Statement by the Spokesperson on the abolition of death penalty and decriminalisation of homosexuality in Nauru

The recent amendments to Nauru's Criminal code abolishing the death penalty and decriminalising homosexuality send a strong signal to other countries in the Pacific region that are yet to do so.

In abolishing the death penalty, Nauru has demonstrated its belief, shared by the European Union as well as many other countries worldwide, in the inherent dignity of all human beings and the inviolability of the human person. The death penalty cannot be justified under any circumstances.

The decriminalisation of homosexuality puts Nauru among the increasing number of countries that have taken steps to abide by their international human rights commitments to promote the equality and dignity of all human beings irrespective of their sexual orientation.

(ENDS)