Ministry Statements & Speeches:
President,
New Zealand welcomes this opportunity for dialogue with the Federated States of Micronesia on its human rights record.
New Zealand recognises the work FSM has done to improve its ability to protect human rights, including a scoping study on the feasibility of establishing an independent National Human Rights Institution. We recommend that FSM continues its efforts and works to establish an independent NHRI, seeking assistance from partners and international organisations as required.
New Zealand further recommends that FSM ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the International Covenant on Economic Social and Cultural Rights.
New Zealand commends FSM for the efforts it has made to eliminate gender-based violence, but notes with concern the continued high-rate of offences. We recommend that FSM increase efforts to prosecute perpetrators of violence against women, especially cases of domestic violence. We further recommend that FSM increase support for victims of violence against women, including through the establishment of governmental facilities to provide shelter for women and children in abusive situations.
New Zealand acknowledges the steps FSM has taken to provide greater support for the rights of people with disabilities, notably ratifying the International Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. We recommend that FSM continue to develop and implement policies and legislation to fully realise the aims of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
New Zealand commends FSM for its efforts to eliminate human trafficking. We recommend that FSM increase efforts to investigate, prosecute and convict traffickers, and improve procedures to identify and support victims of human trafficking.
Thank you President.