U.S. Mission to International
Organizations in Geneva

U.S. Statement at the Universal Periodic Review of Antigua and Barbuda
39th Session
As Delivered by Mr. Jesse Lynch

The United States welcomes the delegation from Antigua and Barbuda.

We recommend Antigua and Barbuda:

1. Implement the government’s proposal for fighting corruption domestically and in the Caribbean and address recommendations received through the MESICIC peer review process.
2.  Reform the Sexual Offense Act of 1995 to decriminalize private, same-sex sexual activity between consenting adults.
3. Pass legislation explicitly defining and prohibiting sexual harassment in the public and private sectors, with protections against retaliation for those who report.

We commend Antigua and Barbuda’s continued commitment to the promotion of human rights.  We encourage the government to abolish the Sexual Offense Act as an important measure to respect the human rights of all persons, regardless of sexual orientation.

Thank you.