23rd Session, November 2, 2015
As delivered by Amanda Jessen
The United States warmly welcomes the Micronesian delegation to the UPR Working Group.
We recognize the Federated States of Micronesia’s continued commitment to democratic institutions and free and fair elections, and congratulate the Federated States of Micronesia on its recent national elections.
We recognize the Federated States of Micronesia made advances in efforts to combat trafficking in persons, including the passage of national and state anti-trafficking-in-persons laws between 2012 and 2013. More needs to be done to demonstrate that laws are being enforced, including by prosecuting and convicting those engaged in trafficking within the maritime borders of the Federated States of Micronesia.
Increased government efforts are also needed to raise awareness of and enact effective laws against domestic violence in the Federated States of Micronesia.
Bearing in mind these concerns, we recommend that the Federated States of Micronesia:
- Expand education and awareness campaigns on the issue of trafficking in persons and make efforts to study human trafficking in the country.
- Adopt procedures to better identify victims of trafficking among vulnerable groups, such as foreign workers and those engaged in prostitution.
- Enact federal and state laws criminalizing domestic violence.