Universal Periodic Review Working Group – 21st Session
Universal Periodic Review of Sweden
Statement by Australia
Australia commends Sweden’s long-standing commitment to the protection and advancement of human rights in Sweden and globally. Sweden’s consistent promotion of human rights, which underpins its domestic and foreign policy, ensures Swedish citizens’ civil liberties are respected and Swedes enjoy political and economic participation.
Australia welcomes Sweden’s inquiry commissioned in 2014 to consider the need for a specific provision on criminalising torture in Swedish law. It is possible that the absence of torture as a criminal offence in Swedish law could create loopholes in implementing the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. Australia recommends Sweden defines and criminalises torture in its domestic law consistent with Article 1 and Article 4 of the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment.
Australia commends Sweden’s excellent record and ongoing efforts to promote gender equality and eliminate violence against women.