Universal Periodic Review Working Group
Universal Periodic Review of the Republic of Mauritius
23 October 2013
Australia welcomes the significant work Mauritius has undertaken to bolster its national human rights framework, including through the creation and resourcing of the human rights ombudsman; the Equal Opportunities Commission; the National Human Rights Council; and the Truth and Justice Commission.
Australia acknowledges that Mauritius abolished the death penalty as a punishment in 1995. Australia recommends that Mauritius now accede to the Second Optional Protocol of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
Australia recognises Mauritian efforts to ensure that both men and women enjoy ther rights under the national constitution and welcomes steps taken to promote gender equality and address domestic violence. Australia recommends Mauritius continue to promote gender equality and work to remove all barriers to the full and active participation of women across all spheres of life.
Australia welcomes efforts by Mauritius to ensure that people with disabilities are treated equally under the law. We urge the Government of Mauritius to continue disability inclusive policies, including by encouraging new and existing buildings to be fully accessible by persons with disabilities. Australia recommends Mauritius ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Australia recognises that Mauritius has legislation in place that outlaws discrimination based on sexual orientation or HIV status. We are, however, concerned that sections of the Mauritian criminal code continue to criminalise consensual homosexual activity. Australia recommends that Mauritius repeal the sections of its criminal code that criminalises consensual homosexual activity.