8 February 2016
Human rights continue to face many challenges, Julie Bishop, MP, Foreign Minister of Australia told the 2016 Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and NGO forum on Human Rights held in Canberra. These challenges, she said, included endemic conflict in Middle East and east Africa, death penalty and tricky dynamics of the UN Human Rights Council.
Australia is a candidate for the 2018-2020 UN Human Rights Council seat. This is the first time Australia is seeking a place on the Council. “Good governance, freedom of expression, the rights of indigenous peoples, strong national human rights institutions and gender equality are five pillars” on which Australia’s campaign is built, said DFAT. Underpinning the campaign is Australia’s record of being an active participant in human rights issues, being open minded and principled but flexible. NGOs suggested that DFAT should engage NGOs prior to UN Human Rights Council meetings.
The forum was told that the 2015 Universal Periodic Review (UPR) was the second UPR for Australia. There are 290 recommendations that cover immigration, gender equality and indigenous rights. Australia expects to respond to UPR by the end of February 2016. Australia is also considering New Zealand model for UPR monitoring.
Australia remains opposed to death penalty in all circumstances, the forum was informed. Australia’s opposition to death penalty is not just for Australians, but also for all.
2015 was a big year for gender equality. The UN Commission on Status of Women (CSW) continues to guide Australia’s domestic and international efforts in that regard. Australia’s goals for gender equality include reduction of violence against women and children as well as increasing female workforce participation. The forum was told that the Office for Women (Prime Ministers and Cabinet) encourages NGOs to engage in CSW processes.
The forum was attended by 50 NGOs, and as the Foreign Minister said it gave an opportunity to share ideas as well as discuss issues of common interest. Mr Chander Khera of Canberra represented ACHRE at the Forum.