Twentieth Session of the Universal Periodic Review Working Group, Geneva, 27 October to 7 November 2014
UK Statement on the Universal Periodic Review of Iraq, 3 November 2014.
The UPR takes place at the Palais des Nations, Geneva
Thank you, Madam Vice-President.
The UK thanks the Government of Iraq for its participation in the UPR and their detailed national report.
We recommend that Iraq:
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Ensures the equitable treatment of all people through an improved justice system and increased respect for human rights within the police and security forces, including the ratification of OPCAT.
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Establishes a moratorium on executions and moves towards abolishing the death penalty.
We welcome Iraq’s progress with healthcare, education and the rights of persons with disabilities, but note with concern that the human rights situation has deteriorated since 2010.
This is partly due to the barbaric advance of the so-called Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL). However, the failure of previous Iraq administrations to govern inclusively and protect human rights has contributed to ISIL’s rise.
We welcome, therefore, Prime Minister al-Abadi’s commitments to inclusivity, protecting Iraqi citizens, and holding those responsible for human rights violations and abuses to account, and urge that these are translated into action.