Statement by India at the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Working Group 39^th Session (1-12 November 2021) : 3rd UPR of Eswatini - Interactive Dialogue, delivered by Mr. S. Senthil Kumar, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India [Geneva, 08 November 2021]

Madam President,

India warmly welcomes the delegation of Eswatini and thanks them for the informative presentation on the action taken to implement the recommendations received during its second UPR.

2. We note with appreciation that Eswatini has achieved significant progress in protecting and promoting human rights through various measures outlined in the National Report.

3. We appreciate Eswatini has made progress in developing sector policies guiding the promotion, protection and enjoyment of human rights as well as improving the livelihoods of their people, including National Gender Policy, Education and Training Sector Policy 2018, Disability Policy and others. We also commend Eswatini Economic Recovery Plan 2020 aimed at mitigating the impact of the COVID-19 crisis and at saving the economy and livelihoods.

4. In the constructive spirit, India recommends the following to Eswatini:

       i. Take concrete steps to address poverty with particular focus on people living in rural areas.

      ii. Continue to take necessary measures to improve access to safe and clean drinking water and sanitation facilities to the vulnerable population.

     iii. Continue to take measures to ensure adequate standard of living for persons with disabilities.

5. We wish Eswatini all success in its future endeavors.

Thank you, Madam President.

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