UN Human Rights Council, UPR 33rd session. Swedish statement delivered by Ambassador Veronika Bard.
Mr. President,
Sweden commends Norway for its long-standing commitment to the protection and promotion of human rights, nationally and internationally. Sweden warmly welcomes the efforts made since the last UPR-cycle, for example the new Equality and Anti-Discrimination Act adopted in January 2018 and the new non-custodial sanction in 2014. However, we note concerns raised regarding gender-based violence, incitement to hatred and the conditions in prisons, and would therefore like to make the following recommendations:
1. To strengthen the investigation capacity of law enforcement officials on hate crimes and criminal incitement to hatred, including on the internet.
2. To implement all necessary measures to prevent and eliminate gender-based violence against women and girls and ensure that perpetrators are prosecuted and punished.
3. To evaluate the effects of solitary confinement in prisons with a view to reducing it and use alternative measures whenever possible.
Sweden wishes Norway all success in the current review.
I thank you Mr. President.