Universal Periodic Review of Barbados – 15th Session
Statement by Australia
25 January 2013
Australia commends the Government of Barbados on progress achieved since its last review in terms of domestic policy and legislation, including in the areas of protection of the rights of children, expansion of the office of the Ombudsman and criminalisation of human trafficking. Australia also welcomes the signing of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Convention concerning Decent Work for Domestic Workers and hopes for its prompt ratification.
Australia notes the commitment of Barbados to abolish death penalty sentencing, and recognises the absence of mandated executions for almost 30 years. Australia recommends that Barbados support a complete moratorium on the death penalty and ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).
Australia acknowledges Barbados’ efforts in combating discrimination, marginalisation and violence towards women, but remains concerned that current policies do not adequately legislate against this. Noting the expected implementation of the Social Policy Framework (SPF) Australia would appreciate further details on the progress of this framework as they become available. Australia also recommends Barbados consider formulating and implementing national policies on gender to help define and coordinate efforts to tackle such issues.
In continuing to implement policies to eradicate gender inequalities and criminalise domestic violence, Australia shares the UNDP’s concern over the lack of social data, crime statistics and other criminal justice indicators. Australia recommends the development of an appropriate mechanism to mandate the collection, disaggregation and standardisation of such data