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Written question asked by Lord Kennedy of Southwark (Labour) on Monday, 23 February 2015, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 9 March 2015. It was answered by Baroness Anelay of St Johns (Conservative) on Monday, 9 March 2015 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Paraguay

Question

To ask Her Majesty’s Government what is their latest assessment of the human rights situation in Paraguay.

Answer

In Paraguay, basic human rights as well as political and civic liberties such as the freedom of expression and assembly are normally respected. Free and fair elections are being held. The law and constitution provides for freedom of speech and press, and the government respect these rights. Individuals have criticised the government publicly and privately, generally without reprisal or impediment. We are pleased that Paraguay has been elected as member of the UN Council of Human Rights for the period 2015-2017 and are working closely with them.

However, despite good progress on a range of human rights issues, we would welcome improvements in a number of areas, including on: access to a fair trial; investigation of crimes; impunity; and a law against all forms of discrimination. We continue to raise a range of human rights issues with the Paraguayan government on a regular basis.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL5048
Session
2014-15
Subjects
Human rights Paraguay
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk