Australia in Switzerland
Bern and Geneva
Switzerland, Liechtenstein

Statement200

Universal Periodic Review Working Group – 11th Session

Universal Periodic Review of Suriname

Statement by Australia


6 May 2011

Australia welcomes the delegation from Suriname and appreciates its constructive engagement in the Universal Periodic Review process. We are particularly mindful of the additional challenges faced by small states in engaging in the UPR process without the support of a Permanent Delegation in Geneva.


Australia welcomes the establishment of the National Commission for the Eradication of Child Labour in 2009 and encourages the Government to take steps to ensure that the Commission can effectively carry out its mandate to prevent child exploitation.


Australia is concerned by reports of declining prison conditions in Suriname, including in relation to overcrowding. We welcome action in 2010 to allow prisoners to submit their complaints to judicial authorities without censorship, and encourage Suriname authorities to act on these complaints.


Australia recommends Suriname:


1. Take steps to ensure that the National Commission for the Eradication of Child Labour can effectively carry out its mandate; and


2. Improve prison conditions in Suriname, including by responding effectively to prisoners’ complaints.