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Than you Mr. Vice President,
Norway welcomes Brunei Darussalam’s participation in the UPR-process.
We are concerned about the introduction of certain provisions in the new Sharia laws, which adversely affect the human rights developments in Brunei Darussalam, even though we have noted the precisions as to the expected practical consequences of these measures.
Norway recommends Brunei to:
1) Declare and uphold a de facto moratorium on the application of death penalty, as a first step towards its full abolition
2) Ratify the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment
3) Ensure equal rights and fair treatment to all, regardless of race, nationality, gender or sexual orientation
4) Amend the Sedition Act to strengthen freedom of expression in line with international human rights obligations