U.S. Statement at the UPR of Liechtenstein

Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Intervention for Liechtenstein,
15th Session

As Delivered by Kim d’Auria Vazira
Geneva,
January 30, 2013

The Unites States warmly welcomes H.E. Aurelia Frick and the Liechtenstein delegation to Geneva.

We commend Liechtenstein’s strong commitment to the rule of law, democracy, freedom of expression, and the protection of religious freedom.  We applaud the government’s programs on Holocaust education and public commemoration ceremonies.

We are encouraged by Liechtenstein’s commitment to the humane treatment of asylum seekers from Africa, especially Somalia and Eritrea.  We further commend the Government for extending the time limit given to asylum seekers to request a hearing before the Administrative Court from 24 hours to five days in accordance with a recommendation from the UN Committee against Torture.

We recognize the significant representation of women in Liechtenstein’s politics.  However, we note that women continue to earn 20% less than their male counterparts for performing the same work and continue to face barriers when seeking employment in traditionally male occupations.

We also note the low level of representation of members of minority groups in the government and parliament.

Bearing these concerns in mind, the United States makes the following recommendations:

  1. Research the causes of the significantly lower wages women earn and implement a strategy to address the issue;
  2. Conduct outreach to women and girls on opportunities in traditionally male occupations and trades;
  3. Examine methods to promote greater representation of members of minority groups in the government and parliament.

 

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