Ministry Statements & Speeches:
Mr President,
New Zealand warmly welcomes the delegation from Vanuatu today.
We welcome the Government of Vanuatu’s ongoing commitment to progressing the human rights of all in Vanuatu, as demonstrated by the wide range of recommendations accepted during the UPR process.
We commend the work of Vanuatu to develop key policies and frameworks to support the human rights agenda. The Government’s National Sustainable Development Plan 2016-2030 is a pathway to ensuring the rights of ni-Vanuatu are protected and promoted.
We also recognise the serious challenge that climate change will pose to Vanuatu and commend Vanuatu for their proactive response.
New Zealand notes in particular that Vanuatu has accepted three recommendations we made in relation to domestic violence, prison conditions and women’s political participation. We look forward to ongoing engagement with you on these important issues. This includes through working with your Department of Women’s Affairs to reduce violence against women and girls and improve coordination across the sector.
We are also committed to working with Vanuatu Correctional Services to improve the management of correctional facilities and provide safe custodial services.
We welcome the Government’s recognition of the valuable role that civil society plays in the UPR process. As the Government moves to the implementation phase, we encourage it to continue its engagement with civil society.
Thank you Mr President.