Permanent Mission of India, Geneva

Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Working Group
25th Session (02-13 May 2016)
2nd UPR of Greece – Interactive Dialogue
Tuesday, 03 May 2016, 02.30 pm – 06:00 pm

Statement by India
Mr. President,

India welcomes the delegation of Greece led by H.E. Mr. KostisPapaioannou, Secretary-General for Transparency and Human Rights of Greece.

2.       Greece’s National Reportbrings out human rights challenges facing the country in the wake of the severe economic crisis since 2010 as well as issues relating to migrant and refugee crisis.

3.       We welcome the recent legislative steps to combat racism, promote the welfare, human rights and integration of its minorities and other social groups. In this regard, we would request the delegation for more details on the functioning of the National Board against Racism and Intolerance.

4.       Marginalization of women in the labor market as well as the issue of gender pay gap have been matters of major concern for UN human rights mechanisms. We welcome the adoption of the New Action Plan for Gender Equality and request the delegation for further details of this Plan.

5.       We note with appreciation the plan for implementation of a revamped public benefit employment scheme post-March 2016. We would like to know more about the components of this scheme. We note with appreciation steps taken by Government to integrate migrants.

6.       We note the reports on undocumented migrants and asylum seekers in the country.We wouldlike to know more about the various steps being taken by Greece to deal with these challengesalong with the UN and other organizations.

7.       We wish the delegation of Greece all success in its future endeavors.

Thank you Mr. President.

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