Human Rights Priority Countries

Baroness Anelay of St Johns Excerpts

Monday 13th September 2021 Lords Chamber

[Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay (Con)]

My Lords, the Government are clear that more trade does not have to come at the expense of human rights. Our annual report makes that clear. We will continue to show global leadership in encouraging all states to uphold international human rights obligations. Our international obligations and commitments, including on human rights, are always of paramount importance when we make decisions on our trading relations. The Government will continue to take a balanced and proportionate approach, delivering the best outcome for the UK, maximising the benefits of trade and ensuring that we stay true to our core values.

[Baroness Anelay of St Johns (Con)]

My Lords, I quote the report on South Sudan:

“Conflict-related … rape and abduction of women and girls for sexual slavery, continued to be prevalent.”


What representations has the FCDO made to its counterparts there since the laudable visit by Her Royal Highness the Countess of Wessex last year to champion the eradication of sexual and gender-based violence, and with what results?

[Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay (Con)]

My Lords, we continue to make representations on this important issue. Most recently, UK officials in Juba raised human rights concerns with the deputy Foreign Minister on Friday last week, as well as with the Minister for Presidential Affairs on 16 August. We also continue to press for human rights progress, supported by robust monitoring, at the UN Security Council and the Human Rights Council, as well as through funding programmes to support victims and tackle the drivers of violence.