23rd Session, November 6, 2015
As delivered by Michele Roulbet
The United States warmly welcomes the Austrian delegation to the UPR Working Group.
The United States commends Austria on making respect for human rights a top priority within its borders and mainstreaming human rights in Austrian foreign policy. We also recognize the work of the Austrian Development Agency in its three-year program to promote human rights policy goals.
Furthermore, the United States applauds Austria’s cooperation with partner countries from the European Union and other third party countries in promoting respect for human rights in policy-making, as well as Austria’s work with the OHCHR.
The United States recognizes the added pressure on social and security resources that the current migration and refugee crisis has on Austria and other European countries. We encourage Austria to continue to treat all migrants humanely and provide protection as appropriate consistent with its international obligations.
We recommend that Austria:
- Strengthen efforts to alleviate social discrimination against Muslims, Roma, Jews, and foreigners of African origin.
- Ensure transparent and effective investigation and prosecution where appropriate of alleged human rights violations by law enforcement officials, particularly in reference to the treatment of members of minority groups.
- Ensure that camps and centers for migrants and refugees have sufficient shelter and health facilities to handle current increased numbers.