34th Universal Periodic Review: UK statement on Bolivia

The United Kingdom recognises Bolivia’s progress since its 2014 review and welcomes their support to the Call of Action to End Human Trafficking, Modern Slavery and Forced Labour.

We note the new law passed in 2016, allowing transgender citizens to request having their name, gender and photo changed on official documents to reflect their identity.

However, we are concerned by the substantial shortcomings in the conduct of the presidential and legislative elections in October this year.

Furthermore, we urge the Government to increase efforts to investigate and prosecute perpetrators of human trafficking and provide adequate support for victims. We also urge the Government to ensure anti-discrimination legislation is fully enforced.

We recommend that Bolivia:

1. Guarantee political rights in Bolivia by proceeding to a second round in the presidential elections.

2. Respond to the recommendations of the Subcommittee of Prevention of Torture to establish a national preventive mechanism that enjoys complete financial and operational autonomy in the performance of its functions.

3. Ratify and implement the International Labour Organization’s 2014 Protocol to the Forced Labour Convention, 1930 (P029).