Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade of New Zealand

01/20/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/20/2026 13:41

Human Rights Council 51st Session of the Universal Periodic Review – Nauru

Ministry Statements & Speeches: 20 January 2026

Delivered by Permanent Representative Deborah Geels.

Mr President,

We warmly welcome the delegation from the Republic of Nauru.

We welcome the focus Nauru has placed on strengthening its social protection systems through its National Social Protection Strategy - including through its enhanced social welfare payments and programmes. We also welcome the passing of the Human Rights Commission Bill 2025.

New Zealand recommends that Nauru:

  1. Continue its efforts to strengthen social protection systems by enhancing data collection and monitoring mechanisms to ensure women, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups are reached.
  2. Ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
  3. Ratify the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.
  4. Review the high visa fees for foreign media to support media access and freedoms.

We thank the delegation for their participation today and with them a successful review.

Thank you, Mr President.

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