GENEVA, November 11, 2020 — Country speakers taking the floor today at the UN Human Rights Council showered praise on Libya, during a mandatory human rights review that all UN member states undergo every five years. (See quotes at bottom).
While the UN procedure known as Universal Periodic Review (UPR) is meant to scrutinize governments and thereby strengthen the basic rights and freedoms of their citizens, according to a UN Watch count, 78 out of 109 countries, or 72 percent, praised Libya for its human rights achievements.
This includes 46 countries that glowingly praised the Tripoli government, and another 32 that expressed some praise for Libya’s alleged achievements.
Only 31 countries used their one minute of allotted speaking time to genuinely express their concern about the deteriorating situation of human rights in Libya.
Below is a selection of the praise expressed by the majority of delegates:
China: “We welcome Libya’s efforts to protect and promote human rights and appreciate their efforts to promote education, health and combat violence against women.”
Saudi Arabia: “The national report shows the efforts made by Libya on human rights, and we welcome the acceptance of previous recommendations.”
Pakistan: “We commend the resolve of Libya in promoting human rights despite difficulties in the country.”
Iran: “We recognize the government’s achievements in combating trafficking in persons.”
Jordan: “We reiterate our full support for Libya’s efforts to foster the continued political process and ensure the participation of all political parties in the dialogue.”
Kuwait: “We commend the progress made in the field of human rights, right to work, healthcare, education, women, and persons with disabilities.”
Oman: “We support Libya’s efforts on ending enforced disappearance and arbitrary detention.”
Vietnam: “We take note of Libya’s commitment towards protecting human rights.”
Azerbaijan: “We appreciate the effort made in promoting human rights in the country including securing the rights to education, work and health, and advancements on the rights of women and persons with disabilities.”
Palestine: “We take due note of their report and note their ongoing efforts to protect human rights despite their circumstances.”