Palau Review - 52nd session of Universal Periodic Review

Good afternoon, colleagues.
I hope everybody had a good lunch.
Excellencies, distinguished colleagues.
I hereby declare open the 8th meeting of the 52nd session of the working group on the Universal Periodic Review.
We will now proceed with the review of Palau.
Before we begin, please, let me remind you that all delegations should upload their oral statements through the online system for inscription of the list of speakers, the event, before the opening of the review they intend to address in accordance with the Human Rights Council resolution five slash one, the review is based on the national report prepared by the state under review and the compilation of UN information and the summary of stakeholders information, both prepared by the OCHCR.
I now have the honor to give the floor to the Honorable Mr.
Gustaf Aitaro, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, to introduce the delegation, as well as the national report.
Excellency, you have the floor.
Thank you.
Thank you, Your Excellency.
Mr.
President, Excellencies and distinguished representatives.
I bring warm greetings from the Republic of Palau.
It is a privilege to present Palau's 4th national report.
I am pleased to be accompanied today by a dedicated delegation comprising representatives from key government institutions.
First, Miss Shelley Remengesau, Chief of the Division of America's Affairs.
Mr.
Jeoffrey Ngiraked Techur Junior, Foreign Service Officer of the Bureau of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and miss Villaney Remengesau, a private consultant and Palau's candidate chair to the Committee on the rights of Persons with Disabilities for the term 2027 to 2030.
Together, the delegation reflects a whole of government approach to the implementation of our human rights obligations.
Excellencies and distinguished representatives.
Our journey from the Pacific to Geneva spans vast oceans and continents.
Yet the distance we have traveled is not only geographic, but also reflects the journey of a young nation.
Since attaining independence in 1994, Palau stands before you to reaffirm that human rights are not just legal concepts to us, but are the living pulse of our community.
We wish to express our profound appreciation to the Human Rights Council members of the Troika and all participating states for this opportunity to share our story.
We see the Universal Periodic Review not merely as a reporting exercise, but as a valuable peer review mechanism that enables us to look into a mirror, celebrate our growth, and honestly confront our shadows.
At the core of our national efforts is the principle of Akot a Beau, means Palawan people first.
This is not a slogan.
It is a guiding principle that places the well being and dignity of every person at the center of our development efforts, including every single child in remote villages and all the persons across our islands as the ultimate measure of our national success.
The preparation of this report was undertaken through a collaborative, multi agency process led by the reporting committee on UN Convention on Human Rights, established under Executive Order number 368.
We embraced a broad consultation process involving government institutions, non governmental organizations, and civil society organizations, as well as a thorough review of our national legislation This inclusive approach was designed to ensure that the report reflects the realities on the ground.
Since our last review in 2021, we have worked tirelessly to translate international recommendations into domestic realities.
We have focused on those in the most vulnerable situations among us, recognizing that a society is judged by how it treats those in the shadows.
For those affected by the trauma of exploitation, Palau enacted the Anti Human Smuggling and Human Trafficking Act of 2023.
This is to increase accountability for perpetrators and most importantly, to establish legal safeguards, ensuring survivors are treated with dignity and receive appropriate protection.
Palau believes that the realization of fundamental rights is closely linked to economic security.
To this end, we have implemented broad social reforms aimed at raising the standard of living and providing increased financial stability for households.
For a long time, persons with disabilities in our community have faced real challenges in accessing adequate support and inclusion that they deserve.
In 2024, we took an important step forward, not just by passing a law, but by strengthening implementation measures, including through the establishment of a dedicated National Office for Persons with Disabilities.
Our commitment extends to classrooms and clinics.
We are proud to report that Palau has achieved near universal literacy, fueled by a belief that education is the ultimate liberator.
The expansion of free public kindergarten and the continued provision of free breakfast programs in every public school.
We are ensuring that no Palau child starts their life behind because of hunger or lack of opportunity.
In our culture, women have always held positions of influence, and today they occupy leadership roles in the judiciary and government.
Yet, we know we must do more to ensure their voices are equally represented in our national Congress.
Our journey to advance gender equity continues with a commitment to an open and inclusive electoral system.
However, Excellencies and distinguished representatives, I must speak a difficult truth.
All these achievements, our schools, our hospitals, our legal reforms are under direct threat from a force we cannot control alone.
Climate change is not an environmental issue for Palau.
It is a human rights emergency.
When the sea rises, it does not just take land.
It takes our history, our food security, and our children's right to a future in their ancestral home.
We have adopted domestic measures to prepare for the heartbreaking reality of planned relocation.
We invite you to see our struggle, not as a distant tragedy, but as an indicator of broader global risk.
Protecting the human rights of Palawans is intrinsically linked to the collective responsibility to protect our shared planet.
Mr.
President, Excellencies and distinguished guests.
We come here with humility.
We recognize our challenges from limited institutional capacity to the need for a national human rights institution, but we also come with a heart full of hope.
We welcome a constructive and interactive dialogue.
We do not fear your recommendations.
We invite them.
We seek to learn from your experiences as we continue our journey toward a Palau where every person, regardless of their ability, gender, or status, can live in dignity and peace.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
I thank His Excellency, Minister Gustaf Aitaro for his statement.
We shall now begin with our interactive dialogue, and before giving the floor to delegations for their questions and comments, I would like to remind you that the speaking time will be 2 minutes for all.
I wish to reiterate the issue of political, bilateral, and territorial nature should be kept out of our deliberations.
Moreover, United Nations terminology should be used whenever referring to states and territories.
Please be reminded that only the use of the words recommend or recommendation.
You will ensure that the relevant parts of your statement are included in the recommendation section of the working group report.
Also, allow me to recall that the Human Rights Council strongly rejects any act of intimidation or reprisal against individuals and groups who cooperate or have cooperated with the United Nations and its representatives and mechanisms in the field of human rights.
We will now begin with the list of speakers, and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Venezuela.
Thank you very much, indeed, President.
We warmly welcome the delegation of Palau and we thank them for their presentation.
We welcome their cooperation with the Universal Periodic Review, and we acknowledge the significant progress achieved, such as the strengthening of legislation to combat human trafficking through Public Law 11 28.
The creation of the Office for People with Disabilities, and the Coordination Committee, as well as the broader rollout of free preschool education and social protection measures for the most vulnerable groups.
In a constructive spirit, we recommend to Palau that it, one, continue strengthening the legal and institutional framework for the Protection of human rights by ratifying pending international instruments, in particular, the Convention Against Torture, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural rights, as well as the restoration of the office of the ombudsman with full independence and sufficient resources allocated.
To continue to move towards eradication of discrimination in all forms, ensuring equal treatment for migrant workers in access to justice, housing, and Social Security, and by adopting legislative provisions that expressly prohibit discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation, gender identity, and disability.
Three, strengthen child protection policies, expressly prohibiting corporal punishment in all spheres, eradicating exceptions to the minimum age for marriage for girls, and ensuring universal access to birth registration and inclusive education for all children regardless of their nationality or migratory situation.
We wish Palau every success in this review.
Thank you very much, indeed, President.
Thank you.
I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Vietnam.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Vietnam warmly welcomes the high level delegation of Palau and thanks it for the presentation of the National Report.
We commend Palau for its achievement in near universal literacy and expansion of free public kindergarten nationwide, ensuring that every child has access to quality education.
We also welcome the completion and endorsement of Palau's third nationally determined contribution, setting clean energy transitions targets while advocating for just transition that protects workers and communities.
In a constructive spirit, Vietnam recommends that Palau, one, continue efforts to improve the accessibility, availability and quality of health care services for all.
Two, strengthen measures to address food insecurity and enhance food security for all residents with a focus on supporting the most vulnerable households.
Three, continue promoting inclusive education for all children, including those belonging to vulnerable groups, and further strengthen teaching, training and career and technical education.
We wish Palau every success in its UPR process.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Armenia.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Armenia warmly welcome the delegation of Palau and thanks them for the presentation of their national report.
Armenia appreciates Palau's leadership in the field of climate justice and its efforts to address the human rights impact of climate change as well as the progress made in implementing the Family Protection Act and the joint initiative to establish national shelter for victims of crime.
Armenia notes with appreciation that Palau supported a number of recommendations from the private cycle, including Armenia's recommendation on the Convention on the prevention and punishment of the crime of genocide.
In a constructive spirit, we would like to reiterate our recommendation to consider taking steps toward ratifying the Genocide Convention.
Furthermore, Armia recommends Palau to, one, enhance efforts to ensure inclusive and quality education for children with disabilities, including through improved infrastructure and specialized teacher training.
Two, continue its leadership in the field of climate justice and further integrate a human rights based approach into national climate adaption and resilience strategies.
We wish Palau every success in the implementation of its UPR recommendations.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Marshall Islands.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
The Republic of the Marshall Islands welcomes the Honorable Minister and the delegation of Palau and thanks them for the presentation of the report.
As a fellow Pacific states, we commend Palau for its continued efforts to combat climate change and address its adverse impacts, in particular, the launch of the second edition of Palau's climate change policy and action plan, which includes a focus on human rights and the publication of Palau's enhanced NDCs.
These policies implemented through localized efforts across Palau demonstrates its commitment to proactively responding to climate change.
In addition, we commend Palau for its continued efforts to mainstream human rights across national laws, policies and programs.
We are particularly encouraged by the implementation of the comprehensive gender Program aimed at strengthening gender mainstreaming awareness and capacity.
In the spirit of constructive dialogue, we recommend the following.
One, ensure the meaningful participation of women and youth in climate change and disaster risk reduction decision making processes.
Two, consider ratifying core human rights instruments, including the ICCPR, the ISIS CA, and the UCAT.
Three, continue its effort to promote and protect human rights in line with the Paris principles, including by establishing the Office of the ombudsman.
And four, strengthen efforts in the global fight against impunity and for victims access to justice by ratifying the Rome statute of the International Criminal Courts.
We wish the delegation every success during its fourth UPR cycle.
Ta Sulen I thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Bahamas.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
The Bahamas warmly welcomes the delegation of Palau and thanks it for its comprehensive report.
We commend Palau's continued commitment to human rights, including legislative reforms to strengthen social protection, combat human trafficking, and advance the rights of persons with disabilities, as well as its efforts to integrate human rights into climate and disaster resilience policies.
Also recognize Palau's engagement with international partners, including through the OHCHR Pacific Regional Office, and the LDC SIDS Trust Fund, which has supported national capacity building and participation in the work of this council.
With a view to supporting further progress, the Bahamas respectfully recommends that Palau, one, continue efforts toward the ratification of the UCAT and seek any needed technical assistance and capacity building support toward ratification of this and other core human rights instruments.
Two, strengthen access to quality and equitable health care services, including by enhancing prevention and management of non communicable diseases and expanding mental health support, particularly from youth and remote communities.
And three, enhance access to safe drinking water and sanitation, including through climate resilient infrastructure and sustainable water management systems for outer island communities.
The Bahamas encourages Palau to continue seeking technical assistance and capacity building support from international and regional partners and notes that the Convention Against Torture Initiative stands ready to lend support if deemed helpful.
We wish Palau every success in this review.
I thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Bangladesh.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Bangladesh warmly welcome the distinguished delegation of Palau.
We commend the government of Palau for its continued efforts to advance the realization of human rights for its people.
We particularly appreciate the legislative amendment undertaken to strengthen public health, enhance social protection, and promote transparency and accountability in governance.
In a spirit of constructive cooperation, Bangladesh would like to recommend one, strengthen climate change adaptation, disaster risk reduction, and environmental protection efforts with a focus on building community resilience and sustainable livelihood.
Two, continue advancing the rights and empowerment of women, including by improving access to education, health, and employment.
Three, continues efforts to establish a national human rights institution in line with Paris principle.
We wish Palau every success in its review.
I thank you, Mr.
President.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Botswana.
Mr.
President, Botswana commends Palau for his continued engagement with the universal periodic review process and for the progress achieved thus far.
Palau has demonstrated full commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights through reforms undertaken to strengthen national systems, expand social protection, and align domestic frameworks with international human rights standards.
Botswana also welcomes efforts made to strengthen anti trafficking legislation, expand social protection measures, as well as the established mechanisms supporting persons with disability.
To further advance the promotion and protection of human rights in Pala, Botswana, we wish to propose four recommendations.
One, reinforce anti corruption safeguards, including through whistleblower protection legislation and strengthen the Open Government Act.
Two, reestablish the Office of the ombudsman in accordance with the Paris principles.
Three, enhance protection for migrant workers through fair and timely labor dispute resolution, stronger enforcement of employer obligations and improved living and working conditions.
Four, finally, ratify the remaining core human rights treaties, including international Convention on the Protection of the rights of all migrant workers and members of their families, Convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women, and the International Convention on elimination of all forms of racial discrimination.
Botswana wishes Palau a successful review outcome.
I thank you, Mr.
President.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Brazil.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Brazil welcomes the delegation of the Republic of Palau.
Brazil commends the strengthening of the institutional and Normative framework on the rights of persons with disabilities, which have resulted in the establishment of governance mechanisms, sustainable financing, and broader participation.
In a constructive spirit, Brazil recommends that Palau, one, strengthen and ensure access to comprehensive, victim centered, and gender responsive support services for victims of human trafficking, including safe shelter, medical, and psychosocial assistance, and access to justice.
Two, expand access to primary health care services to address non communicable diseases and to advance sexual and reproductive health and rights, particularly by ensuring full implementation of the National HIV STI Strategic Plan 2022, 2027.
We urge Palau to ratify all remaining core international human rights instruments, including the covenants on civil and political rights and on economic, social, cultural rights, as well as the conventions on racial discrimination, women's rights, and the prevention of torture.
We wish Palau an excellent review.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Canada by video.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Canada thanks Palau for participating in this cycle of the Universal Periodic Review and commends it for passing legislation in 2023 to combat trafficking in persons and for enacting the Persons with Disabilities Act in 2024.
Canada recommends that Palau, one, speed up ratification and implementation efforts for international human rights treaties that Palau has signed but not yet ratified, including the International Convenence on Civil and Political Rights and the International Convenence on Economic, social and cultural rights.
Two, establish a complaints mechanism accessible to migrant workers facing abuse or exploitation to prevent and address ill treatment, exploitation, discrimination, and forced labor, including by financing accountability and providing victim and survivor centered services.
And three, adopt comprehensive protections related to discrimination in employment that explicitly prohibit discrimination on all grounds, including sexual orientation or gender identity.
I thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Chile.
Yes.
Thank you, President of Chile.
Welcome to the delegation of Palau and also commend them on the promulgation of Act number 11 36, establishing the coordinating committee for the needs of persons with disabilities.
We also hail the inclusion of a human rights based approach in the climate change policy and action plan aiming at protecting the most vulnerable populations.
In a constructive spirit, Chile would make the following recommendations to Palau.
One, finalize the process of ratification of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural rights, and the Convention Against Torture, another call inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, and adapt their normative framework to ensure full implementation thereof.
Two, adopt measures to prevent child marriage, removing exceptions to the minimum age for marriage in line with the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Three, restore and equip with operational independence, the Office of the Ombudsman as an initial and progressive measure towards establishing a national Human Rights Institute in line with the P's principles.
Four, establish the minimum age of admittance to work at 15, this in national legislation in line with international IO standards and strengthen oversight mechanisms to prevent child labor.
Five, adopt legislative measures to ensure that all children born in the territory acquire a nationality regardless of the migratory status of the parents.
Move towards accession of the conventions on statelessness from 1954 and 1961, we wish Palau a successful review cycle.
Thank you very much, indeed, President.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of China.
Mr.
President, China welcomes Palau's participation in the UPR.
China expresses concern over Pau's lagging economic development, inadequate protection of people's livelihood, and persistent discrimination and violence faced by vulnerable groups such as women and children.
China takes note that child labor and child marriage continue to exist in Palau, that Social Security expenditure remains inadequate and protection capacity insufficient.
Children with disabilities have limited access to social health and education service.
Human trafficking and labor exploitation remain to be addressed.
China has three recommendations to allow.
First, to effectively improve the legal framework and legal measures to combat human trafficking, labor exploitation, child marriage, and child labor.
Second, effectively enhance the equity, accessibility, and quality of medical service.
Third, effectively safeguard all rights of the vulnerable groups, including women, children, persons with disability, and indigenous people, such as their rights to life, development, health and education.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished Representative of Colombia.
Congrats President.
Thank you, President.
Colombia welcomes the distinguished delegation of Palau at this fourth UPR site Colombia commends Palau on the inclusion of a human rights based approach in its national climate change action plan.
In a constructive spirit, we recommend that they one accede to the 1951 Convention on Refugees and its protocol from 1967, as well as the conventions from 1954, 1961 on statelessness.
Second, ratify the Convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women and implement it through national standards and norms.
Three, adopt the necessary legislative measures to explicitly prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
Four, enshrine the right to education in the Constitution and adopt the necessary measures to guarantee free preschool education for at least one year.
We wish Pala every success in this UPR cycle.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Costa Rica.
Thank you, President.
Costa Rica, thanks Palau for the presentation of the report and recognizes and acknowledges the progress achieved such as the inclusion of the new law to combat human trafficking.
We would offer the following recommendations.
One, continue to work on strengthening the national policy on inclusion of a gender perspective to ensure its implementation.
Two, strengthen implementation of the law on Persons with disabilities that was promulgated in 2024.
Defining a national policy on disability that ensures the participation of disabled persons organizations.
Three, improve response services to gender based violence through quantifiable objectives and lasting financing.
Four, adopt a comprehensive national plan to implement the agreement on marine biological diversity of zones situated outside of national jurisdiction, which supports community initiatives on climate change adaptation and food security from a human rights based approach.
Five, establish strategies to strengthen education programs for persons with disabilities, to address the difficulties such as the lack of human resources, to ensure inclusive education.
Lastly, six, adopt the necessary modifications at the legislative level to ensure the labor rights of migrant workers and the prevention of labor exploitation.
We wish you every success in implementing the recommendations.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cuba.
Thank you, President.
We warmly welcome the delegation of the Republic of Palau and we recognize this country's commitment to the Unissal Pedic Review.
We also acknowledge the promulgation of various laws and acts from 2022 through 2025, which have served to strengthen the institutional and legal framework for the promotion and protection of human rights.
We would highlight the establishment in 2023 of the monitoring system on progress achieved by the country in the SDGs.
In a constructive and respectful spirit, we would make the following recommendations.
One, continue to implement the free breakfast program in all public schools with a goal of providing nutritional balanced meals.
Two, continue with efforts underway to update the evacuation procedures in the case of disasters with a view to adapting them to the needs of persons with disabilities.
We wish the Republic of Palau every success in this review and in implementing the accepted recommendations.
Thank you very much.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cyprus.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Cyprus warmly welcomes the delegation from Palau and thanks for the presentation of their report.
Commend the efforts made in strengthening the legal institutional framework to bolster the protection and promotion of human rights, the development of legislation for the protection against domestic violence, the national youth policy, as well as measures taken to combat corruption, address challenges related to exploitative labor practices, and trafficking in persons are noteworthy.
We would encourage you to continue strengthening such efforts.
At the same time, we are aware of the challenges faced by Palau, especially as regards climate change and rising sea levels and would urge the government to enhance land and housing solutions for climate induced relocations.
Cyprus would like to offer the following recommendations.
Consider ratifying core human rights treaties such as the IRT, CESCR, ICCPR, CDW, and CAT.
Two, consider adopting legislative and policy measures to prevent discrimination, xenophobia and related forms of intolerance in line with international human rights practices and obligations.
Three, ensure access of children with disabilities to social healthcare and education services.
Four, establish legal and policy frameworks to strengthen multisexual services for gender based violence survivors.
And five, consider formalizing women's informal economic activities, especially for rural women and street vendors.
We wish Palau a successful review.
I thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Dominica.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Dominica warmly welcomes the distinguished delegation of Palau and expresses sincere appreciation for the country's comprehensive national report.
As a fellow small island developing state confronted with multifaceted challenges that threaten development gains and the enjoyment of human rights, we acknowledge and laud Palau's continued commitment and ongoing efforts to advance the promotion and protection of human rights in the face of these adversities.
In particular, we commend Palau on its efforts to incorporate human rights considerations in measures to counter the effects of climate change.
In a constructive spirit, Dominica recommends that Palau one, continue to strengthen action to address the needs of persons with disabilities, including through improved access to health care services and education.
Two, continue to adopt an inclusive and participatory approach to the implementation of the climate change policy and action plan.
Three, advance national consultation processes towards the ratification of the United Nations Convention Against Torture.
We wish the delegation of Palau every success during the UPR process.
I thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Dominican Republic.
President.
Thank you, President, the Dominican Republic greets the distinguished delegation of Palau and congratulates it for the presentation of the national report at this fourth EPR cycle.
As a brother country and small island developing state, we fully understand the challenges facing our states, particularly the adverse effects of climate change, which have a direct impact on the achievement of human rights.
We particularly commend efforts undertaken to strengthen your national policies on human rights, in particular, through the creation of the Assistance Fund for Persons with Disabilities, the adoption of the law to combat trafficking, and in a constructive spirit of cooperation and solidarity among SIDS, we recommend the following.
One, continue to strengthen national climate change resilience and adaptation policies, incorporating a human rights based approach to protect the most vulnerable communities from the increasing rising sea levels and other effects of climate change.
Two, strengthen technical cooperation with the Office of the High Commissioner.
Particularly in terms of institutional strengthening and following international recommendations.
Three, ratify the Convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women.
And lastly, four, ratify the Convention Against Torture and other cruel and human degrading treatment or punishment.
The Dominican Republic wishes Palau a successful universal periodic review.
Thank you very much for being here coming from so far away.
Thank you, President.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Estonia.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Estonia welcomes the delegation of Palau to its fourth UPR.
We acknowledge the important achievements made in advancing the rights of persons with disabilities, combating trafficking in persons, and steps taken on empowerment of women.
Estonia recommends two, one, continue efforts to promote gender equality, including increasing women's representation in decision making bodies.
Two, establish legal and policy frameworks to strengthen services for survivors of gender based violence.
Three, ratify the Convention on the elimination of discrimination against women and four, ratify the Convention Against Torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.
We wish Palau a successful review.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Finland.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Finland warmly welcomes the engagement of Palau to the UPR.
We commend Palau for the implementation of the Family Protection Act of 2021, as well as establishing an Office of Persons with Disabilities to oversee and develop the national policy in advancing the rights of persons with disabilities.
Finland recommends Palau, one, to ratify the International Covenant on civil and political rights and the International Covenant on economic, social, and cultural rights.
Two, to establish an independent national human rights institution in line with the Paris principles.
Three, to establish services for survivors of sexual and gender based violence.
And four, to adopt a national legal framework that ensures the protection of asylum seekers and refugees in line with international standards.
We wish Palau a very successful review.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of France.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
France extends a warm welcome to the delegation of Palau and congratulates on their progress in protecting women's rights, especially with the criminalization of spousal rape.
France recommends that Palau ratify the International Covenant on civil and political rights and its second Optional Protocol, the International Covenant on Economic, cultural and social and cultural rights, as well as the International Convention for the Protection of all Prisons against enforced disappearance.
Secondly, that it establish an national Human Rights institution with an extensive mandate and in line with the Paris principles.
Three, that it guarantee the effective protection of the rights of the child in particular by prohibiting corporal punishment in all settings.
I wish the best of success to the delegation of P in this UPR.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Gambia.
The Gambia extends a warm welcome to the distinguished delegation of Palau and commends its continued engagement with the universal periodic review process.
We commend Palau's efforts to advance the rights of persons with disabilities, including through the adoption of the Persons with Disabilities Act in 2024 and the establishment of mechanisms to support its implementation, while noting the institutional capacity and resource constraints that continue to affect broader human rights implementation, In the spirit of constructive dialogue, the game offers the following recommendations.
One, ratify the outstanding core International Human Rights instruments it had signed.
Two, establish an independent national Human Rights institution in full alignment with the Paris principles.
Three, strengthen measures to combat trafficking in persons, including true victim identification, protection, recovery, and reintegration services.
Four, continue efforts towards ratifying the Convention Against Torture and strengthen safeguards against torture and ill treatment in all settings.
We wish Palau every success in implementing its human rights commitments.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Thank you.
I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Georgia.
Thank you.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Georgia welcomes the delegation of the Republic of Palau and thanks for the presentation of the National Report.
We welcome legislative changes made by the government of the Republic of Palau since the previous cycle.
We commend the Republic of Palau for implementing the gender program aimed at strengthening gender mainstreaming awareness and capacity across government civil society, women's groups, and other populations with vulnerabilities.
Georgia welcomes the efforts and developments made by Palau in strengthening its legal and institutional framework to combat corruption.
Herewith Georgia would like to kindly recommend to Palau, first, to further strengthen efforts in order to mitigate climate induced migration and second, to further intensify its efforts towards further alignment with international obligations under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
With this in mind, we wish the delegation of the Republic of Palau a very successful review.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Germany.
Mr.
President, Germany welcomes the delegation of Palau.
We appreciate your active participation in the UPR process.
Germany commends the Republic of Palau for adopting the Persons with Disabilities Act and for establishing a coordination committee and a bureau dedicated to the implementation of disability policies.
These initiatives are significant steps towards advancing rights and inclusion for persons with disabilities.
Germany remains concerned about the continued discrimination of migrant workers and discussed progress regarding domestic and sexualized violence against women as well as child labor.
Germany therefore recommends two.
One, ratify major international human rights covenants, in particular, the Convention Against Torture and CEO.
Two, establish an independent national Human Rights institution and provide it with full mandate and independence in line with the Paris principles.
Three, adopt a comprehensive legal framework to protect the rights of migrant workers and their descendants by prioritizing improvements in working conditions, introducing a minimum wage for migrant workers, and ensuring access to tax refunds and essential social services.
We wish Palau all the best for a successful review.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Guyana.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Guyana warmly welcomes the distinguished delegation of Palau to the fourth cycle of the UPR, and thank the delegation for their comprehensive report.
We commend Palau on the enactment of legislation to address public sector salaries, human trafficking and social protection.
Guyana, as a fellow small island developing state, commends Palau and its efforts to strengthen its national policy architecture through the disaster resilient Clean Energy Financing Project to address climate vulnerabilities, mitigation and adaptation.
In the spirit of constructive engagement, Diana proposes the following recommendations to the delegation.
One, collaborate with the WHU and other relevant bodies to institute policies aimed at improving and ensuring equitable access to health care, especially related to NCDs.
Strengthening access to HIV testing, treatment, support, and prevention, ensure access to menstrual products for all women and girls, collaborate with the FAO and other relevant bodies to institute policies aimed at improving and ensuring food and nutrition security.
And collaborate with the requisite international organizations to build and improve national capacity in addressing environmental concerns.
Ghana wishes Palau every success in this review.
I thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Iceland.
Mr.
President, Iceland welcomes the delegation of Palau and its national report.
In the spirit of constructive engagement, Iceland recommends the following.
One, ratify the second optional protocol to the ICCPR.
Two, establish legal and policy frameworks to strengthen the quality and accessibility of services for gender based violence survivors.
Three, integrate comprehensive sexuality education international school curricula.
Four, protect and promote sexual reproductive health and rights and ensure access to SRHR services and information.
Five, decriminalize and legalize abortion in all circumstances.
Six, adopt a comprehensive national anti discrimination law that explicitly covers sotask as prohibited grounds of discrimination.
Seven, legalize same sex marriages.
We wish P all success for its review.
I thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to distinguished representative of India.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
India welcomes the distinguished delegation of Palau and thanks the delegation for its presentation.
We appreciate the efforts of the government in preparing an informative national report and for its willingness to engage constructively in the UPR process.
We noted with appreciation the steps taken by Palau during the reporting period to protect human rights in the country.
In particular, Republic of Palau Public Law regarding labor reforms, enactment of Persons with Disabilities Act 2024, executive orders relating to health, education, and disaster.
In the spirit of constructive cooperation, India makes the following recommendations to Palau.
First, ratify core human rights treaties such as ICCPR, ICSER, CEDAw and ILO conventions, and second, continue its efforts in combating corruption.
We wish the delegation of Palau all success in its review.
I thank you, Mr.
President.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Indonesia.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Indonesia appreciates the commitment of Palau in promoting democracy, good governance, and human rights, including recent legislative efforts and progress in environmental protection and social sectors.
Indonesia also notes Palau's challenges in addressing the impact of climate change to human rights, domestic violence, strengthening institutional capacity and ensuring sustainable access to basic services.
In the spirit of constructive dialogue, we propose the following recommendations.
One, continue strengthening effort to address the climate change impact to human rights, including through the effective implementation of its climate change policy and action plan.
Two, further mainstreaming human rights in public policy and programs, including by promoting greater participation of women in decision making processes.
And three, consider ratifying the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, Convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women and the Conventions Against Torture and other cruel inhumans and degrading treatment or punishment.
Finally, we wish Paula a constructive and successful review.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Iran.
Mr.
President, the Islamic Republic of Iran welcomes the delegation of Polo.
And thanks for the comprehensive national report and presentation.
The Islamic Republic of Iran comments follow for its ongoing efforts for promotion and protection of human rights, particularly for those measures in public health, anti smuggling and human trafficking.
The level of progress comparing the limited capacities are considerable.
In constructive spirit, Iran offers two recommendation to follow.
One, considers further venues for improving the working situation for foreign workers, particularly with the aim of preventing any exploitation and trafficking.
Two, ensure that children in rural areas have access to quality education and adequate food security.
Three, continue its valuable efforts toward building a climate resilient economy and advancing the realization of the right to development.
Iran extends its best wishes to Apollo for the successful implementation of these recommendations and four, its continued progress in the promotion and protection of human rights.
Thank you very much.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Iraq.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
The Delegation of Iraq welcomes the head and members of the Delegation of Palau participating in the fourth cycle of the UPR, where the efforts put into the preparation of the report.
We make the following recommendations.
One, promote efforts aimed at achieving gender equality and the empowerment of women in the National Parliament.
Two, take necessary measures related to the introduction of legislative amendments with regard to discrimination on the basis of disability, which allow every success.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ireland.
Ireland welcomes the delegation of Palau and thanks it for its presentation today.
Ireland notes Palau's efforts to advance human rights domestically and commends progress made since the last EPR cycle.
We also welcome the enactment of the Republic of Palau Public Law, number 11 28 to combat trafficking in prisons, which aligns domestic laws with international standards and introduces protections for victims of trafficking.
Ireland notes with concern that Palau has yet to ratify or accede to some of the core international human rights treaties it has signed, including the Convention on the elimination of discrimination against women and the International Convention on the elimination of all forms of racial discrimination.
Ireland recommends that Palau, one, amend the Palau National Code to ensure that the minimum age of marriage for girls is 18 years without exceptions.
Two, amend Article 4 of the Constitution and other relevant legislation to explicitly include disability as a prohibited ground of discrimination.
Ensure the Anti Discrimination Act encompasses all forms of disability based discrimination in line with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
We wish Palau every success in the CPR cycle.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Italy.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Italy thanks the distinguished delegation of Palau and commends the significant efforts undertaken to counter human trafficking, including through legal reforms and national planning.
This remains an issue of primary importance in our view.
Italy offers Palau the following recommendations.
One, amend the legislation to prohibit corporal punishment of children in all circumstances and to strengthen awareness raising through training programs across all educational settings, including within families and communities.
Two, intensify efforts to counter violence against women and ratify the Convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women.
Italy wishes Palau a successful review, and I thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Japan.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Japan warmly welcomes the dedication of Palau to this session.
Japan appreciates the positive steps taken by Palau to promote equal opportunities and full social participation for persons with disabilities through the newly established Office of Persons with Disabilities and Coordinating Committee.
In the spirit of constructive dialogue, Japan recommends that Palau, one, take further steps to facilitate citizens' access to information and participation in decision making in line with international standards.
Two, strengthen measures to prevent and address discrimination, xenophobia, and related forms of intolerance in line with international human rights obligations.
Including through the adoption of legislative and policy measures.
Three, take further measures to enhance the equality, accessibility, and quality of health care services by addressing health disparities, promoting mental health services, and strengthen the prevention and management of non communicable diseases.
We wish the delegation applaud every success in this W.
I thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Jordan for a video statement.
Thank you, Mr.
Chair.
It is my pleasure to welcome the delegation of the Republic of Palau and we commend their efforts in drafting their national report which reflects the progress in terms of promoting the legislative and institutional human rights framework, despite the challenges in terms of capacities and resources, we recommend the following.
First to pursue efforts to promote the rights of persons with disabilities, including through the implementation of national society policies and ensuring that fair inclusion in society was second to strengthen effort to address the impact of climate change.
Human rights through comprehensive national policies and capacity building.
Thank you, Mr.
Chair.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cribs.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Cribus welcomes CSDM delegation from Palau, a fellow Pacific small island developing state and thanks the delegation for the presentation of the National report.
Cribus commends Palau's continued efforts to address climate change through its climate change policy and action plan, strengthen inclusive disaster planning and resilience measures, enhance early warning systems, and commitments towards clean energy transition and emissions reduction.
These initiatives demonstrate Paus strong commitment to protecting communities and protecting and promoting sustainable development in the face of climate change.
With a view to support continued efforts, CRBus offers the following recommendations.
One, continue to take all appropriate measures to protect the rights of children against all forms of exploitation, including by combating trafficking of children and ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice.
Two, continue to strengthen existing measures to ensure equal access to health services for all, particularly women, children, older persons and persons with disabilities.
Three, improve climate change adaptation and resilience measures by ensuring inclusive community engagement and participation of vulnerable groups and communities in disaster risk reduction programs.
We wish Palau a successful review.
I thank you, Mr.
President.
Thank you.
I now give the floor to His Excecy, Mr.
Gustaf Ataro to address observations and comments that have been raised so far.
Excellency, you have the floor.
Mr.
President.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Pow thanks to the delegation of Canada and others for providing advanced questions ahead of the interactive dialogue this afternoon.
Please allow me to provide the following responses.
Excellencies and distinguished delegations.
With regard to measures aimed at safeguarding the human rights of migrant workers and improving migration management systems, Palau is actively strengthening its legal and administrative frameworks to protect migrant workers who constitute nearly 40% of the total national workforce.
In this regard, Palau amended its Anti Human Trafficking Act in 2023 to align with international standards.
The revised framework strengthened penalties, including imprisonment of up to 25 years and fines of up to $125,000 and provides victims with immunity from prosecution for offenses committed as a direct consequence of being trafficked.
Blau's National Migration Policy and Action Plan 2026 to 2029 includes measures to ensure that all recruitment related costs, including fees, health examinations, and police clearances are borne by employers.
Bela is also introducing more flexible job transfer mechanisms.
Allowing migrant workers to change employers if contract obligations such as wages or working hours are not met without requiring a prior court conviction.
In addition, the government has taken steps to extend minimum wage protection across all sectors, including occupations that were previously exempt, such as domestic workers and farmers to guarantee equal protection.
Further efforts are underway to extend minimum wage coverage to the remaining five low to the remaining five low and semi skilled occupations that are not yet covered.
Palau has updated its labor compliance referral forms to proactively screen for indicators of trafficking during routine inspections.
The government has also increased the budget of the Office of Labor Compliance to enable more frequent random inspections, including our remote islands.
Your Excellency, furthermore, a coordinated border management working group has been established intended to enhance policy coherence, information sharing, and operational effectiveness across relevant agencies.
While its primary focus is border management, its work is expected to contribute to broader improvements in migration governance, including the protection of migrant workers and the prevention of abuse and exploitation.
With regards to questions on legal safeguards to ensure that individuals and descendants of descendants of migrants are not rendered stateless.
Palau recognizes the importance of safeguarding the right to nationality and preventing statelessness, particularly among populations in vulnerable situations, including descendants of migrants.
Our legal and administrative frameworks provide for the registration of births and the documentation of identity, which serves as key safeguards against statelessness.
I am pleased to inform that Palau is currently reviewing a proposed legislation establishing a formal system to address our existing issues of statelessness with a view to granting affected individuals secure legal status and protection.
Your Excellencies, with regards to the implementation of the human right to a healthy environment at the national and international levels, including associated environmental determinants of well being, Palau remains a global leader in environmental rights guided by the traditional ethic of Omario, which reflects living in harmony with nature.
Palau has consistently affirmed its commitment to the protection of the environment and the sustainable use of natural resources, reflecting both our national priorities, our cultural values as a small island developing state, We recognize the existential importance of environmental protection, climate resilience, and biodiversity conservation.
At the national level, Palau has completed its third nationally determined contribution, targeting a transition to 100% renewable energy by 2050.
In 2024, Palau opened the largest solar farm in the Western Pacific, a major step toward reducing its carbon footprint.
Our food is our responsibility.
Initiative aims to triple food production by 2030 through sustainable agriculture and aquaculture, while empowering local farmers and promoting healthy and sustainably produced food.
Palawa has achieved near universal access to basic water and sanitation.
The government provides a lifeline utilities program to ensure low income households have affordable access to safe water, regardless of citizenship status.
Palau has taken significant measures to protect its marine and terrestrial environment.
The Palau National Marine Sanctuary protects 80% of the country's exclusive economic zone, while the protected areas network manages unique terrestrial and marine biodiversity through an integrated approach that combines modern science and traditional practices, including bull moratoriums.
In the area of waste management and environmental protection, Palau opened a state of the art national landfill in 2021, using the semi aerobic Fukuoka method to replace previously unregulated dump sites.
Additionally, the Responsible Tourism Education Act bans reef toxic sunscreens and restricts single use plastics.
At the regional and international levels, Palau has been an active advocate for climate action and for the recognition of the human right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment.
We continue to support initiatives that advance environmental justice and sustainable development, including through multilateral cooperation and ocean conservation efforts.
These efforts contribute to ensuring access to clean air, safe water, and a healthy environment for present and future generations.
Your Excellencies, finally, allow me to address advanced questions raised on the protection of press freedom and the promotion of an enabling environment for independent journalism.
Palau upholds the principles of freedom of expression and access to information as fundamental democratic values.
Journalists and media practitioners operate in an environment that enables reporting on matters of public interest without undue interference.
This is supported by the Open Government Act, Title I of the National Code, which enshrines the public's right to access information from government sources.
For a population of less than 20,000 people, Palau has a diverse media landscape comprising seven media outlets, including two private newspapers, one official government operated media station, one private radio station, and three private media companies, which operate as local television channels, radio, broadcasting, and live stream networks.
Mr.
President, Excellencies and distinguished delegations, Pala approaches these issues not from abundance, but from responsibility and necessity as a small island developing state with limited resources but strong commitment to our people and our environment.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
At this time, I would like now to yield the floor to miss Shele Ramsa to address the questions and comments that have been raised in the room this afternoon.
Thank you, Honorable Minister.
Mr.
President and distinguished delegates, as the minister underscored in his opening statement, human rights are the living pulse of our community rather than just legal concepts.
I thank the delegations for their insightful inquiries and recommendations provided in the room.
Please allow me to provide responses respectively on our progress and commitments grouped into key thematic areas.
Palau appreciates the questions from delegations regarding our institutional capacity.
We remain committed to a sequence approach to the ratification of international human rights treaties, ensuring that national legislation and administrative capacities are aligned with treaty obligations.
Palau is currently undertaking internal reviews and briefings for the cabinet and president in preparation for the ratification of the Convention Against Torture.
While the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities have been ratified, progress towards the ratification of the rest of the Core treaties, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the Convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women remains constrained by limited institutional capacity and financial resources.
Palau ratified ILO Convention number 182 on the worst forms of child labor in 2019, reaffirming our commitment to protecting children from exploitation.
While we remain mindful of the capacity constraints that can affect the pace of ratification of additional instruments, we continue to make steady progress.
In this regard, I am pleased to share that this week, relevant stakeholders in Palau are participating in a tripartid training workshop on international labor standards reporting obligations, as well as the validation of a GAP analysis under the ILO Labor Convention of 1930.
Mr.
President, while Palau has supported recommendations to establish a national human rights institution in compliance with the Paris principles, progress remains constrained by limited institutional capacity, financial resources, and the evident need to ensure sustainability of office.
However, to strengthen the oversight and accountability, Palau is making efforts to develop a national anti corruption strategy through which we are prioritizing the re establishment of the Office of the Ombudsman as a progressive step toward the eventual establishment of an NHRI.
The immediate steps to accomplishing this include drafting an addendum to Executive Order number 400 to institutionalize the independence and mandate of the office.
Furthermore, our commitment to transparency is reflected in the Code of Ethics Act and the Open Government Act, which guaranteed public's right to access government documents.
In response to inquiries concerning gender equality and social inclusion, Palau highlights national priority of Palauan people first.
While we are a matrilineal society, we recognize the need for deliberate efforts to increase women's representation in elected offices.
Although the electoral system is open and non discriminatory, the National Gender Equality policy is exploring measures, including constitutional and political reforms to ensure equitable participation.
The policy further aims to ensure that women, youth, and marginalized groups have equal access to decision making processes and resource allocation.
Regarding the protection of groups in vulnerable situations, Palau continues to strengthen its support system.
Survivors of domestic and gender based violence are provided with access to legal recourse and court protections under the Family Protection Act.
The Office of Victims of Crime Advocacy coordinates comprehensive support services, which include the provision of temporary shelter, meals, clothing, and hygienic supplies.
Palau is also currently working with partners to establish a national shelter for victims of crime.
In Palau, caring for our older populations isn't something new.
It's a deeply rooted cultural value we've always carried with us, passed down through generations.
In 2023, that deep rooted value was translated into national policy through the launch of the National Policy and care for the aging, the first of its kind in the Pacific.
It speaks to what we already believe that growing older should come with dignity, good health, and a sense of belonging in a community that does not leave anyone behind.
This same spirit guided the opening of our transition facility at Beau National Hospital in December 2025.
The facility provides care for those who are no longer in need of intensive hospital care but cannot yet return home, whether because they don't have a caregiver, suitable housing, or means to get there.
It addresses a quiet but important gap, making sure no one is left without support.
Speaking from my personal experience, this is not just a policy.
It is a value that defines who we are.
Caring for our older persons with respect and love to ensure their dignity and health is something that is deeply integrated in our culture.
My family celebrated my grandmother's 102nd birthday just last month.
At 102, she still lives with us, surrounded by care, respect and love.
That is how we were raised.
That is who we are.
We protect our children.
The Constitution of Palau and the National Code guaranteed the right to free and compulsory public education for all children until high school graduation or the age of 17.
In 2021, Palau introduced legislation to strengthen road safety, including mandatory seat belt use for all vehicle occupants and making child restraints mandatory for children under six.
But the change did not happen overnight.
For a full year, the Bureau of Public Safety, alongside a dedicated group from civil society, known as Safe, which is an acronym for Sat bells are for everyone, worked closely with communities, raising awareness, answering questions, and helping families understand why these measures matter.
They didn't just talk about safety.
They made it possible for many low income families, Save helped provide childcare seats, ensuring that no child would be left unprotected simply because of cost.
By the time the law came into effect in September 2022, it wasn't just a rule on paper.
It was a shared commitment shaped by outreach, support, and a growing understanding that these small actions could save lives.
In 2022, Palau made a conscious choice to ease the everyday financial pressures that many families quietly carry, particularly those with low incomes.
For those earning less than $15,000 a year, tax relief increased disposable income for essential needs such as groceries, school supplies, and other basic services to simply get through the month.
At the same time, the government introduced another measure to support low income families, a child rearing subsidy of $100 per child designed to support low income families raising children under the age of 18.
This was not just a policy on paper either.
To operationalize this initiative, $400,000 was set aside to bring the program to life in 2023.
Draft regulations were released for public consultation in July, giving people a chance to be heard to shape something that would directly affect their lives.
The program became operational in September 2023 with families enrolling to access support.
By 2025, the child rearing subsidy had raised to $200 per child for all children under 18 years of age.
Behind those numbers are real stories, parents trying to do their best, stretching every dollar, making sacrifices their children may never fully see.
This support is a recognition of the efforts of families and aim to ease the financial pressures associated with raising children.
It serves as a reminder that raising a child is not something anyone should have to do alone and that even small measures of support can make a real difference in the family's day to day life.
In 2023, The results of a 2021 Youth Risk Behavior survey revealed a sharp rise in the use of electronic cigarettes among school age children.
This finding underscored growing concerns shared by many parents, teachers, and community members and reinforced the need for targeted measures.
It wasn't just some statistics.
It concerned our children and adolescents.
That shared concern brought people together.
The Coalition for a Tobacco Free Palau joined forces with other civil society groups forming a united voice grounded in care and responsibility.
These were not distant advocates.
They were parents, educators, and community leaders who saw what was at stake and chose to act.
Through persistence and shared purpose, this collective effort contributed to the adoption of legislation in March 2023, prohibiting the importation and use of electronic cigarettes in Palau.
When the law was passed in March 2023, it felt like more than a policy change.
It was a collective stand to protect the next generation.
It was Palau saying in its own way that our children's health and future are worth fighting for.
The minister highlighted progress made in 2024 in advancing the rights of persons with disabilities.
Moving from policy to implementation.
Palau continues to sustain this through the Palau severely disabled fund and the coordination of specialized services for children with special health care needs.
Palau enforces an open admission policy that guarantees all children aged six to 17, regardless of status, have equal access to free, equitable, and quality education.
National law and the Ministry of Education policies strictly prohibit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, national origin, or disability.
In Palau, care often begins at home with families doing their best to look after loved ones who can no longer care for themselves.
But over time, it became clear that families shouldn't have to do this alone.
To strengthen support systems at the community level, the Ministry of Health and Human Services has partnered with Palau Community College to train and certify in home caregivers, thereby enhancing the availability of skilled care within our own communities.
These caregivers are equipped not just with skills, but also with compassion.
At the same time, the ministry joined hands with the Belaau Wellness Center, a nonprofit that meets people where they are.
Together, they provide medical care, social support, and even help modify homes so that those who are elderly or living with disabilities can move safely and live with dignity.
For many families, this has meant the difference between struggling in silence and feeling supported.
In 2024, Blau took another important step, a new law establishing coordinating committee dedicated to advancing the rights of persons with disabilities.
The committee is mandated to develop a national policy and to support the establishment of an Office of Persons with Disabilities, with a view of ensuring that these efforts are not temporary but lasting.
What makes this especially meaningful is how it's being supported.
The legislation further provides for dedicated financing, allocating 2% of tax revenues from alcohol, cigarettes, and tobacco to the office, and an additional 1% to the committee for initial funding and implementation efforts.
It is a powerful shift, turning everyday systems into something that gives back, ensuring that those who need support most are not forgotten but are seen, included, and cared for.
In Palau, policies like this are really about people, about the small but meaningful ways a country tries to ease the weight its people carry every day.
For those living with severe disabilities, monthly financial support is provided, including $250 for those who are homebound and $200 for those who are blind or use wheelchairs, contributing to greater independence and dignity in daily life.
The financial support helps to cover the everyday realities that often go unseen but are deeply felt.
The law also reaches those in between.
The individuals earning modest incomes who receive tax refunds of $480, helping them stretch what they have just a little further.
For our older population, those aged 60 and above who are no longer working also receive tax refunds of $480.
Today, that support has grown to $600 for the older population, including for those relying on disability insurance benefits.
On the matter of same sex marriage, discussions surrounding same sex marriage in Palaar are often viewed through the lens of cultural traditions and customary family structure, which continue to play a significant role in shaping public policy.
Marriage has traditionally been understood within the context of family lineage, community responsibilities, and child rearing.
While Palau's Constitution currently does not provide for same sex marriage, this should not be interpreted as discrimination against individuals in same sex relationships.
Palau and society places a strong emphasis on respect, dignity, and social harmony, and individuals are generally treated without discrimination regardless of sexual orientation.
Taken together, these measures reflect something deeper than policy.
These initiatives reflect Palau's commitment to strengthening inclusive social protection systems and ensuring that support reaches those most in need.
They reflect a shared understanding that in Palau, we look out for one another, especially in the moments when it matters most.
Mr.
President, Excellencies, and distinguished delegates.
With regard to recommendations to harmonize the minimum legal age of marriage at 18, I would like to clarify that while the National Code technically allows girls to marry at 16 with parental consent, this is not a practice custom in modern Palau.
According to the 2020 census, no child under the age of 18 was reported as married.
Bu thanks delegations for their questions relating to education.
Human rights education is integrated into our national Social Studies curriculum for grades five to 12, and we enforce an open admission policy that guarantees all children aged six to 17, including children of foreign nationals, regardless of status, have access to quality education.
Additionally, sexual and reproductive health education is a core part of our life skills curriculum.
In response to concerns raised by delegations regarding labor standards, migration, and anti trafficking, I wish to reiterate the minister's earlier remarks regarding migrant workers who constitute approximately 40% of our national workforce and confirm that Palau is actively strengthening its legal and policy frameworks, including through the implementation of the national migration policy, which include key initiatives such as eliminating minimum wage, exemptions for all occupations with an increase to $5 per hour as of October 2025.
Strengthening the Office of Labor Compliance to conduct audits and better distinguish between labor violations and human trafficking.
Adopting a victim centered approach to human trafficking through the anti human trafficking working group to ensure all populations in vulnerable situations have access to services.
While Palau lacks a standalone refugee law, it has historically provided temporary stays for displaced persons.
We are improving border management to identify and register stateless persons and granting resident status to foreign minors born in Palau through an existing proposed legislation currently being reviewed by the National Congress.
We thank delegations for raising questions on matters regarding the well being of our people and environment.
Palau manages 100% of its marine and 20% of its terrestrial areas, utilizing the traditional practice of bull to conserve biodiversity.
To address the national health emergency of non communicable diseases, Pa allocates 10% of tobacco and alcohol tax revenues to innovative public health interventions.
We have achieved universal health coverage and prioritizing youth mental health and food security, including through support to local farmers and fishers.
Addressing youth mental health is a top priority under the National Youth policy of 2023, as our data shows a significant increase in reported depressive symptoms and elevated suicide rates among young males.
This is not an easy story to share for perhaps all of our delegation members here today have been affected.
Over the past year alone, Each of us could name a family member, a friend, an in law, or a neighbor we have lost to suicide.
In a country of fewer than 20,000 people, these losses are not distant or abstract.
When a young person takes their own life, it is not just one family that grieves.
It is an entire nation that feels the weight of that loss.
It touches our families, schools, and communities, and it stays with us.
These realities underscore the urgency of strengthening mental health services, prevention efforts, and community based support systems, particularly for young people.
In response to questions raised on climate change and resilient communities, Palau has integrated human rights into its updated climate change policy.
This includes dedicated thematic area and planned relocation to ensure a rights based community led approach for those impacted by sea level rise.
In addition, Palau is also planning the relocation of the Belau National Hospital and several community health centers to higher ground to ensure continued access to health services in the face of sea level rise and other climate related risks.
When the hospital was built in 1993, climate and environmental vulnerability were not of primary considerations.
Today, however, our national hospital sits close to sea level and is increasingly susceptible to flooding, storm tides, and sea level rise.
Access to the hospital requires crossing a low lying causeway which poses heightened risk during typhoons and other extreme weather events.
Put simply, the need to relocate our national hospital is a reminder that climate change is an abstract.
It affects where and how communities access lifesaving services, and it pushes governments to rethink how they protect people in times of crisis.
I wish to conclude my intervention by reiterating the minister's urgent message.
For Palau, climate change is a human rights emergency.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Thank you.
I propose that now we continue with our interactive dialogue and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Lebanon.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Lebanon welcomes the distinguished representatives of Palau and thanks them for their additional remarks.
We acknowledge Palau's efforts in promoting gender equality, protecting the environment, and responding to the growing and alarming challenges posed by climate change.
We also know the important steps taken to combat trafficking in persons and the progress achieved in implementing the relevant national action plan, supported by legislative reforms, policy measures, and victim support initiatives.
In a spirit of constructive dialogue, Lebanon puts forward the following recommendations to Palau.
One, to ratify core international human rights instruments that Palau has already signed.
To, to strengthen efforts aimed at addressing climate induced displacement through a comprehensive and rights based framework, including enhanced cooperation between national and state authorities on land and housing solutions for affected communities.
Three, to reinforce the legal and institutional measures to prevent and combat domestic violence and violence against women.
Including by ensuring effective implementation of existing laws, adequate protection for victims, and access to support services.
In conclusion, Lebanon wishes Palau every success in the outcome of its review.
I thank you, Mr.
President.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Lithuania.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Lithuania welcomes the delegation of Palau and thanks it for its national report.
Small states play a critical role in upholding and advancing multilateral cooperation and international law.
In this regard, we welcome Palau' consistent position in supporting international accountability efforts for human rights violations committed in conflict zones in all regions.
We also welcome the measures taken since the last UPR cycle to promote and protect human rights at the national level.
Particularly, we welcome the measures dedicated to promote the rights of persons with disabilities.
Lithuania would like to make the following recommendations.
One, with the support of OSHR regional partners and other stakeholders, enhance access to inclusive and quality education.
Two, implement concrete steps toward the establishment of International Humanitarian Law National Committee.
Three, increase efforts to strengthen the independent media sector by expanding access to sustainable funding sources.
Four, strengthen inclusive preparedness across society to respond to climate change related challenges with a particular focus on persons with disabilities.
We wish Palau all success in the current UPR.
I thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Malaysia.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Maliia thanks Pallau for the presentation of its national report.
We commend Palau for achieving considerable progress in promoting, protecting, and fulfilling the human rights of all persons in the country.
In the spirit of constructive engagement, Maliia recommends the following.
First, consider the immediate ratification of the Convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women.
Second, continue to take steps towards establishing a national human rights institution in accordance with the Paris principles.
Third, strengthen anti corruption frameworks, including by developing a comprehensive national strategy and enhancing institutional coordination, independence, and effectiveness, and fourth, enhance efforts to ensure equitable access to quality healthcare and education for persons with disabilities, including by addressing existing gaps in service delivery.
We wish Palau a successful review.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor now to the distinguished representative of Maldives.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
The Mos warmly welcomes the distinguished delegation from Palau to this fourth cycle review and thanks to the delegation for their presentation today.
The Mos welcomes Palau's enactment of several legislative amendments aimed at strengthening the promotion and protection of human rights across multiple areas.
We also commend Palau for implementing a system to monitor the country's progress towards the 2030 sustainable development goals, demonstrating the government's commitment to integrate the SDGs into national policies and strategic plans.
A constructive spirit, the Mice makes the following recommendations.
One, further strengthen coordination and operational effectiveness in addressing disasters and national emergencies and ensure the participation of women and youth in disaster and climate change decision making and response.
Two, promote equal opportunities and ensure full and effective participation of persons with disabilities in society, including by strengthening access to inclusive education and providing the necessary support to equip them with essential skills for productive life.
As a fellows, climate vulnerable leads, we recognize and understand the challenges Palau faces.
We call upon the international community to enhance cooperation with Palau through technical and financial assistance and capacity building support in line with its national priorities.
We wish Palau successful review.
I thank you.
Thank you.
I I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Australia.
Thank you, President, and we thank the delegation for its presentation.
Australia welcomes the Republic of Palau's progress in relation to gender equality and the rights of persons with disabilities, including the passing of the Persons with Disability Act in 2024 and strengthening the implementation of the Family Protection Act, supported by national initiatives to help prevent gender based violence.
In the spirit of constructive engagement, Australia recommends the Republic of Palau First, continues to strengthen efforts to prevent and respond to gender based violence, including enhanced reporting pathways, improved support services, and further integration of women into policy making.
Second, ratify and implement international law, the Convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women.
Third, establish a national human rights institution in accordance with the Paris principles to promote and protect human rights.
We wish you every success.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Mauritius for a video statement.
Thank you, Chair.
Mauritius extends a warm welcome to the delegation of Palau during this fourth cycle of the UPR.
As assists with inert vulnerabilities like Mauritius, we welcome Palau's climate action policies which have a strong human rights based focus.
We encourage Palau to continue its efforts to combat global warming and sea rise level.
A constructive spirit, we recommend that Palau accelerate its efforts towards the establishment of a national human rights institution and adheres to key human rights treaties, including the International Covenant on civil and political rights, the International Covenant on economic, social and cultural rights, the Convention on the elimination of racial discrimination, and the Convention Against Torture.
We wish Palau a very successful review.
I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Mexico.
Thank you, President.
We welcome the delegation of Palau, and we thank them for the presentation of their report.
We acknowledge progress made in protecting the rights of persons with disabilities and older persons through the promulgation of the law on persons with disabilities and the adoption of a national policy regarding aging respectively.
In a constructive and respectful spirit, Mexico recommends that Palau, one, ratify the CEO Convention, strengthen the collection of disaggregated data on gender based violence through interinstitutional collaboration and strengthen policies to prevent and respond to this type of violence.
Two, ratify the covenant on economic, social, and culture rights and adapt the labor framework in legal terms with a view to expanding protection of labor rights to all categories of workers, including non discrimination measures and access to basic labor contributions and provisions.
Three, strengthen birth registration systems so that all children born in Palau can have universal documentation which is issued in a timely manner, above all, in remote areas.
We wish Palau every success in this review cycle.
Thank you very much, sir.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Montenegro.
Tego welcomes the distinguished delegation of Palau and its constructive engagement with the UPR process.
We acknowledge efforts of Pau' authorities to advance the promotion and protection of human rights at the institutional legal and policy level since the last cycle, particularly the accession to the UN Convention Against Corruption.
We encourage the country to build on this by enacting whistleblower protection legislation and developing a national anti corruption strategy integrating human rights principles.
While we recognize measures taken to address gender based violence, further efforts are needed to improve the quality and accessibility of frontline services, including standard procedures and training curriculum for health services, police, legal services, safe shelters, and case management services.
Additionally, establishment of the Coordinating Committee of Persons with Disabilities is commendable and reflects the country's commitment to advancing national practices in this area.
To sustain this positive development, we encourage the relevant authorities to provide the coordinating committee with the necessary financial and administrative resources to fulfill its mandate.
This should also include the development of a comprehensive national policy on persons with disabilities.
Montenegro recommends to allow the following.
One, to take appropriate legal and policy measures to ensure safe access to abortion in line with international human rights standards.
To, to revise relevant legislation to explicitly include disability as a prohibited ground of discrimination.
We wish to allow a very successful UPR cycle.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished Representative Marco.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
My delegation would like to welcome the delegation of Palau and thanks them for presenting their national report which highlights the progress made during the previous UPR cycle.
My delegation particularly welcomes the efforts made in strengthening the legal and institutional framework to combat corruption.
Aware of all efforts already made and in a constructive spirits, Morocco would like to make the following three recommendations.
One, ratify and implement the UN Convention Against Torture, to develop and implement a comprehensive national anti corruption strategy with clear mandates and adequate resources.
Three, strengthen the inclusive and meaningful participation of women's organizations and groups in governance processes, ensuring their views and inputs are reflected in policy developments and priority setting.
We wish to the delegation of Palau success in this UPR.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Namibia.
Mr.
President, Namibia welcomes the delegation of Palau and thanks them for defending the national report.
We commend Palau in respect of three things, I mean, two things rather.
One, for recent reisrative reform, protecting human rights or strengthening the protection of human rights, particularly rights of persons with disability, and only for the constitutional order that seek to protect family is a natural and fundamental group unit of society determined domestically in accordance with the legal, cultural and societal value.
In the constructive spirit, Namibia sponsors three recommendation.
One, Consider establishing an independent human right institution in accordance with the police principle.
Two, enhance the legal safeguard aiming at prohibiting discrimination on the basis of disability.
And then three, consider ratifying the International Covenant on civil and political rights, as well as its second optional protocol aiming at abolishing death penalty.
We wish Pro a successful review.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Nepal.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Nepal warmly welcomes the delegation of the Republic of Palau to the fourth cycle of UPA and thanks them for the presentation of the National Report.
We appreciate Palau's commitment to protect and promote human rights and take good note of its constructive engagement with the human rights mechanisms.
We take note of efforts made by Palau to support communities in designing and implementing climate change adaptation and mitigation measures.
Nepal appreciates the progress made by Palau towards ensuring universal access to quality education in the country.
A constructive spirit, Nepal recommends Palau the following.
One, consider ratifying human rights instruments already signed by Palau, including the International Covenant on civil and political rights and International Covenant on economic, social, and cultural rights.
Two, redouble efforts to further strengthen healthcare facilities and ensure universal access to health care services.
The, scale up measures to increase representation of women in decision making bodies.
We wish Palau a successful UPR.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Netherlands.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
The ingdom of the Netherlands, thanks to delegation of the Republic of Palau for the presentation of its national report.
The Netherlands commends Palau for its consistent and principled contributions to global climate governance.
In the spirit of constructive cooperation, the Netherlands recommends Palau to, one, enact legislation that provides formal anti discrimination protections on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity, and second, to adopt legislation establishing 18 years as the absolute minimum age of marriage for all persons without exceptions in accordance with international standards on the rights of the child.
The Netherlands wishes Palau success with the follow up of all recommendations it receives during this UPR cycle.
Thank you, President.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished Representative of New Zealand.
Mr.
President, we warmly welcome the delegation from Palau.
We commend Palau's focus on advancing the rights of persons with disabilities through strengthened institutional arrangements, including the establishment of a coordinating committee to develop a national policy in an Office of Persons with Disabilities.
We also welcome efforts to enhance social protection measures benefiting low income earners, particularly persons with disabilities and retired citizens.
New Zealand recommends that Palau, one, strengthen efforts to increase women's representation in leadership roles, including through the incorporation of measurable targets in the National Gender Policy.
Two, ratify the Convention Against Torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.
Three, consider further legislative measures to ensure the protection from discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity.
We thank the delegation for their participation today and wish them a successful review.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Philippines.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
My delegation warmly welcomes the distinguished delegation of Palau.
We congratulate Palau for the progress achieved since its third UPR cycle, particularly in embedding human rights in national development planning in climate action, public health, social protection, and poverty reduction.
We also welcome recent legislative reforms to strengthen its response to trafficking in persons and advance gender equality.
To further build on these gains, we offer the following recommendations.
One, continue to strengthen protection mechanisms for migrant workers by, among others, improving labor inspections and complaint mechanisms to ensure that workers can seek remedies, including compensation and the enforcement of contractual rights.
Two, step up efforts to combat trafficking in persons by reinforcing investigative and prosecutorial capacity, improving victim identification, and ensuring victims access to protection, legal aid, and safe shelter.
And three, further enhance primary health care services, particularly for vulnerable and marginalized groups.
In closing, the Philippines wishes allow all success in this review.
I thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Portugal.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Portugal thanks the delegation of the Republic of Palau for the presentation of their national report.
Portugal welcomes Palau's continued efforts to enhance the human rights situation in the country, including through strengthened policies and legal frameworks aimed at eliminating human trafficking, notably the amendment of the anti human smuggling and Human Trafficking Act to align it with international standards and announce protection for victims.
Portugal further welcomes Palaus efforts to strengthen the protection of persons with disabilities, including the establishment of a Coordination Committee and the Office of Persons with Disabilities to advance inclusion, equal opportunities, and full participation.
A constructive spirit, Portugal recommends that Palau considers ratifying the International Covenant on economic, social and cultural rights, and the International Covenant on civil and political rights.
Portugal wishes Palau a successful review.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
We thank the delegation of Palau for the report.
We note with regret that Palau still has not established a transparent national Human Rights institutions.
We recommend its establishment in line with the Paris principle.
We recommend that it joined the International Covenant on Civil and Political rights, the Convention on the Prevention of genocide and punishment for it and crimes against humanity.
They're insufficient efforts to ensure the full rights of children and in this context, we recommend that Palau implement the provisions of the CRC.
We are concerned by measures taken by Palau to combat human trafficking.
We recommend that a comprehensive national plan of action be developed to address this problem.
We also recommend to step up efforts to protect vulnerable communities, including migrants to protect them from discrimination.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Rwanda.
Thank you, Mr.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Rwanda welcomes the esteemed high level delegation of the Republic of Para and thanks them for all presentation of their national report.
Rhonda value multilateral cooperation and the constructive engagement that brings together member states from all regions in advancing the universal promotion and protection of human rights.
We note with appreciation the government of Parels Executive Order number 448 that established Steering Committee for the disaster resilience Clean Energy Financing Project, deflecting forward looking approach to aligning climate finance and energy policy with human rights principles.
In the spirit of constructive dialogue, Rand recommends Parel two, one.
Strengthen existing legal and institutional responses to human trafficking with particular attention to the labor exploitation.
Second, and hence, inclusive policies for children with disabilities by ensuring their equal and meaningful access to social, health care, and educational services.
Randa wishes Parel a successful review.
I thank you, Mr.
Chairman.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Samoa.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Samo extends a warm welcome to Honorable Minister Gustaf Aaro and the delegation, our fellow Pacific small Island developing state.
We thank Palau for the presentation of its national report and acknowledge its ongoing commitment to the universal periodic review process and commend the progress made in advancing human rights at the national level.
We do commend Palau's efforts in promoting climate resilience and safeguarding vulnerable populations, recognizing the unique challenges faced by small island developing states.
We also note with appreciation that the Palau Development Plan 2023, 2026 outlines five key pillars, social support, cultural preservation, environment sustainability.
And so forth.
In the spirit of constructive dialogue, Sammo would like to offer the following recommendations.
One, consider utilizing digital learning solutions to aid the relocation of schools and ensure climate resilient access to education.
Two, engage civil society partners and relevant stakeholders to ensure inclusivity in developing the national policy on persons with disabilities.
And thirdly, continue efforts to develop climate finance and energy policies that protect vulnerable populations from the disproportionate fix of disasters.
Samo wishes Palo every success in this UPR cycle.
I thank you, Mr.
President.
Thank you.
I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Slovenia.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Slovenia commends the delegation of Palau for the national report, its presentation, and the engagement with the UPR process.
We welcome Palau' acceptance of recommendations we've made in the previous UPR cycle to address violence in the education system, including the prohibition of corporal punishment.
We know that further efforts are needed to their full implementation.
Slovenia encourages the effective implementation of the National Youth Policy 2023 2027.
Remain concerned about the severe adolescent mental health situation reflected in high suicide rates amongst those aged 15 to 19 and gaps in services and prevention.
Child nutrition also remains a concern with only 49% of children age six to 23 months receiving minimum dietary diversity.
In the spirit of constructive dialogue, Slovenia recommends that Palau strengthen adolescent mental health services, improve child nutrition, and conduct a midterm review of the National Youth policy.
I thank you, Mr.
President.
Thank you.
I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Spain.
Thank you very much, indeed, President, Spain, welcomes the delegation of Palau and thanks for participating in this exercise.
We commend the efforts undertaken by Palau in various spheres, and we would highlight the historic commitment to the moratorium on the death penalty in the international sphere and we congratulate them on their accession to the United Nations Protocol on trafficking in persons.
Would also highlight the significant increase of allocation of GDP to health care.
We understand the climate change challenge, and we commend them on their literacy efforts among the population that they've set out in this room.
Spain recommends that Palau one sign and ratify the pending International Human Rights instruments, particularly the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the International Covenant on Economic Social Cultural Rights, and the Convention Against Torture.
Two, ratify the Convention on the elimination of forms of discrimination against women, and improve implementation of the Family Protection Law, increasing resources allocated to refugees for victims of gender based violence and awareness raising programs.
Three, create an independent national Human rights institution in line with the PRS principles.
F, ensure effective implementation of protection measures against discrimination of persons with disabilities, ensuring the proper functioning of the coordinating committee and the office enshrined in the 2024 law.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor now to the distinguished representative of Togo.
President.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
The Delegation of Togo welcomes the Delegation of Palau and thanks it for the presentation of its report.
Togo commends the progress achieved by Palau in terms of human rights, especially in the area of public health, decent employment, the combating of human trafficking, and smuggling, the protection of vulnerable people, and the strengthening of climate resilience.
However, in a constructive spirit, Togo would make the following recommendations.
First, ratify ILO Convention number 138 on the minimum age for employment, to establish a national Human Rights institution in line with the Paris principles, Three, ratify the optional protocol to the Convention Against Torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading punishment or treatment.
Four, ratify the two optional protocols to the ICCPR, especially that aiming at the abolition of the death penalty.
Five, step up the fight against human trafficking by strengthening institutional capacities and victim protection.
To conclude, we wish the best of success to Bealaw.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ukraine.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Ukraine warmly welcome the delegation of the Republic of Palau and thanks it for the presentation of its national report.
We commend Palau for its continued engagement with universal periodic review process and for its commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights.
We note with appreciation Palau progress in a number of important areas, including the strengthening of social protection for vulnerable groups, the adoption of key national policies on gender equality and disability inclusion, and the concrete steps taken to prevent and combat trafficking in persons, including through dedicated institutional mechanisms.
Ukraine encourages Palau to continue making further progress and would like to offer the following recommendations.
First, to continue considering accession to the core International Human Rights instruments to which he is not yet a party.
To, to further pursue the establishment of an independent national human rights institution in full compliance with the Paris principles.
Three, to continue strengthening the child protection system, including measures to prevent violence against children and ensure adequate protection and care.
Four, to continue strengthening legal and policy framework aimed at improving the quality and accessibility of frontline services for survivors of gender based violence, including through sustained interagency cooperation.
Five, to build on existing efforts to prevent and combat trafficking in persons and forced labor, including by further enhancing victim identification, protection, and assistance measures.
Ukraine wishes allow a successful review.
I thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the UK.
Thank you, Mr.
President and a warm welcome to the delegation of Palau.
The United Kingdom welcomes Palau's efforts to strengthen its anti trafficking legal framework, including updating its Anti Human Smuggling and Human Trafficking Act.
We also commend Pala's progress in updating its Family Protection Act to improve access to services and address gender based violence.
We encourage Palau's continued engagement with the UK and other international partners to support the effective establishment of a national human rights institution and ratification of CDA.
We recommend that Palau, one, update relevant legislation to set the minimum age of marriage to 18 without exception.
Two, amend the anti discriminatory Act to explicitly prohibit all forms of disability based discrimination and establish clear procedures for the investigation and remedy of complaints.
Three, align the minimum age of employment with the end of compulsory education in line with the ILO Minimum Age Convention Standards.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Uruguay.
Thank you, President Uruguay welcomes the delegation of Palau and thanks for the presentation of the report, commending them on efforts achieved to implement the recommendations from the previous cycle.
Constructively, we recommend one, make progress in ratifying the International Human Rights instruments that Palau is not yet party to, including the Convention Against Torture and other calling human degrading treatment or punishment, and it's optional protocol, the International Covenant on Economic, social and cultural rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and other basic human rights instruments.
To adopt the measures necessary to reduce non transmissible diseases and to promote mental health, including the consideration of development and implementation of a comprehensive national strategy on mental health for adolescents, which includes suicide prevention and mental health services.
Three, revise the normative framework and policies to explicitly prohibit discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity, and harmonize legislation to ensure that discrimination on these grounds is effectively prohibited.
You wishes every success to below in this full review cycle.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Panuatu.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Fano to extend a warm welcome to Honorable Minister Gustaf Naro and delegation and thank them for the world presentation of the national report.
We congratulate Palau for its efforts and result achieved in implementing the recommendations of the previous circle.
Final two comments Palau for his notable accomplishments in the field of human rights.
We recognize that as a smaller and developing state, these events are taking place against a backdrop of multiple challenges, not least the existential threat posed by climate change.
In this regard, we note with appreciation the Pec steering committee to oversee the disaster resilient Clean Energy financing project established in 2021.
By prioritizing disaster resilience and enhancing woman access to financing, this initiative has the potential to mitigate and disproportionate effects of disasters on vulnerable populations.
It is in the spirit of constructive engagement that Futu respectfully recommends Palau two, one, further messages to address gender based violence, including strengthening support services for survivors and ensuring effective implementation of existing legislation.
Second, enhance access to justice, particularly for marginalized and remote communities by improving legal aid services and judiciary capacity.
Third, continued progress in protecting the rights of children, including stronger safeguard against exploitation and improved access to education and health services.
Finally, maintain its strong global advocacy on climate action while ensuring that national adaptation strategies fully integrate human rights considerations.
We wish the delics of Palau, our Pacific OTs, a very successful ref.
I thank you.
Thank you.
Excellency distinguished colleagues.
This was the last speaker on my list for this review.
I now give the floor to His Excellency, Minister Gustaf Aaro to address observations and comments that have been raised that have been raised so far and to make final remarks.
Excellency, you have the floor.
I would like to take this opportunity to give the floor to Mr.
Jeffrey Toure to address the comments and statements and recommendations.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
P also expresses its sincere appreciation to Portugal, Slovenia, and the United Kingdom, and other member states for their advanced questions and wishes to provide the following response.
Mr.
President, distinguished delegations with regard to the questions raised by Portugal on behalf of the group of friends and national mechanisms for implementation, reporting, and follow up.
Pala wishes to reaffirm its commitment to strengthening national coordination and implementation of its international human rights obligations.
Pala's national mechanism for coordinating the implementation of supported UPR recommendations is anchored in the reporting Committee on UN Convention on Human Rights established through Executive Order number 368.
This inter ministerial body, led by the Ministry of State brings together relevant government agencies alongside civil society organizations and non governmental stakeholders, ensuring a hall of government and hall of society approach.
Through regular consultations, data collection, and policy coordination, the committee serve as a principal platform for aligning national priorities with Pala's international human rights obligations and facilitating inclusive participation in implementation efforts.
In engaging with civil society and relevant stakeholders, Palau has adopted a participatory and consultive approach.
Civil society organizations are not only consulted, but are active contributors to reporting and implementation processes, providing expertise, community perspectives, and independent insights.
While Palau does not yet have a fully established national human rights institution, the government has prioritized the re establishment of the Office of Ombudsman as an interim accountability mechanism with emphasis on ensuring independence, accessibility, and sustainability.
National consultations conducted during the preparation of reports and policy of frameworks, together with ongoing partnerships with regional and international organizations have further strengthened transparency, dialogue, and accountability in implementation efforts.
With regard to monitoring progress and impact, Executive Order number 483 established a national framework to track progress toward the sustainable development goals, which closely complements Pala's human rights obligations and reporting commitments.
Ministries are required to provide regular updates on implementation, enabling the consolidation of data and assessment of outcomes across sectors.
Palau also recognizes the need to strengthen national data systems and continues to work closely with development partners to improve evidence based policy making, identify implementation gaps, and better support persons and groups in vulnerable situations.
The existing reporting committee effectively performs many of the core functions of NMIRF including coordinating reporting obligations, clustering recommendations, facilitating interagency cooperation and engaging with civil society in consultations and reporting processes.
Nevertheless, Palau acknowledges ongoing challenges related to limited institutional capacity, financial resources, and technical expertise.
In this regard, Palau remains committed to progress to progressively strengthening this mechanism, including through enhanced digital data management systems, more formalized follow up procedures, and continued technical assistance from partners such as OHCHR and UNDP.
Mr.
President, Palau acknowledges there were questions raised by Slovenia concerning the protection of rights of older personm.
Palau reaffirms its strong commitment to combating ageism, eliminating age based discrimination, and safeguarding the dignity and human rights of older persons.
This commitment is anchored in Palau's Constitution and reinforced through national policies that prohibit discrimination and promote equal access to services across the life course.
Palau continues to foster a culture of respect, inclusion and dignity through nationwide awareness initiatives and community outreach programs, ensuring that older persons are recognized as valued members of society whose contributions and rights must be protected.
Palau has adopted concrete legislative and policy measures to support older persons, including implementation of the National aging policy developed with the support from the World Health Organization.
This policy promotes healthy and active aging, strengthens age friendly environments and ensures that health and social systems remain responsive to the needs of older persons.
Importantly, Palau has also introduced targeted financial support measures to address economic vulnerabilities among older persons.
Under recent legislation, people aged 60 years and above with no employment or business income are entitled to annual financial assistance of $400, which is expected to increase to $600 under subsequent amendments.
These measures are intended to provide a basic level of income security and reduce the risk of poverty and marginalization among older persons.
In addition, brother social protection measures continue to benefit older persons as part of vulnerable groups.
Individuals earning $15000-30 thousand annually are eligible for tax refunds up to $400, while persons engaged in the informal market sector may receive social assistance equivalent to 4% of their annual revenue, up to a maximum of $600.
Furthermore, enhanced subsidies for persons with disabilities, many of whom are older persons include monthly assistance of $200 for homebound individuals and $200 for those who are blind or wheelchair bound.
These initiatives reflect Pila's commitment to strengthening inclusive social protection systems that address intersecting vulnerabilities associated with aging.
Looking ahead, Palau remains committed to further strengthening legal and policy frameworks to eliminate age discrimination in all its forms.
Efforts are underway to improve data collection, integrate age sensitive approaches to national development planning, and expand awareness initiatives to combat stereotypes and discrimination.
Through continued collaboration with international partners and sustained national efforts, Palau aims to ensure that all older persons can live with dignity, independence, and the full enjoyment of their human rights.
Mr.
President, distinguished delegations, Palau also thanks the United Kingdom for its questions regarding women's participation in political and public life, ratification of the International Convention of Civil and Political Rights, the establishment of a national Human Rights institution and protections relating to sexual orientation and gender identity.
With regard to women's participation in political and public life, Palau acknowledges that women remain underrepresented in elected office at the National Congress, cabinet, and state levels.
However, this numerical representation must also be understood within Pala's unique cultural and traditional context.
Palauan society is traditionally matrilineal and women have long exercised significant authority and influence within customary governance system.
Senior women leaders are Rubaly and female clan leaders continue to play central roles in decision making on matters relating to land ownership, inheritance, conflict resolution, and the selection and endorsement of traditional leaders.
Women are consulted on important public and community matters before major decisions are made, reflecting the enduring influence of women within Palau society.
At the same time, Palau recognizes the importance of translating this traditional influence into greater representation withinformal political institutions.
With regard to the ratification of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, Plaw remains committed to a careful and sequenced assion process.
As reflected in our national report, Plaw continues to undertake internal legal reviews, interagency consultations, and institutional assessments to ensure domestic legislation is aligned with treaty obligations prior to ratification.
This measured approach, which is also being applied in relation to the ratification of the Convention Against Torture is intended to ensure that ratification is accompanied by meaningful implementation.
On the establishment of a national Human Rights institution in accordance with the Paris principles, Palau recognizes the important role of such institution will play in strengthening national accountability and human rights protection.
However, as previously highlighted during this dialogue, Palau, like many small island, developing states, faces resource and institutional capacity constraints that require a phased and sustainable approach.
In this regard, Palau continues to prioritize establishing an independent national human rights institution.
Or re establishing of the Office of the ombudsman through the national anti corruption strategy while simultaneously engaging development partners, including the UNDP and OHH artistic technical and financial support toward the eventual establishment of a full compliant national Human Rights institution.
With regards to the protection relating to sexual orientation and gender identity, Palau affirms its commitment to equality and non discrimination.
Existing provisions within Palau National Code, together with the gender mainstreaming policy, provide an important basis for inclusive protection.
Nevertheless, Palau recognizes the need for a clear statutory articulation of these protections, particularly in alignment with the obligations under the Convention on the Rights of the Child and Conventions and the rights of persons with disability.
To this end, Palau is undertaking legislative review aimed at strengthening protection against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity, while ensuring that the child protection and brother social protection systems remain inclusive and accessible to all persons.
Mr.
President, Palau further wishes to address observations and comments raised by member states regarding cross cutting issues.
With regards to equality and nondiscrimination, Palau reaffirms that non discrimination remain a fundamental constitutional principle and a cornerstone of its democratic society.
As previously highlighted, Palau continues to strengthen legal and policy frameworks to ensure inclusive participation and equal protection for all persons while advancing gender mainstreaming initiative across government institution and national development processes.
Mr.
President, in response to comments and questions raised by distinguished delegates regarding the right to development and the prohibition of torture and ill treatment, Palau emphasizes that Palau Development Plan 2023 2026 integrates human rights principles across key national priorities, including social protection, environmental sustainability, public health, and good governance, guided by the principle of Palau and People first, Palaumain committed to ensuring that development remains inclusive, equitable, and people centered.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
I now yield the floor to miss Filanams.
Mr.
President, Excellencies, and distinguished delegates.
It is an honor to join the delegation of Palau at this universal periodic review and to contribute to this important dialogue on human rights.
My name is Vili Melzau.
I stand before you as a woman with a disability, a mother, and a proud citizen of Palau.
At the outset, I extend my sincere appreciation to the Honorable Minister of State for the introduction and for the trust placed in me as Pala's candidate to the committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities for the 2027 2030 term.
Kature is grounded in our national guiding principle, Aho Adré, Palawan people First.
It reflects the belief that the dignity and inclusion of every person define our progress as nations and as a global community.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
This milestone reminds us of the progress achieved while also calling on us to accelerate implementation and ensure that no one is left behind.
I am deeply honored to be Pau's first candidate to a UN treaty body since our independence more than 30 years ago.
I carry with me not only my own voice, but also the voices of persons with disabilities across the Pacific and small island developing states where lived experience remains underrepresented.
Excellencies for over two decades effort to advance disability inclusion at the national, regional and global levels grounded in lived experience and strengthened through partnerships.
Nationally, I played a key role in advancing the CRP within Palau by championing the ratification of the convention and help embedded disability rights within Pala's legal and policy framework.
I contributed to the development of Pala's Disability Act and supported the establishment of the Office of Persons with Disabilities and the National Coordinating Committee, as well as drafting of the fourth Palau National Disability inclusive Policy.
I've also worked to drive practical changes on the ground from drafting inclusive legislation with local leadership to improving accessibility through ocean Ram projects that promote accessibility, participation, and independence for persons with disabilities.
In addition, I helped shape the Palau Severely disabled Assistance Fund program, which provides money support to persons with severe disabilities and promotes dignity and inclusion.
I've served as President of Pala's National Orsi of Persons with Disabilities and as board president of the Bela Association of NGOs, strengthening my experience in grassroots leadership and inclusive governance.
Reginally as former female co chair of the Pacific Disability Forum, I worked to elevate the voices of persons with disabilities, including women and girls with disabilities and supported countries in implementing their CRPD commitments.
Globally, as a former board member of the International Disability Alliance, I contributed to advancing disability inclusion within the UN system.
My consultancy work and collaborations with organizations such as SCAP for Asian Pacific, UNICEF, the Pacific Community, Pacific Island Forum Secretariat, and Ilo, I have helped advance disability inclusive policies and initiatives across the Pacific region.
Excellency, a society is judged by how it treats those most often left behind.
I seek election to the CRPD committee with ambition to ensure that no person with a disability, particularly those in remote, underserved, and underrepresented communities, remains invisible.
I hope to help bridge the gap between global commitments and lived realities by promoting practical implementation, inclusion, accessibility, and meaningful participation.
I believe that inclusion is libération.
If elected, I will work to help bridge the gap between commitments and implementation by promoting accessibility, inclusive development, this inclusive climate action, and rights based approaches to mental health and social protection.
As a woman and a mother from a male society, I understand the intersection of gender, culture, and disability, and I will continue to advocate for inclusive approaches that leave no one behind.
I will serve with independence, integrity, and accountability, and work constructively with all the stakeholders in the spirit of dialogue and cooperation.
In closing, I carry the trust of the government of Palau and the responsibility to present voices too often unheard.
I thank you for your time and consideration, and I respectfully seek your support.
I also extend my sincere appreciation to His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Palau for his leadership and commitment to human rights and inclusive development.
With that, I respectfully yield the floor to the Minister of State to deliver Palau's closing statement.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Thank you, Velani.
Mr.
President, the Republic of Palau extends its sincere appreciation to members of the Troika, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, including the Secretariat of the Universal Periodic Review for their exceptional professionalism and administrative support throughout this session.
We are deeply grateful to fellow member states for their constructive engagement and valuable contributions provided during the interactive dialogue.
Palau reaffirms its position that the Universal periodic review is a vital mechanism for peer accountability.
Our participation in this fourth cycle reflects a continued and proactive commitment to fulfilling our international human rights obligations.
We view this process not merely as a reporting exercise, but as an essential tool for greater transparency and continuous improvement of our domestic human rights protections.
Since the previous review cycle, Palau has achieved significant normative progress through the following specific legislative measures, the Anti Human Smuggling and Human Trafficking Act, RPPL 11-28, which represents a critical milestone in strengthening the criminal justice framework, aligning national law with international standards to enhance legal protection and access to justice for the victims of trafficking and smuggling.
The amendment of Section 3.1 306 of Title 13, minimum wage by RPPL 11-34, which represents a vital step toward the value realization of economic and social rights directly contributes to enhance livelihoods and dignity of the nation's workforce.
And the establishment of the Office of Persons with Disabilities, RPPL 11-36, which marks the institutionalization of Protection and inclusion of persons with disabilities, ensures their rights are integrated into all aspects of the society through a permanent institutional framework.
Your Excellencies, Palau views the adoption of the outcome of this review as a forward looking opportunity for accountability and implementation rather than a procedural formality.
We are committed to translating these recommendations into action through Abu, Palawan People First policy.
This will be operationalized through a strategic implementation framework that includes defined timelines for interagency coordination and systematic engagement with national stakeholders to ensure that international commitments align with our national policy priorities.
To ensure we can truly live up to our human rights commitments, Palau has identified several core priorities where we humbly seek partnership and support from the international community.
We recognize that while our commitment remains firm, our path forward is often narrowed by limited institutional and financial resources.
As an initial priority, Palau aims to strengthen accountability mechanisms, including through establishing an independent national human rights institution and or establishing the Office of the ombudsman with a mandate covering all branches of government.
Palau continues to work toward the ratification of the Convention Against Torture, Currently, we find ourselves in a season of intense internal review and legislative alignment.
To succeed, we would truly appreciate continued technical assistance and financial support from friends and partners, including the OHCHR, other UN agencies, and the Secretariat of the Pacific Community.
Your Excellencies, in Palau, the threat of climate change is not a distant policy debate.
It is an immediate reality that we are weaving into our national migration policy and our pursuit of a just transition to a clean energy future.
We often speak the urgency to relocate our national hospital because it relates to the very essence of the right to health.
If our hospital is flooded or its access is cut off by a storm, the safety of the entire community would vanish.
We believe that access to essential health service is at the heart of resilience, and we call for international cooperation, including in technology and finance to ensure that the cost of this transition does not place an unfair burden on the shoulders of our citizens.
Your Excellency, distinguished colleagues.
Finally, with regard to the protection of our children, Palau identifies this as a priority area and is working towards the development of a national strategy guided by the principles of the CRC.
At the same time, efforts are underway simultaneously to modernize and strengthen our juvenile justice system, including through improved facilities, stronger legal safeguards.
Recognizing that our current capacity and data systems are stretched thin to allow seeks to deepen our partnerships with international organizations to better support our children and youth in vulnerable situations and secure the future.
Your Excellencies, in closing, Palau is deeply grateful for the meaningful and constructive engagement of all delegations.
For you, we remain ready and committed to walk this path alongside our national stakeholders, including non governmental organizations, civil society organizations, partners such as UN agencies and regional bodies to move forward.
We will now undertake a thorough internal review of the recommendations received, and we will provide our formal response in due course.
P Sula and thank you, Mr.
Presidento.
Thank you.
And I thank Your Excellency, Minister Gustaf Aitaro, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Palau and your delegation for the presentation and participation in this review.
The report of the review will be prepared by the members of the Troika, namely the representatives of the Gambia, Qatar, and the United Kingdom.
In accordance with the procedures implemented in 2015, the recommendation section of the report is scheduled for distribution by email on Tuesday, May 12th at 12:30 P.M.
Let me recall also that according to President statement, PRSDsla OS slash 19 slash one adopted last December, eight December 2025.
The recommendation section of all reports of the working group will be considered for adoption on Friday, May 15 in the last meeting of the session from 2:30 P.M.
The full report, including the summary section will be distributed by email on Friday 2022, May 2026.
This brings us to the end of our meeting.
We will reconvene tomorrow morning at 9:00 A.M.
For the review of Somalia.
Speaking time will be 1 minute and 10 seconds, 1 minute and 10 seconds for all.
Inscribed speakers who wish to withdraw from the list are kindly invited to use the online system event for withdrawals at the latest 30 minutes before the start of the review.
And finally, on a personal note, if I may, let me extend my heartfelt appreciation to Palau for its participation in this UPR fourth cycle, It is a commitment shown by Palau to translate the recommendations to action as the minister had stated.
And also, as the minister had stated, this is in spite of the various challenges Palau faces as he had identified in the closing statement.
And I now hereby close the eighth meeting of the 52nd session of the working group of the Universal Periodic review