Statement by India at the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Working Group 34^th Session (04-15 November 2019): 3rd UPR of Madagascar - Interactive Dialogue, delivered by Ambassador Rajiv K. Chander, Permanent Representative of India [Geneva, 11 November 2019]

Mr. Vice President,

India warmly welcomes the distinguished delegation of Madagascar and thanks it for presenting a comprehensive National Report.

2. We commend the progress made by Madagascar since its second UPR and the significant efforts made for strengthening its national human rights promotion and protection system. We also welcome Madagascar’s legislative progress and reforms including the law on combatting money laundering and terror financing, law on human trafficking and laws on safeguarding child rights.

3. We also appreciate the establishment of an Independent National Human Rights Commission for the protection of human rights that conforms to the Paris Principles.

4. India recommends the following to Madagascar:

Strengthen policies and legislative framework to fight against the stigmatization of persons living with HIV and of populations at risk.

Strengthen the water, sanitation and hygiene sector plan, taking into account vulnerable groups and adopt a gender and equity approach.

Continue its efforts to ensure gender equality, gender neutral policies, child rights related to access to education, health and social services.

We wish Madagascar the very best.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President.