Mr. President,

Turkey believes that the UPR is one of the most important mechanisms to review the status of human rights globally. The UPR process, during which the human rights records of all countries are reviewed on the basis of the principles of universality and equality and in the spirit of constructive cooperation, presents significant contributions to the human rights agenda of the countries.

Turkey’s second UPR review showed that we warmly accept and advocate the legitimacy of this process. It is important that this process, which provides the opportunity for interstate dialogue, should not be used neither for purposes of naming and shaming nor for politicization of matters relating to human rights. Countries challenged by difficulties in their respective fields of human rights must be addressed in good faith and in sincerity.

We specifically attach utmost importance to the implementation and follow-up of recommendations made during the UPR process. Without making a difference on the ground, accepted recommendations will not be able to go further than being lukewarm promises. Recommendations should be assessed with diligence and the implementation of those on which countries had agreed, should be monitored and followed-up by national platforms.

In addition to governmental institutions the involvement of a wide range of stakeholders in various stages of the process must be sincerely considered. Different stakeholders’ active engagement and contributions is an opportunity to exchange experiences and to define best practices.

Finally, we would like to take this opportunity to express our appreciation to the Office of the High Commissioner for its significant contribution and support to the UPR mechanism, which remains essential for the successful functioning of the mechanism as a whole.

Thank you.