Malta’s human rights track record under the spot light in periodic review

by Gozo News · November 19, 2013

Malta’s human rights track record was under the spot light last week at the Human Rights Council in Geneva. The main aim of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) is to evaluate the progress registered in the field of human rights in Malta on the basis of the recommendations received in the last UPR of Malta in 2009.

In preparation for the UPR, an inter-Ministerial Committee was set up with a view to compile the National Report, which was submitted to the UN in July 2013. It is to be noted that the report was formulated following broad consultations with Government entities and civil society organisations. The Government of Malta recognises the importance of civil society organisations since they operate at grass root level and continuously gather information and feedback on situations as they evolve.

The Maltese delegation was led by Minister Helena Dalli and included representatives from the Office of the Attorney General, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry for Social Dialogue, Consumer Affairs and Civil Liberties, the Ministry for Health and the Ministry for Home Affairs and National Security.

In her introductory remarks, Minister Dalli reaffirmed Malta’s commitment to the Universal Periodic Review as a strong mechanism addressing all human rights and applicable to all UN Member States without distinction or discrimination.

Furthermore, Dr Dalli said that respect for the fundamental rights and freedoms of the individual are in fact enshrined in the first article of the Constitution of Malta, therefore placing them at the very core of Maltese society, governance and international commitment.

The Minister made reference to the human rights developments since Malta’s last UPR. These include the rights of the child, LGBTI rights being introduced by the current administration, irregular immigration and asylum, National Human Rights Institutions and sexual and reproductive health among others.

On its part, the United Nations welcomed Malta’s appointment of a Minister responsible for civil liberties. The UN is also taking note of the progress being registered by the Government of Malta in the area of LGBTI rights.

The United Nations has also praised Malta’s efforts in helping migrants who are crossing the Mediterranean Sea in search for prosperity.

During the interactive dialogue the Minister also provided answers to questions received pertaining to issues related to conditions in the detention centres, LGBTI rights, age of criminal responsibility and also equality between men and women.

The report of the UPR Working Group was adopted on Friday 1st November 2013 and it will be submitted for final adoption of the Human Rights Council during its 25th Regular Session in March 2014.