Mr. President,
FIDH congratulates China on its third UPR. We note the impressive rate of accepted recommendations (82%), many of which the government has said have already been implemented.
Creation of a safe and enabling environment for human rights defenders? Already implemented.
Protection of human rights defenders, journalists, and lawyers? Already implemented.
Guarantee of their rights to freedom of opinion and expression, association, and peaceful assembly? Already implemented.
Fair trials? Already implemented.
Removal of obstacles to internet freedom? Already implemented.
Respect for the rights of Tibetans, Uighurs, and other minorities? Already implemented.
Respect of the right to freedom of religion or belief? Already implemented.
Prohibition of discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity? Already implemented.
The UPR is a process based on participation, cooperation, and non-confrontation. However, as long as the Chinese government continues to oppress civil society, ethnic minorities, and the most fundamental human rights and makes a mockery of the UPR, UN Special Procedures, and UN treaty bodies, we will not take seriously their responses to the numerous important recommendations made by UN member states.
We deliver this statement in honor of Cao Shunli and all other defenders unjustly detained for promoting human rights in China.
Thank you,