Permanent Mission of India, Geneva
Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Working Group
24th Session (18-29 January 2016)
2nd UPR of Paraguay– Interactive Dialogue
Wednesday, 20 January 2016, 09:00 am - 12:30 pm
Statement by India
Mr. President,
India warmly welcomes the delegation of Paraguay led by H.E. ……. and thanks the delegation for its presentation.
Mr. President,
2. We commend the fact that Paraguay had accepted all 124 of its recommendations from the first UPR and welcome the improvements in national legislative framework to protect and promote human rights. Paraguay has also continued its efforts in setting up and strengthening of relevant institutions in this regard and has also been up-to-date with submissions of reports to the treaty bodies.
We encourage Paraguay to expedite the appointment of an Ombudsman with the understanding that the institution would be fully compliant with the Paris Principles.
3. We note with appreciation that poverty levels in the country have fallen for the 8th consecutive year. In this regard, we commend the enhancement of the conditional transfer programmes to combat poverty and the increase in its beneficiaries. Our delegation would be interested in knowing more about the operational aspects of the National Development Plan 2030.
4. While taking note of Paraguay’s efforts towards bringing about gender parity, we encourage the country to counter the persisting stereotypes regarding the role of women and work towards enhancing the representation of women in public and political life. The setting up of Women’s Support Service within the Ministry of Women which provides comprehensive care, information and counseling in cases of domestic and gender-based violence is a welcome development. Similarly, the National Policy on Childhood and Adolescence (2014-24), with its priority for those who are underprivileged, is a step in the right direction.
5. Paraguay’s effort towards a universal free access to healthcare services is commendable. In this regard, we welcome the adoption of the National Health Policy of 2015. While taking note of the focus on inclusivity in the National Plan for Culture (2014-18) we recommend formulation of a comprehensive policy protecting the rights of indigenous peoples. We also encourage the government to extend more autonomy to the National institute for Indigenous Affairs.
6. We note Paraguay’s efforts towards promotion and protection of human rights of the persons with disabilities. In this regard, we encourage the government to continue its efforts towards effective inclusion and removal of obstructions for persons with disabilities. We recommend the review the provisions restricting the voting rights of the persons with disabilities.
7. We wish the delegation of Paraguay all success in its current and future endeavors.
Thank you Mr. President.
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