Universal Periodic Review Working Group – 21st Session
Universal Periodic Review of Guinea-Bissau
23 January 2015
Australia congratulates Guinea-Bissau on the progress since its last UPR in 2010, including passing the Domestic Violence Act and the adoption of legislation on human trafficking and domestic violence.
Australia commends the free and fair elections held in Guinea-Bissau in 2014.
Australia is also encouraged by Guinea-Bissau’s 2013 ratification of the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
While Australia commends actions taken to date by Guinea-Bissau to implement reforms in the defence, security and justice sectors, Australia recommends Guinea-Bissau address the serious impunity issues regarding alleged arbitrary arrests and prolonged detention of government critics.
Australia also recommends Guinea-Bissau give priority to ensuring protection of freedom of speech.
Australia congratulates Guinea Bissau’s criminalisation of female genital mutilation, but remains concerned by reports that the practice is increasing rather than decreasing. Australia recommends Guinea-Bissau raise awareness of the criminalisation of female genital mutilation and also ensure perpetrators of female genital mutilation are brought to justice.