20th Session of the Universal Periodic Review
Statement by the Delegation of the United States of America
Geneva,
October 30, 2014
The United States welcomes the Angolan delegation.
We commend Angola for its efforts which have improved economic and commercial conditions in Angola and maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea.
We remain seriously concerned by severe restrictions on the freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly, and association, as well as by accusations of human rights violations committed by security forces. We are also concerned about restrictions on workers’ rights to organize and collectively bargain. Furthermore, we are concerned non state-owned media operate in a restrictive environment in Angola.
Bearing in mind these concerns, we recommend that Angola:
1. End the practice of using criminal defamation laws to restrict freedoms of expression and peaceful assembly and association in accordance with international obligations;
2. Invite the Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression to visit Angola in order to demonstrate your commitment to foster an environment where journalists, civil society, and opposition members can operate freely and independently;
3. Hold security forces and other government officials accountable for human rights violations, including those involving unlawful killings, sexual violence and torture, by credibly investigating and prosecuting offenders as appropriate.