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The Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Working Group of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) adopted the review report on China today (October 25, Geneva time).
The UPR Working Group held a hearing on October 22 to examine the second report submitted by China (covering the Hong Kong and Macao Special Administrative Regions). A team representing the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) led by the Under Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs, Mr Lau Kong-wah, attended the hearing as part of China's delegation.
"The UNHRC Working Group has taken note of the commitment of, and efforts made by, the HKSAR Government in the promotion and protection of human rights in Hong Kong. HKSAR delegates also responded to questions from members of the Working Group on press freedom and the political participation and employment rights of persons with disabilities," a spokesman for the Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Bureau said.
The HKSAR delegates said at the hearing of the Working Group that freedom of speech and freedom of the press are enshrined in the Basic Law and the Hong Kong Bill of Rights. All permanent residents, including persons with disabilities, enjoy the same right to vote and stand for election in accordance with law. The HKSAR Government provides a wide range of employment support and vocational training services for persons with disabilities and has put in place legislative measures against disability discrimination in employment and at the workplace.
"The HKSAR Government will continue to promote and preserve the human rights and freedoms in Hong Kong in accordance with the Basic Law and relevant local legislation," the spokesman added.
The review report will be presented to the plenary of the UNHRC for adoption in March next year.
Ends/Friday, October 25, 2013
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