Thank you, Madame Vice-President.
The United Kingdom extends its heartfelt congratulations to Antigua and Barbuda for the successful hosting of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting this week.
We commend Antigua and Barbuda for its active involvement in the Universal Periodic Review and express our gratitude to the delegation for their engagement. Additionally, we acknowledge the significant reform in sentencing guidelines introduced in 2020, which is expected to reduce the likelihood of the death penalty being imposed.
In line with this progress, we encourage the government to reflect on further reforms necessary to address critical issues, particularly the need for equal rights for all citizens and the prevention of domestic violence.
Recommendations for Continued Reform
In this constructive spirit, the United Kingdom recommends that Antigua and Barbuda:
- Maintains the current de facto moratorium on executions and initiates a comprehensive review of legislation pertaining to the death penalty with the aim of eventual abolition.
- Enhances legal and policy frameworks to protect against discrimination and violence, particularly for LGBT+ individuals, ensuring that all members of society can enjoy their human rights free from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
- Continues to fortify the existing structures that ensure the independence of the judiciary is both respected and upheld.
Commitment to Human Rights Engagement
Once again, the United Kingdom looks forward to ongoing collaboration with Antigua and Barbuda on matters related to human rights. We believe that through continued dialogue and reform, we can work together to foster a society that upholds the dignity and rights of all individuals.
Thank you.