Universal Periodic Review, 39th session
Human Rights Council
UPR of Samoa, 2 November 2021
Intervention by Denmark
[Check against delivery]
Denmark welcomes the delegation of Samoa.
We commend Samoa for the ratification of the Convention Against Torture as well as for the inclusion of sexual and gender-based violence in the 2018 National Security Policy.
However, we remain concerned about the continued prevalence of domestic and intimate partner violence.
Denmark recommends the Government to establish a national referral system for victims and survivors of violence, in line with the “Inter-Agency Essential Services Guide for Responding to Gender-Based Violence and Child Protection”.
We remain concerned about continued discrimination and stigmatisation faced by persons based on their sexual orientation and gender identity.
Denmark recommends the Government to decriminalize same-sex relations between consenting adults by repealing sections 67, 68 and 71 of the Crimes Act.
Finally, Denmark recommends the Government to ratify OPCAT.
Denmark wishes Samoa a successful review.
I thank you.
