News

NFP concern with intention behind ratification of ICCPR

May 10, 2018 5:13 am

The National Federation Party has voiced its concerns regarding the intention behind the two international treaties intended to be ratified.

Party Leader, Professor Biman Prasad says the ratification of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights were long overdue.

While speaking before the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence, Prof Prasad says in 2014 the Multinational Observer Group had recommended Fiji ratify the treaty.

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However, the Party believes this is being rushed through now as part of a campaign to win a seat on the United National Human Rights Council this year.

Prof Prasad says while the ratification is welcomed, it cannot be rushed or fast-tracked as the inclusion of these Treaties into domestic laws are critical.

The Party Leader says more work needs to be done as ratification is the first step followed by the implementation of these laws.

He adds the ratification would result in more requirements from the Anti-Discrimination and Human Rights Commission.