Universal Periodic Review panel tracks progress on U.A.E.'s national report

Abu Dhabi (WAM): The Standing Committee for Universal Periodic Review (UPR) held on Wednesday its 14th meeting to discuss the extent to which recommendations accepted by the U.A.E. as part of the review of its second national UPR report have been implemented. The assessment precedes preparation for a review of the 3rd report. Chaired by Dr. Anwar bin Mohammed Gargash, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, the Committee reviewed 107 recommendations accepted by the U.A.E. during the 6th June 2013 session of the Geneva-based Human Rights Council to discuss the U.A.E.'s second UPR report. The Committee examined follow up measures undertaken by stakeholders for implementing these recommendations as it prepares the 3rd national UPR report, which will be presented to the UN Human Rights Council by the end of 2016. U.A.E.'s 2nd national report in 2012 tackled many positive aspects, including legislative and institutional frameworks to protect human rights, protection, formulate strategies and policies to boost rights and liberties, to strengthen partnerships with the NGOs, develop effective programmes for human rights awareness, to build capabilities, deepen bilateral and multilateral cooperation, both regionally and internationally, for human rights protection and highlight the progress made by the country in human rights between 2008 and 2012. Attaching importance to Universal Periodic Review's outcomes, the U.A.E. created the Standing Committee for Universal Periodic Review by a cabinet resolution. It was tasked with overseeing implementation of the country's obligations towards the Human Rights Council following approval of its human rights report. – Emirates News Agency, WAM - http://www.wam.ae/en/news/emirates/1395270933300.html