Malabo, Equatorial Guinea,   July 29-31, 2024 – The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Representative in Equatorial Guinea delivered the opening statement on behalf of the Resident Coordinator at a critical training session organized by the RC Office focused on finalizing the country's Universal Periodic Review (UPR) report. The UPR is a UN mechanism that assesses the human rights records of all member states. Equatorial Guinea's report is set to be presented in Geneva in November 2024.

The seminar, chaired by the Third Vice Prime Minister in charge of Human Rights, underscored the government's dedication to human rights advancements. In his opening remarks, the Vice Prime Minister reiterated Equatorial Guinea's commitment to upholding human rights principles and collaborating with international mechanisms.

Mrs Hind Jalal, UNFPA Representative, delivered the opening statement on behalf of the Resident Coordinator. She highlighted the constructive partnership between the UN and the government, emphasizing the recently signed cooperation framework that prioritizes human rights. "We commend the government's ongoing efforts to implement recommendations from the 2019 UPR cycle and its progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals," stated Mrs Jalal.

The seminar provided a platform for in-depth discussions on the UPR process, its significance for Equatorial Guinea, and the establishment of a National Mechanism for Implementation, Reporting, and Follow-up (NMIRF). The NMIRF, a governmental structure, will streamline the coordination and reporting processes for international human rights mechanisms, ensuring effective implementation of recommendations.

Facilitators from the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in Cameroon shared valuable insights and best practices, guiding participants on strategic planning for future reports and follow-up actions. More than 60 participants joined the training representing sector ministries, civil society organizations, the private sector and donors.

         Photo credit, Flora Isabel Obama-  Opening statements, by Mrs. Hind Jalal on behalf of Resident Coordinator and H.E. Mr. Alfonso Nsue Mokuy, Third Deputy Prime Minister in charge of Human Rights

The UPR report, slated for presentation in Geneva in November 2024, is expected to receive over 200 recommendations for Equatorial Guinea. The UNFPA, along with the UN system, reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the government through advisory services, capacity building, and information sharing to ensure the successful implementation of these recommendations.

The seminar concluded with a renewed sense of collaboration and dedication to advancing human rights in Equatorial Guinea.