The sixth edition of the annual Taiwan-EU Human Rights Consultations took place June 9 in Brussels, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to international human rights norms, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said June 10.
The one-day event was co-chaired by Minister without Portfolio Lo Ping-cheng; Luisa Ragher, head of the European External Action Service’s Human Rights Division; and Dominic Porter, head of EEAS’ Division for China, Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan and Mongolia, the MOFA added.
According to the ministry, the consultations were held in a constructive, open environment that provided the opportunity for both sides to review recent developments and provide updates on their respective policies and action priorities.
During the event, Taiwan shared information pertaining to its National Human Rights Action Plan for the years 2020-2024 and National Action Plan on Fisheries and Human Rights for the years 2020-2025.
The EU presented findings from its ongoing Midterm Review of the Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy 2020-2024, a recently adopted anti-corruption package and efforts to boost accountability, among other issues.
Specific topics discussed by the two sides spanned human rights, including protections for LGBTI individuals and migrant workers such as domestic helpers and fishing industry laborers; gender equality; and business rights, as well as human rights education and impact assessments, the MOFA said.
The EU also reaffirmed its long-standing opposition to the death penalty, urging Taiwan to abolish the punishment.
According to the MOFA, Taiwan will continue working with the EU to tackle issues outlined during the consultations on the basis of shared values and principles. (SFC-E)
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