18 November 2020, Geneva, Switzerland-  The Philippines constructively engaged other governments in discussions at the Human Rights Council in Geneva last week to review the state of human rights policy framework of 14 states, namely Andorra, Belarus, Bulgaria, Croatia, Honduras, Jamaica, Liberia, Libya, Malawi, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Mongolia, Panama,  and the United States of America.

During the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of the 14 States which was held from 2 to 13 November 2020, the Philippines issued a total of 55 recommendations to strengthen the promotion and protection of human rights including in combating gender-based violence, anti-trafficking in persons, promoting gender- mainstreaming, human rights education and training, the advancement of the human rights of vulnerable sectors, and encouraging the ratification of treaties and conventions such as on migrant and domestic workers, among others.  

Ambassador Evan P. Garcia, Philippine Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva, welcomed the delegations of the countries reviewed and expressed appreciation for their constructive approach to the UPR process. The Philippine statements noted progress and strengths of human rights policies of the countries reviewed. 

The Universal Periodic Review  is a unique mechanism of the Human Rights Council which involves a review of the human rights records of all UN Member States, ensuring equal treatment for every country when their human rights situations are assessed.

The UPR  provides an opportunity for all States to provide information actions they have taken to improve the human rights situations in their countries and to overcome challenges to the enjoyment of human rights. It also includes a sharing of best human rights practices around the globe.#