UN Human Rights Council Tenth Regular Session
Consideration of UPR Reports
Report of the UPR Working Group on Burkina Faso
Statement by the Delegation of the United States of America
Delivered by Mark Cassayre
March 19, 2009
Thank you, Mr. President. We also thank the delegation of Burkina Faso and Her Excellency the Minister for Human Rights.
The United States appreciates the comprehensive approach that Burkina Faso took in the preparation of its national report.
The United States notes that Burkina Faso has arrested and sentenced several female genital mutilation practitioners and accomplices; we welcome the Government’s commitment to fully eradicate female genital mutilation and share best practices with other countries. The United States also sees the Government’s new anti-trafficking law as a positive development.
We note the work of the Ministry of Human Rights, especially in regards to its educational campaigns. The United States supports Burkina Faso’s request for appropriate international community and OHCHR technical assistance in consolidating human rights advancement on the ground.
Thank you.