Human rights

Australia is encouraged by improving humanitarian access in northern Ethiopia yet notes many challenges remain. We urge all parties to continue working together to remove barriers to humanitarian assistance reaching all affected communities.

The protracted conflict in Syria continues to cause unspeakable suffering.

Australia urges the military regime to immediately cease violence, engage in meaningful dialogue, and return Myanmar to the path of democracy. We continue to call for justice and accountability for crimes committed against the people of Myanmar.

Australia condemns Iran’s systemic oppression of women and girls. The Special Rapporteur's accounts of gender-based and sexual violence, and rape and torture of children and young people, are utterly reprehensible.

Australia is deeply concerned by reports Russian authorities have committed violations of international humanitarian law, war crimes and violations of the right to life.

Australia praises the advocates who support accountability and put their lives at risk to advance human rights. We condemn reprisals against civil society and human rights defenders.

Through the work of Australia’s eSafety Commissioner, Australia is driving progress on the principles, implementation measures, and remedies needed to combat violence against children online.

On behalf of Australia, New Zealand and Canada, we welcome the Special Rapporteur’s report celebrating the achievements of human rights defenders since the adoption of the Declaration on Human Rights Defenders 25 years ago.

Australia is deeply concerned by the scale and extent of torture crimes being perpetrated by national authorities and public officials across the globe.

Australia recognises the importance of moving away from traditional service and support models based on impairments to focus on the creation of universal systems which support the rights and agency of all people.