UN Human Rights Council
THE UPR WORKING GROUP EIGHTH SESSION
Consideration of UPR Reports
Report of the UPR Working Group on Sweden
Statement by the Delegation of the United States of America
May 9, 2010
Thank you Mr. President.
The United States warmly welcomes the Swedish delegation led by his Excellency Mr. Frank Belfrage to the Working Group of the UPR. Sweden has a long-standing and committed record on human rights, and we recognize the Government’s efforts to implement national policies that aim to ensure human rights for Swedish citizens and immigrants alike.
The United States greatly appreciates the straightforward and open manner that the delegation has addressed the issue of hate crimes and commends Sweden for the efforts it has made to combat these crimes. Despite these efforts, however, there has been an increase in anti-Muslim, anti-Semitic and homophobic violent hate crimes, as the Government has acknowledged. We recommend that Sweden devote more effort to reducing social exclusion and better integrating its growing immigrant population into all aspects of society.
We also recommend that Sweden continue its efforts to vigorously prevent, combat, and prosecute violent hate crimes.
The United States recognizes the proactive approach Sweden is developing toward combating trafficking in persons, and we take due note of the delegation’s statement that Sweden is preparing the ratification of the Council of Europe’s Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings. In support of this effort, we recommend that Sweden work closely with the EU to create a comprehensive anti-TIP network.