rights institution accredited with A status, does not cover the government of the Faroe Islands. an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark. Therefore, MAD calls on Denmark to suspend the implementation of the Parallel Societies Act pending a final ruling by the Supreme Court. MAD also calls on Denmark to accelerate ongoing efforts to establish a national human rights institution in the Faroe Islands in accordance with the Paris Principles relating to the status of national human rights institutions. Thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to RSKS.

Thank you, Mr. President. The Universal Periodic Review reminds us that human rights advance most meaningfully through dialogue, cooperation and shared commitment to human dignity. We warmly welcome Denmark's constructive engagement with its fourth cycle UPR and its continued commitment to strengthening the promotion and protection of human rights. Mr. President, in the spirit of the United Nations Charter, we encourage Denmark to continue transforming UPR recommendations into practical action and to share its good practices through national cooperation and peer learning. At the same time, we respectfully encourage further attention to racial and religious discrimination, the rights of migrants and persons with disabilities. gender-based violence and effective human rights protection across Denmark, Greenland and the Faroe Islands. We particularly welcome approaching that bring governance, national institution, civil society and community together in the implementation process. Mr. President, we wish Denmark continued success in advancing equality, opportunity and dignity for all and in contributing positively to the global human rights system. We thank you. May all live happily.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Association Pan-Africa.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. The Pan-African Association welcomes Denmark's reforms to combat racism and its initiatives to promote gender equality since the last cycle. We've also taken note of the adoption of measures concerning the protection and social and economic inclusion of persons with disabilities to promote access to inclusive education as well as to combat racial hate speech and discrimination against Greenlanders and anti-Semitism. Pan-Africa congratulates Denmark on its pioneering role in the global fight against torture. Nevertheless, we're concerned about laws and policies still in force which stigmatize ethnic minorities and Muslims. In particular, we're referring to the legal framework on parallel societies and the use of classifications based on origin and racial profiling, which will only perpetrate structural discrimination. In conclusion, Pan-Africa encourages Denmark to take suitable measures to effectively combat femicide, human trafficking, and to repeal discriminatory laws. Furthermore, we call upon Denmark to ratify the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of all Migrant Workers and Members of their Families, as well as the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. Thank you.

Thank you. This was the last speaker on my list. Before giving the floor back to the delegation of Denmark for concluding remarks, allow me to inform that out of 265 recommendations received, 174 enjoy the support of Denmark and 91 are noted. I now give the floor back to the delegation for concluding remarks, please.

Thank you very much. Madam Vice-President, I thank you and I thank for all the participation here today, as well as the participation of those that delivered recommendations to the Kingdom of Denmark's review in May. I would like also to thank the civil society and the Danish Institute for Human Rights for their active engagement throughout this process. Their contributions, including those we have heard today, are an important part of a meaningful UPR process. Our thanks also go to members of the Secretariat for their support throughout our review. The adoption of the outcome today does not mark the end of the Kingdom of Denmark's fourth UPR. We will now turn our attention to following up on the recommendations and translating our commitments into concrete action. We remain open to dialogue and to scrutiny as we continue working to strengthen the protection and promotion of human rights across the Kingdom of Denmark. I thank you.

I thank the delegation of Denmark for this presentation and, of course, for constructive participation throughout the UPR process. I now propose that the Council adopts the decision on the outcome of the Universal Periodic Review of Denmark as it appears on the screen. I see no objection. So the decision is adopted. We will briefly suspend the meeting before the consideration of the outcome of Palau. Excellencies, dear participants, we will now proceed with the consideration of the outcome of Palau. The outcome is based on the report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review of Palau and its addendum. These documents, together with the additional information that will now be provided by Palau, will constitute the outcome of the review and shall be adopted by the Council through a standardized decision. I now have the honor to give the floor to Ms. Shelly DeBlair, Remen Gesau, Chief, Division of Americas Affairs, Bureau of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Ministry of State of Palau, to present additional information on the review via a video statement. Please, you have the floor.

Mr. President, Excellencies, and distinguished delegates, I bring you warm greetings from the Republic of Palau. It is an honor to present Palau's official statement on the adoption of the outcome of our fourth cycle Universal Periodic Review at the 63rd session of the Human Rights Council. Our participation in this mechanism reflects Palau's firm commitment to transparency, peer accountability, and the continuous enhancement of domestic human rights protections. In Palau, human rights are not abstract legal concepts; they represent the living pulse of our communities across our islands. At the core of all our national initiatives lies our overarching policy framework, "Agot ar Adar Belau". This principle ensures that the dignity, welfare, and empowerment of every citizen remain the primary measure of our national progress. During Palau's interactive dialogue on May 7, 2026, our delegation received a total of 185 recommendations from fellow member states. Following extensive interagency evaluations led by our National Reporting Committee, I am pleased to announce that Palau has supported 157 recommendations, noted 24, and supported in part while noting in part four recommendations. In examining these recommendations, Palau has taken a realistic and transparent approach. While we have supported all recommendations inviting Palau to consider or take steps toward treaty ratifications, we have noted direct mandates requiring immediate accession to remaining core international treaties. This position does not reflect a retreat from human rights values, but rather a deliberate calibration of Palau's domestic legislative capacity. Palau has prioritized the accession and ratification of the UN Convention Against Torture, UNCAT, as our immediate international treaty priority, while continuing internal legal reviews across other instruments. Since our previous review, Palau has translated international commitments into tangible domestic reforms. Through the enactment of the Anti-Human Smuggling and Human Trafficking Act, Palau aligned national law with international standards. establishing stringent custodial penalties ranging from 1 to 25 years and providing victims with legal immunity from prosecution for related offenses, alongside victim-centered referral mechanisms. In the realm of economic rights, legislative amendments under RPL 11-34 and 11-37 raised the national minimum wage to $4.25 per hour in 2024 into $5 per hour in October 2025. Crucially, minimum wage protections have been extended across all sectors, guaranteeing equal protection to migrant workers who comprise 40% of our workforce. Furthermore, social protection policies now provide direct financial subsidies for child rearing, raised to $200 per child, alongside tax refunds and social assistance for low-income workers, retirees, and individuals with disabilities. Regarding disability inclusion, the enactment of RPL 11-36 established the Office of Persons with Disabilities and the National Coordinating Committee. This institutional framework is backed by dedicated national financing, allocating 2% of alcohol and tobacco tax revenues to the disability office and 1% to the committee, alongside monthly cash subsidies for individuals with severe disabilities. Furthermore, Palau has achieved near universal literacy and universal primary and secondary education. We have expanded free nationwide public kindergarten, sustained free public school breakfast programs, maintained a strict prohibition on corporal punishment, and enacted landmark public health legislation prohibiting electronic cigarettes under RPPL 11-27. For Palau, climate change is not a distant environmental debate. It is an existential human rights emergency. Rising sea levels directly threaten our land, food security, and essential infrastructure. Palau has integrated human rights into its updated climate change policy. and third, nationally determined contribution. Setting a target of 100% renewable energy transition by 2050. However, urgent challenges remain, such as the mandatory relocation of our primary health facility, Palau National Hospital, which sits at sea level and faces routine flooding risks during extreme weather events. Protecting health access requires structural adaptation that must not place an unfair financial burden on our citizens. In closing, Palau welcomes the adoption of this UPR outcome report as a forward-looking roadmap for national action. We thank the Human Rights Council, the Troika, and member delegations for their constructive partnership as we build a resilient, equitable Palau where no one is left behind. Thank you, Mr. President.

I thank Ms. Remen-Gesau for this presentation. And I will now open the floor to a 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. And we start with China, please.

Madame Vice President, China has taken note of the UPR report of Palau and has noted that Palau has accepted the recommendations China put forward. China is concerned about Palau's underdeveloped economy, inadequate social welfare, and the continued discrimination and violence faced by vulnerable groups such as women and children. China hopes that Palau will take measures to address issues such as child labor, child marriage, trafficking in person, and labor exploitation, to increase social security expenditure in order to strengthen social protection and effectively safeguard the right to life, development, health, and education of vulnerable groups, including women, children, persons with disabilities, and indigenous people. China hopes that Palau will take practical measures to implement the recommendations put forward by all states to effectively promote and protect human rights. Thank you, Madam Vice President.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Cuba.

Senhora Vice-Presidente, we warmly welcome the delegation of Palau, recognising the country's commitment to the UPR. We note that Palau has accepted 157 of the recommendations made during the review. The two constructive recommendations made by Cuba have been accepted. We wish Palau every success in implementing the recommendations accepted and support the adoption of the report. Thank you.

Thank you.

I will next give the floor to Dominica.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. Dominica welcomes the delegation of Palau and commends their constructive engagement throughout the UPR process. We take positive note that Palau has pledged support for the majority of recommendations received, including two recommendations made by Dominica on strengthening climate action and advancing efforts towards the

ratification of the United Nations Convention against Torture.

Dominica fully supports the adoption of the UPR outcome of Palau and extends best wishes in the implementation of accepted recommendations.

I thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Dominican Republic.

Thank you, Vice-President. My country recognises Palau's commitment to the UPR and this acceptance of the majority of the recommendations made during this cycle, and particularly welcome its acceptance of the recommendations made by the Dominican Republic, including strengthening technical cooperation with the OHCHR, and strengthening the national policy on climate resilience and adaptation to climate change. We thank it for noting the ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, and we encourage the council to adopt the report by consensus, wishing Palau every success in implementation of the recommendations accepted. May it continue to build on cooperation and exchange of experience during this process. Thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I will give the floor to India.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. India warmly welcomes the delegation of Palau for the adoption of the report of the UPR Working Group on its fourth cycle UPR. The review witnessed substantive participation with 59 delegations taking the floor and making a total of 185 recommendations. We appreciate the constructive engagement of the delegation of Palau throughout the review, which reflects its commitment to the UPR process. India appreciates that Palau has accepted 157 recommendations made by States. As the Council proceeds with the adoption of the UPR outcome, we congratulate the delegation of Palau on the successful completion of its review and wish it every success in its effort towards implementation of the accepted recommendations. I thank you, Madam Vice-President.

I thank you.

And next, I give the floor to Indonesia.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. Indonesia welcomes Palau's continued participation in the fourth cycle of UPR. We commend Palau's decision to support a large majority of the recommendations received during its review. This includes all of our three recommendations on the ratification of ICCPR, CEDAW and UNCAT, addressing human rights impact of climate change and promoting women's participation in decision-making processes. As part of the core states of the Convention Against Torture Initiative, Indonesia particularly welcomes Palau for prioritizing the ratification of ANCAT, which provides an important legal framework to prevent torture and ill treatment, enhance accountability, and ensure remedies for victims. On climate issue, we share Palau's concerns regarding the profound impact of climate change on the lives and livelihoods of the Palauans. threatening their food security and cultural heritage. We therefore support Palau's continued efforts to strengthen its climate resilience, including through enhanced international cooperation and assistance. In this context, we believe sustained international support is also imperative to assist Palau in implementing the accepted UPR recommendations to further advance human rights of its people. Finally, recommend the adoption of the UPR outcome of Palau by consensus. Thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Iran.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. The Islamic Republic of Iran welcomes adoption of the UPR outcome report of Palau. Iran reiterates its administration Its admiration for Palau for the considerable progress made, given the limited capacities. Ongoing efforts for the promotion protection of human rights, particularly measures in the areas of public health and combating smuggling and trafficking in persons is commendable. Iran is pleased that all of its three recommendations are supported, and Palau takes attention to our concern on working situation of foreign workers, access to quality education, and adequate food security for children in rural areas, and strengthening efforts to our climate-resilient economy. We encourage Palau to ensure the effective implementation of these recommendations. Thank you, Madam Vice President.

I thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Maldives.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President.

The Maldives warmly welcomes the participation of Palau in the adoption

of the UPR report and appreciates Palau's commitment to the UPR process.

The Maldives commends Palau for accepting most of the recommendations it received

during the UPR working group session in May 2026, including two recommendations from the Maldives. We wish our fellow small island developing state, Palau, success in implementing the accepted recommendations and request the Council to adopt Palau's UPR outcome report by consensus.

I thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Micronesia.

Madam Vice President, the Federated States of Micronesia warmly welcomes the delegation of the Republic of Palau and congratulates them on the completion of their fourth Universal Periodic Review. Micronesia commends Palau for its constructive engagement throughout the review process, its careful consideration of the recommendations received, and its continued commitment to promotion and protection of human rights. As neighboring Micronesian countries and fellow Pacific small island developing states, we recognize the capacity and resource challenges associated with implementing UPR recommendations and fulfilling international human rights obligations. In this context, Micronesia encourages strengthened engagement by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in the North Pacific, including through existing United Nations subregional structures to support UPR implementation, treaty reporting, and national capacity building in Palau and the North Pacific. Micronesia stands in solidarity with the government and people of Palau and supports the adoption of its UPR outcome. I thank you, Madam Vice-President.

I thank you.

And next, I give the floor to Morocco.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. The delegation of Morocco welcomes the delegation of Palau and is pleased to support the adoption of its UPR report today. We reaffirm our appreciation for the progress achieved by Palau since the previous cycle of the Universal Periodic Review, in particular the efforts deployed to strengthen the legal and institutional framework for combating corruption. Morocco further welcomes Palau's support for its recommendations to ratify and implement the Convention against Torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, to develop and implement a comprehensive national anti-corruption strategy with clear mandates and adequate resources, and to strengthen the inclusive and meaningful participation of women's organizations and groups in governance processes, ensuring that their views and inputs are reflected in policy development and priority setting. Such openness reflects Palau's sincere commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights. Morocco expresses its full support to Palau in this implementation phase. Thank you, Madam Vice-President.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Nauru. They seem to be absent, so next I give the floor to Nepal.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. Nepal warmly welcomes the delegation of Palau to the adoption of the UPR outcome and thanks them for their constructive engagements with the human rights mechanisms. We thank Palau for accepting all three recommendations that we offered, which include considering ratifying the human rights instruments already signed by Palau, including the ICCPR and ICESCR, further strengthening healthcare facilities and ensuring universal access to healthcare services, and increasing the representation of women in decision-making bodies. We take note of the progress made by Palau to advance the rights of persons with disabilities, including their access to education. Nepal wishes Palau all success in implementing the accepted recommendations and supports the adoption of the UPR outcome report by consensus. I thank you, Madam Vice-President.

I thank you.

Next, I give the floor to New Zealand.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President.

New Zealand appreciates the opportunity to comment on the outcome of Palau's Universal Periodic Review. We commend Palau's efforts to combat human trafficking and migrant smuggling, and we note measures to align domestic legislation with international standards and strengthen penalties for trafficking-related offences. New Zealand also welcomes the progress in advancing the rights of persons with disabilities through strengthened institutional frameworks and the development of disability policies. We also recognize initiatives to support economic and social well-being, including increases in public sector wages and salaries. New Zealand appreciates Palau's constructive engagement through the Universal Periodic Review process and looks forward to continuing our partnership with Palau in promoting and protecting human rights. Thank you, Madam Vice-President.

Thank you.

And next I give the floor to Philippe.

Madam Vice-President, the Philippines welcomes the delegation of Palau and its constructive engagement in the universal periodic review. The Philippines appreciates Palau's support for all three of our recommendations on stepping up efforts to combat trafficking in persons, on further enhancing primary health care services, particularly for vulnerable and marginalized groups, and on strengthening protection for migrant workers by improving labor inspections and complaint mechanisms so that workers can seek remedies such as compensation and enforcement of their contracts. We welcome Palau's new national migration policy, including the requirement for employers to bear recruitment costs. This will benefit the many migrant workers, including Filipinos, who contribute to Palau's development. In conclusion, the Philippines is pleased to support the adoption of the report and wishes Palau every success in its implementation. I thank you.

Thank you.

This was the last speaker that we could accommodate. 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 to make their general comments on the outcome. The speaking time has been set at two minutes for all. And the first speaker is Christian Council International.

Thank you.

I deliver this statement on behalf of Christian Council International. We commend the Government of the Republic of Palau for its continued engagement with the UPR process.

In this regard, we wish to underscore a positive obligation of the government in line with Article 6 of the Constitution to strengthen the provision of the health care education for its citizens. We particularly recognize Palau's effort to protect all citizens, including the unborn, in accordance with its national laws,

religious and cultural conflicts. As international consensus affirms, abortion should

In no case, we promote

it as a method of family planning and decisions related to abortion fall within the sovereignty of nation states. Palau is therefore sovereign in understanding reproductive health as not encompassing abortion.

Furthermore, we recognize Palau's efforts in ensuring value-based education in accordance with its traditional context.

There is no international obligation of Palau to integrate the comprehensive sexuality education into its national curricula. Alternatives that align with moral and religious values of Palau can also effectively educate young people and adolescents. Finally, we wish to underscore that Palau is sovereign in determining its definition of marriage. The position of Palau regarding protecting people against violence and discrimination indicates the willingness to ensure all people live free from violence.

This position does, however, not necessarily indicate or give Palau an obligation to legalize same-sex unions.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Advocates for Human Rights.

The Advocates for Human Rights, a member of the World Coalition Against the Death Penalty, wishes to commend Palau on its support of every UN General Assembly resolution calling for a global moratorium on the death penalty since 2007. We thank them for their public commitment to abolishing the death penalty. We also wish to thank Namibia, France and Togo for making recommendations to ratify the second optional protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. The Government of Palau has supported Namibia's recommendation and noted France and Togo's specifying that Palau has supported all fourth cycle recommendations that request States to consider or take steps towards ratification. Consequently, direct and unconditional demands to immediately ratify other core treaties must be noted. This shift does not signal a retreat from human rights values, but rather a realistic calibration of Palau's domestic legislative capacity, ensuring that the state does not formally commit to immediate legal obligations it cannot realistically implement within the current reporting cycle. We are concerned that, despite supporting all five recommendations it received to ratify the Second Optional Protocol in its third cycle UPR in 2021, Palau has neither signed nor ratified the Protocol. We encourage Palau to take all necessary steps to ratify the OP2 without reservations and to request technical assistance with the ratification process from the Friends of the Second Optional Protocol. We also urge Member States to lend their support to ensure that Palau is able to ratify the second optional protocol in this reporting cycle. Thank you.

Thank you.

Next, I give the floor to Center for Global Nonkilling.

Dear human beings, Madam Vice President, dear populations of Palau, dear authorities of Palau, including the highest, the delegation. everyone everywhere, greetings of progress in human rights. There are a few things from Palau that can reach universal history. A non-nuclear constitution, early ratification of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. But also, it is noteworthy and should serve as an example, the constitution that bans the civil possession of personal firearms.

This does not yet make Palau a non-killing country,

but it is very close to being so. A little more valuation of life might make it. This is partly linked to a small population, where social support and prevention make people closer to each other and to the well-being of all. Nevertheless, efforts to give more worth to life are needed to prevent suicide and traffic accidents, to honour the life of others as we value ours. Finally, we congratulate Palau for its honesty, We made a submission for the rapid ratification of the Genocide Convention. We understand the limited legislative capacities of the country and the intent of the authorities to prioritize another treaty. We will be patient. In the spirit of humanity, we wish peace and prosperity to Palau. Thank you, Madam Vice-President.

I thank you.

This was the last speaker on my list. And before giving the floor to the delegation of Palau for concluding remarks, allow me to inform that out of 185 recommendations received, 157 enjoy the support of Palau and 24 are noted. Additional clarification was provided on another four recommendations. indicating which parts of the recommendations were supported and which parts were noted. I now give the floor to Mr. Joffre Ngiraket Dehur, Foreign Service Officer, Bureau of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Minister of State in Palau for concluding remarks via video statement.

Mr. Vice President, Excellencies, and distinguished representatives, As the Human Rights Council concludes the adoption segment for Palau's fourth cycle Universal Periodic Review, allow me to express our government's sincere appreciation to the members of the Troika, the Secretariat, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, and all member states for their exceptional professionalism and constructive dialogue throughout this session. Palau views this adoption not as the end of a diplomatic requirement, but as the inauguration of an intensive national implementation phase. Translating these 157 supported recommendations into concrete outcomes requires sustained interagency coordination, civil society collaboration, and targeted international technical cooperation. Palau is determined to advance human rights across core institutional implementation priorities. While financial and human resource constraints currently impede the immediate creation of an independent national human rights institution fully compliant with the Paris Principles, Palau is prioritizing the reestablishment of the Office of the Ombudsman. Executive order amendments are being finalized to secure the Ombudsman's independence across all government branches. providing robust public oversight while we progressively work toward an NHRI structure. Following our active engagement in regional exchanges and the UN Convention Against Torture, Palau is completing cabinet briefings and legislative mapping ahead of a formal congressional submission for UNCAT accession. Simultaneously, we are conducting comprehensive reviews to harmonize domestic statutes with the Convention on the Rights of Children and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, including aligning marriage age laws and prohibiting disability-based discrimination. Protecting our children, youth, and vulnerable populations remains central to our national development plan. Guided by the CRC, Palau is formulating a comprehensive national child protection strategy. Parallel efforts are underway to modernize our juvenile justice system, highlighted by the construction of a new correctional facility designed specifically to ensure gender separation and distinct accommodation for juvenile offenders, backed by legislative standards in House Bill 12-20-2S. Furthermore, in a small nation of fewer than 20,000 citizens, social challenges are deeply felt across every family. Under our national youth policy, addressing youth mental health and rising suicide rates among young males is an urgent national priority. To address these challenges, Palau allocates 10% of annual alcohol and tobacco taxes directly to community public health interventions and youth mental health support systems. Under the Family Protection Act, Palau has strengthened the Office of Victims of Crime Advocacy to deliver crisis counseling, court advocacy, and temporary shelter for survivors of violence. Furthermore, through a bilateral partnership with India, Palau is advancing the construction of a dedicated national shelter for victims of crime. As a small island developing state, Palau cannot implement these commitments in isolation. Achieving a just transition to climate resilience, whether through implementing our national migration policy, securing clean energy targets under our third NDC, or executing the climate relocation of Palau National Hospital requires meaningful international cooperation. We call upon our international partners, UN agencies, the OHCHR Pacific Regional Office, and the Pacific community to support Palau through technical assistance, capacity building, and climate finance. In conclusion, Palau reaffirms its unwavering dedication to the Universal Periodic Review process. We stand ready to work hand in hand with our civil society organizations, traditional leaders, state governments, and international friends to ensure that human rights continue to serve as the foundation of peace, dignity, and sustainable progress for all Palauans. I thank you, Mr. Vice President.

I thank the delegation for this presentation and for their constructive participation throughout the UPR process. I now propose that the Council adopts the decision on the outcome of the Universal Periodic Review of Palau as it appears on the screen.

I see no objection.

The decision is adopted. Excellencies, distinguished participants, this brings us to the end of this meeting. 00 a.m. to continue with the consideration and adoption of the outcome documents of Somalia and the other States examined during the 52nd session of the UPR Working Group. I hereby declare closed the 28th meeting of the 63rd session of the Human Rights Council. Have a good weekend.