Universal Periodic Review Working Group – 16th Session
Universal Periodic Review of Germany
26 April 2013
Australia would like to acknowledge and commend Germany for its active and constructive role in promoting and protecting human right internationally.
Australia notes a number of improvements to Germany’s domestic human rights framework since its last review. These include the adoption of a National Action Plan to implement the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and establishing additional protections against forced marriage.
Australia particularly welcomes improvements to educational outcomes for children at risk of exiting the education system early. Australia would welcome further information on programs and policies to promote educational outcomes amongst vulnerable segments of the community.
Australia acknowledges and commends Germany for the range of policies and programs it has implemented to fight discrimination, and in particular racial discrimination. However, Australia notes the concerns of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights that migrant communities, particularly migrant women, face ongoing discrimination within the community and society at large. Australia recommends Germany give consideration to what further action is required to promote greater integration of migrant communities and counteract racial discrimination and racially-motivated violence.