Ministry Statements & Speeches:
Madam President,
New Zealand welcomes the 2019 General Elections in Thailand as an important step in the restoration of democracy in Thailand. Ongoing efforts will, however, be necessary to ensure that fundamental human rights are upheld and respected.
New Zealand recommends that Thailand ensures that rights of freedom of expression, opinion, and peaceful assembly are not unduly restricted by cybersecurity laws and its criminal code. We further recommend that Thailand take action to repeal or amend such legislation to ensure full compliance with its international obligations.
New Zealand further recommends that Thailand ratify the Optional Protocol of the Convention against Torture, and passes legislation criminalising enforced disappearance and torture.
New Zealand recommends that Thailand take further action toward the abolition of the death penalty.
Thank you Madam President.