UPR 37th session - Statement by Sweden in the review of Austria

Madam President,

Sweden commends Austria for the efforts made to address the recommendations presented in the previous reporting cycle, including the strengthening of mechanisms to record racially motivated crimes, as well as abolition of discrimination between same-sex and heterosexual couples in marriage law.

Sweden would nevertheless like to make the following recommendations:

1. Ensure that effective legal remedy and independent legal counsel for asylum seekers be guaranteed under the new procedures introduced with the establishment of the Federal Agency for Provision of Care and Support/BBU.
2. Adopt a new national action plan to prevent gender-based violence against women that includes improved data collection on gender-based violence and femicide.
3. Ensure uniform protection from all forms of discrimination by harmonising national legislation.

Thank you.