Human Rights Council 38: Interactive Dialogue with the UN High Commissioner on Haiti
UK statement delivered at the 38th session of the Human Rights Council during the Interactive Dialogue with the UN High Commissioner on Haiti.
The Human Rights Council takes place at the Palais des Nations in Geneva
The human rights situation in Haiti is complex and challenging and we share the High Commissioner’s concerns. The lack of progress on a national action plan, the non-renewal of the mandate of the Independent Expert, and the prolonged absence of a Ministerial level human rights focal point in Government all represent fundamental obstacles to the creation of an environment in which respect for human rights can thrive in Haiti.
To take forward President Moise’s stated commitment to make human rights a priority of his administration, we encourage the Government of Haiti to build on the strong basis provided by the 2014 draft national human rights action plan in order to develop a comprehensive national strategy.
We welcome the support provided by MINUJUSTH and OHCHR to strengthen the capacity of the office of the Ombudsman and encourage the introduction of a transparent appointment process for all positions.
The establishment of an efficient, effective and fully resourced judiciary system with strong oversight mechanisms is vital to combat prolonged pre-trial detentions and prison overcrowding which continue to be two of the most serious human rights concerns. Detainees are held in conditions which fall far below global standards and which amount to cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment, often without having been charged with any crime. Outdated criminal legislation and limited access to justice are at the core of these concerns.
We urge the Government of Haiti to support the fight against impunity, which dates from the time of the Duvalier regime (1970s).
We would like to ask the High Commissioner if the workshops organised by the OHCHR in September 2017 and February 2018 have substantially improved the timeliness and quality of Haitian human rights reporting.