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Universal Periodic Review 27: UK Statement - Poland

This statement was delivered by the UK on Poland at the 27th Session of the Universal Periodic Review.

The Universal Periodic Review takes place at the Palais des Nations in Geneva.

The Universal Periodic Review takes place at the Palais des Nations in Geneva.

The Republic of Poland has made substantial progress since its last UPR in 2012 and we welcome the opportunity to acknowledge this progress.

Concrete steps have been taken to improve opportunities for women and to prevent modern slavery. Poland has ratified a number of international agreements, including the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Government sponsored campaigns have promoted the right of children to be brought up free from violence. Free-of- charge legal assistance has improved access to justice, and proactive measures have been taken to prevent police misconduct.

To build on this progress, we recommend that Poland:

  1. Extend its anti-discrimination laws and hate crime legislation, to ensure equal treatment and broad protection for all from discrimination, regardless of sexual orientation and gender identity.

  2. Reinforce the work already underway to tackle modern slavery, through the strengthening of efforts to obstruct criminal networks and identify victims of human trafficking.

  3. Adopt an open, merit-based selection process when selecting national candidates for UN Treaty Body elections.

Published 9 May 2017