Australia in Switzerland
Bern and Geneva
Switzerland, Liechtenstein

statement486

Human Rights Council - 24th Regular Session

Australian statement for panel on the rights of children of parents sentenced to death or executed

11 September 2013

 

Australia welcomes the opportunity to participate in today’s discussion. We thank the speakers and panellists for sharing their views and experiences. These provide a valuable insight into the impacts of the imposition and carrying out of the death penalty on the human rights of children whose parents are sentenced to death or executed.

Australia firmly supports the universal abolition of the death penalty and considers it an inhumane form of punishment. There is no conclusive evidence on the deterrent value of the death penalty and any miscarriage or failure of justice in its implementation is irreversible and irreparable.

We recognise the detrimental effects on children whose parents have been sentenced to death or have been executed, and share many of the concerns of the panellists. We believe strongly that as a basic step states should provide these children, where appropriate, with access to their parents and to all relevant information about the situation of their parents.

We would welcome further information on the type of assistance and protection that should be made available to children who find themselves in this situation.