A workshop on Universal Periodic Review was organized at Park Royal Hotel in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday morning.

Dr Win Myat Aye, Union Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement, made a key note speech, saying that the government is focusing on freedom and development of people, while the respective ministries are implementing their tasks in drawing relevant laws for the rights of people.

The Universal Periodic Review was initiated by UN member countries in 2006. These countries submit reports human rights performance of their countries. Myanmar has already presented its first report in 2011 and the second one in 2015 respectively to the UNHCR. The third report is scheduled to submit in November 2020.

By forming 12 working committees for 12 sectors, Myanmar is implementing 166 points out of 281 suggested by 93 member countries.

The Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement has taken responsibility for 30 points.

Dr Win Myat Aye also said his ministry is working for protection of children and women, as well as the elderly persons and the disabled ones, while it is operating One Stop Women Support Centers in Yangon, Mandalay, Lashio and Mawlamyine cities to support the abused women with healthcare services, legal advice, mental and physical aid and financial assistance.

Chairman of Myanmar National Human Rights Commission U Win Mra, South-East Asia Representative of the High Commissioner for Human Rights of OHCHR Ms Cynthia Veliko, Team Leader Mr Joerg Stahlhult from UNDP-Governance and Sustainable Peace made speeches at the workshop.

Officials from ministries and organizations discussed about UPR suggestions and the future plans of Myanmar.

The workshop was jointed supported by MNHRC, UNHCR and UNDP.—MNA

(Translated by Aung Khin)