Antigua and Barbuda has reserved its position on recommendations made during its United Nations human rights review, saying the Government will consider the proposals and undertake consultations before formally responding.
The position was outlined by the country’s delegation at the close of its fourth Universal Periodic Review before the UN Human Rights Council on Nov. 6.
“To ensure that each recommendation received today receives the full and proper consideration it deserves, Antigua and Barbuda reserves its position on the recommendations received today,” the delegation said.
It expressed hope that consultations would allow the Government to respond as soon as possible in accordance with the Council’s procedures.
Countries participating in the review made recommendations covering education, criminal justice, gender-based violence, LGBTQ protections and the establishment of an independent national human rights institution.
Among the proposals were calls to abolish the death penalty, prohibit corporal punishment of children, fully criminalize marital rape and strengthen protections against discrimination.
Ecuador also recommended that Antigua and Barbuda consider incorporating the right to education into its Constitution and adopt legislation guaranteeing at least 12 years of free primary and secondary schooling.
The delegation’s decision to reserve its position did not amount to a rejection of the recommendations. It said the proposals would receive consideration before the Government submitted its formal response.
During the proceedings, Antigua and Barbuda highlighted reforms already undertaken while acknowledging gaps in prison infrastructure, mental health legislation and the monitoring of human rights commitments.
The delegation said the Government remained committed to the review process and welcomed technical assistance and partnerships to help implement recommendations and meet international reporting obligations.
This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Antigua and Barbuda holds off accepting UN review recommendations on gay rights, abortion and death penalty, pending consultations.