Universal Periodic Review 48: UK Statement on Italy

Thank you, Mr President.

We welcome Italy's commitment to human rights, including its candidacy for the Human Rights Council.

We commend Italy's efforts to implement its National Action Plan against Trafficking and Serious Exploitation of Human Beings, and welcome the adoption of the Strategic Plan on Male Violence Against Women.

However, we note the persistence of racial and discriminatory attitudes in society. We encourage greater protections for LGBT+ individuals, including tackling discrimination against same-sex couples and families.

We recommend that Italy:

1. Implement the recommendations of the Group of Experts on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings, particularly around prevention and prosecution.

2. Implement the European Commission against Racism and Intolerance recommendation to set up an independent equality body.

3. Follow up on recommendations in the Group of Experts on Action against Violence against Women and Domestic Violence, to ensure continued progress to stop violence against women and girls.

Thank you.