39th Universal Periodic Review of human rights: UK statement on Papua New Guinea

Thank you, Madam President.

The United Kingdom commends Papua New Guinea on its efforts to tackle corruption, in particular the establishment of the Independent Commission Against Corruption and the passing of the Whistleblower Act. The United Kingdom also welcomes Papua New Guinea’s increased focus on tackling gender-based violence, including through the work of the Special Parliamentary Committee. Tackling violence will be an important element, alongside freedom of assembly and expression, in delivering peaceful and credible national elections in June 2022.

We recommend that Papua New Guinea:

• Ratify and implement the Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children, supplementing the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime, 2000;

• Increase funding and resources to prevent and respond to gender-based violence, including training for police to identify and investigate cases;

• Develop policies and practices to increase women and girls’ participation in society and political life, and in decision making processes on issues that affect them.

Thank you.