Twenty-Third Session of the Universal Periodic Review, Geneva, 2 to 13 November 2015
The UK delivers its statement on the Universal Periodic Review of Oman, 5 November 2015.
The UPR takes place at the Palais des Nations in Geneva
Thank you, Mr President,
The UK recognises the progress made since Oman’s last review and welcomes in particular the visit of the UN Special Rapporteur on freedom of assembly and association in 2014. We also acknowledge Oman’s efforts to address the public’s demands following the protests of 2011 and 2012, and its efforts to tackle corruption.
We have 2 recommendations for the Omani Government:
That it improve protection of the rights to freedom of expression, assembly and association, by amending the Press and Publications Law and the Civil Societies Law in line with international standards, and by accepting the recommendations of the Special Rapporteur on freedom of assembly and association in 2014.
That it ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
In line with this, we encourage Oman to take steps to promote and protect freedoms of expression, assembly and association and to permit greater civil society activity. We also encourage Oman to grant the newly established National Human Rights Commission greater independence, in line with the Paris Principles.