Saint lucia - Universal Periodic Review

UPR 37, January 20, 2021
Recommendations by Canada

Overview

Saint Lucia is a parliamentary democracy with a bicameral legislature. Saint Lucia’s civil liberties are enshrined in law and are generally respected. Among the most significant human rights issues are impunity for violence against suspects and prisoners by law enforcement officials; sexual and gender-based violence against women and girls; the criminalization of consensual same-sex sexual practices; and discrimination against LGBTQ2I persons.

While the constitution prohibits the torture and other cruel treatment of prisoners, there have been allegations of physical abuse by police and prison officers. Investigations by the authorities into allegations of wrongdoing, including extra-judicial killings, have in many cases failed to deliver accountability.

Gender-based violence, domestic violence, sexual harassment and sexual assault remain serious issues in Saint Lucia. The law criminalizes rape; however, spousal rape is not fully criminalized. In order to address violence against women and girls, Saint Lucia introduced a National Partnership/Plan of Action to End Gender-based Violence in 2016.

While discrimination based on race, sex and religion is prohibited, the law does not provide full protection to LGBTQ2I persons. Consensual same-sex sexual activity is illegal, and is punishable by up to 10 years in prison. The law does not extend antidiscrimination protections to individuals based on sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics. While these laws are not enforced, there is widespread social discrimination and instances of verbal harassment and physical assault against members of the LGBTQ2I community.

Recommendations

Thank you, Madam President.

Canada welcomes advances made by Saint Lucia since the last review cycle. In particular, Canada commends the efforts taken to enhance the structures and resources in place to support survivors of gender-based violence.

Canada recommends that Saint Lucia:

1. Rapidly establish independent investigations into extra-judicial police shootings to ensure that the rule of law prevails and to bring perpetrators to justice.
2. Take measures to reduce the length of remand and detention without trial.
3. Take additional steps to eradicate domestic violence and provide protection guarantees for women and children.
4. Decriminalize consensual same-sex sexual relations.

Canada further notes that Saint Lucia currently has two seats (out of 18) held by women in its House of Assembly. We encourage the government to take additional steps to foster greater representation of women in politics.