Recommendations to Rwanda. (21.01.2026)

51st SESSION OF THE UPR WORKING GROUP 
Statement Norway

on the human rights situation in Rwanda

delivered by Ms Eli Marie SMEDSRUD,

First Secretary, Human Rights

 

                                                                                    Check against delivery

21 January 2026

Vice President,

Norway welcomes Rwanda’s progress on gender equality and access to information. We remain, however, concerned about the continued restrictions on civil society, media, political opposition, and involvement in reported human rights abuses in Eastern Congo.

Norway recommends that Rwanda:

  1. Strengthen its efforts on democratization, the broadening of political and civil space, and the protection of human rights defenders;

  2. Ensure freedom of expression and that journalists and media can operate freely, independently and safely [without fear of reprisals];

  3. Conduct independent investigations of allegations of torture and ill-treatment in detention facilities;

  4. Ratify the Rome Statute of the ICC and the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance;

  5. Allow opposition parties to carry out their activities without intimidation or hindrance.

    Thank you.