“Government and partners work together to improve reporting and accountability on human rights commitments”
Vanuatu has taken another step in strengthening its commitment to international human rights.
A national workshop on the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) process and treaty reporting mechanisms was officially opened this morning at the Ramada Resort in Port Vila.
The workshop was opened by the Director General of the Ministry of Youth, Justice and Community Services (MYJCS), Ms Cherol Ala Ianna, who highlighted the importance of coordinated reporting and accountability in protecting human rights across the country.
“The UPR and treaty reporting processes are not just obligations to fulfil,” Ms Ala Ianna said. “They are opportunities to reflect, improve, and take meaningful action. They help us understand how our systems affect people’s lives and ensure that no one is left behind.”
She stressed the need for strong coordination among government ministries, departments, and agencies, noting that accurate, timely reporting and collaboration are key to implementing recommendations from international human rights mechanisms.
Dr Justin Pettit, Acting Head of the Human Rights Unit at the Commonwealth Secretariat in Geneva, Switzerland highlighted the importance of inclusive and well-coordinated reporting and encouraged participants to see international reporting not as a formality, but as a tool to improve governance, transparency, and accountability.
“Real progress happens when recommendations lead to practical actions that improve people’s lives and strengthen trust in institutions,” Dr Pettit said.
Ms Ala Ianna welcomed the support from the Commonwealth Secretariat and emphasized the importance of ongoing partnerships to build national capacity, improve reporting quality, and ensure follow-up on recommendations.
She encouraged participants to actively engage in the workshop, share experiences, and use the opportunity to better understand the UPR process and treaty reporting mechanisms, particularly how international commitments can be applied locally.
Over three days, government agencies and partners will work together to strengthen understanding and skills in Vanuatu’s human rights reporting and UPR process.