Universal Periodic Review of Bosnia and Herzegovina
13 November 2019
Intervention by the delegation of Estonia
Estonia warmly welcomes the delegation of Bosnia and Herzegovina to the UPR working group and thanks for the report presented.
Estonia welcomes the work towards guaranteeing gender equality and the full enjoyment of all human rights by women and girls, including in ensuring sexual and reproductive health and rights. Most notably, we welcome the adoption of the Gender Action Plan (GAP) for the period 2018-2022.
We also note with appreciation the adoption of a countrywide action plan for the implementation of UNSCR 1325 and related resolutions on women, peace and security (WPS).
We are concerned about the political pressure and intimidation exerted against journalists, which significantly restricts the freedom of media in the country. Estonia encourages the respect and protection of the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression, both online and offline.
We hope for a swift solution to the current political stalemate, which would enable the government to take further accelerated steps in the field of human Rights.
Estonia recommends the Government of Bosnia and Herzegovina to:
- continue efforts in bringing its legislation in line with the Istanbul Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence;
- take all necessary measures to protect and promote civic space, online and offline, and ensure a safe and enabling environment for human rights defenders and activists;
- ensure appropriate judicial follow-up to cases of threats and violence against journalists and media workers;
We wish the delegation of Bosnia and Herzegovina a successful review meeting.
Thank you!
