44th Universal Periodic Review of human rights: UK statement on Cuba

Thank you, Mr. President. 

We remain concerned by the severe penalties handed down to pro-democracy and human rights campaigners.  

We welcome, however, the steps taken by Cuba to legalise same-sex marriage. The growing participation of women in political and economic life is also positive, but we regret the lack of initiatives to address gender-based violence. 

So, we recommend that Cuba: 

1. Ensures the right to a fair trial through adherence to the UN Basic Principles on the Independence of the Judiciary. 

2. Amends the provisions of its 2022 Penal Code to prevent its use to restrict freedom of expression and assembly. 

3. Establishes femicide as a separate offence in its Penal Code. 

Thank you.