Statement by India at the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Working Group 40^th Session (24 January – 04 February 2022) : 3rd UPR of Timor-Leste - Interactive Dialogue, delivered by Ms. Seema Pujani, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India [Geneva, 27 January 2022]

Mr. President,

We warmly welcome the presentation by the delegation of Timor-Leste.

2.  We take note of the initiatives taken by Timor-Leste to promote and protect human rights since the last review in 2016, as outlined in its National Report. We note with appreciation theadoption of the National Action Plan on Gender-Based Violence 2017-21, the launch of the second phase of the National Action Plan for Persons with Disabilities 2021-30 and the implementation of programme interventions such as the ‘bolsa da mãe’.

3.  In the spirit of constructive cooperation, India recommends the following to Timor-Leste:

i.  Consider ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities;

ii.  Continue with progressive policy and legislative measures for promotion and protection of the rights of children, such asfor the criminalisation of child marriage and the development of a comprehensive juvenile justice system; and

iii.  Consider further measures to promote gender equality and end gender-based violence, including access to safe reproductive health services.

4.  We wish the delegation of Timor-Leste all the success in its review.

Thank you, Mr. President.