UN IN THE FIELD

UN Human Rights in -Pacific

LEGEND:

Mongolia Spotlights:

OHCHR Field-based structure** Disa­bili­ties (Seoul, Republic of Korea)

Youth

Bangladesh Women

Philippines Shifts: Cambodia Global constituency Prevention

Papua New Guinea Civic space

Nepal South- (Bangkok) Climate change

Myanmar – Pacific based in Bangkok (Suva) Corruption

Maldives Inequalities Myanmar – based in Cox’s (UNAMA) Bazar Timor-Leste New technologies

People on the move TYPE OF PRESENCE LOCATION

Country/Stand-alone Offices/ Cambodia and Republic of Korea (Seoul)** SDGs: Human Rights Missions

South-East Asia (Bangkok, ) and the Pacific Regional Offices/Centres (Suva, )

Human rights components of Afghanistan (UNAMA) UN Peace/Political Missions

Bangladesh*, Malaysia*, *, *, Human Rights Advisers *, Papua New Guinea*, *, Sri Lanka and Timor-Leste*

Myanmar (based in Bangkok, Thailand and Cox’s Other types of field presences Bazar, Bangladesh)

* Human Rights Advisers deployed under the framework of the Sustainable Development Group. ** Mandated by Human Rights Council resolution 25/25.

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The Asia-Pacific region is the largest in of emergency, migration and freedom of right to a healthy environment, children the world, both in terms of its geography expression in 12 countries of the region. and youth and environmental human and population. The work of UN Human The High Commissioner sent a series of rights defenders (HRDs). As a part of the Rights covered 39 countries in the region, letters to encourage prison decongestion Regional Office’s programme of work bordered by Afghanistan to the west, in Bangladesh, the DPRK, and related to the human rights treaty bodies, Mongolia to the north, Kiribati to the Thailand, with several positive results. the growing interest of Member States in east and to the south. In the National Recommendations Tracking The Office continued to oversee the imple- 2020, the Office supported one country Database (NRTD) led the Office to pro- mentation of Human Rights Council office in Cambodia; human rights advisers vide increased assistance and support for (HRC) resolutions on Afghanistan, (HRAs) or national officers in Bangladesh, the development, training and roll-out Cambodia, the DPRK, Myanmar, the Malaysia, Maldives, Mongolia, Nepal, of NRTDs. Philippines and Sri Lanka. The High Papua New Guinea (PNG), the Philippines, Commissioner gave updates to the HRC Sri Lanka and Timor-Leste; two regional OHCHR engaged with the Government on human rights developments in Indian- offices for the Pacific and South-East Asia; of the Philippines, national institutions one Human Rights Service (HRS) in the and Pakistan-administered Kashmir and and NGOs to produce a comprehensive United Nations Assistance Mission in on developments in the SAR report, in June, on the human rights situ- Afghanistan (UNAMA); and one field- and Xinjiang UAR of . OHCHR ation in the Philippines. This was followed based structure, based in Seoul, which assisted the special procedures country by the preparation of a resolution that was covers the Democratic People’s Republic mandate holders for Cambodia, the DPRK adopted by consensus, in September, with of Korea (DPRK). OHCHR continued to and Myanmar. As visits to the region were the support of the Government and the deploy staff working on Myanmar in the limited due to COVID-19 restrictions, preparation of a UN Joint Programme on Regional Office for South-East Asia. a number of engagements were con- Human Rights. ducted virtually. The COVID-19 pandemic had major In Bangladesh, Cambodia, Myanmar and impacts on public health and on eco- The Regional Office for South-East Asia Sri Lanka, OHCHR continued to pro- nomic, social, civil and political rights provided technical assistance to various vide support to the UN Country Teams across the Asia region. In the Pacific, the partners at the regional and national lev- (UNCTs) to ensure the implementation public health impacts were negligible but els. From the early stages of the pandemic, of the Secretary-General’s Call to Action socio-economic cohesion and culture as OHCHR tracked and reported human for Human Rights and the Human Rights well as some civil and political rights were rights developments in the region, ensuring Due Diligence Policy (HRDDP). All field affected. Headquarters and field staff the integration of human rights into tools, presences worked with the UNCTs to transitioned to remote working arrange- guidance notes and awareness-raising ini- apply a human rights-based approach ments and were limited in their capacities tiatives developed by the UN and other (HRBA) to programming, particularly in to undertake missions and travel-based partners. The Office continued to address the context of COVID-19 Socio-Economic activity. Nevertheless, effective commu- the narrowing of civic space and demo- Response Plans (SERPs). Activities were nication systems were established within cratic freedoms in the region, which was undertaken to support the incorpora- the team and with the field and a variety exacerbated by COVID-19, including in tion of human rights principles into UN of activities were conducted virtually. the context of digital space and large-scale programming, including training on an OHCHR reoriented its monitoring efforts protests. In response to the targeting of HRBA and technical advice for the devel- to focus on the human rights impacts of migrants and refugees and hate speech opment of United Nations Sustainable COVID-19 and produced regular regional in the context of COVID-19, OHCHR Development Cooperation Frameworks updates and infographics for advocacy engaged in public advocacy, highlight- (UNSDCFs) and SERPs. Increased part- with partners. The region prepared and ing the structural vulnerabilities faced by nerships were sought with other UN contributed to several COVID-19-related migrants. The Office continued to raise agencies and advocates for civic space, press statements and press briefings, awareness about the impact on human political participation, access to justice including statements from the High rights of climate change and environ- and non-discrimination. Commissioner on issues such as states mental degradation, with a focus on the

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The Office conducted numerous human Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) protection of civilians in Afghanistan and rights capacity-building and technical indicators. a second report was issued, in December, assistance activities for international and on violence against women. In Mongolia, OHCHR assisted the UNCT national stakeholders, including UNCTs, in assessing the impacts of COVID-19 In , OHCHR continued national human rights commissions and and emergency measures and provided to provide technical assistance on the CSOs as well as HRDs. guidance notes on information and parti- development of human rights indicators OHCHR significantly strengthened its cipation. The Office helped the National in Pakistan and actively engaged with work on Myanmar to respond to the Human Rights Commission to print national stakeholders on the transitional additional reporting requirements aris- a compilation of all recommendations justice process in Nepal. The Office main- ing from the implementation of HRC issued by the international human rights tained its engagement in the Maldives resolutions and created opportunities mechanisms, which was translated into with the deployment of a new senior for technical cooperation and closer the Mongolian language. HRA. It also increased its support to the engagement with the UNCT on several UNCT in Nepal through the assignment initiatives. In 2020, a number of import- With regard to the DPRK, the Office in of a national HRA. Seoul produced reports for the HRC and ant developments were noted in relation to In Sri Lanka, OHCHR collaborated the General Assembly. It issued a public accountability, including the creation of with the UNCT and the RC to provide report on women in detention, in July, the Independent Investigative Mechanism advice and support related to transitional and on DPRK voices in the peace process, for Myanmar (IIMM), progress made in justice. OHCHR continued monitoring in October. In December, the Security the International Criminal Court (ICC) and advocating on transitional justice, Council held a briefing on human rights investigation and in a case brought by the despite the Government’s withdrawal in the DPRK. The DPRK Accountability Gambia and others to the International of its co-sponsorship of HRC resolution Project’s information and evidence pres- Court of Justice (ICJ) under the Genocide 40/1, and supported the Human Rights ervation, storage, management and Convention. In September, the Office Commission of Sri Lanka and the Office processing capabilities were enhanced reported to the HRC on developments in of Missing Persons. Unfortunately, a con- through a major technological upgrade. the human rights situation and the fol- stitutional amendment that was adopted low-up to the recommendations issued As of the end of the year, approximately in October undermined the independence by the Independent International Fact- 4,066 distinct files had been preserved of the Human Rights Commission and Finding Mission (FFM) on Myanmar. in the repository, including interviews, other independent institutions. reports, satellite imagery, maps, court In Cambodia, OHCHR provided tech- documents, videos, audio recordings and nical assistance on drafting legislation petition letters. The DPRK Accountability to establish a national human rights Project is the first OHCHR body to use institution (NHRI) that is compliant such advanced software, with this struc- with the Paris Principles. The Office also ture and layout, due to the specialized engaged with the Government in raising expertise of staff working on the proj- awareness regarding the implementation ect. This has generated greater interest of the OHCHR-supported NRTD that within OHCHR to expand the use of the facilitates the implementation of recom- technology to a number of commissions mendations issued by the human rights of inquiry. treaty bodies. In the context of the next UNSDCF, OHCHR increased its support In Afghanistan, the Office worked closely to the Resident Coordinator (RC) and the with UNAMA colleagues in the context of UNCT by establishing a risk analysis the evolving peace process. In December, framework that takes into consideration the High Commissioner spoke at a major the recommendations issued by the inter- conference on sustainable peace. In national human rights mechanisms and February, a public report was issued on the

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In Bangladesh, OHCHR worked with the countries and provided guidance on the UNCT throughout the drafting process of ratification of international human rights the Common Country Analysis (CCA) and instruments. In addition, it monitored the COVID-19 socio-economic response developments relating to COVID-19 pub- framework. Guidance was provided to a lic health emergency measures, including Joint Programme, which was funded by restrictions on freedom of movement. the Joint SDG Fund, on social protection In collaboration with UN partners, the for female tea plantation workers engaging Office adapted the CCA and contributed in public-private partnerships. In addi- to the SERP and the pilot implementation tion, the Office supported preparations of the United Nations Disability Inclusion for the CRPD review of the Government’s Strategy (UNDIS). Finally, it closely fol- State Party report and the preparations of lowed developments relating to civic an alternative report by organizations of space and participation and encouraged persons with disabilities. In January, the the application of an HRBA to human- UNCT and OHCHR helped to deliver itarian situations, including two cyclone the Government’s first workshop on the responses in April and December. development of a plan for the implemen- tation of recommendations issued during the third cycle of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR). Advocacy was undertaken in relation to freedom of expression, shrinking civic space and the protection of HRDs. The Regional Office for the Pacific worked on programmes engaging gov- ernments, communities and individuals affected by the socio-economic impacts of COVID-19 and the ongoing climate emergency, including youth, women human rights defenders (WHRDs), migrants and persons with disabilities. In a Joint Programme with ESCAP, ILO and IOM on climate mobility and security, OHCHR amplified the voices of indepen- dent experts. The Office organized the first Pacific Business and Human Rights Forum and continued to collaborate with partners to deliver capacity-building train- ing to police forces in Fiji, including on the use of force and protection of vulnerable groups. It worked with States and the UNCTs in Fiji and Samoa to strengthen reporting and follow-up engagement with the international human rights mech- anisms, notably the UPR. The Office undertook legislative reviews in various

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AFGHANISTAN: UNITED NATIONS ASSISTANCE MISSION IN A2 – Inclusive and accountable peace and AFGHANISTAN (UNAMA) reconciliation processes are established in conformity with international human Population size1 Surface area1 Human Development Index2 NHRI (if applicable)3 rights standards and internationally 38.93 million 653,000 km² 0.511 (rank: 169/189 in 2019) “A” Status (2014) recognized principles of transitional jus- Type of engagement Peace Mission tice. The processes include mechanisms Year established 2002 for vetting ex-combatants and identify- ing potential violations of international Field office(s) Kabul humanitarian law and international UN partnership framework One UN for Afghanistan 2018-2021 human rights law. Staff as of 31 December 2020 74

OHCHR contributed to the function- XB requirements 2020 US$301,000 ing of transitional justice mechanisms, in line with international human rights Key OMP pillars in 2020 standards.

1 2 3 Please refer to Data sources and notes on p. 229. Throughout 2020, UN Human Rights and UNAMA continued to advise the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission (AIHRC) on vari- PILLAR RESULTS: ous issues related to peace, human rights and victim-centred justice, including the development of sustainable policy options. 2018 revised Penal Code and the 2018 Accountability In cooperation with a Senior Mediation Anti- Act, both of which criminal- A1 – Cases of torture and ill-treatment at Adviser from the Department of Political ize torture. From January 2019 to April detention facilities are investigated more and Peacebuilding Affairs, in January, 2020, 15 cases were investigated and pros- promptly, impartially, independently and UNAMA’s Human Rights Unit (HRU) ecuted under article 450 of the Penal Code thoroughly. Accountability and protection facilitated a three-day workshop for the mechanisms are strengthened. (crime of torture). In four cases, alleged leadership team of the AIHRC on the role perpetrators were convicted. In two cases, of NHRIs in promoting victim-centred alleged perpetrators were acquitted. As justice and inclusive peace processes. On of July, four cases were before the courts, 2 June, the AIHRC published a position OHCHR contributed to the improved four cases were being investigated by pros- paper on the inclusion of victims in the treatment of conflict-related detainees and ecutors and one case was suspended due Afghan peace process, with proposals enhanced functioning of accountability to the COVID-19 outbreak. UNAMA’s and options for the negotiating parties. mechanisms in detention facilities, in com- monitoring revealed that human rights On 25 June, the Chair of the Commission pliance with international human rights officers of the National Directorate of addressed the UN Security Council on the standards. impacts of COVID-19 on human rights, Security (NDS) visited places of detention civilian casualty trends, the importance UN Human Rights and UNAMA contin- while far fewer visits were conducted by ued advocating with authorities, providing of human rights in the peace process and the Ministry of Interior. technical support, monitoring detention meaningful victim-centred justice mea- facilities and compiling data. In the last sures. On 12 September, the Commission two years, the Anti-Torture Committee of welcomed the opening of the Afghanistan the Attorney General’s Office more actively Peace Negotiations and encouraged the prosecuted cases of torture in light of the parties to agree on a set of principles to

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guide the talks, such as inclusivity and major achievement. Various government association. A recent draft would impose victims’ rights. On 19 November, the entities, including the Attorney General’s unnecessary restrictions on the activities Chair called for accountability for the Office, provided regular public updates of CSOs and grant the Government dis- alleged perpetrators of war crimes within on the investigation and prosecution of proportionate control over their legal, the Australian Special Forces and advo- crimes of violence against women and administrative, financial and opera- cated for reparations and acknowledgment girls. Furthermore, the AIHRC monitored tional matters. of the suffering of Afghan victims. the State’s response to crimes of violence The HRU organized 18 capacity-building against women and girls. Despite this The HRU also raised awareness within and outreach events in Afghanistan for progress, challenges remained. Reporting UNAMA and among the parties to the 507 participants (137 women, 370 men) of violence remained low and impunity conflict about international human rights HRDs, journalists, government officials, was the norm for too many perpetrators. obligations and victim-centred justice, AIHRC commissioners and local commu- The review of the EVAW Law by the including the rights of victims and the nity leaders. On 26 October, the HRU, Ministry of Women’s Affairs was post- importance of their inclusion. In January on the occasion of the seventy-fifth anni- poned due to COVID-19. and October, the HRU and the Embassy versary of the United Nations, launched of the Netherlands in Afghanistan hosted a two-month online training on key two meetings of the informal Group of human rights issues for 34 young HRDs Friends on Victim-Centred Justice to coor- Participation (10 women, 24 men) selected from across dinate engagement with national actors, P1 – The AIHRC operates in conformity the country. The HRU also supported the including the AIHRC and CSOs, and with the Paris Principles, particularly national broadcast of seven thematic radio members of the diplomatic community. in the areas of independence, improv- programmes on access to information ing female representation and access and the role of civil society in the pro- to adequate resources, to ensure inde- motion and protection of human rights. A3 – The Government adopts measures pendent functioning. Moreover, the HRU reached out to civil to improve the implementation of the society, HRDs and university students. It 2009 Law on the Elimination of Violence distributed OHCHR guidelines on human against Women (EVAW). It effectively rights in the context of COVID-19, in investigates cases of violence against OHCHR contributed to the independent national languages, 550 books on human women, prosecutes perpetrators and intro- functioning of the AIHRC, in compliance rights and relevant Afghan laws and duces measures to support victims. with the Paris Principles, through regular 1,200 copies of human rights calendars. engagement, the coordination of activities

and information-sharing. In addition to its independent and col- lective work on victim-centred justice, Through advocacy and technical sup- UN Human Rights and UNAMA’s HRU the HRU strengthened its long-standing port, OHCHR contributed to improving supported the Government, the AIHRC engagement with the AIHRC on the pro- the compliance of various State institu- and civil society in the promotion of tection of civilians, children and armed tions and programmes with international increased democratic space, the protec- conflict, women’s rights and detention human rights standards, in particular for tion of HRDs, accountability for human monitoring. A total of 103 coordination the promotion and protection of wom- rights violations, the fight against discrim- meetings took place in Kabul and the en’s rights. ination, the promotion of an inclusive and provinces. With the outbreak of COVID- human rights-compliant peace and rec- UN Human Rights and UNAMA’s HRU 19, the AIHRC monitored, reported on onciliation process and victim-centred continued to support the Government’s and advocated for better preparedness justice. efforts to improve the implementation and response measures. It also partici- of the EVAW Law. In 2020, specialized Civil society organizations and the mem- pated in the Government’s national and EVAW institutions, such as police, prose- bers of the media expressed concern about subnational coordination mechanisms. cutors and courts, were present across all draft legislation in relation to NGOs The Commission published 14 thematic provinces of Afghanistan, representing a and the freedoms of expression and reports on various human rights issues,

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including the protection of civilians, Furthermore, the HRU engaged with the October, the Ministry of Interior endorsed sexual abuse in schools and workplaces, Government to address issues related to its Policy on Safeguarding the Rights and access to education and health, especially children in armed conflict. On 5 March the Protection of Children, which is in in the context of COVID-19, the human 2019, the Law on Protection of Child accordance with the Action Plan/Road rights situation of detainees and persons Rights (Child Act) was enacted by a Map to Compliance. The Policy includes with disabilities and forced gynecolog- presidential decree. This was one of the provisions on the protection of children ical examinations. priorities set out in the 2014 “Road Map from sexual violence and recruitment and to Compliance,” which details measures use. The Office of the National Security to fully implement the 2011 Action Plan Council, supported by NATO, drafted a Peace and Security in order to end the recruitment and use common security sector National Policy of children in Afghan national security on Protection of Children in Armed PS1 – The Government and armed forces. The Child Act contains provisions Conflict, which will apply to the Ministry opposition groups formulate, revise and on the prevention of bacha bazi and the of Interior, the Ministry of Defence and strengthen policies, mechanisms and reg- recruitment and use of children. The HRU the National Directorate of Security. The ulations to protect civilians and prevent engaged with the Government to ensure HRU, NATO and CSOs provided techni- civilian casualties, all of which comply the incorporation of such provisions. cal advice during the drafting and revision with international humanitarian law and processes. The Policy was still under devel- international human rights standards. The HRU provided technical support opment at the end of the year. to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as the Secretariat for the implementation of the OHCHR contributed to the establishment Action Plan/Road Map to Compliance for and functioning of mechanisms to protect the Prevention of Underage Recruitment civilians, in line with international human and Use and the annexes that include a list rights standards, through monitoring and of parties engaging in violations against advocacy efforts. children, namely, the abduction, killing and maiming of children and rape and UN Human Rights and UNAMA’s other forms of sexual violence against HRU continued to advocate with the children. In June, the Government of Government for the creation, implemen- Afghanistan submitted its eighth annual tation and strengthening of compliance progress report on the implementation of with policies on the mitigation of civilian the Action Plan/Road Map to Compliance. harm and protection of civilians, including The HRU supported the Office of the specific provisions related to child pro- Special Representative of the Secretary- tection. The HRU continued to provide General for Children and Armed Conflict technical assistance to the Government in drafting a letter in response to the in relation to its structured action plans Government’s report, highlighting key for the implementation of the National challenges and providing recommenda- Policy on Civilian Casualty Prevention and tions, including the adoption of the Child Mitigation, endorsed in October 2017, and Act by the Parliament, the establishment its ratification of the 1980 Convention on of a referral pathway for children formerly Certain Conventional Weapons, in par- associated with armed forces and groups ticular Protocols II and V. The HRU also and the treatment of children released worked with the NATO Resolute Support from detention facilities, in compliance Mission, which assisted the Ministry with international standards on juve- of Defense to develop its own Civilian nile justice. The letter strongly urged the Casualty Mitigation Team. Government to implement relevant laws and policies and combat impunity. In

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indicator framework. OHCHR granted BANGLADESH seed funding to CSOs to enable human Population size1 Surface area1 Human Development Index2 NHRI (if applicable)3 rights monitoring of the application of the 164.69 million 148,000 km² 0.632 (rank: 133/189 in 2019) “B” Status (2015) human rights indicator framework. Type of engagement Human Rights Adviser The HRA coordinated and contributed to Year established 2018 (following earlier deployment 2014-2016) the policy work of the Joint Programme for Enhanced Social Protection for female Field office(s) Dhaka tea garden workers in Sylhet Division, United Nations Partnership Framework UN partnership framework which was funded by the UN’s Joint 2017–2020 SDG Fund. Various adjustments were Staff as of 31 December 2020 1 introduced due to COVID-19-related con- straints, including online meetings with unions, the employers’ association and the XB requirements 2020 US$429,000 Government. These changes facilitated continuous dialogue on required social Key OMP pillars in 2020 protection measures.

1 2 3 Please refer to Data sources and notes on p. 229 The HRA supported civil society and UN development partners with regard to civic space and freedom of expres- sion and the application of the Digital PILLAR RESULTS: Security Act. This resulted in the mutual participation of the UN, development partners and the Government. During Development Preparedness and Response Plan (CPRP), the COVID-19 emergency, UN Human the humanitarian assessment and the UN D7 – States integrate human rights, Rights strengthened its engagement with Immediate Socio-Economic Response including the right to development and CSOs to monitor instances of hate speech Plan (ISERP), which was finalized in the recommendations of the interna- and other forms of online communication July. The HRA provided advice on the tional human rights mechanisms, as they that may limit the enjoyment of the rights CPRP, with a focus on social cohesion, of minority communities. implement the SDGs and other devel- in particular regarding the prevention opment and poverty eradication efforts. The UN supports them in these efforts of discrimination against marginalized and integrates human rights into its own groups, and co-led work under the ISERP Mechanisms on social stability and the rule of law. As development work. M1 – The Government regularly submits a result, key elements related to discrim- reports to the human rights treaty bodies. ination were included in the ISERP and discussions were held on the protection of OHCHR contributed to the increased civil and political rights and the need for OHCHR continued to lead the UNCT integration of international human rights their inclusion in health and humanitarian Human Rights Working Group and pro- standards into policies and programmes responses. The HRA undertook policy vided training and technical assistance to of the UN and other development part- advocacy and offered advice, which sup- ners, including those adopted in response support the implementation of recommen- ported the revision of the SDG monitoring to COVID-19. dations issued by the international human framework and developed the capacity rights mechanisms, including those issued In the context of the pandemic, UN of the UNCT Human Rights Working by the UPR. Human Rights provided extensive advice Group to apply new guidance on COVID- in relation to the UNCT’s Country 19 and ISERPs and the human rights

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In January, OHCHR collaborated with CAMBODIA the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and key 1 1 2 3 ministries to deliver the first of four work- Population size Surface area Human Development Index NHRI (if applicable) shops in order to develop a plan for the 16.72 million 181,000 km² 0.594 (rank: 144/189 in 2019) - implementation of the UPR recommen- Type of engagement Country Office dations. The workshop also provided Year established 1993 the Government with an opportunity to reiterate its commitment to their imple- Field office(s) Phnom Penh mentation. Participants included the United Nations Development Assistance UN partnership framework Ministers of Foreign Affairs and of Law, Framework 2019-2023 Justice and Parliamentary Affairs as well Staff as of 31 December 2020 38 as the Head of the NHRI and other senior officials. The workshop represents the first time that government ministries and civil XB income US$840,253 society came together to discuss the coun- try’s UPR implementation status. XB requirements 2020 US$3,093,000 XB expenditure US$1,477,199 Further, the HRA collaborated with the Personnel Non-personnel PSC4 UNCT and CSOs on a submission in 76% 13% 11% anticipation of the CRPD’s list of issues $1,129,325 $189,734 $158,139 related to its upcoming review of the State Party report of Bangladesh. They RB expenditure US$1,441,877 worked closely with CSOs to prepare Personnel Non-personnel 84% 16% for the review, which was scheduled for $1,207,289 $234,588 March. The review was postponed until August and then again until the second Key OMP pillars in 2020 half of 2021. 1 2 3 4 Please refer to Data sources and notes on p. 229 and p. 231

PILLAR RESULTS:

Participation monitoring of the civic and democratic space. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, P5 – Increased systematic monitoring of monitoring was primarily carried out in and threats to civic space. Phnom Penh and remotely. This included monitoring of dozens of protests, most of which took place in the capital. The OHCHR contributed to strengthening Office provided protection support to oversight, accountability and protection several HRDs and facilitated referrals to mechanisms, in particular with regard to protection mechanisms for persons at risk the work of HRDs, in conformity with of human rights violations. The work was international human rights standards. carried out in collaboration with national, Throughout 2020, UN Human Rights regional and international CSOs, diplo- carried out extensive human rights matic partners and other partners.

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OHCHR developed the capacity of CSOs families in Kampong Chhnang Province youth support for human rights issues. to better engage with protection mecha- and Siem Reap Province. It organized A total of 82 young people (53 women, nisms. More specifically, it collaborated two workshops in collaboration with the 29 men) from 18 groups of diverse back- with CSOs to monitor mass trials on Ministry of Interior General Department grounds, including minority groups, 26 November and during 2020, thereby of Identification and Immigration and indigenous peoples, persons with disa- enabling civil society partners to forward provincial authorities. Following the bilities and children, applied for the to diplomatic missions the data they had workshops, the Ministry of Interior competition. Six groups, with partic- collected on violations and abuses. In the provided advice to provincial officials ipants between 15 and 23 years of age, context of a wave of arrests, in August, the to process and issue identification doc- were selected to join the competition. Office provided regular updates to the RC uments to the Khmer Krom families and OHCHR developed the capacity of these and worked closely with CSOs on raising to facilitate naturalization procedures groups in relation to human rights and human rights issues with the UNCT. for the ethnic Vietnamese. A total of 124 video filming and editing and provided persons (21 women, 103 men) from eth- them with ongoing coaching. The young OHCHR followed up on protection nic Vietnamese communities and Khmer people subsequently produced six videos cases for HRDs and political activists. Krom groups and local officials attended on a variety of topics, including the right Six special procedures communications the workshops. to vote, the participation of persons with were sent to the Government and several disabilities, the equal right to work for public statements were issued about the women and men, migrant workers and human rights situation in the country. P7 – Youth networks increasingly recog- discrimination against the children of sex Consequently, authorities were more nize the value and importance of human workers and former prisoners. The videos aware of the links between their actions rights and accountability and their contri- were posted on the UN Human Rights- and human rights obligations, although butions to development and peace. Cambodia Facebook page, resulting in they did not systematically address the approximately 15,000 reactions, 2.1 mil- concerns raised. lion reaches and 101,000 engagements. OHCHR and the Special Rapporteur OHCHR enhanced the engagement of The Office broadly disseminated two on the situation of human rights in young persons in support of human rights human rights surveys, including the UN Cambodia undertook consistent advo- messages by conducting a targeted compe- Global Survey on Youth and COVID-19 cacy with local authorities regarding the tition on human rights for youth. and the survey for the Secretary-General’s planned evictions of ethnic Vietnamese report on policies and programmes involv- communities along the Tonle Sap in UN Human Rights released a series of ing youth, to more than 100 young people, Kampong Chhnang province. Although animated videos called “Human Rights youth organizations and networks. To eviction attempts continued in 2020, the Explained,” as part of a campaign to mark Human Rights Day 2020, OHCHR Office successfully intervened to stop the raise awareness of and support for developed a “Right to Create” campaign demolition of homes belonging to fishing human rights among Cambodian youth. for Cambodian youth, highlighting the families of ethnic Vietnamese, leading to a A young Cambodian influencer narrated importance of placing human rights at the postponement of the relocation of almost the videos, which address issues related to heart of COVID-19 responses. The cam- 1,000 families in the same province. The human rights, democracy and the inter- paign products were developed by and for Office called on the Government to com- national human rights mechanisms. The Cambodian youth. plete the planned resettlement site before campaign reached 744,800 Cambodian relocating the families and to ensure that Facebook users, most of whom were in the the people were in agreement with the 18-34 age group. The videos were shared plan, as required by international human with youth organizations, some of which rights standards. used them in training activities. The Office addressed the absence of iden- The Office also worked with six youth tity documents and/or the statelessness organizations on a Young Human Rights of ethnic Vietnamese and Khmer Krom Champion Competition to recognize

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D3 – Laws, policies and strategies on in a protected area, whose CLT process is Development land, housing and property increas- stalled at step 3. D1 – Businesses and other economic ingly comply with international human To assist the Government and prevent actors are held accountable for rights rights standards. Their implementa- evictions during the pandemic, OHCHR abuses and provide remedies to victims. tion by government entities, including translated into Khmer three COVID-19 the Ministry of Land Management, guidance notes on protecting the home- Urban Planning and Construction, the less, residents of informal settlements and Ministry of Environment, the Ministry OHCHR contributed to an increased renters and mortgage payers. The Office of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, compliance of business actors with widely disseminated the guidance notes the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry international human rights norms to ministries, municipalities and other of Rural Development and subnational and standards. authorities. OHCHR also shared with authorities, similarly complies with inter- donors, UN entities and other partners UN Human Rights continued to provide national standards. a confidential note on the situation of mediation support to indigenous com- indigenous peoples and minorities in the munities and business actors, leading to context of the pandemic. the conclusion of an agreement on com- OHCHR advocated for better compli- munal land, in August, between a rubber OHCHR raised awareness about the ance with international human rights company and three Bunong indigenous impact that violations of housing and standards of legislation, policies and communities in Mondulkiri Province and land rights have on women, identifying practices regarding the land rights of Socfin. The Office attended the signature the links between women’s economic, indigenous peoples. ceremony. In 2018, a similar agreement social and cultural rights (ESCRs) and was reached with a fourth community. In 2020, the Government did not dis- violations of land and housing rights in Due to the Office’s intervention, over cuss new land and/or housing rights Cambodia. To this end, the Office co-pub- 500 hectares of land were returned to laws or policies. The Ministry of Land lished a compilation of six fact sheets and the indigenous communities, including Management, Urban Planning and case studies with the CSO Klahaan. sacred forests, spirit forests, cemeteries Construction began an internal process OHCHR continued to focus on the and reserve lands, which were located in to revise the 2001 Land Law to ensure human rights situation of communities the economic land concessions managed its harmonization with the Civil Code of living in resettlement sites in Cambodia. by the company. With the development of Cambodia (2007). No progress was made Draft guidelines on evictions and reset- the maps and the marking of the returned on the draft Environmental and Natural tlement were produced along with the areas, the communities will now be able to Resources Code, despite several years of first draft of a report, which is expected apply to have their land registered under extensive consultations and two years to be completed and submitted by the end the communal land titling (CLT) pro- of closed-door discussions at the min- of 2021. cess, thereby securing their land tenure. istry level. OHCHR will continue supporting the Finally, OHCHR contributed to the CCA UN Human Rights finalized the discus- communities during the mediation and update by providing the UNCT with sion paper on the simplification of the CLT finalization processes. inputs and analyses related to ESCRs. process, with the intent of mainstreaming human rights, SDGs and the Leave No One Behind (LNOB) principle into the process. The official launch of the discus- sion paper will be held in early 2021. Due to OHCHR’s support, seven communities of indigenous peoples progressed to step 3, the last step before a land title is issued. OHCHR also engaged in a discussion about an indigenous community, located

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for its members. In March, OHCHR the list of issues due in 2014 and under the Accountability provided additional comments on a responsibility of the Ministry of Interior) A2 – An NHRI is established that aims at more advanced draft. The CHRC plans and the report to CRPD (due in 2015 and providing redress to victims and account- to have a first draft ready by mid-April under the responsibility of the Disability ability for human rights violations, 2021 with a view to initiating consulta- Action Council (DAC)). There are indica- including for economic and social rights. tions. Independent CSOs have indicated tions that the reports to CED and CRPD that they may not participate in the pro- will be submitted in 2021.

cess under the prevailing circumstances, OHCHR continued its advocacy with but groups that are known to be more OHCHR provided support to establish the CHRC for the development of an aligned with the Government may choose an NHRI that is compliant with interna- implementation plan for the UPR rec- to engage in consultations. OHCHR will tional human rights standards. ommendations that were issued during continue to offer its support to organize Cambodia’s third UPR cycle. The CHRC The 2002 Memorandum of Understanding a broad consultative process that would appeared to limit its role to disseminating (MoU) between UN Human Rights explore a range of models and institutions recommendations and compiling informa- and the Government foresees the need in the search for a suitable mechanism for tion received from relevant ministries and for technical assistance to establish an Cambodia. The Office engaged with the institutions but expressed keen interest in NHRI in Cambodia. Over the years, Asia-Pacific Forum of National Human further exploring OHCHR’s proposal to various stakeholders have taken steps to Rights Institutions (APF) in this regard. implement the NRTD in Cambodia. fulfil this objective. In the mid-2000s, CSOs initiated the development of draft The Cambodian National Council for legislation, but they disengaged from the Mechanisms Women (CNCW) actively pursued the process due to the shrinking civic and development of an implementation plan democratic space and a growing distrust M1 – Cambodia submits five reports related to CEDAW’s concluding obser- of the Government’s intention to estab- to the human rights treaty bodies that vations. The Office advocated with lish a genuinely independent NHRI. In conform with reporting guidelines and the CHRC and the CNCW to ensure a 2019, during Cambodia’s third UPR cycle, submits its State report to the UPR. It coordinated approach to following up a number of States recommended that it adopts an integrated and participatory on recommendations, particularly those establish an NHRI that is compliant with approach to preparing and following up that are interlinked. OHCHR continued the Paris Principles. Cambodia accepted on these reports. to engage with the DAC to ensure that its the recommendation and the Prime reporting is aligned with CRPD report-

Minister reinitiated the process of draft- ing guidelines. The CRPD report was not ing a law on the establishment of a NHRI. OHCHR contributed to the submission of finalized at the end of the year. two periodic reports to the human rights On 2 February, the Cambodian Human The Office engaged with the National treaty bodies, in conformity with report- Rights Committee (CHRC) sent a request Committee against Torture (NCAT) and ing guidelines. to OHCHR for an expert consultancy to the Ministry of Interior in the context support the drafting of an NHRI law. UN Human Rights provided assistance of their preparation of reports to CAT Since then, the CHRC has produced an to Cambodia, resulting in the timely sub- and SPT. Following the country visit of initial zero draft of the legislation, which mission of its State Party reports to CRC SPT in 2009 and its follow-up mission was shared with the Office, along with a and ICCPR. The Government’s State Party in 2013, OHCHR raised the awareness request for comments and translation. In report was submitted to CESCR, albeit of authorities about overdue reports and September, OHCHR provided a technical with some delay, following OHCHR’s the need to respond to CAT’s list of issues note to outline critical areas that require intervention with the CHRC. At the end prior to the Government’s submission of improvements to ensure the NHRI’s of 2020, three reports remained over- its third periodic report, which was due compliance with the Paris Principles, due, namely, the report to CED (due in on 19 November 2014. The Ministry of particularly in terms of the NHRI’s full 2015 and under the responsibility of the Interior’s Working Group on Human independence and the selection processes CHRC), the report to CAT (response to Rights Reporting, established in July 2019,

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convened several meetings to discuss the OHCHR conducted briefings for the replies received from various ministries UNCT members, with the participation in relation to CAT’s list of issues and of the HRC and CESCR Secretariat, SPT reports. As of the end of the year, which generated strong interest and a the Working Group was still waiting for good turnout. These efforts enhanced replies from the police and court authori- the understanding and capacity of ties. The role of the NCAT in the Working UNCT members. Group remains unclear as its status as an In 2020, the special procedures sent 11 independent institution should preclude it communications to Cambodia, represent- from directly engaging in the production ing a 366 per cent increase from 2019, of a State Party report. when only three communications were issued. These communications covered various topics, including arbitrary deten- M2 – CSOs and the UNCT increasingly tion, violence against women, HRDs, engage with the international human draconian laws, the right to privacy, rights mechanisms when they report to enforced disappearance and adequate the human rights treaty bodies, the special housing. Some of the communications procedures and the UPR. were developed in consultation with national and international CSOs. The

special procedures also issued three OHCHR contributed to substantive sub- press statements. missions by the NHRI, CSOs, UN entities and individuals to the treaty bodies, the special procedures and the UPR. UN Human Rights contributed to building the capacities of CSOs to engage with the international human rights mechanisms, including by submitting inputs. On 19 November, the Office briefed 10 HRDs on how to engage with CESCR. As a result, they submitted a joint alternative report focusing on the right to adequate housing. On 12 March 2021, CESCR issued a list of issues, but the review is not expected until 2022. The Office supported a network of child rights CSOs in developing their UPR follow-up strategy. In partnership with UPR-Info and the CHRC, the Office participated in a first training of trainers workshop to build the capacity of local CSOs in monitoring and reporting on the implementation of UPR recommendations. OHCHR facilitated the engagement of the UNCT with the Human Rights Committee and CESCR. In addition,

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Enhancing the protection of women journalists in Asia

As a journalist working in Cambodia, network at a press conference in Phnom on the occasion of Human Rights Day. Kann Vicheika knows first-hand the Penh, she asked the Prime Minister a It aims to raise the awareness of jour- challenges of gathering information and series of questions about conditions for nalists and media workers and enable publicly reporting in a country where the implementation of a state of emer- them to exchange experiences and build deep concerns have been expressed by UN gency law. She immediately received networks, thereby strengthening their pro- human rights experts about government offensive comments. tection capacities, including in the area of crackdowns on civil society and the media. digital safety. To better equip journalists to overcome When she is conducting interviews, these kinds of challenges, UN Human Vicheika is one of the 41 journalists and Vicheika often notices someone eaves- Rights in South-East Asia collaborated media workers from 15 countries in Asia dropping. At protests, she frequently sees with UN Women and UNESCO to launch who are participating in this seven-month, the police taking photos of those who a training programme entitled “Enhancing self-paced innovative programme, which attend. She has been personally targeted the protection of women journalists and includes live webinar sessions. “Being with hateful and insulting comments on women’s human rights in the context verbally harassed in person and online by social media. In April, while working for of shrinking democratic space in Asia.” pro-government supporters or government the Voice of America radio broadcasting The programme began on 10 December, officials is not new to me. I have sometimes experienced sexual harassment by jour- nalists in field work, too,” she said. “As a woman journalist working within a macho culture in Cambodia, [the programme] is a unique opportunity to join forces with other women and men who may have experienced similar types of harassment across the region. This training is very important for my work as a freelancer, trainer and Vice-President of the Board of Cambodian Journalists Alliance and for journalists in Cambodia, especially women journalists.”

Kann Vicheika, a Cambodian journalist. © Photo courtesy of Kann Vicheika

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and requested increased access at the DEMOCRATIC PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF KOREA Government Reception Centres through 1 1 2 3 Population size Surface area Human Development Index NHRI (if applicable) a letter from the High Commissioner. 25.78 million 121,000 km2 - - Public reporting enabled the Office to Type of engagement Field-based structure advocate with the Government of the Year established 2015 DPRK and other Member States about Field office(s) Seoul, Republic of Korea (ROK) issues of concern. It also provided a plat- form for North Korean escapees to be UN partnership framework United Nations Strategic Framework 2017- 2021 heard, improved the awareness of the Staff as of 31 December 2020 9 international community regarding the human rights situation in the DPRK and contributed to a more informed public XB income U S$187, 2 4 6 discourse. The Office’s sustained human XB requirements 2020 US$161,000 rights advocacy and evidence-based reporting led to small improvements in XB expenditure US$146,776 the human rights situation in the DPRK, 4 Personnel Non-personnel PSC including the treatment of persons in 74% 15% 12% $108,368 $21,522 [$16,886 detention in some settings. In July, the Office issued a thematic report entitled RB expenditure US$929,513 “I still feel the pain,” which documents Personnel Non-personnel human rights violations against women 95% 5% detained in the DPRK. The report was $883,193 $46,320 widely covered by national and interna- tional media and discussed in different Key OMP pillars in 2020 forums, including national parliaments.

In 2020, the High Commissioner sent 1 2 3 4 Please refer to Data sources and notes on p. 229 and p. 231 a number of letters to the Government. In one of these letters, sent in May, the High Commissioner highlighted the impacts of economic hardship during the PILLAR RESULTS: pandemic, emphasized the need to pay greater attention to high risk and vulner- able populations, including detainees, and Accountability UN Human Rights documented facts and the importance of accepting international patterns of grave human rights violations A2 – National institutions in the solidarity and cooperation by ensuring Democratic People’s Republic of Korea in the country, including through inter- that humanitarian actors have access to (DPRK) curb violations of human rights views with 46 DPRK escapees who had vulnerable communities. in response to international pressure. recently arrived in the ROK, engagement with CSOs and other relevant stake- holders and open source monitoring and documentation. Due to COVID-19 OHCHR contributed analyses and raised travel restrictions and border closures, the awareness about human rights concerns number of escapees arriving in the ROK in the DPRK, including among the DPRK was significantly lower than in previous leadership, through public reporting and years. The Office continued to engage strategic media engagement. with the ROK Ministry of Unification

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A2 – The international community con- support them in bringing a case to the ICC. Participation tinues to hold accountable perpetrators of Consideration was also given to submit- crimes against humanity. ting a communication under article 15 of P4 – Human rights principles, norms and the Rome Statute on behalf of the families language are embraced by CSOs that of victims of enforced disappearance and work with the Government of the DPRK abduction in the DPRK. and/or with DPRK escapees. OHCHR contributed to enhancing the timely consideration of critical human The Office regularly engaged with the rights issues in international forums. Centre for North Korean Human Rights Records (Records Centre) of the ROK OHCHR contributed to the increased UN Human Rights made significant prog- Ministry of Unification and the Ministry integration of human rights principles, ress towards ensuring accountability for of Justice in order to exchange informa- norms and language into media narratives human rights violations in the DPRK. In tion and seek cooperation. In December, on human rights issues in the DPRK and March, the High Commissioner deliv- OHCHR organized a joint workshop reached out to youth. ered an oral update pursuant to HRC with the Records Centre on human rights UN Human Rights engaged with North resolution 40/20. A High Commissioner’s investigations and documentation in the Koreans living in the ROK to raise report on the implementation of resolution DPRK. In October, the Office hosted an awareness, increase its interview base for 40/20 was finalized and shared with the online forum with experts in the fields of monitoring and documentation, enable Permanent Mission of the DPRK in Geneva criminal accountability, universal juris- DPRK escapees to participate in rele- for comments. diction, corporate accountability, asset vant UN meetings and build their human tracing/financial crime investigations and The central information and evidence rights capacity. Specifically, the Office victim-centred justice to share lessons repository was upgraded using the latest organized quarterly meetings with two learned and examine possible avenues e-discovery software. Approximately 3,830 core groups of North Korean civil society for accountability. In December, a work- distinct files were added to the repository, actors in the ROK, providing a platform shop was organized to brief CSOs about such as interviews, reports, petition letters, for regular interaction and engagement OHCHR’s accountability work, the imple- satellite imagery, maps, court documents, with the Office. Additionally, OHCHR mentation of HRC resolution 40/20 and to videos and audio recordings. Related open engaged with DPRK escapees who have discuss accountability strategies. source materials from the media, govern- contacts inside the DPRK to receive ments and academia were also uploaded. Furthermore, OHCHR continued to analyse up-to-date information on the human All relevant staff were trained on the use of collected information, particularly in light rights situation in light of COVID-19. the repository during online sessions. of international criminal law. As of part In June, the Office organized a one-day The Office strengthened its coop- of its efforts to better understand the legal training for 12 DPRK escapees on inter- standards and procedures of the DPRK, eration with CSOs, legal experts, viewing and documenting human rights eight DPRK laws on prosecution, public government representatives, victims and violations. These initiatives strengthened security and the administration of justice the Office’s engagement with the DPRK their families through information-sharing, were translated from Korean to English. escapees and supported its outreach and capacity-building and exploring account- The Office also undertook research on the advocacy work. ability strategies. In October, a human command structure of the DPRK lead- rights organization shared 748 petitions The Office collaborated with Member ership. It monitored judicial processes, with the repository that it had submitted States, CSOs, academic institutions and including civil and criminal cases in the to the international human rights mech- other actors working on the DPRK, ROK, and civil claims brought by families anisms. In addition, OHCHR provided including by attending seminars and and victims of enforced disappearance and select CSOs with technical advice on inves- events in the ROK. The Office delivered abduction in . These efforts helped tigation standards for international crimes. presentations on a variety of issues, to advance the accountability agenda in Assistance and advice were offered to CSOs including COVID-19 and human rights, the DPRK. and victims’ groups, which were introduced peace and human rights in the DPRK, to an international criminal law practice to women’s rights and health in the DPRK

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and denuclearization and human rights. rights situation in the DPRK continued to The Office undertook an initiative to Peace and Security be discussed in international forums. In reach out to youth and held briefings PS3 – International approaches to the December, the human rights situation in and activities related to human rights DPRK integrate human rights as a the DPRK was discussed in the Security for youth and university students, cross-cutting issue and recognize the cen- Council. OHCHR regularly briefed the including at Yonsei University, Seoul trality of human rights in the promotion international community on its activities, National University, Korea University of peace and security in the DPRK. the human rights situation in the DPRK and Ewha Womans University. It partic- and the work of the Special Rapporteur. ipated in events for youth organized by The Office shared quarterly human rights the Youth Ambassador Winter Camp updates with its diplomatic contacts OHCHR consistently raised awareness and briefed fellows participating in the and UN partners. This enabled interna- in relation to critical human rights issues WFUNA Peace Fellowship (January) and tional partners to systematically engage with international partners, contributing the Liberty in Fellowship with the DPRK on current human rights to the increased integration of human Programme (October). issues. Regular coordination with DPPA, rights into the peace process. the RC and the UNCT facilitated effec- OHCHR continued to expand its media UN Human Rights pursued advocacy tive collaboration on key human rights outreach activities through the production efforts with the international community developments and ensured consistent and dissemination of materials in Korean to integrate human rights as a conflict pre- advocacy messaging. and English on its website and social vention tool, particularly in the context media accounts. The Office provided 11 of the denuclearization and inter-Korean interviews and comments to the media talks on the Korean peninsula. While PS5 – Humanitarian programmes adopt a on a range of issues, including human these initiatives have been stalled since human rights-based approach and comply rights in the DPRK during the pandemic, 2019, both the United States and the ROK with the requirements of the UN’s Human persons with disabilities and COVID-19, continued to pursue their policy engage- Rights up Front Action Plan. separated families and enforced disap- ment with the DPRK. OHCHR regularly pearances, civil society space in the ROK interacted with Member States and the and the killing of a South Korean official international community to increase by the DPRK. In addition, OHCHR cre- OHCHR contributed to increasing the the integration of human rights issues ated more than 100 Twitter and Facebook integration of human rights into humani- into their diplomacy with the DPRK. In postings, in Korean and English, on the tarian responses and advocacy. September, OHCHR released a discussion human rights situation in the DPRK. On paper entitled “Laying the human rights Inputs from UN Human Rights informed the occasion of Human Rights Day, the foundations for peace: Supporting an a number of sections of the UNCT’s 2020 Office launched a social media campaign, inclusive and human rights-centred peace Needs and Priorities Plan for the DPRK. #NorthKorean Voices, to provide a plat- process in the DPRK.” The paper recom- The Office provided regular contributions form for North Korean people to express mended the establishment of benchmarks and analyses on the humanitarian situa- their views on the human rights situation for integrating human rights into the peace tion in the DPRK, including in relation to in the DPRK. The website and social process and captured perceptions of the a possible food crisis, to the Inter-Agency media posts were used by several media North Korean people on peace and denu- Standing Committee (IASC) regional outlets as a source of information and clearization talks. Prior to the release of the horizon scanning, Early Warning and the basis for stories. OHCHR’s thematic paper, in August, the High Commissioner Early Action report. From the end of report and statements and the reports of sent letters to the ROK, the DPRK and January, the Office monitored human the Special Rapporteur on the situation of the United States of America, supporting rights issues in the context of COVID-19 human rights in the DPRK, as well as the public participation and the inclusion of and provided human rights updates and Secretary-General’s report to the General human rights in the peace process. held regular discussions, including with Assembly on the human rights situation in the RC and the UNCT. the DPRK, attracted significant national The Office engaged with Member States and international media interest. and UN entities to ensure that the human

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The Office continued to advocate for the the HRC. It provided support for the M1 – The Government of the DPRK protection of the most vulnerable popu- preparation of draft communications, submits reports to two human rights lations, primarily older persons, persons urgent appeals and press releases and treaty bodies and participates in the in detention and children. Specifically, it supported the Special Rapporteur’s advo- UPR process. advocated with DPRK authorities to allow cacy and media outreach activities. The OHCHR aimed to contribute to the devel- humanitarians to access places of deten- Special Rapporteur’s report to the HRC, opment by local actors of reports to the tion and prison facilities. A mapping of in March, focused on the rights of women, human rights treaty bodies and the UPR. the vulnerable groups, which was planned while his report to the General Assembly, in the context of the DPRK Voluntary in October, focused on labour rights and The pandemic limited engagement with National Review (VNR) and in prepara- the human rights situation in the context the Government and other actors on tion for the next UNCT-DPRK Strategic of sanctions and COVID-19. Both reports reporting to the human rights treaty Framework Partnership, was postponed were well-received and widely covered by bodies and following up on the recom- until 2021. The Office advocated for the the media, but they were categorically mendations issued by the international inclusion of data on the impact of sanc- rejected by the DPRK. human rights mechanisms. OHCHR tions on vulnerable populations. developed a concept note for organizing The Office liaised with other thematic targeted capacity-development pro- special procedures on issues of concern grammes for DPRK officials in Geneva in the DPRK to support victims and Mechanisms and in the region. Despite an initial their families to engage with the inter- positive response from government inter- M1 – The Government engages with the national human rights mechanisms. In locutors, no further progress was made country mandate holder, who is able to 2020, the Working Group on Enforced due to COVID-19-related restrictions. conduct a visit, and two thematic rappor- or Involuntary Disappearances and other The High Commissioner sent a number teurs, who are able to visit the country. experts sent two communications to of letters to authorities to offer OHCHR’s the DPRK: one on the hijacking of the OHCHR supported the work of the support for the implementation of rec- Korean Airlines airplane by the DPRK in Special Rapporteur on DPRK and ommendations issued by the UPR and in 1969 and another on the repatriation of liaised with other special procedures relation to the DPRK’s VNR in 2021. An hundreds of people who were abducted mandate holders. infographic was also included on COVID- during the Korean War (1950-1953). The 19 and the recommendations issued by the The Special Rapporteur on the situation Working Group on Arbitrary Detention international human rights mechanisms. of human rights in the DPRK continued to issued an opinion on a case involving one take a two-track approach. This consisted of the victims whose whereabouts remains The Office engaged with the UNCT and of highlighting the human rights violations unknown following the hijacking. The the RC to share information and encour- in the country and the need to explore the Human Rights Committee issued an age the UNCT to advocate with authorities full range of accountability options while opinion on the 12 North Korean workers on the implementation of the recommen- also engaging in constructive discussions who had returned to the ROK from China dations issued by the international human with the Government to find solutions to in 2016. The Government continued to rights mechanisms. OHCHR translated human rights issues, in cooperation with respond to the communications and the UPR recommendations into the the international community. Despite public statements issued by the special Korean language and shared them on these efforts, the Government continued procedures with denials that human rights its website and social media accounts. A to reject the Special Rapporteur’s man- violations had been committed. planned capacity-building programme to date and did not engage with him. Due to enable CSOs to monitor the implementa- COVID-19, the Special Rapporteur was tion of UPR recommendations could not unable to undertake country visits to the be organized due to COVID-19. Instead, ROK and other neighboring countries. OHCHR offered support to the CSOs OHCHR provided research support and working on DPRK human rights issues assisted the Special Rapporteur in draft- in the ROK on how to engage with the ing reports to the General Assembly and international human rights mechanisms.

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A2 – The Human Rights Commission of MALDIVES the Maldives (HRCM) is empowered to 1 1 2 3 Population size Surface area Human Development Index NHRI (if applicable) provide independent reports to the inter- 0.54 million - 0.740 (rank: 95/189 in 2019) “B” Status (2010) national human rights mechanisms and Type of engagement Human Rights Adviser conduct human rights-related research Year established 2020 and public education.

Field office(s) Malé United Nations Development Assistance UN partnership framework OHCHR contributed to the increased Framework 2016-2020 conformity with the Paris Principles of Staff as of 31 December 2020 1 the NHRI. It also supported the engage- ment of authorities with the international human rights mechanisms. XB requirements 2020 US$225,000 UN Human Rights engaged with the HRCM on a regular basis and offered Key OMP pillars in 2020 to support the development of its capac- 1 2 3 Please refer to Data sources and notes on p. 229 ity. A training for the HRCM on human rights investigations was postponed due to COVID-19. The HRA successfully PILLAR RESULTS: advocated for the HRCM to resume the activities of the National Preventive Mechanism (NPM), which were sus- Accountability Government’s reservations to article 16 of pended at the onset of the pandemic. CEDAW. In addition, the HRA’s advocacy OHCHR also liaised with the Ministry A1 – Maldives maintains the mor- helped to secure the release of prisoners of Foreign Affairs and other relevant line atorium on the death penalty with to avoid COVID-19 outbreaks in prisons ministries to encourage the Government improved legislation related to protecting and address concerns related to over- to submit a report in response to juvenile offenders. crowding in prisons. CEDAW’s list of issues, in anticipation OHCHR organized a training work- of its review of the Government’s sixth shop for mid-level police officers in the periodic report. Due to the pandemic, the OHCHR contributed to improving the Maldives on “human rights and policing review and a preparatory workshop that level of compliance of legislation and in the context of COVID-19” to improve was to include the participation of the policies with international human rights the response of police regarding key the- Ministry of Foreign Affairs and relevant standards, in particular with regard to matic issues, such as , migrant ministries was postponed until 2021. the situation of prisoners in the context workers, detention and the use of force. The HRA also advocated for the of COVID-19. Participating police officers will train their colleagues in other parts of the Maldives. Government to accept and facilitate the UN Human Rights engaged with the visits of various special procedures man- Attorney General’s Office, the Supreme date holders in 2020. The visits of the Court, the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Special Rapporteur on the promotion Maldives Police Service and the Maldives and protection of the right to freedom of Correctional Service on a range of issues, opinion and expression and the Special including shrinking civic space, threats Rapporteur on the promotion and pro- against HRDs, overcrowding of pris- tection of human rights and fundamental ons, the transitional justice bill and the freedoms while countering terrorism were

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cancelled due to the COVID-19 outbreak. MYANMAR OHCHR followed up with authorities and 1 1 2 3 the parliamentary Committee on Human Population size Surface area Human Development Index NHRI (if applicable) 2 Rights and Gender regarding the imple- 54.41 million 677,000 km 0.583 (rank: 147/189 in 2019) “B” Status (2015) mentation of the recommendations issued Type of engagement Human rights staff (Other type of field presence) by the Special Rapporteur on torture Year established 2014 and other cruel, inhuman or degrad- ing treatment or punishment during his Field office(s) Bangkok, Thailand and Cox’s Bazaar, Bangladesh November 2019 visit. During the third United Nations Development Assistance Framework UN partnership framework UPR cycle of the Maldives, in November, 2018-2022 the Government reiterated its willingness Staff as of 31 December 2020 6 to cooperate with the special procedures and facilitate their country visits. XB Income US$531,484

Non-discrimination XB requirements 2020 US$3,445,000 ND8 – Protection considerations for XB expenditure US$1,509,702 vulnerable populations, with a particu- Personnel Non-personnel* PSC4 lar emphasis on older persons, women, 89% -1% 12% $1,345,225 - $9,164 $173,641 persons with disabilities and youth, are integrated into disaster mitigation and Key OMP pillars in 2020 resilience-building programming on cli- mate change. 1 2 3 4 Please refer to Data sources and notes on p. 229 and p. 231 * Includes prior period expenditure adjustments.

OHCHR contributed to increasing the mainstreaming of human rights into the policies and programmes of UN entities. PILLAR RESULTS: The HRA advised the RC and the UNCT on incorporating and mainstreaming human rights into the COVID-19 response Accountability co-chairing the UNCT Human Rights Theme Group (HRTG). and recovery framework. The HRA also A5 – UN policies and practices comply liaised with IOM to address the human with international human rights stan- UN Human Rights made significant rights situation of migrants following dards and United Nations Development efforts to support numerous processes the imposition of COVID-19 restric- Assistance Framework (UNDAF) guid- within the UNCT. It also took steps tions. Furthermore, OHCHR provided ance (2017). They focus on accountable to assist the Resident Coordinator/ inputs to the SERP and the CCA update. institutions, access to justice and the Humanitarian Coordinator with The planned training for the UNCT on participation of civil society in planning developing the tools and mechanisms the application of a human rights-based and monitoring. approach was postponed until 2021 due that the UNCT needs to enhance its to COVID-19. strategic approach to prevention, in

accordance with the Secretary-General’s OHCHR contributed to incorporating Call to Action for Human Rights, the rights-based approaches into the work Human Rights up Front Initiative and the of the UNCT through reporting and by Rosenthal report. The most significant

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success achieved in 2020 was the devel- assessment matrix, which highlights rele- or belief and CSOs. It also organized a opment and adoption of a UNCT Human vant international standards as they relate briefing by the Working Groups on Rights Strategy and implementation plan. to immediate, mid-term and long-term Arbitrary Detention and on Enforced and The Strategy has four key objectives: 1) risks for vulnerable rights-holders. Involuntary Disappearances for approxi- Leave No One Behind; 2) promote and mately 10 CSO groups. OHCHR also played a critical role in protect human rights; 3) ensure that the shaping the UNCT position and actions OHCHR continued to provide advice on United Nations is recognized as a cred- regarding the political elections that legal developments to civil society and UN ible, principled and effective actor; and were held in November, identifying risks partners on issues of concern. Through 4) ensure the integration of human rights and failures by national institutions to the early warning reporting system, the into the programmes of UN entities. comply with international standards Office informed the UNCT about prob- OHCHR continued to support the preven- and obligations. lematic draft laws and orders that were tion agenda by maintaining leadership on adopted in response to the COVID-19 cri- the UNCT early warning system, which sis. For instance, concern was raised that was introduced in 2019. After a six-month Participation proposed amendments to the Prevention trial period, and in consultation with the and Control of Communicable Diseases RC and other UN entities, the Office P1 – Select oppressive laws, policies and Law could negatively impact on freedom adapted the system to suit the practical practices that limit the right to participate of movement and freedom of expression, needs of the UN leadership in Myanmar and negatively impact on civic space are while a local order issued in Rakhine State and to enable it to undertake preventive tackled and reformed or abolished, with required individuals who were wounded actions to address emerging concerns. an emphasis on those that disproportion- in conflict to seek multiple authorizations ately affect women. before being transported to the hospi- The Office contributed to the drafting tal for medical care. The Office shared process of the first CCA by preparing the with the Special Envoy on Myanmar an human rights section and ensuring the analysis of risks and concerns related to integration of human rights principles and OHCHR contributed to improving the the implementation of a government direc- standards into all other thematic sections level of compliance of specific policy areas tive to disconnect unregistered SIM cards, and under each SDG analysis. The final with international human rights norms potentially preventing many people from CCA document is expected at the begin- and standards. receiving life-saving information about ning of 2021. UN Human Rights contributed to rais- the pandemic. These contributions led to OHCHR dedicated substantial resources ing the awareness of civil society by advocacy by other UN agencies at differ- to the COVID-19 response processes, disseminating and translating guidance ent levels (local, national and regional). providing advice and guidance on inter- documents on human rights during the national human rights standards. To this pandemic and delivering webinars for end, the Office built on the human rights CSOs and ethnic organizations to inform due diligence process carried out in 2019. them about relevant international human As co-chair of the UNCT HRTG and rights standards. Tools for the identifi- member of the UNCT Socio-Economic cation of risks related to human rights Response Framework, the Office sup- violations were produced and shared. ported the application of an HRBA to all Travel restrictions impeded the system- UN actions. In addition to sharing and atic compilation of cases with NGOs raising awareness on OHCHR guidance and the capacity to reach agreements on documents, including the human rights effective ways forward. To strengthen indicators, the Office produced specific its alliances and partnerships, the Office tools for the UNCT in Myanmar, such as facilitated consultations on Islamophobia an HRBA checklist to guide programme and anti-Muslim hatred between the development and a human rights risk Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion

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Furthermore, the Office documented vio- ND5 – Hate speech and acts of incitement Non-discrimination lations of the human rights of members to hostility and violence, especially those ND1 – Select discriminatory laws, poli- of the Rohingya and Rakhine commu- that are spread through the Internet and cies and practices that limit the right to nities in Rakhine. The Office scaled up social media platforms, are challenged equality and negatively impact on the its investigation and outreach activities and addressed by authorities and civil rights of religious, ethnic and national to include primary sources, resulting in society efforts to counter them are encour- minorities, women, children and per- over 80 interviews that were conducted, aged and supported. sons with disabilities, such as the 1982 in order to continue assessing violations Citizenship Law and the Protection of of international human rights law and Race and Religion Bills, are tackled and international humanitarian law. These OHCHR contributed to increasing the reformed or abolished. activities, which included an analysis of satellite imagery, fed into the preparation engagement of selected groups (including youth) in supporting human rights of the High Commissioner’s oral update to the forty-fourth session of the HRC messages. OHCHR contributed to improving the and her report to the forty-fifth session During the COVID-19 emergency, UN level of compliance of specific policy areas on the Government’s implementation Human Rights strengthened its engage- with international human rights norms of the recommendations issued by the and standards. ment with CSOs to monitor instances of IIMM. Moreover, OHCHR continued hate speech and other forms of online com- UN Human Rights pursued its advocacy to monitor actions undertaken by the munication that may limit the enjoyment efforts aimed at repealing discriminatory Government to implement the recommen- of the rights of minority communities, in laws on ethnic and religious grounds. dations issued by the Rakhine Advisory particular of Rohingya. Specifically, the The lack of physical access to the coun- Commission, including in relation to Office partnered with the CSO Christian try limited OHCHR’s ability to engage access to health, which became more rel- Church Aid and the Myanmar-based with lawmakers and organize events and evant within the context of the pandemic. tech company, KoKoTech, which was discussions on various issues, such as the Although attempts to facilitate the orga- awarded a grant from the United Nations National Verification Cards, and required nized return of Rohingya refugees from Peacebuilding Fund (PBF) for the devel- a shift to online and written outputs. This Bangladesh were halted after measures opment of an algorithm to monitor online included early warning reports, submis- were imposed to prevent the spread of hate speech. In this partnership, OHCHR sions to the Secretary-General’s annual COVID-19, such as border closures, ques- provided the legal and policy basis for report on the human rights situation in tions remain regarding the Government’s Christian Church Aid and the tech com- Myanmar and participation in webinars genuine interest in achieving this objec- pany to create the monitoring standards. on issues related to citizenship rights of tive. Nevertheless, the Office continued Major substantive gaps remain, such as the the Rohingya community. In addition, to monitor the Government’s response shared understanding of the term “hate OHCHR engaged with the diplomatic to returning migrants to Myanmar, with speech” by those who are monitoring. community that is based in Myanmar and particular attention paid to hate speech Due to COVID-19 restrictions, OHCHR after a number of returnees tested posi- provided technical advice on the estab- was unable to organize structured dis- lishment of an electronic identity system tive for COVID-19. OHCHR continued cussions and training for CSOs to build a in Myanmar, including by raising con- to monitor maritime movements of refu- common baseline for the identification of cerns about legislation and practices that gees, including documenting abuses on hate speech. The Office used Facebook to increase the risk for discrimination, exclu- vessels that left Bangladesh for Malaysia directly address online discrimination, but sion and further segregation of already and the situation of refugees on vessels that due to the platform’s reliance on commu- marginalized communities. It also coor- returned to Bangladesh and were trans- nity standards, rather than international dinated interactions with thematic experts ferred to Bhasan Char island. human rights law, it was not possible to to ensure adherence to the human rights identify all instances of hate speech. As due diligence process. a result, limited progress was achieved. Finally, the Office worked closely with

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the UNCT to identify common mes- deterioration of living conditions that were responses to COVID-19. Accordingly, the sages in response to cases of hate speech. caused by the actions of the Government Office designed tracking and monitoring The common messages have become an of Bangladesh, including a shutdown of tools to emphasize their specific rele- integral part of the UNCT’s communi- the Internet, fencing of the camps and vance for each UN entity in Myanmar. A cation strategy. increased militarization. This led desper- similar tracking and monitoring matrix ate Rohingya to flee by boats that were was shared with international NGOs to operated by smugglers, resulting in hun- facilitate the compilation of submissions Peace and Security dreds of people being stranded at sea for for the stakeholders’ report. In prepara- months. OHCHR provided first-hand tion for the High Commissioner’s report PS3 – Relevant intergovernmental forums, accounts of refugees in the context of to the HRC’s forty-fifth session on the processes and mechanisms, including the decision of the Government to move implementation of the FFM’s recommen- the Human Rights Council, General Rohingya from the camps in Cox’s Bazar dations, OHCHR engaged with various Assembly and Security Council, highlight to the isolated Bashan Char island. UN entities, international CSOs and other human rights concerns when they address stakeholders and sought contributions in situations of conflict and insecurity in connection with the recommendations. the subregion. Mechanisms The Office also assisted Rohingya civil society groups in the camps in Cox’s M1 – Recommendations of the interna- Bazar to compile a report on the situa- tional human rights mechanisms are fully OHCHR continued raising human rights tion facing Rohingya in Myanmar. This utilized as tools of advocacy and highlight issues in several relevant UN forums, was the first report submitted to the UPR the Government’s obligations to imple- including at national and interna- by Rohingya civil society in the camps. ment specific standards. tional levels. Finally, OHCHR prepared an advocacy flyer on COVID-19 and human rights, OHCHR increased its outreach to vic- summarizing the main recommendations tims and witnesses of human rights OHCHR contributed to the increased issued by the human rights treaty bodies, violations and abuses, in particular in use and implementation of recommenda- the reports of the High Commissioner, conflict-affected areas. This enabled tions by the international human rights the reports of the Special Rapporteur on the Office to produce evidence-based mechanisms. the situation of reports and products and contribute to and the reports of the FFM. processes, such as the UNCT early warn- Restrictions resulting from the COVID- ing system, with accurate human rights 19 pandemic and the additional workload analysis that is based on verified informa- imposed on stakeholders prevented the tion. Other actors, including the Resident planned establishment of a National Mechanism for Reporting and Follow-up Coordinator and the UNCT, expressed (NMRF). As a result, UN Human Rights their appreciation for OHCHR’s reliable undertook several actions to ensure fol- and accurate work. In turn, the Office low-up on advocacy and coordination. issued advocacy messages and provided In view of Myanmar’s upcoming UPR evidence-based advice to the UN leader- review, the Office worked closely with ship in the country and to other relevant the UNCT to support information gath- stakeholders, including within the diplo- ering and the drafting of the report, which matic community. assesses the implementation of the recom- The Office continued to monitor and mendations issued during the second UPR report on the situation of Rohingya in cycle. OHCHR compiled the UNCT sub- the camps in Bangladesh, alerting the mission, outlined recommendations and UN leadership about emerging con- facilitated the preparation of an annex cerns. These concerns included a general to the UPR report on the Government’s

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THE PACIFIC and the relationship between international human rights law and law enforcement in Type of engagement Regional Office Fiji, with a focus on the use of force, the , Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall prevention of torture and the recourse to Islands, Micronesia (Federated States of), state of emergency measures. Participants Countries of engagement Nauru, New Zealand, Niue, Papua New also learned about promoting and protect- Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, ing the human rights of vulnerable groups Tuvalu and Vanuatu in society and during states of emergency. Year established 2005

Field office(s) Suva, Fiji A1 – Laws, policies and practices increas- UN partnership framework United Nations Pacific Strategy 2018-2022 ingly address, prevent and reduce human Staff as of 31 December 2020 10 rights violations in the context of law enforcement and justice systems.

XB income US$1,070,708 XB requirements 2020 US$2,813,000 OHCHR contributed to the improved XB expenditure US$1,058,347 compliance with international human Personnel Non-personnel PSC4 rights standards of laws and policies in 60% 29% 11% relation to the rights of the child, land $636,752 $303,654 $117,94 0 rights, independence of the judiciary and RB expenditure US$209,587 cybercrime. Personnel Non-personnel 0% UN Human Rights made an oral sub- 100% $209,495 $93 mission to the Parliament of Fiji calling for the ratification of the OP-CRC-SC. Key OMP pillars in 2020 The Government ratified the Convention on the Rights of the Child 15 years ago. 4 Please refer to Data sources and notes on p. 231 The Office clarified the crimes prohibited under the OP-CRC-SC and recalled the concerns expressed by the Committee PILLAR RESULTS: in its 2014 concluding observations on the prevalence of sexual exploitation and abuse of children in Fiji. OHCHR Accountability In 2020, UN Human Rights, the Fiji also highlighted the findings of the UN’s Police Force (FPF) and other partners COVID-19 Socio-Economic Impact A1 – The police academies and peniten- collaborated to conduct a series of police Assessment (SEIA) with regard to the situ- tiary services in Fiji and Vanuatu include human rights trainings across Fiji, with ation of children and the increased risk of human rights training in the curriculum support from the Commissioner of Police, poverty and child exploitation and raised of pre-service and in-service training. the Director of the Fiji Police Academy awareness about the national laws and and the senior management of the FPF. policies that would need to be amended

Spanned over two days in each division, or adopted following the ratification of OHCHR contributed to the institution- the training aimed at providing police the OP-CRC-SC. Moreover, the Office alization of human rights training for officers with a solid understanding of briefed the Parliament of Fiji, on 16 June, members of the police force by providing international human rights principles, the on the OP-CRC-AC and advocated for its technical advice and delivering training. functioning of the human rights system ratification and the adoption of a “straight

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18” policy that prohibits both the com- Mechanisms pulsory and voluntary recruitment of M1 – States in the region submit, on time, children into the armed forces. In March M1 – More Pacific Island Countries and a higher proportion of the reports that 2021, Fiji ratified the Optional Protocol. Territories (PICTs) ratify at least one core are due to the human rights treaty bodies international human rights treaty. On 23 June, the Office and UNODC made and the UPR. joint virtual submissions to the Standing Committee on Justice, Law and Human OHCHR contributed to the implementa- Rights of the Parliament of Fiji on the OHCHR engaged with and provided tech- tion of international human rights treaties Cybercrime Bill 2020. The submissions nical assistance to countries in the region by countries in the region and to the provided legal and technical guidance on to support their timely submission of follow-up on recommendations issued issues surrounding offences against the reports to the human rights treaty bodies by the international human rights mech- confidentiality, integrity and availability and the UPR. of computer data and computer systems, anisms, with a focus on the rights of computer-related and content-related the child. In 2020, the Governments of the Republic of Marshall Islands and Nauru submitted offences, international cooperation and Throughout the year, UN Human Rights their reports in anticipation of their third procedural measures. implemented capacity-building activities UPR cycle reviews. Throughout the year, in relation to international human rights On 22 May, OHCHR filed a written sub- UN Human Rights drafted inputs and treaties for government officials from mission with the Parliament of Samoa coordinated the writing of joint UNCT the region. Together with the Pacific on three bills (the Judicature Bill 2020, reports for the UPR by the Federated Community, the Office supported the the Constitution Amendment Bill 2020 States of Micronesia, Nauru, Palau participation of government delegations and the Land and Titles Bill 2020), and the Solomon Islands, which led to from the Cook Islands, the Federated highlighting potential violations of the strengthened relations with governments States of Micronesia and Tuvalu in mock Government’s obligations under ICCPR and UNCTs in the Pacific. and provisions that require adjustments. sessions to prepare for a constructive dia- The Special Rapporteur on the indepen- logue with the Committee on the Rights OHCHR continued to engage with dence of judges and lawyers, CSOs and of the Child, prior to its eighty-fourth national coordinating bodies for the the NHRI also made submissions. extraordinary session. The mock sessions, human rights treaty bodies and the UPR. held in Apia, Samoa, from 2 to 6 March, Due to its collaboration with the NMRF In the context of COVID-19, the Office resulted in more substantive and focused in Samoa, the Office played a key role in provided clarification about interna- discussions with the Committee and more supporting the participation of govern- tional human rights obligations assumed focused and context-specific concluding ment representatives from Samoa in the by States, including with regard to the observations. During the Apia sessions, General Assembly’s SDG Lab on VNRs imposition of states of emergency, and the Office helped to organize a thematic in July. Samoa’s streamlined reporting their compatibility with ICCPR. discussion on climate change and the proces to the human rights treaty bod- rights of the child and a side event was ies, UPR and the VNR was featured as an held on climate change and youth. After example of a good practice at the interna- the sessions, OHCHR facilitated outreach tional level. activities with CRC members, including a public lecture by Mr. Bragi Gudbrandsson on the issue of child sex abuse. The lec- ture was delivered at the University of the South Pacific and was attended by key government officials from Fiji, who gained a better understanding of how to address these cases in a child-centred manner.

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M1 – Kiribati, Marshall Islands, the Non-discrimination Federated States of Micronesia and Development Vanuatu establish NMRFs to coordinate ND6 – NHRIs increase their capac- D2 – The Fiji Human Rights and Anti- reporting and implement recommenda- ity to monitor the human rights of Discrimination Commission, the Fiji tions issued by the human rights treaty migrants affected by climate change and Chamber of Commerce and Industry, bodies, the special procedures, the Human exercise oversight. CSOs in Fiji, the Maritime Safety Rights Council and the UPR. Authority of Fiji and relevant government departments provide human rights train- ing as a matter of course.

OHCHR provided technical assistance in relation to the establishment and OHCHR contributed to increased levels of compliance with international human functioning of NMRFs and the implemen- OHCHR contributed to institutionalizing rights standards of policies and practices tation of recommendations issued by the human rights training in selected areas related to migration and climate change. international human rights mechanisms. related to business and human rights. UN Human Rights supported the for- In collaboration with the Human Rights UN Human Rights organized the first UN mation of the Technical Advisory Group and Social Development Division of the Pacific Forum on Business and Human under the joint UN inter-agency Pacific South Pacific Community, UN Human Rights. The Forum enabled partners, Climate Change Migration and Human Rights continued to engage with the including HRDs, to hold fruitful discus- Security programme. Due to COVID-19, NMRFs in the region, including Kiribati, sions with businesses and share different an in-person meeting, originally planned the Marshall Islands, the Federated States perspectives with the objective of identi- for March, was redesigned and deliv- of Micronesia and Vanuatu. In particular, fying and pursuing mutually beneficial ered as a series of four webinars, over six the Office provided guidance to develop ways to prevent, mitigate and remedy the weeks, in July and August. The discussions legislation and terms of reference for the adverse impacts of business activities on examined how climate migration is expe- NMRF in Kiribati. An NMRF was estab- human rights. Discussions also focused rienced and addressed within the Pacific at lished in Tonga through a decision that on how private sector organizations can the national and regional levels. Key policy was adopted by the Cabinet in 2020. improve their human rights due diligence and legal gaps were outlined that relate to when assessing their supply chains and In addition, OHCHR carried out climate change, migration, displacement business practices. Participants included capacity-building activities with NMRFs. and planned relocation. Participants representatives from the private sector, In July, the Office launched the Pacific assessed whether migration that is volun- UN entities, CSOs, HRDs and academia. principles of practice during a side event at tarily undertaken as a response to climate Specific sessions were held on the United the forty-fourth session of the HRC. The change is a viable adaptation approach Nations Guiding Principles on Business document provides NMRFs with guidance for small PICTs. They also explored the and Human Rights (UNGPs) and the need on the effective implementation of human dynamics of such migrations and devel- for Pacific States to commit to developing rights and SDGs and is based on efforts oped key messages on climate-related national plans of action on business and that began in 2015, following a regional migration, displacement and planned human rights. The Forum unpacked the workshop that was held in Fiji. Despite relocation for future discussions with poli- UNGP pillars, highlighting the respon- COVID-19 travel restrictions, the Office cymakers in the Pacific. Recommendations sibilities of States and businesses and organized hybrid online and in-person emanating from the discussions provided providing analytical summaries of pos- trainings for NMRFs. In August, it deliv- the starting point for the Regional Policy sible grievance mechanisms to ensure the ered a training to the Kiribati National Dialogue on climate change-related migra- availability of effective remedies for vic- Human Rights Taskforce on CAT. In tion, displacement and planned relocation. December, the Office trained government tims of rights violations. officials from Papua New Guinea on CRC.

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Furthermore, the Office continued to discussion identified entry points to enable raise awareness about the UNGPs by the mandate holder to support and engage providing capacity-building workshops with HRDs in the Pacific. This engage- to HRDs, State representatives and busi- ment included assistance with a course ness actors in the Pacific. A one-month on HRDs, which will be launched at capacity-building course was held, during the University of the South Pacific in which participants discussed a variety of collaboration with the Regional Office human rights issues affecting businesses for the Pacific. In addition, OHCHR in the Pacific, including corruption, mod- held a workshop on climate change and ern day slavery in the fishing sector and youth in the Pacific, which sought to labour practices in the construction and explore the impact of climate change retail industries. on human rights and demonstrate how youth groups involved in climate action can use the international human rights Participation mechanisms in cases of human rights vio- lations. Moreover, the event underscored P1 – Staff of national protection systems some of the ways in which youth groups receive capacity-building training. Civil can advocate with States at the HRC society actors receive technical assis- and the General Assembly. Advice was tance, including training, to increase also provided on how to liaise with the their capacity to monitor and influence special procedures. national protection systems. Oversight and accountability mechanisms improve Before the advent of travel restrictions, access to justice and widen civic space. the Office continued to undertake scop- ing missions in the Marshall Islands, PNG, Tuvalu and Vanuatu to understand OHCHR contributed to increasing the and analyse trends, risks, developments use of national protection systems in and challenges related to WHRDs. A compliance with international human number of WHRDs from these coun- rights standards. tries joined the Pacific Human Rights Defenders Network. UN Human Rights intensified its engagement with NHRIs, CSOs, youth organizations and developmental stake- holders in the Pacific region on issues related to climate change, business and human rights. New partnerships were created or reinforced, which enabled OHCHR to empower marginalized and vulnerable groups to participate in devel- opment discussions. The Office increased its advocacy with Pacific States on inclu- sive and people-centred approaches. Following the adoption of HRC decision 43/115, OHCHR convened a meeting with the Special Rapporteur on the sit- uation of human rights defenders. The

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rights mechanisms was reiterated at the PHILIPPINES highest level during the 2020 Department Population size1 Surface area1 Human Development Index2 NHRI (if applicable)3 of Justice Human Rights Summit, which 2 109.58 million 300,000 km 0.718 (rank: 107/189 in 2019) “A” Status (2012) was held from 4 to 10 December. Type of engagement Human Rights Adviser The Government remained reluctant Year established 2014 to allow special procedures to visit the Field office(s) Manila Philippines and no official missions took place in 2020. During the second half of the Philippines-United Nations Partnership Framework UN partnership framework year, however, the Government increased for Sustainable Development 2019-2023 the number of its responses to communica- Staff as of 31 December 2020 1 tions sent by the special procedures.

XB requirements 2020 US$279,000 M2 – CSOs increasingly engage with the human rights treaty bodies, the special Key OMP pillars in 2020 procedures and the UPR.

1 2 3 Please refer to Data sources and notes on p. 229

OHCHR provided support for the sub- stantive submissions to the human rights PILLAR RESULTS: treaty bodies, the special procedures and the UPR by the NHRI and CSOs.

Mechanisms The UN Joint Programme on Human The Government and civil society actors Rights will aim at strengthening domes- engaged in the process leading to the M1 – An institutional mechanism is estab- tic accountability measures, including by: publication of the High Commissioner’s lished to integrate reporting into human establishing pathways for the compre- report on the situation of human rights in rights mechanisms and facilitate the imple- hensive investigation of cases of alleged the Philippines (A/HRC/44/22), in June, mentation of their recommendations. human rights violations; strengthening the and the subsequent negotiations on the HRC resolution. CSOs conducted advo- Administrative Order No. 35 mechanism and advancing the NPM Act; enhancing cacy and representatives from the Ateneo OHCHR contributed to the improved victim and witness protection; and apply- Human Rights Centre and the Human engagement with the international human ing a human rights-based approach to Rights Commission of the Philippines rights mechanisms. counter-terrorism activities and efforts to (HRCP) participated in a panel during the Council’s session. UN Human Rights UN Human Rights held consultations with combat the illegal drug trade. engaged with the HRCP and civil society the Presidential Human Rights Committee During the year, high-level government actors to ensure that their views were inte- (PHRC) to discuss ways to strengthen its officials expressed their willingness to grated into the UN Joint Programme on reporting and follow-up activities and the cooperate with the international human Human Rights, which was developed in formulation of the UN Joint Programme rights mechanisms, including during accordance with the six areas outlined in on Human Rights. An agreement was negotiations on HRC resolution 45/33. the resolution. reached to include the roll-out of a human The Government’s approach facilitated rights database and relevant training in the adoption of resolution 45/33 on OHCHR continued to support submis- the UN Joint Programme plan for 2021. capacity-building and technical coop- sions by the NHRI and CSOs to the human The Committee also agreed to advocate eration on 7 October. This willingness rights treaty bodies, the special procedures for the formal adoption of the NPM Act. to engage with the international human and the UPR. In 2020, a number of CSOs

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submitted information to: the Special In a positive development, the UN Joint Rapporteur on the promotion and pro- Programme on Human Rights, which tection of the right to freedom of opinion is scheduled to be launched in 2021, and expression; the Special Rapporteur is included under the People Pillar, on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary situating it firmly within the program- killings; and the Special Rapporteur on matic framework. the situation of human rights defenders. The Human Rights Committee’s consid- Participation eration of the fifth periodic report of the Philippines was postponed. In January, P2 – The UN system and international, eight CSOs submitted reports to the regional and national mechanisms pro- Committee in anticipation of its adop- vide increased, timely and effective tion of the list of issues in relation to the protection to CSOs and individuals, Philippines. As of the end of the year, the including from reprisals. Government’s response to the list of issues OHCHR contributed to the increased was not yet published. protection of HRDs and journalists through advocacy and outreach.

Development UN Human Rights increased its inter- ventions to protect HRDs. The Office D7 – The UNCT integrates human rights issued a press release on the killing of two norms, standards and principles into the HRDs, in August, and intensified its pri- formulation and implementation of pro- vate advocacy activities. Subsequently, the grammes and projects. Government announced a special inves- OHCHR significantly contributed to the tigation into the two killings. OHCHR integration of human rights norms into strengthened its outreach to HRDs activities implemented in relation to the facing risks and red-tagging (whereby Philippines-United Nations Partnership government officials label individuals Framework for Sustainable Development as communists, putting them at risk of 2019-2023. human rights violations) and engaged with UNESCO to address the situation UN Human Rights provided inputs of journalists at risk in the Philippines. regarding the process of updating the CCA, which had a strong focus on socio-economic development, in order to improve the economic conditions of the most vulnerable populations. The HRA also contributed to the prepa- ration of the UNCT’s Socio-Economic and Peacebuilding Framework for COVID-19 Recovery in the Philippines. The Framework, which was finalized in December, includes a thorough analysis of the groups that are at the highest risk of being left behind and applies a human rights-based approach to the three pillars.

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA Mechanisms Population size1 Surface area1 Human Development Index2 NHRI (if applicable)3 M1 – PNG ratifies at least two additional 2 8.95 million 463,000 km 0.555 (rank: 155/189 in 2019) - international human rights instruments, Type of engagement Human Rights Adviser including CAT, and one or more of the optional protocols to ICCPR, ICESCR, Year established 2008 CEDAW and CRC. The Government Field office(s) Port Moresby strengthens its reporting to the human UN partnership framework United Nations Partnership Framework 2018–2022 rights treaty bodies, the coordination of its reports and its engagement with the Staff as of 31 December 2020 2 international human rights mechanisms.

XB requirements 2020 US$1,075,000 OHCHR supported improved mech- Key OMP pillars in 2020 anisms for integrated reporting to the international human rights mechanisms. 1 2 3 Please refer to Data sources and notes on p. 229 To ensure the wide participation of stakeholders in the UPR review pro- cess, UN Human Rights supported the Government in carrying out consultations PILLAR RESULTS: in three regions, including Port Moresby. In cooperation with UNICEF, the HRA established a working group for report- Development The HRA delivered online training on ing to CRC, which enabled consultations human rights monitoring to a network D7 – The UNCT actively works with the with stakeholders and a division of labour of CSOs, which enabled the Office to between departments for the collection Government and civil society to address monitor ESCRs during the COVID-19- of information required for reporting. the latest UPR recommendations to related lockdown and state of emergency The Government was unable to continue Papua New Guinea (PNG) through their measures. As a result of this collabora- its preparation of the State Party report integration into the implementation of tion, OHCHR produced weekly and under ICCPR due to COVID-19. the UNDAF. monthly reports on the human rights OHCHR contributed to the increased situation in the country, which were integration into UN policies and pro- used by the UNCT to take action on key Peace and Security grammes of international human rights issues, including the excessive use of force PS4 – The Autonomous Bougainville standards and recommendations issued by security officers, the lack of access to Government develops a comprehensive by the international human rights basic services of vulnerable groups and an policy to address past, present and future mechanisms. increased prevalence of sexual and gen- der-based violence (SGBV). Furthermore, human rights violations and promote rec- UN Human Rights supported the UNCT the HRA participated in humanitarian onciliation with respect to past conflicts in in integrating a human rights-based coordination meetings, including those Bougainville. approach into the COVID-19 SERP. The of the Protection Cluster, and brought HRA provided support for the imple- human rights issues to the attention of mentation of the UNCT human rights relevant government authorities. OHCHR contributed to the improved func- and gender strategy and the integration tioning of transitional justice mechanisms, of a Disability Inclusion Strategy into UN in conformity with international human programming in PNG. rights standards.

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During the Bougainville parliamentary SOUTH-EAST ASIA elections, in August and September, UN Human Rights enhanced the capacity of Type of engagement Regional Office community-based human rights advocates Brunei Darussalam, , Lao People’s to use human rights monitoring checklists Countries of engagement Democratic Republic (PDR), Malaysia, and facilitated focus group discussions. Myanmar, , Thailand and Viet Nam At the same time, OHCHR monitored Year established 2002 the situation of human rights through the Field office(s) Bangkok, Thailand activities of the groups and provided regu- lar updates to the UNCT on human rights Staff as of 31 December 2020 21 issues related to the elections.

XB income US$4,213,930 Non-discrimination XB requirements 2020 US$4,679,000 ND6 – Civil society organizations and XB expenditure US$3,366,435 the Government increasingly monitor and Personnel Non-personnel PSC4 64% 24% 12% address human rights violations suffered $2,153,979 $ 8 0 7, 74 4 $404,712 by refugees, migrants and targeted vulner- able groups, advocate on their behalf and RB expenditure US$626,964 produce regular public reports. Personnel Non-personnel 89% 11% $560,487 $66,477

Key OMP pillars in 2020

4 OHCHR contributed to the monitoring of Please refer to Data sources and notes on p. 231 the human rights situation of vulnerable groups, with a focus on asylum seekers PILLAR RESULTS: and refugees. UN Human Rights monitored the human On 10 December, UN Human Rights col- rights situation of asylum seekers, partic- Participation laborated with UN Women, UNESCO ularly those living near the West Papua P1 – Civil society can operate more freely and regional CSOs to launch a series border area and those remaining in PNG and civic space is more fully protected by of webinars for women journalists and after the closure of the Australian regional laws and policies and in practice. Civil media workers. A total of 41 participants processing centre on Manus Island. The society organizations engage more often took part in the programme, which will monitoring revealed poor living con- and more fully with the international continue for seven months, to strengthen ditions and the lack of capacity of local human rights mechanisms. The com- networking across the region, provide a authorities to address the protection con- munications of special procedures more space for sharing experiences and dis- cerns of the refugees. OHCHR referred frequently highlight the challenges that seminate practical information about the complaints received to relevant gov- civil society faces in the region. ways to enhance digital/online security ernment bodies and UNHCR. A planned and self-protection. The Office also sup- joint visit by UNHCR and OHCHR and ported the ICJ and Article 19 to bolster related trainings were cancelled due to OHCHR contributed to strengthening the their capacities in relation to their engage- COVID-19 restrictions. protection and empowerment of civil soci- ment on cyber issues and freedom of ety actors, including women journalists. expression, respectively.

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P6 – The voices of people who are affected justice, reparation and guarantees of In Indonesia and Malaysia, UN Human by decisions, particularly victims and non-occurrence with NHRIs, namely, the Rights advocated for better compliance those facing discrimination, are more National Commission on Human Rights with international human rights standards clearly heard. (Komnas HAM) and the Commission of legislation and policies on the land on Violence against Women (Komnas rights of indigenous peoples. The Office Perempuan). Discussions focused on legal provided support to strengthen the capac- OHCHR provided technical support to and political challenges and opportunities ities of NHRIs and CSOs in monitoring, empower rights-holders, especially youth, underlying the design and implementation documenting and reporting violations of environmental, land and human rights. women and vulnerable groups, to partic- of national transitional justice strategies In Indonesia, the Office supported the ipate in public processes and engage with and mechanisms in Indonesia. engagement of the UNCT with the the international human rights mecha- In Lao PDR and Viet Nam, OHCHR Government on draft legislation, including nisms to claim their rights. provided support to CSOs to prioritize on proposed amendments to the Criminal UN Human Rights increased its engage- emblematic cases for submission to the Code and the recently adopted Omnibus ment with youth to address climate change special procedures, including on ESCRs. Law that could potentially violate interna- and environmental issues. Through a In September, submissions were made tional human rights law, particularly the joint UNICEF/OHCHR/UNEP regional to CRC in advance of the pre-sessional rights of indigenous peoples and environ- initiative, 17 youth experts from eight working group on Viet Nam. OHCHR mental rights. Association of Southeast Asian Nations facilitated a meeting between Vietnamese Furthermore, OHCHR cooperated with (ASEAN) countries joined ASEAN experts CSOs and the Special Rapporteur on the FAO on a regional study on the right to in drafting 37 principles to guide the real- situation of human rights defenders to sup- food of indigenous peoples and its con- ization of children’s right to a safe, clean, port the exchange of information on cases. nection to land rights, climate and the With OHCHR’s support, a CSO from healthy and sustainable environment. environment. The study will be launched in Lao PDR submitted a report to a number In Indonesia and Malaysia, OHCHR con- 2021 and will be used to inform advocacy of special procedures, which resulted in tinued to work closely with WHRDs and with governments and other stakeholders. a joint allegation letter that was sent to LGBTI groups, supporting their engage- the Government on the rights to food, ment with the international human rights housing, health, the environment and the mechanisms. In July, the Office facilitated D5 – Laws and policies on the environ- situation of the Hmong community. the online engagement of WHRDs with ment, climate change, the extractive the CEDAW pre-sessional working group. industries and urban planning comply This resulted in contributions that were with international human rights stan- Development submitted to the Committee prior to its dards and the United Nations Framework adoption of the list of issues in relation to D3 – In the subregion, relevant minis- Convention on Climate Change. National institutions and CSOs act to ensure Indonesia’s initial and periodic reports. In tries, departments and parliamentary that rights-holders can participate in November, the Office conducted a webinar committees incorporate human rights decision-making processes on the envi- with WHRDs in Indonesia on enhancing standards and frameworks when they ful- ronment and climate change and engage human rights monitoring, reporting and fil their mandates on land, housing and with duty-bearers and the private sector. documentation skills. Particular emphasis poverty. They also give due attention to gender concerns. was placed on interacting with the special procedures, the Human Rights Committee and CEDAW ahead of Indonesia’s reviews OHCHR contributed to enhancing the by these mechanisms in 2021. integration of international human rights OHCHR contributed to improving the standards into climate change and envi- In Indonesia, the Office facilitated a vir- compliance with international human ronment policies. tual consultation between the Special rights standards of laws and policies Rapporteur on the promotion of truth, related to the environment and land.

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UN Human Rights joined the Issue-based D7 – UNCTs and UN agencies in UNDAF UNSDCF is considerably stronger than Coalition on Climate Change Mitigation roll-out countries (2018-2021) and coun- the previous UN Partnership Framework. and Air Pollution in the Asia-Pacific tries that support separate SDG planning It focuses on non-discrimination and region and provided inputs to the regional or programming have adopted a rights- identifies risks associated with stigma advocacy messages. The Office also sup- based approach to development planning and discrimination against marginalized ported the development of a joint regional and implementation that complies with groups as factors that could jeopardize the UN advocacy strategy on Air Pollution international human rights norms, stan- achievement of the SDGs. The UNSDCF for Asia and the Pacific. In addition, dards and principles. of Malaysia is expected to be signed in OHCHR and UNDP co-organized a side June 2021. OHCHR supported the mainstreaming of event on HRDs at the United Nations human rights into the process leading to The Issue-based Coalition on Human Virtual Forum on Responsible Business the adoption of new CCAs and UNSDCFs Rights, Gender Equality and Women’s and Human Rights and on human rights Empowerment, which was established, in and the environment with UNEP/OECD. in the region. March, as part of the UN Development The Office collaborated with UNEP and UN Human Rights supported the inte- System Reform and is co-chaired by UNICEF to organize a virtual expert gration of human rights, gender equality OHCHR, supported the preparation of a group meeting on policy guidance for pro- and the principle of LNOB into the Guidance Note on including gender equal- moting and protecting children’s rights preparation and adoption of new CCAs ity and human rights in rapid assessments to a healthy environment in the ASEAN and UNSDCFs in China, Indonesia, and socio-economic surveys on the impact region, with the participation of a CRC Lao PDR, the Maldives, Myanmar, of COVID-19. It also developed other tools member and the Special Rapporteur on Thailand, Timor-Leste and Viet Nam. and resources, such as common messaging the issue of human rights obligations The Office provided training and tech- for UNCTs and a repository of resources relating to the enjoyment of a safe, clean, nical advice to UNCTs and UN partners. in support of COVID-19 response and healthy and sustainable environment. In Online training sessions were provided recovery. OHCHR was closely involved addition, the Office partnered with UNEP to Indonesia, Myanmar and Thailand. in the development of SERPs for Lao PDR, to produce a regional study on the impacts In Indonesia, OHCHR delivered a train- Malaysia and Myanmar, which were iden- of COVID-19 on environmental rights. ing on the use of human rights indicators tified as good examples of the integration On the occasion of World Environment and markers in UNCT-led initiatives and of human rights. Day, the Office released a statement, programmatic responses. launched a video on climate change and OHCHR co-led and provided secretar- The Office contributed extensively to the posted on its social media platforms to iat support for the Asia-Pacific Human CCA process in Lao PDR and Viet Nam. raise awareness about the relationship Rights Network, which includes UN staff It supported the mainstreaming of human between climate change, the environment from regional and country presences. In rights and the LNOB principle throughout and human rights. 2020, during the course of six meetings, the process, drafted human rights content the Network focused on enabling UNCTs and supported a multidimensional risk to make use of information issued by the analysis by the UNCT. As a result, the international human rights mechanisms. draft CCAs include key recommenda- In 2021, the Network will be merged tions that were issued by the international with the Issue-based Coalition on Human human rights mechanisms. Moreover, the Rights, Gender Equality and Women’s Office provided expert advice to ensure Empowerment. To celebrate Human the mainstreaming of human rights Rights Day, the Issue-based Coalition into the SEIAs and SERPs of Lao PDR, organized a 10-day social media cam- Malaysia, Myanmar and Viet Nam. paign engaging 12 regional UN entities. OHCHR contributed to the drafting Thirty stories from across the region were of the UNSDCFs of China, Indonesia, shared, highlighting the perspectives of Malaysia and Timor-Leste. Indonesia’s youth, defenders of the environment and

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indigenous peoples and LGBTI activists. The High Commissioner for Human Building Resilience and it organized a vir- Discussions included the right to health Rights wrote a letter to the Prime Minister tual conversation, in December, between and the rights of persons with disabilities. of Thailand, advocating for the rights of 15 RCs from the region and the Special A regional public online event was orga- persons deprived of their liberty in the Rapporteur on the human rights of inter- nized on the transformation of economies context of COVID-19, including regular nally displaced persons. with a greater focus on human rights and detainees and migrants in Immigration gender equality. Detention Centres (IDCs). This contrib- uted to ending the detention of children Peace and Security The Office provided advice for the inte- in IDCs. In addition, OHCHR provided gration of human rights into the Twelfth PS5 – UN country policies and inputs to a letter from the RC to the Malaysia Plan, including through inputs programmes, including UNDAFs, success- Police General, who is responsible for the to the draft UNCT Policy brief on human fully integrate international human rights Immigration Bureau and IDCs, regarding rights and development for the Twelfth norms, standards and principles, including action to be taken to enhance the rights of Malaysia Plan and the mapping of the recommendations issued by the inter- detained migrants during the pandemic. follow-up to accepted UPR recommen- national human rights mechanisms. dations. OHCHR participated in the Furthermore, the Office released a public regional support group for the UNCT in statement, in April, highlighting the struc- Nepal to pilot the interim guidance on the tural vulnerabilities faced by migrants in OHCHR contributed to the stronger inte- operationalization of the LNOB principle. the context of the COVID-19 response. gration of human rights standards into It called on governments to take specific the UN development and humanitarian action to protect the human rights of cooperation mechanisms at the regional Non-discrimination migrants. OHCHR continued to monitor, and country levels, including by building document and internally report on the situ- ND6 – Migration governance measures capacity and providing analysis and tech- ation of migrants in the Asia-Pacific region (national and regional laws, regulations, nical expertise. and to advocate for a human rights-based policies, processes and agreements and response to migration and COVID-19. UN Human Rights Emergency Response their implementation) increasingly com- The Office provided assistance to UNCTs Teams (ERTs) made good progress in ply with international human rights law. to strengthen the protection of the rights strengthening human rights risk analysis Sustained advocacy is undertaken with of migrants in COVID-19 responses in in support of UNCTs, in line with the States to ensure migrants in vulnerable countries such as Bangladesh, , Human Rights up Front Initiative and the situations have improved access to their Malaysia, the Maldives and Thailand. It prevention agenda. The early warning sys- human rights, with particular attention drafted a chapter on border governance tem established in Myanmar, in 2019, was given to their specific experiences, views and mainstreamed human rights into the an example of a system-based approach and needs. Positive public narratives Asia-Pacific Migration Report, which was to human rights risk identification and based on human rights, shared values launched by ESCAP and other partners on analysis for the UN. In 2020, the ERT was and common humanity increasingly 18 December. The Office held a virtual ses- closely involved in strengthening human challenge and reframe negative narratives sion on rights-based border management rights risk analysis in the CCAs for a num- about migrants. for the Maldives Police and translated ber of countries in the region. With regard OHCHR’s training materials on human to the Thailand CCA, the ERT worked

rights at international borders into regional with the Thailand Team and SDG focal languages. In May, OHCHR organized a point, delivered risk analysis training to virtual expert consultation on the role of the UNCT/CCA drafting team and pro- OHCHR contributed to increasing the Private Security and Military Companies vided written inputs for the development compliance of oversight, accountability or in immigration enforcement in the Asia- of the risk analysis. The ERT also facili- protection mechanisms with international Pacific region. The Office was invited to tated a human rights stocktaking exercise human rights standards on issues related co-chair the workstream on disaster dis- in Lao PDR, in February, which created to the rights of migrants. placement of the Issues-based Coalition on the basis for a strong human rights risk

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analysis in the draft CCA. In addition, the Furthermore, the information manage- consideration and a roll-out was under ERT delivered a workshop on risk analysis ment function of the ERT was critical consideration by Cambodia. The Office to the CCA drafting team in Viet Nam in supporting the early warning media delivered a capacity-building training to and prepared a draft risk matrix, which analysis, which informed the risk analysis the NHRI of Malaysia, with the parti- was included in the draft CCA. and prevention work of the Office. More cipation of two CED experts, which specifically, the ERT used the NewsDesk included a discussion on the ratification In May, OHCHR and the UN Disaster system for the development of the Daily process of ICPPED. Risk Reduction Office co-organized a News Digest and the DEEP platform and webinar on human rights and COVID- In Malaysia, no direct activities were Tableau for its analysis and visualization 19, with a focus on the rights of migrants, initiated to enhance the capacity of the work. A dashboard on special procedures racism, xenophobia and hate speech, the Government to ratify outstanding trea- communications relating to fundamental impact of emergency measures on free- ties, which was primarily due to a shift freedoms and civic space was created for dom of expression and the situation of in the Government’s priorities. Yet, dis- countries in the Asia region. persons deprived of their liberty. The cussions continued with the Government Office’s ERT contributed analysis to The NHRI Human Rights in on increasing its capacity to systemati- inter-agency initiatives, including inputs Humanitarian Action community of prac- cally implement the recommendations to the Secretary-General’s policy brief on tice continued to be supported during the emanating from the international human rights mechanisms, with a focus on the the impact of COVID-19 on South-East COVID-19 crisis through a series of webi- submission of timely and quality reports Asia and to a UNDP study on lessons for nars. NHRI participants made significant and the UPR follow-up process. Advocacy pandemic recovery. progress in engaging on human rights in the context of COVID-19. efforts were also directed at establishing The emerging crises in Thailand, resulting an NRMF. from the Government’s response to the student-led pro-democracy movement, Mechanisms became an increasing area of focus as of July. The ERT produced regular reports M1 – NMRFs are established or strength- as the situation developed. Following ened. They report to the human rights the adoption of the Omnibus Law in treaty bodies and implement recommen- Indonesia, similar crises are emerging dations issued by the international human with the potential for severe consequences rights mechanisms. for economic and social rights, gen- der equality and environmental rights. This was a focus for the ERT in its rapid OHCHR supported the creation and/or response function. strengthening of mechanisms for inte- grated reporting and/or implementation The ERT also increased OHCHR’s visibil- of the recommendations issued by the ity in IASC structures, including through international human rights mechanisms. contributions to the Regional Emergency Preparedness Group, the Reference UN Human Rights conducted two work- Group on Gender in Humanitarian shops on reporting to the human rights Action, the Risk Communications and treaty bodies (in Malaysia and Thailand) Community Engagement Working Group and increased the profile of the National and the COVID-19 Working Group. Recommendations Tracking Database The ERT developed key messages for to promote NRMFs among Member risk communications about COVID-19 States. In 2020, the roll-out was in prog- for vulnerable groups, such as persons ress in Thailand, a formal request was deprived of their liberty. received from Malaysia and was under

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Strengthening the engagement of indigenous peoples in Asia with the international human rights mechanisms

The webinars focused on land rights, climate change, the environment and HRDs and provided a meaningful plat- form for participants to engage with the Special Rapporteur. The online sessions “proved timely and were very much needed,” said Alice Mathew, a native of Malaysian Borneo and the Regional Office’s Senior Indigenous Fellow. “It is crucial to keep up the momentum and amplify indigenous voices, particularly in Asia,” she added. “We need more dialogue spaces with different stakeholders to exchange expe- riences, highlight challenges and share our best practices for solutions. While the richness and effectiveness of in-person During the regional consultation, in Bangkok, in November 2020, Victoria Tauli-Corpuz, discussions with the Special Rapporteur the former Special Rapporteur on the rights of indigenous peoples, met with representatives may not be replaced by online platforms, of indigenous peoples’ organizations from Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, the Philippines, Thailand, Timor-Leste and Viet they give indigenous peoples direct access Nam. © OHCHR/Todd Pitman to the Special Rapporteur, humanize the UN mechanisms and offer a platform to exchange information and find joint solu- The voices of indigenous peoples are often indigenous peoples, including academ- tions to the challenges we face. We cannot excluded from the mainstream conversa- ics, lawyers and representatives of CSOs build back better unless the voices of indig- tions where they are most needed. This from across Asia. Inputs gathered during enous peoples are heard.” situation is even more critical in Asia, the meeting were instrumental in the which is home to more than two-thirds of preparation of the report of the Special A final webinar in the series, focused on the world’s indigenous peoples – totalling Rapporteur on the rights of indigenous sustainable development, will be held approximately 400 million. peoples. The report was presented to the in 2021. Human Rights Council, in September. In an effort to bridge this gap, the UN Human Rights Regional Office for To continue these discussions, UN South-East Asia partnered with the Asia Human Rights collaborated with the Indigenous Peoples Pact (AIPP) and the Special Rapporteur and the AIPP to Indigenous Peoples’ International Centre deliver two webinars, on 30 October and for Policy Research and Education to hold 26 November, during which the Special a regional consultation, in November Rapporteur briefed indigenous repre- 2019. The conference brought together sentatives on the report’s findings and a more than 100 representatives of plan to implement its recommendations.

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SRI LANKA Mechanisms Population size1 Surface area1 Human Development Index2 NHRI (if applicable)3 M1 – Sri Lanka’s standing invitation con- 21.41 million 66,000 km² 0.782 (rank: 72/189 in 2019) “A” Status (2018) tinues to result in visit requests from the Type of engagement Human Rights Adviser special procedures and the Government agrees to visit dates and formats and facil- Year established 2004 itates their constructive engagement. Field office(s) Colombo

United Nations Sustainable Development UN partnership framework Framework 2018-2022 OHCHR continued to support the Staff as of 31 December 2020 4 engagement of the special procedures with Sri Lanka. XB requirements 2020 US$1,018,000 The new Government retained the stand- ing invitation to the special procedures, Key OMP pillars in 2020 however, no visits took place in 2020 due 1 2 3 Please refer to Data sources and notes on p. 229 to COVID-19 restrictions. Provided that travel restrictions are lifted in 2021, two visits are being planned by the Special Rapporteur on the right to education and PILLAR RESULTS: the Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of slavery, including its causes and consequences. UN Human Rights offered Accountability the changing human rights environment. support to the mandate holders, resulting The OMP produced a landmark, compre- A2 – Sri Lanka, in accordance with HRC in five communications that were issued hensive list of missing and disappeared resolution 30/1, implements a compre- in 2020 and two reports on past visits. persons and the Office for Reparations hensive transitional justice strategy that developed a draft policy which, if is victim-oriented, gender-sensitive and approved by the Cabinet, could offer basic in compliance with international human Peace and Security redress to some categories of victims. No rights standards. This strategy includes progress was made, however, with regards PS5 – The Human Rights Working Group an Office for Missing Persons (OMP), a to the establishment of a truth commis- (HRWG) acts as an early warning mech- Truth and Reconciliation Commission, sion or other accountability processes. anism in the event that the human rights a reparations programme and a credi- Instead, the accountability agenda suf- situation deteriorates. It also contributes ble, independent judicial accountability fered serious pushbacks in the form of to the application of a human rights-based mechanism with a special counsel and the interference with court cases, scrutiny of approach to specific programmes. participation of foreign legal experts. former investigators and surveillance of CSOs that are active in this area.

OHCHR supported the integration of OHCHR contributed to the creation and/ human rights into the programme poli- or functioning of oversight, accountability cies of UN entities, with a focus on early and protection mechanisms that operate warning and prevention. in conformity with international human rights standards. UN Human Rights contributed to analysis and advice from the RC to the UNCT and UN Human Rights continued to support headquarters. In addition, the RCO led transitional justice mechanisms, despite a Conflict Risk Analysis for the UNCT,

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with the support of the HRA, which Development emphasized prevention. D3 – Measures are in place to ensure In 2020, the UNCT strengthened its appli- the return of all land that is occu- cation of the HRDDP. More specifically, pied by the military, the payment of it produced a general and preliminary appropriate compensation and the set- HRDDP risk assessment for Sri Lanka tlement of land-related disputes linked and facilitated the preparation of stan- to displacement that occurred during the dard operating procedures (SOPs) for the 30-year conflict. implementation of the HRDDP. It also established a UNCT HRDDP Task Force that works alongside the HRWG. OHCHR contributed to the improved compliance of land legislation/poli- PS6 – All Sri Lankan military or police cies with international human rights personnel proposed for deployment in standards. UN peacekeeping operations undergo a UN Human Rights continued to advocate stringent screening process, which is led in relation to land issues. It closely fol- by civilians. lowed the establishment of problematic bodies, such as the Presidential Task Force for Archaeological Heritage Management OHCHR supported the Human Rights in the Eastern Province, which appear to Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL), the primarily represent majority community UN and the Government to integrate sensitivities. While it is not expected that international human rights norms, stan- the Government will make further prog- dards and principles into their work. ress in establishing independent bodies in With assistance from UN Human Rights, the near future, the HRA has increased its the HRCSL continued to screen peace- work on land issues as they are recognized keepers in 2020, using the tools developed as potential triggers for conflict. in 2018. Unfortunately, the formal independence of the Commission was significantly weakened through constitu- tional amendments that were introduced in October. The new commissioners were appointed in December. The procedure may have to be reviewed.

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previous years. There is growing inter- TIMOR-LESTE est in these trainings, as evidenced by an 1 1 2 3 Population size Surface area Human Development Index NHRI (if applicable) increase in requests for additional train- 1.32 million 15,000 km² 0.606 (rank: 141/189 in 2019) “A” Status (2018) ings in 2021. Nevertheless, much remains Type of engagement Human Rights Adviser to be done in a country that emerged from violent conflict less than 20 years Year established 2013 ago, where impunity continues to be rife, Field office(s) Dili police training is limited and investment United Nations Development Assistance in the police is low. UN partnership framework Framework 2015-2020 In consultation with the Office of the Staff as of 31 December 2020 4 Provedor for Human Rights and Justice (PDHJ), the HRA reviewed the human rights manual for the capacity-building XB requirements 2020 US$519,000 programme of the National Police of Timor-Leste, “Kna’ar polísia nian no Key OMP pillars in 2020 protesaun ba direitus umanus.” The pro- 1 2 3 Please refer to Data sources and notes on p. 229 gramme was launched by the PDHJ, in 2014, and attended by senior police offi- cials. The review of the manual included the identification of lessons learned from PILLAR RESULTS: the programme, its impact and ways to address challenges and enhance results to strengthen the respect for and protection Accountability officers (six women, 62 men) that focused of human rights. Recognition of the need on the role of the army to respect and pro- to further reflect on lessons learned was A1 – The police and army comply with tect human rights in times of crisis, during partially prompted by the fact that exist- international human rights standards that searches, arrest and the use of force. An ing legislation pertaining to the national prohibit torture and ill-treatment. in-depth discussion on states of emergency police of Timor-Leste was amended and was added in light of the COVID-19 pan- new legislation was adopted, creating the

demic and concerns regarding the actions need for updated training tools. OHCHR supported the police and the of the military during the more restrictive army in their compliance with interna- initial states of emergency. tional human rights norms and standards Non-discrimination Moreover, three training courses were that prohibit torture and ill-treatment by delivered to the national police. The ND1 – Legal drafters and judicial actors providing technical support and targeted training team included two trainers from take into account the rights of persons capacity-building initiatives. the Police Academy. A total of 72 police with disabilities. The new human rights training pro- officers (45 women, 27 men) learned about gramme for the national army, which human rights when using force and during began in 2018, continued in the second arrest and detention. In addition, one of OHCHR contributed to improving the half of 2020. The programme is orga- the courses was specifically focused on level of compliance of selected State insti- nized by the NHRI, in partnership with women police officers. According to data tutions/programmes with international UN Human Rights, and includes trainers collected by the NHRI, four police agents human rights standards. from the Ministry of Defence and Security who attended the human rights training of Timor-Leste and the army. Three five- were involved in human rights violations In 2020, 10 persons with disabilities, day training courses were delivered to 68 in 2020, representing a decrease from who were trained by UN Human Rights

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under the United Nations Partnership on to promote more inclusive and accessible produced a booklet and a 2021 calendar, the Rights of Persons with Disabilities information, especially for persons with which include messages about equality, (UNPRPD), became lead facilitators and disabilities, the Government of Timor- non-discrimination, participation, sus- cooperated with OHCHR to deliver a Leste and ADTL signed an agreement tainable development and building back training to 20 staff members (eight women, regarding the use of sign language during better, in order to ensure that human rights 12 men) from the Ministry of Justice on the specific nationally televised events. is at the centre of the country’s recovery. toolkit for the prevention of gender-based Furthermore, the HRA supported the violence against women and children with NHRI to mark Human Rights Day with disabilities (produced in 2019 under the ND7 – The public supports the applica- a seminar about the impacts of COVID- UNPRPD). The training focused on issues tion of a human rights-based approach to 19 on the human rights situation in the of equality and access to general court disability. The public opposes discrimi- country. This provided the NHRI with an services. Within this project, OHCHR nation based on sexual orientation and opportunity to present the findings of its is contributing to the development of the gender identity. monitoring of the many states of emergency terms of reference for the mapping of judi- in place across the country. OHCHR also cial services for women and children with disabilities who are victims of violence. It gave a presentation about the socio-economic OHCHR contributed to strengthening the also aims to strengthen their capacity to impacts of COVID-19. The seminar was narrative on the rights of persons with disa- ensure that judicial services are disabil- attended by approximately 100 people bilities and LGBTI persons in Timor-Leste ity-inclusive, with a special focus on the and created an opportunity for dialogue by providing expert advice on compliance police and the Public Defender’s Office. between the NHRI, the general public and with international human rights law and the Government on issues of concern. The HRA continued to support organi- supporting advocacy campaigns. zations of persons with disabilities in OHCHR produced a research report UN Human Rights continued to provide their calls for the ratification of CRPD, about the situation of LGBTI persons technical support to the ADTL in its advo- including through advocacy with different in accessing education (secondary and cacy for persons with disabilities. The ministries. These joint efforts increased university) in Timor-Leste, the level of ADTL launched a campaign featuring levels of support for and awareness about inclusiveness and safety of schools and empowered persons with disabilities and the rights of persons with disabilities and universities for LGBTI persons and rec- positive role models of individuals who the ratification of CRPD at the highest lev- ommendations to improve the situation. embrace inclusion and make use of tra- els of the Government and the Parliament. The HRA also developed a brochure with ditional and social media to do so. The An increasing number of ministries are recommendations for students, teachers campaign is aimed at raising awareness making efforts to better integrate disabil- and families about promoting safe and about the equal rights of persons with disa- ity and implement actions in line with the inclusive schools. Bullying, stigma and bilities and reducing the use of stigmatizing 2012 National Policy on the Inclusion and discrimination significantly contribute to language and discriminatory behavior. It Promotion of the Rights of Persons with the incidence of school/university drop- also reinforces calls for the ratification of Disabilities. For example, the Ministry of out rates among members of the LGBTI CRPD. The campaign is funded through Public Works issued a regulation that all community, affecting their ability to access the UNPRPD. building construction, public and private, qualified employment opportunities. In needs to accommodate persons with disa- On the occasion of Human Rights Day, December, NAFOFILA, a CSO, collabo- bilities. This was achieved through a series OHCHR organized an exhibition of rated with OHCHR to organize a theatre of advocacy events, led by the Association paintings made by Timorese artists to performance in the Ainaro Municipality of Persons with Disabilities in Timor-Leste call attention to the impacts of COVID- on the challenges faced by LGBTI per- (ADTL), the platform for organizations of 19 on society’s most vulnerable groups. sons in their communities. For instance, persons with disabilities in Timor-Leste Each of the 12 artists portrayed a different most discrimination and violence against under the UNPRPD project. Additionally, group. The exhibition will travel to Timor- LGBTI persons in Timor-Leste comes Leste’s municipalities throughout 2021. In from their own families. Approximately anticipation of the exhibition, OHCHR 100 people attended the play and showed

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great interest. After the performance, sev- on human rights for youth representatives Development eral participants offered positive feedback involved in the Community Police Council about the initiative, which kept the public from 21 villages in Ainaro Municipality. D7 – National actors and the United engaged and portrayed the impact of dis- These training courses were organized by Nations integrate human rights norms crimination, underlining the need to respect the Commander of the National Police and standards into their programmes. everyone’s rights. of Timor-Leste of the Municipality of OHCHR contributed to the satisfactory Ainaro. OHCHR facilitated sessions on integration of international human rights human rights, the rights of persons with standards into UN common country disabilities and of LGBTI persons, while Participation programmes, including the recommen- the police trainers focused on the role dations issued by the international human P6 – Youth, women and discriminated of the Community Police Council. This rights mechanisms. groups, and those who represent them, engagement contributed to empowering regularly advocate for human rights. youth to respect and protect the rights of In the context of COVID-19, UN Human vulnerable groups in their community. Rights provided guidance and inputs and

The NHRI from the Manufahi Regional shared relevant standards and documents OHCHR contributed to enhancing Centre was a partner in this initiative and with the UNCT to integrate human rights the meaningful participation of youth, shared information about its mandate and into the prevention and response strategy LGBTI persons and women in selected how to submit complaints. to the pandemic, including within the public processes by providing techni- socio-economic framework. The HRA Furthermore, the HRA supported the cal expertise, funding and support for also provided a briefing to the UNCT on Movimento Feto Foin Sae Timor-Leste advocacy campaigns. the impacts of COVID-19 on the human (MOFFE), a CSO working on women’s rights situation in Timor-Leste and on the The Human Rights Defenders Network issues, to organize a public debate compe- guidance regarding their engagement in tition with youth groups and youth from (HRDN), which was established in 2015 the UPR process. Timor-Leste is planning four secondary schools. The activity was through a grant from UN Human Rights, to submit its State report in anticipation organized in the context of the 16 Days of is now composed of 11 CSOs. During the of its third UPR cycle, which is scheduled Activism against Gender-Based Violence year, it conducted joint public advocacy, to take place in 2021. The RC requested campaign. Over 300 participants were focused on addressing impunity and called OHCHR to activate a human rights work- invited to deliver a strong pitch about for enhanced respect for human rights. As ing group and ensure that the UNCT women’s rights. MOFFE also organized the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded, the contributes to the process. network concentrated on monitoring the a campaign about the power of men to restrictions established under the states of end violence and stand up for women’s emergency in Timor-Leste. Two reports rights. These initiatives mobilized female were published, publicized and distributed and male youth to combat violence against to national and international actors. The women and children and promote and HRA supported the network, in particu- protect women’s human rights in a coun- lar by sharing guidance on human rights try with a high prevalence of violence against women. issues in the context of COVID-19, dis- cussing strategies, supporting analysis and translating key documents. OHCHR also supported the HRDN’s advocacy efforts by developing a one-year strate- gic plan, which includes a results and resources framework. In addition, the HRA supported the orga- nization of three two-day training courses

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potential strategies for decreasing the Mechanisms prison population in light of COVID-19. M2 – The NHRI, the UNCT and civil This assistance enhanced the knowledge society coalitions that work on emerg- and skills of the NHRI staff, improved its ing human rights issues submit reports working methodology and informed the for each scheduled review by the human Government and the general public about rights treaty bodies. NGOs submit infor- the essential role that the NHRI plays, mation to the special procedures. particularly in moments of crisis. Finally, the HRA facilitated the engage- ment of CSOs with the Special Rapporteur OHCHR provided support to NHRIs, on the promotion and protection of the CSOs, UN entities and individuals in the right to freedom of opinion and expres- development of substantive submissions to sion following the news that the proposed the human rights treaty bodies, the special draft Defamation Law will criminalize procedures and the UPR. defamation and threaten the right to free- Due to COVID-19-related restrictions dom of opinion and expression. and the delay in the approval of the 2020 State budget, progress was limited on the engagement of the NHRI with the international human rights mechanisms, particularly in relation to reporting to the human rights treaty bodies. Yet, the NHRI held consultations and finalized its report for submission to CEDAW. UN Human Rights provided comments. In view of new demands that have arisen in the context of the pandemic, OHCHR supported the NHRI to develop its mon- itoring and analytical capacities during the first two states of emergency that were declared in Timor-Leste. In addition to providing technical support, the HRA helped the NHRI to: develop a moni- toring strategy that reflects its capacities and limitations under the state of emer- gency; develop a monitoring tool (using KoboToolbox) and technical support for the use of KoboCollect (a method for col- lecting data); draft two public reports on the first and second states of emergency and two weekly reports; prepare a legal analysis for the Parliament that questions the justification of the state of emergency under international human rights stan- dards; and support legal research on

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