Statement by Sweden in the interactive dialogue on Slovakia

Mr. President,

Sweden welcomes the efforts made by the Government of the Slovak Republic in addressing the recommendations made during the previous UPR cycle, including amending legislation aimed at reducing segregation of children from socially disadvantaged backgrounds in schools. However, recent developments concerning freedom of expression are a cause for concern. Sweden also takes note that obstacles remain to Roma women’s full enjoyment of human rights and equal access to sexual and reproductive health and rights, as well as to LGBTI persons’ full enjoyment of human rights, and would therefore like to make the following recommendations:

1.      To respect, protect and promote freedom of expression of journalists and media actors, and take all necessary steps to ensure that the media can perform its work safely.

2.      To adopt concrete and effective measures to address and prevent discrimination of Roma women from their access to sexual and reproductive health and rights, including for maternal health.

3.      To take concrete policy measures to promote tolerance and non-discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. 

Sweden wishes the Slovak Republic all success in the current review.

I thank you Mr. President.