GE.18-04899(E)
Human Rights Council
Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review Thirtieth session
7–18 May 2018
National report submitted in accordance with paragraph 5 of the annex to Human Rights Council resolution 16/21
*Tuvalu
* The present document has been reproduced as received. Its content does not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Secretariat of the United Nations.
General Assembly
Distr.: General 28 March 2018 Original: English1. The government of Tuvalu submitted its first national Universal Periodic Review report to the Human Rights Council in 2008 and its second national report in 2013. Tuvalu has through its limited resources both financially and technically continued to work to implement the agreed recommendations and commitments through its government agencies, official institutions, and civil society organisations. Tuvalu continues to face challenges in the implementation of the agreed recommendations and importantly with its national human rights and national development priorities.
2. The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) of the Office Prime Ministers Office (OPM) is responsible for the national report and more importantly in coordinating the agreed recommendations for implementation by the Human Rights Council. Furthermore, the Office of the Attorney General, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports, Ministry of Home Affairs and Rural Development, Ministry of Finance and Economic Development, Department of Climate Change Policy and Disaster Unit was tasked by cabinet to coordinate and initiate the writing of the third national report.1 This report responds to the recommendations received from the second national report submitted to the Human Rights Council in 2013. It articulates and narrates what has been achieved regarding the strengthening and protection of human rights and more importantly outlines the ongoing challenges faced in the implementation of the recommendations.
I. Methodology and process for preparing the report
A. Methodology for preparing the report
3. The Office of the Attorney General as lead agency for the Universal Periodic Review Report coordinated and facilitated a one day consultation for the UPR Working Group on the 19 February 2018 to discuss strategies on how best to compile the report and to respond to the recommendations received from the second round of reporting. The one day consultation allowed government stakeholders to reflect on the process, modalities and recommendations from the second national report and provided the URP Working Group with the opportunity to provide an update on the status of the implementation of the recommendations. The UPR matrix contained the list of recommendations received from the Human Rights Council, ministry and or government department responsible for the recommendation, and implementation progress on the recommendation and further actions that needed to be undertaken to fully realise the recommendation. The UPR matrix was used as the main source for preparing the third national report. Additionally, one on one meetings was also undertaken to further source information as needed for the national report.
B. Process for preparing the report
4. The Office of the Attorney General through the Senior Crown Counsel was responsible for collating the information received from the government stakeholders and finalising the national report. The third national report was circulated to members of the UPR Working Group for their comments. Additional information received was added to the national report.
II. Developments since the previous review, background of the State under review and framework, particularly normative and institutional framework, for the promotion and
protection of human rights: constitution, legislation, policy measures, national jurisprudence, human rights,
infrastructure including national human rights institution and scope of international obligations identified in the “basis of review” in resolution 5/1
A. National laws and legislation
5. Tuvalu in its attempt to harmonise its domestic legislation with the its international obligations2 have passed the following amendments and legislation in Parliament:
(a) Island Courts (Amendment) Act 2017;
(b) Tobacco Control (Amendment) Act 2017;
(c) Alcoholic Drinks Amendment) Act 2017;
(d) Leadership Code (Amendment) Act 2017;
(e) Marriage (Amendment) Act 2017;
(f) Family Protection and Domestic Violence Act 2014;
(g) Family Protection and Domestic Violence (Amendment) Act 2016;
(h) National Human Rights Institution Act 2017; and (i) Labour and Employment Relations Act 2017.
6. The OAG in 2017 in collaboration with UNICEF Pacific Regional Office have started work on the Child Protection and Welfare Bill 2017;3 and Policy for the Protection all children in Educational Institutions in Tuvalu.4 Additionally, consequential amendments to other laws have been made and is in compliance with Tuvalu’s international norms and standards.5 They are:
(a) Section 39 of the Penal Code [Cap 10.20];6 (b) Prisons Act [Cap 20.28];7
(c) Education (Compulsory Education) Order 1984 [Cap 30.05.4];8 and (d) Gaming and Lotteries Act [Cap 54.10].9
7. Tuvalu is currently undergoing a constitutional review and significant to the proposed Constitutional changes is the inclusion of gender and disability as a non- discrimination ground. The Government of Tuvalu notes that adding gender and disability to the non-discrimination clause of section 27 is consistent with Tuvalu’s international obligations under the Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination against Women and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Additionally, the Gender Affairs Department have provided a strategy paper for the Constitutional Review Committee on changes to be made in order to be in compliance with CEDAW. The Government of Tuvalu recognises that while sex is already a basis for non-discrimination under section 11, there is growing international recognition that gender is distinct from sex, and the protections of section 27 are arguably broader.
B. National measures and policies
8. Tuvalu informs the Human Rights Council that in adhering to its international obligations and commitment cabinet has approved twelve (12) national measures that aim at promoting and protecting human rights nationally and more importantly ensuring that the
goals and aspirations articulated under international norms and standards are reflected in national laws, policies, regulations and practices. The national measures indicates Tuvalu’s commitment by cabinet that human rights is a priority and a part of its national sustainable development plans. The cabinet endorsed national measures are: (a) Tuvalu's Universal Periodic Review; (b) National Human Rights Institution of Tuvalu Bill 2017 and Leadership Amendment Bill 2017;10 (c) Progressive Update on Human Rights Treaty Reports and Legislative Reviews Child Protection;11 (d) Report of the Scoping Study Team on the Feasibility and Options for the Establishment of a National Human Rights Institution;12 (e) National Action Plan on Human Rights of Tuvalu 2016-2020;13 (f) National Advisory Committee for Children and Technical Working Group Terms of Reference;14 (g) Committee on the Rights of the Child – Seeking Tuvalu’s support 2019- 2022;15 (h) Human Rights for Good Governance and Development in Tuvalu;16 (i) Motion on Denarau 2015 Declaration on Human Rights and Good Governance;17 (j) Establishment of the Disaster Relief Coordination Unit;18 (k) Establishment of the National Advisory Council on Climate Change (NACCC);19 (l) Setting up of a Policy Co-ordination Unit on Climate change and Disaster under the Office of the Prime Minister.20
9. The Policy for the Protection of Children in all Educational Institutions in Tuvalu specifically applies to students under the age of 18 years. The policy provides a framework for the protection, identification, managing and reporting incidents of child abuse in schools and educational institutions whenever school activities and programs are conducted or provided. The Policy states that: (a) all children in Tuvaluan schools are entitled to enjoy the rights and protections afforded to them under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child; (b) all staff employed in Tuvaluan schools are responsible for the care, safety and protection of children in the school or educational institution, (c) this responsibility extends to the identification and timely response to concerns regarding the possible sexual, physical, psychological and emotional abuse or neglect of a child, (d) the Department of Education has a policy of zero tolerance in relation to the abuse, neglect and exploitation of children.
10. The Tuvalu National Gender Policy 2014-2016 policy strategic approach aims at achieving five priority outcomes: (a) increase capacity within all sectors of Government to address key issues of concern in achieving gender equality and women’s empowerment; (b) reflect Government’s commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment in legislation and in sector policies affecting Government and civil society; (c) create an enabling environment for the full participation of women in economic development; (d) measures to ensure access by women and men to participation in decision-making as means to enhance leadership and governance at all levels; (e) and eliminating all forms of violence against women.
11. The Draft Tuvalu National Policy on Disability sets out a comprehensive framework to address the needs and rights of persons with disabilities. It aims to improve the quality of their lives and their full and equal participation as empowered citizens. This is a reflection of Tuvalu’s vision of a disability-inclusive and barrier-free society where persons with disabilities are able to enjoy all human rights on an equal basis with others, and to live with dignity. This also reflects the key principles and core values of the CRPD, in particular the:
(a) principles of non-discrimination; (b) respect for inherent dignity; and (c) full and effective participation and inclusion.
12. The Tuvalu National Youth Policy illustrates the commitment and recognition of the Government and the society as a whole to empower its youth, regardless of race, religion, gender and disabilities. The commitment is to: (a) provide every opportunity to develop the personal, physical, social, economic, mental and spiritual potential of youth; (b) to encourage them to positively participate in the nation building and to shape their future. It details information on the various issues affecting youth and outlines broad strategies to address such issues.
13. The Sustainable and Integrated Water and Sanitation Policy 2012-2021 is a response to national water crises, and directly aims to ensure that the government is prepared for future challenges. The purpose of the WSP is to ensure that the people of Tuvalu have continued access to safe, reliable, affordable and sustainable water and sanitation facilities.
The policy supports Tuvalu’s key planning document, Te Kakeega III (National Strategy
for Sustainable Development), as well as key Pacific Regional Framework such as the Pacific Regional Action on Sustainable Water Management.
14. The Tuvalu National Disability Coordinating Committee commits to advancing human rights generally in Tuvalu but, more specifically, it was established to formulate and develop meaningful national decisions and actions that addresses issues concerning persons with disabilities in Tuvalu. The objective of the Tuvalu National Disability Coordinating Committee is to ensure the facilitation of the implementation of the CRPD by setting up and developing key mechanisms that would in turn translate into relevant and progressive actions to realise the human rights of persons with disabilities in Tuvalu. The TNDCC is the national focal point for disability in Tuvalu. The Department of Community Affairs is the Government’s Focal Point for Disability.
15. The National Advisory Committee on Children's Rights is dedicated to the fulfilment of the government’s commitment under the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The National Advisory Committee on Children's Rights is established to: (a) coordinate the drafting of the Government’s report on the CRC to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC Committee); (b) undertakes national consultations with relevant stakeholders on draft CRC reports; ensure that all Government CRC reports are submitted and endorsed by Cabinet; (c) ensure the official submission of all Government CRC reports to the CRC Secretariat in Geneva; (d) coordinate the Government’s response to the list of issues and any other communication with the Committee on the Rights of the Child and other international human rights mechanisms; (e) facilitate the preparation of the Government delegation for constructive dialogues with the CRC Committee, including seeking technical support from development partners for mock sessions and other support needed; (f) coordinate and monitor national implementation and follow up of the concluding observations/comments and recommendations from the CRC Committee; (g) coordinate national awareness on the CRC and child rights in general; (h) provide advice to Cabinet/Parliament on issues relating to children and to carry out other duties as is necessary for CRC reporting and implementation.
16. The Ombudsman Office is legally established under the Leadership Code Act 2014.
The Ombudsman has the following functions: (a) to enquire into any complaints or allegation of misconduct on the part of any leader; (b) to enquire into any defects in administrative practice appearing from any matter being investigated; (c) to enquire into any case of an alleged or suspected discriminatory practice by a leader; (d) to give prior advice on potential breaches of this Code; (e) to investigate and report on any complaints of any alleged breaches of this Code.21 Additionally, the Ombudsman shall comply with directions given or made under the Code, but otherwise is not subject to direction or control by any other person or authority.
17. It is also important to note that in ensuring that its international human rights commitments are implemented nationally, government continues to provide financial assistance to key government ministries and departments to assist in the fulfilment of national international human rights obligations.22
C. Official authorities and government organisations concerned with human rights
18. There are mechanisms in place that provides services through current and existing government initiatives aimed at promoting and protecting human rights. The existing national mechanisms are:
• Office of the Attorney General;23
• Ministry of Home Affairs and Rural Development;24
• Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports;25
• Gender Affairs Department;26
• Department for Youth;27
• Tuvalu Police Force;28
• Office of the Peoples Lawyer.29
III. Promotion and protection of human rights on the ground:
implementation of international human rights obligations identified in the “basis of review”, national legislation and voluntary commitments, national human rights institutions activities, public awareness of human rights, cooperation with human rights mechanisms
19. The Government of Tuvalu has in place the Tuvalu Human Rights National Action Plan 2016-2020. This National Action Plan (NAP) captures Tuvalu’s existing commitments under human rights treaties to which it is a state party. It also captures Tuvalu’s commitments under the Universal Periodic Review (UPR), the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Te Kakeega III- 2016-2020 (TK III). NAP strives to consolidate the government’s human rights commitments in ensuring a systematic and coordinated approach to delivery of the government’s commitment and achieving other desired development outcomes in order to strengthen the realisation of human rights in Tuvalu.
20. Tuvalu’s development priorities are found in the Te Kakeega III, which is the blueprint for the government’s action on improving the quality of life of the people of Tuvalu. While the Te Kakeega III is written in terms of development, most of the aspiration within this key government document are linked to human rights, including the rights to education, health, life, housing, employment, voting and participation on in both national and local government. In order to fulfil these development goals, the government is also realising fundamental human rights that emanate from its obligations under international human rights instruments such as CEDAW, CRC, CRPD and the UPR process.
21. In 2017, the government of Australia through the Pacific Women Shaping Pacific Development (Pacific Women) program provided funding to the government to undertake the Tuvalu Study on Peoples with Disabilities. The Government of Tuvalu through the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Gender Affairs Department provided essential support to the Study throughout its duration. The Board, staff, members and volunteers of the Fusi Alofa Association (FAA), the disabled people’s organisation in Tuvalu, played a key role in the Study from its initial inception. The study on disability, humanity and dignity are particularly pertinent concepts raised under the National Action Plan on Human Rights and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
IV. Action taken regarding recommendations arising from the second UPR round (2013)
A. Treaty Ratification
3022. The Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) and the Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) continues to be institutionalised especially in national laws and policies and is now evident in the passing of the Family Protection and Domestic Violence Act 2014, National Human Rights Institution Act 2017, Gender Policy, Draft Tuvalu National Policy on Disability, Draft Housing Policy. This is also evident in the amendments made to existing legislations.31 23. Additionally, the Government of Tuvalu has completed and submitted its combined 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th Convention on the Rights of the Child National Report. Furthermore, the Government of Tuvalu informs the Council that it has completed and submitted its Initial Report on the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Both reports were submitted in March 2018.
24. The Office of the Attorney General has benefited from the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) human rights training especially on Human Rights Indicators (2017), Social and Cultural Rights and Human Rights indicators (2017);
Training on the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (2016) and Benefits of and Challenges to the Ratification and Implementation of UNCAT (2016).
25. The government of Tuvalu will progressively realise the ratification of the Convention against Torture, Cruel, Inhuman and Degrading Treatment CERD – Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Racial Discrimination, Convention on the Rights of Migrant Workers and their Families and CED – Convention against Enforced Disappearances.
26. The government of Tuvalu will be participating in its first COSP (Council of State Parties) meeting in June 2018. The government of Tuvalu will be represented by officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs and Rural Development and the Office of the Attorney General. In addition, the Government of Tuvalu is also looking forward to its constructive dialogue with the CRC Committee and the CRPD Committee on both the national reports submitted.
27. The government of Tuvalu informs the Human Rights Council that Cabinet in its Special Meeting 13/12 on the 15 March 201232 endorsed the proposal to accede to the Rome Statute which establishes and governs the International Criminal Court (ICC). It is envisaged that the accession to the Rome Statute will be progressively realised before the next reporting cycle. In addition, the Agreement on the Privileges and Immunities of the ICC will be progressively realised after national formal process have been adhered to.
28. Further, Cabinet in its Special Meeting in 2013 agreed to the ratification of the CRC Optional Protocols. This will be progressively realised and reported in the next UPR reporting cycle.
29. The Office of the People's Lawyer (OPL) have forged bilateral agreement with Fiji Legal Aid Commission for provision of internship and training programs for the staff of the OPL. To date the partnership has seen two OPL staff undergo prosecutorial and legal defence training with the Fiji Legal Aid Commission.
B. Domesticating – Amending National Laws
3330. The Government of Tuvalu has incorporated provisions of the CRC and CEDAW in national laws and policies namely the Family Protection and Domestic Violence Act 2014, National Human Rights Institution Act 2017, and Labour and Employment Relations Act 2017.
31. Tuvalu has also amended the Island Courts (Amendment) Act 2017, Tobacco Control (Amendment) Act 2017, Alcoholics Drinks (Amendment) Act 2017, The Leadership (Amendment) Code 2017, Marriage (Amendment) Act 2017 to ensure that it is consistent with its obligations under the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
32. The Government of Tuvalu is in the process of holding second round of consultation on the Child Protection and Welfare Bill 2017. The CP&W Bill 2017 is the first law in Tuvalu to make comprehensive provision for issues related to the rights, protection and welfare of children in accordance with the principles and provisions of the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The proposed law will empower the government to take action to ensure that children are protected whenever necessary and promote the welfare of all children in Tuvalu.34
33. In keeping with its national commitment to ensuring the recognition, promotion and protection of the rights of persons with disabilities and the vulnerable members of Tuvaluan society, this national report notes that there exist a Financial Scheme to provide financial support to persons living with disabilities. Further, the Department of Home Affairs and Rural Development in partnership with Pacific Women Shaping Pacific Development have undertaken a study on disability in Tuvalu.
34. The Government of Tuvalu informs the Human Rights Council that corporal punishment is now abolished.
C. Establish a National Human Rights Institution
3535. Cabinet Meeting 10/17 on the 8th March 2017 endorsed tabling in Parliament the National Human Rights Institution Bill 2017 and the Leadership (Amendment) Code 2017.
The NHRI Act 2017 was passed during the second reading of the third sitting of Parliament in December 2017. The National Human Rights Institution Act 2017 aims at providing a relevant mechanism to ensure the full promotion and protection of fundamental freedom.
The Act aims at allowing access to a government system that will address abuse of human rights and fundamental freedoms.36
D. Youth empowerment
3736. The National Youth Policy has undergone a review and is now in its implementation stage. The proposed changes to the National Youth Policy has been circulated nationally amongst relevant stakeholders.
E. Capacity building
3837. UNICEF Pacific Regional Office have conducted training for the Tuvalu Police Force. The Police Service continues to conduct training on its subordinate legislation and Act for police officers as part of the organisations work plan and internal capacity building.
UNICEF Pacific Regional Office have conducted training awareness on child protection system with the Tuvalu Police Force. The aim of the training is to increase awareness and relevance of child protection system and procedures when dealing with children who come into contact with the law.
38. The Office of the Attorney General in partnership with the Ministry of Education have conducted awareness programs in Funafuti and the outer islands on the proposed Child Protection Welfare Bill 2017 and the Policy for the Protection of all Children in Educational Institutions in Tuvalu. The aim of the nation-wide consultation was to seek national endorsement of both documents and to also raise awareness amongst government stakeholders based in the outer islands.
39. Furthermore, the Office of the Attorney General have facilitated sessions on the Child Protection Welfare Bill 2017 and the Policy for the Protection of all Children in Educational Institutions for the Office of the Peoples Lawyer, Crown Counsels, Judiciary and Ombudsman Office. The purpose of the in house session was to allow the legal fraternity to discuss, gather views on the proposed Bill and to increase their knowledge on the Bill and Policy but more importantly understand the legal process and procedure that will need to be followed.
40. The Office of the Attorney General has benefited from OHCHR human rights training especially on Human Rights Indicators (2017), Social and Cultural Rights and Human Rights indicators (2017); Training on the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (2016) and Benefits of and Challenges to the Ratification and Implementation of UNCAT (2016). The Government of Tuvalu will continue to seek the assistance of the OHCHR towards meaningful consideration of the eventual participation to the core international instruments on human rights.
F. Awareness raising
3941. The Office of the Attorney General continues to conduct awareness programs on human rights in Tuvalu. Radio programs continues to be facilitated for the benefit of the outer island communities. Important to note is that outer island consultation on human rights, children's rights, gender, women’s rights, rights of persons with disabilities,
legislation and policies relating to thematic issues continues to be facilitated by relevant government departments.
42. The government of Tuvalu continues to support international Human Rights Day, World Disability Day and the White Ribbon Campaign. The Government of Tuvalu provides financial support to the relevant government ministry and department to celebrate and raise awareness on issues relevant to their work and mandates namely ending violence against women, rights of persons with disabilities etc. The government of Tuvalu celebrates and supports the White Ribbon Day awareness and campaign that is coordinated and conducted by the Tuvalu Police Service on a yearly basis. The White Ribbon day awareness and campaign targets all parts of the community including schools and other educational institutions. The White Ribbon awareness and campaign also targets community leaders, church leaders, youths, women, persons with disabilities and relevant government Ministries and Departments. The Gender Affairs Department of the Government of Tuvalu continues to conduct awareness raising campaigns with major stakeholders in the country to advancing gender equality.
43. The Department of Home Affairs and Rural Development in partnership with the Office of the Attorney General and Fusi Alofa have raised awareness on the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities including the development of the Draft Tuvalu National Policy on Disability and the finalisation of the Initial report on the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Funafuti and the outer islands. The consultation included representations from parents, teachers, students, NDPO, Youth, Faifeau's,40 Kaupule,41 Island Magistrates, Police and Prison officers, Medical staff and People's Lawyer.
44. Additionally, the Education Department have started coordinating and facilitating training awareness programs for senior staff members on the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The purpose of the training and awareness programs is to equip staff members with information and knowledge and to also inform them on how to apply and implement the principles of the Convention on the Right of the Child in their work and activities.
45. The Education Department is now working closely with the SPC/Regional Rights Resource Team to integrate Social Citizens into the curriculum. This is inline with the outcomes of the promotion of social citizens through education consultation. To date, copies of the curriculum for Health Science, Social Science, science and climate Change education have been sent to the Pacific Community/Regional Rights Resource Team (RRRT) for review. This initiative will commence in 2018.
G. Special procedures
4246. The Government of Tuvalu wishes to inform the Human Rights Council that it has extended a standing invitation to all thematic special procedures on the 26th April 2013 in principle. Government protocol dictates that the Department Coordinating Committee will approve the formal process before subsequent approval by Cabinet prior to formalising the invitation of the mandate holder.
H. Protection of vulnerable groups
4347. To date, the government of Tuvalu has yet to ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. It has not made any reservations on the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. It is the intention of the Office of the Attorney General and the Ministry of Home Affairs that further consultation is needed to fully discuss the ratification of the OP CRPD before making a formal commitment. As formal process dictates, cabinet will have to give formal endorsement before making the commitment to be bound by the Optional protocol. This report informs the committee that this will be progressively realised.
48. Some notable assistance provided and available for persons with disabilities include:
(a) donor assistance from UNICEF to Fusialofa – including scholarships; (b) APTC training on sign language and (c) assistance by the judiciary in relation to cases involving persons with disabilities.
49. Further, the Tuvalu Gender Policy 2014-2016 discusses women with disabilities in various key thematic areas namely: (a) specific situations of rural women and girls with disabilities are addressed through all legislation, adopt measures to facilitate access to employment for women with disabilities, (b) create a gender sensitive environment in the Falekaupule, Kaupule and Parliament to enable women participation at all levels, including for women with disabilities, recognition of gender based violence experienced by women with disabilities and adoption of adequate measures to prevent it and (c) protect women, strengthen capacity of police officers and health care service providers to respond to victims with a gender sensitive approach including women with disabilities.”
50. The Family Protection Domestic Violence Act 2014 has been passed and commenced as an Act of Parliament in December 2014. The Family Protection and Domestic Violence Act 2014 provides for a guarantee for women and children including those living with disabilities protection from all forms of violence namely sexual, economic, emotional and physical. The Family Protection and Domestic Violence Act 2014 also imposes mandatory responsibilities on the part of service providers to expediently attend to cases of violence in the home. In addition, the government of Tuvalu through cabinet on the 22nd March, 2017 endorsed the establishment of the Family Protection Fund subject to operating under the Tuvalu Development Fund.44 Significant to the establishment of the fund is the opportunity for child survivors of domestic violence and access for mothers in domestic violence to access as per the criteria and developed operational policy.
51. Furthermore, the Office of the Attorney General in partnership with the Pacific Community/RRRT is currently undertaking a Family Protection and Domestic Violence Baseline. The baseline is aimed at identifying and improving existing mechanisms that can be used to promote the current work on eliminating violence against women in Tuvalu. It is envisaged that the findings of the baseline will assist in the strengthening of ongoing work of the Tuvalu Police Force and relevant government and NGO stakeholders in eliminating violence against women in Tuvalu.
52. The Police Force continues to conduct awareness and outreach program to communities including strengthening the process of investigation on violence against women. The Tuvalu Police Force in ensuring that accountability for perpetrators for violence and increasing the victims access to justice, ensures that the rights of victims are given during investigations and ensures that only the Senior Magistrates attends to the case.
Important to note is that rights of the perpetrators45 is also provided during the course of the investigations. Also, as part of its internal strategy to reduce domestic violence, the Tuvalu Police Force has in place: (a) no drop policy; (b) issuing of police orders, and (c) arrest of offenders.
53. The Government of Tuvalu will in the second quarter of 2018 undertake a legislative compliance review with the aim of aligning national laws and policies with the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The legislative compliance review will allow relevant government ministries and or departments to make necessary changes to laws and policies relating to persons with disabilities. The Ministry of Home Affairs and Rural Development in partnership with the Office of the Attorney General and the Pacific Island Forum Secretariat in partnership with UNESCAP will undertake this initiative in the first quarter of 2018.
54. Part 5 of the Labour and Employment Relations Act 201746 provides for equal employment opportunities. Section 50 (Prohibition of discrimination) provides for non- discriminatory section in the area of employment. Section 50 of the Act states that “an employer shall not discriminate, directly or indirectly, against any employee or prospective employee in respect of recruitment, training, promotion, against any employee or prospective employee to recruitment, training, promotion, terms and conditions of employment, termination of employment, or other matters arising out of employment relationship, for a prohibited reason. In addition, sub section 2 states that, a prohibited
reasons is a reason that is affected by any of the following attributes of the employee or prospective employee, whether actual or perceived: ethnic origin, race, colour, national extraction, social origin, social class or economic status; or gender, sex, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation or family responsibilities; or age, state of health, HIV/AIDS status, or disability; or religion or political opinion; or trade union membership or activity; or involvement in any dispute, an investigation or legal proceedings.
55. As of July 2017 women represent 45% of the entire government workforce with 47.5% (46) of level 1–447 officers. The Government of Tuvalu ensures that gender equity is applied across all process and procedures internally and gender inclusiveness in meetings, committees and forums. The GoT recognises the cross cutting nature of gender issues and therefore takes into account the integration of gender perspective in all government activities.
56. Tuvalu General Administrative Order Cap 4. 24.1 states that all female officers, regardless of status, shall be granted maternity leave in accordance with the provisions of Labour and Employment Relations Act 2017. Section 30 of the Act48 states that a female employee, upon production of a medical certificate from a medical practitioner confirming the expected date of delivery of a child shall be entitled to leave from work for 12 weeks to be taken around the time of the birth of that child and whilst absent from work shall be entitled to be paid by her employer 100% of the wage or salary she would have earned had she not been subagent from work. Additionally, the Act49 further allows female employee who is nursing a child under 12 months of age, one hour twice a day as nursing breaks and hours will be counted as hours worked for the purposes of calculating wages.
57. The government of Tuvalu informs the Council that under Section 29 of the Education Act no teacher, other than a head-teacher, shall administer corporal punishment to any pupil. Additionally, if a head-teacher administers corporal punishment to any pupil, he shall record details of the punishment administered and the offence for which the corporal punishment was administered in a book to be kept at the school for that purpose.
The Education (Amendment) Act 2017 provides more protection for children within schools. Section 29 of the Education has been repealed in its entirety as it contradicts the principles enshrined in the Convention on the Rights of the Child in protecting and respecting the rights and dignity of children. The amendment prohibits corporal punishment in any form and manifestation.
58. The Island Court (Amendment) Act No 5 of 2017 provide protection for children within the island court setting, especially with regards the treatment of young offenders.
The amendment abolishes physical punishment as a form of criminal sentence by the Island Courts.
59. Awareness campaigns have been carried out in schools in Vaitupu on Primary and Secondary School on bullying. The Gender Affairs Division have conducted awareness after consultations with Ministry of Education Youth and Sports on the effects of traditional roles and how they are seen as root causes for school bullying. Additionally, the Tuvalu Police Force during White Ribbon day conducted awareness program on all forms of violence (particularly domestic and child violence).50
I. Good governance/election
5160. The Office of the Prime Minister has published a notice for a by-election for the Nukufetau Constituency and was completed in 2013. This recommendation has been fulfilled by the government of Tuvalu.
J. Food security
5261. As a member of the international community, Tuvalu has committed to realising the SDGs.53 The SDGs complement Tuvalu’s ongoing and existing development priorities in the TK III as well as other international human rights commitments. However, as envisaged by the United Nations, the goals are, over a 15-year period, envisioned to end poverty,
protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all, while welcoming the participants on of all people in a country. Tuvalu will continue to work with development partners and donors to realise progress around some of these crucial areas especially on food security.
62. The TK III also draws from the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) S.A.M.O.A Pathway. This demonstrates the correlation between the existing commitments of Pacific governments to SDGs and the commitment of SIDS to the 15 priority areas that are within the SIDS strategy, which are drawn from the Barbados Programme of Ac on and the Mauritius Strategy. These 15 priority areas include sustained and sustainable, inclusive and equitable economic growth with decent work for all; climate change, sustainable energy, disaster risk reduction, oceans and seas, food security and nutrition; water and sanitation;
sustainable transportation; sustainable production and consumption; management of chemicals and waste; health and NCDs; gender equality and women’s empowerment; social development; biodiversity and invasive alien species.
63. Currently, the Government of Tuvalu currently has four food security projects. The food security projects is funded by the Secretariat of the Pacific Community. The food security projects are implemented in Nanumanga, Nui, Funafuti and Vaitupu. The Department for Agriculture also provides seedlings to farmers in the mentioned islands to help them in their pulaka farm endeavours.
K. Water and sanitation
5464. The Sustainable and Integrated Water and Sanitation Policy complements other national frameworks, including Te Kaniva (National Climate Change Policy), the Strategic National Action Plan (SNAP), National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP), the National Action Plan to combat Land Degradation and Drought (NAP), and the National Adaptation Program of Action (NAPA). It is intended that measures for the implementation of the policy will be further progressed through the finalisation of Tuvalu’s national IWRM Plan.
65. The WSP adopts the following guiding principles: (a) access to safe drinking water and sanitation is a fundamental human right. Access to facilities should not be confined to certain sectors of the community, and the WSP aims to ensure that the daily needs of all Tuvaluan's, including the most vulnerable, are met; (b) water is everyone’s business, and all Tuvaluan's have a role in the management of water and sanitation. The effective implementation of the WSP will depend on the success of integration, coordination and collaboration between responsible ministries, departments, Kaupule, non-government organisations, the private sector, civil society and international partners. The WSP encourages the effective participation of community stakeholders in planning, setting of rules and standards, implementation, monitoring and evaluation. The WSP also recognises that women have a key role in the management of water; (c) water and sanitation services in Tuvalu should, over the longer term, operate on a sustainable basis. The WSP acknowledges the importance of ongoing partner support to help address some of Tuvalu’s more serious water and sanitation challenges, but also recognises that, over time, a more sustainable footing is needed for our water and sanitation services; (d) managing risk is more effective than responding to consequences. The WSP recognises that managing the water-related impacts of climate variability and climate change requires a risk-based approach, and adaptation to these impacts requires integration of effective risk reduction strategies across all sectors; and (e) effective water management is an important national response to the impacts of climate change.
66. In addition, the goals of the Sustainable and Integrated Water and Sanitation Policy 2012-2021 is to: (a) to provide a safe, reliable, affordable and sustainable water supply; (b) to manage and conserve scarce water supplies; (c) to establish and maintain effective early warning and response systems; (d) to enable effective, equitable and integrated governance of water and sanitation; (e) to increase community awareness and participation in the management of water and sanitation; (f) to improve access to reliable, affordable and environmental sustainable technologies; and (g) to improve the affordability of water and sanitation services and increase access to sustainable sources of finance.
L. Access to education and gender in education
67. The implementation of the Tuvalu Education Sector Plan III 2016-2020 (TESP III) includes all sectors of the Education Department from ECCE, Primary and Secondary level as well as TVSD. The department has also developed overarching work plan by mapping out the original sector plan to cover a period of 5 years, and identifying the relevant units/sectors to work on achieving the desired deliverables. In addition, officers who visit schools during information roll out need to follow up on schools progress of the work on the sector plan on a monthly basis.
68. Education in Tuvalu is free for all under the free education initiative that was approved by Cabinet in 2016. As such all students regardless of gender, attend school. The Department of Education, through the head teachers and school committees of all school retain attendance of children on a particular day, it is the responsibility of the school of the school committee to follow it up with parents of whose children do not attend class. This initiative and practice has deterred students from missing class. Records of students attendance to classes are communicated to the department monthly where they are stored under TEMIS.
M. Persons with disabilities implementation
5569. The Social Development Policy Project – Social Data report 2015 notes that there is no clear definition of persons with disabilities. Additionally, the Government of Tuvalu Support Scheme for the Most Vulnerable Persons with Disability provides for a definition of disability that is in line with the Convention. In addition, the Tuvalu Education Strategic Plan 2011-2015 is aimed at implementing a policy for Inclusive Education for All and to explicitly define a person with disability, professional development to enable teachers to identity and support students with special needs, provide enabling learning environments, incorporate regional strategy on disability and to explore cost effective possibilities of distance and flexible learning system to reach out to remote schools.
70. There is no existing substance in law and or policy that provide for provisions of
‘reasonable accommodation, however, national plans are on the way within the education department and other stakeholders to implement the principle with available resources and support of relevant stakeholders. The education department with its available resources have practices in place to accommodate learning for persons with disabilities.56
71. Fusi Alofa has a qualified sign language teachers to assist students with disabilities.
Sufficient to note that ramps are available for reasonable access to the Fusi Alofa school, office and facilities. The Education Ministry also provides funding to Fusi Alofa to assist with the educational needs of children with special needs. This mechanism was implemented so that children with special needs are not only given adequate recognition but to also enjoy the right to education.
72. Additionally, section 14 of the Falekaupule Act – Qualification of voters states that every person who — (a) has attained the age of 18; (b) is a resident in the Falekaupule area;
and (c) has paid rates to the Kaupule or has been exempted under section 86(2) (1) or 88, is entitled to be registered as a voter and, when so registered, to vote at the election of a member of the Kaupule in that area. This is inclusive of persons with disabilities who are eligible to vote. However, s15 states that no person who is certified to be insane or otherwise adjudged to be of unsound mind under any law for the time being in force in Tuvalu shall be entitled to vote in an election of a member of a Kaupule.57
73. The Family Protection and Domestic Violence Act 2014 recognises that women with disabilities also encounter violence in the home. The Family Protection and Domestic Violence Act stipulates that women living with disabilities should be afforded the same protection as any other women and or victims of violence. It calls on the relevant authorities to provide urgent and timely assistance to women living with disabilities who are victims of violence.
74. In addition to the above, the government of Tuvalu currently have in place a Support Scheme for the Most Vulnerable Persons with Disability. The support scheme recognises that persons with disabilities live in conditions of poverty, and, in this regard recognises the critical need to address the negative impact of poverty on persons with disabilities in Tuvalu and to provide financial assistance to citizens of Tuvalu who are eligible. The beneficiary under the scheme is entitled to receive a payment of AUD$70.00 per month in accordance with the provisions of the scheme.
75. The Tuvalu National Disability Coordinating Committee’s primary role is to assist the Government and People of Tuvalu in coordinating and monitoring the implementation of Tuvalu’s obligations under the Convention.
76. The Ministry of Education currently provides Special School (MoE) Grant for Fusi Alofa. The grant provided has allowed the Fusi Alofa to provide educational services for children with special needs in Tuvalu. The grant pays for the teachers that are currently managing the school for children with special needs. In addition to the above, the 2012 Census for the first time included persons with disabilities in its interviews and overall scope of work. The 2007 Demographic & Health Survey included indicators into domestic violence on women and children. Also, important to note is that persons with disabilities particularly the mentally incapacitated can travel to any of the outer island without paying for boat fares or accompanying costs.
77. Additionally, the Public Health Unit and Non-Communicable Disease Committee have facilitated awareness and training programmes for relevant stakeholders including the National Disability Organisation on non-communicable disease and better healthy lifestyle.
The Government of Tuvalu notes that there is an urgent need to fully include persons with disabilities in national data gathering and statistics. The initial report also notes that whilst this was barely done in the past, more attention will be made to be more inclusive in the future work and activities. Additionally, the Ministry of Health has currently modified it’s building and premises to be more accessible for persons with disabilities. It has also facilitated the provision of wheelchairs for persons with disabilities who need them.
78. Further the Tuvalu National Disability Coordinating Committee under s5(1) (d), (e) has as its core functions to: (d) make recommendations on legislative and policy actions to be undertaken to ensure the effective implementation of the CRPD; (e) Coordinate the adoption of legislation and administrative measures to promote the human rights of Persons with Disabilities.
79. The Government of Tuvalu through the Draft Tuvalu National Policy on Disability has identified 12 priority areas. These 12 areas have been identified after thorough consultations with persons with disabilities and relevant government stakeholders.58 Important to note that the identified 12 key priorities will be progressively realised. The priority areas, have identified specific objectives and accompanying activity that will need to be undertaken to fulfil the enjoyment of the priority areas. In addition, the Draft Tuvalu National Disability Policy has an accompanying Implementation Plan. The implementation plan has identified activities under each key priority that will need to be implemented to allow and ensure that the rights of persons with disabilities are recognised. It also identifies key government department that will be working in partnership with Fusi Alofa to implement the identified activities.
80. The report notes that, in accordance with the Falekaupule Act Schedule 3 Cap 4.08, the Falekaupule (Assembly of Traditional Leaders), in conjunction with the Government, is to provide for and grant sums of money towards the maintenance and welfare of children and young persons and of the aged, destitute or infirm. The Government of Tuvalu will work with the relevant government ministry and department to ensure that the word disability is included in this clause of the mentioned Schedule.
N. Climate change
5981. Tuvalu continues to implement its NAPA to address the impacts of climate change.
NAPA 1 Project took care of three adaptation projects that was prioritised by the people of
Tuvalu and that is the (i) Coastal Protection, (ii) Food Security, and (iii) Water Security.
The NAPA 1 Project was funded by GEF with UNDP as the Implementing Agency. The NAPA 1 Project is now completed and closed. NAPA Project (NAPA 2) is funded by GEF with UNDP as the Implementing Agency. This project is focused on three key themes namely (i) strengthening Community Based Conservation Programmes on highly vulnerable nearshore fisheries, (ii) strengthening Community Disaster Preparedness and Response Potential and (iii) enhanced capacity of communities to access internal/external financing for community-based climate change adaptation through existing participatory planning processes. NAPA 2 is currently being implemented and is expected to finish by the end of 2018.
82. Partnerships developed with bilateral and multilateral partners, with a total of 33 active projects related to climate change and disaster risk reduction being implemented across government (as at January 2018). This includes NAPA2, Tuvalu Coastal Adaptation Project (Green Climate Fund), Institutional Strengthening for Pacific Island Countries to Adapt to Climate Change (USAID), Tuvalu Integrated Vulnerability Assessment (NAP Global Network), Strengthening Water Security in Vulnerable Island States (NZ Aid). In late 2017 the GEF has approved the PIF for a sub-regional project for Pacific LDCs on Health and Climate Change. This project will implement the last priority of adaptation priorities identified in Tuvalu NAPA.
83. EU-UNESCAP Pacific Climate Change and Migration Project implemented in Tuvalu (completed in December 2016). Building on from UNESCAP's project, GIZ is implementing the Sustainable Management of Human Mobility in the Context of Climate Change Project (November 2017–April 2020) which focuses on improving applied knowledge on climate-induced human mobility in the Pacific. Draft UN resolution on the rights of persons displaced by the impacts of climate change endorsed by the Pacific Island Leaders in September 2017. A regional platform for disaster displacement organised by the International Organisation for Migration in Suva, 14–16 February 2018. The platform deliberated on key terminologies such as 'migration' and 'displacement' in relation to climate change and negotiations took place on the UN Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration.
O. Laws relating to nationality
6084. The laws of Tuvalu provide for safeguards against statelessness. The birth of every child born in Tuvalu shall be registered by the registrar for the district in which the child was born by entering in a register kept for that district such particulars concerning the birth as may be prescribed: provided that where a living new-born child is found exposed and no information as to the place of birth is available, the birth shall be registered by the registrar for the district in which the child is found. (2) The following persons shall be qualified to give information concerning a birth, that is to say: (a) the father and mother of the child; (b) any person present at the birth; (c) any person occupying at the time of the birth any part of the house wherein the child was born and having knowledge of the child having been born in the house; (d) any medical practitioner or midwife in attendance after the birth and having personal knowledge of the birth having occurred; (e) any person having charge of the child.61
V. Achievements, best practices, challenges and constraints
85. The Government of Tuvalu informs the Human Rights Council of the significant progress made in relation to its obligations and commitment on human rights. Some of the more notable achievements include:
• Child Protection and Welfare Bill 2017;
• Policy for the Protection of all Children in Educational Institutions in Tuvalu;
• Completion of the 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th combined CRC National Report;
• Completion of the Initial report on the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities;
• Draft Tuvalu National Policy on Disability;
• National Action Plan on Human Rights 2016-2020;
• Family Protection and Domestic Violence Act 2014;
• Family Protection and Domestic Violence (Amendment) Act 2016;
• National Human Rights Institution Act 2017;
• Leadership (Amendment) Code 2017;
• Marriage (Amendment) Act 2016;
• Tobacco Control (Amendment) Act 2017;
• Penal Code (Amendment) 2016;
• Labour and Employment Relations Act 2017.
86. Additionally, of significance is the:
• Establishment of the Child Protection Desk;
• Creation of the Child Protection Manager;
• Establishment of the National Coordinating Committee on Children’s Rights;
• Establishment of the Tuvalu National Disability Coordinating Committee; and
• Establishment of a Child Protection and School Safety Officer (Technical Adviser) to volunteer and to provide support to the Education Office (Safe Schools and Child Protection).
87. The Government of Tuvalu informs the Human Rights Council that central to the ongoing work on human rights realisation are challenges and constraints namely:
• Climate change;
• Lack of financial resource;
• Lack of technical resource;
• Competing national priorities;
• Geographically sparse out-islands;
• Unreliable vessels for consultation and awareness in the outer islands.
VI. Key national priorities and initiatives and commitments that the State concerned has undertaken and intends to undertake to overcome those challenges and constraints and improve human rights situations in the State
88. The government of Tuvalu uses the Te Kakeenga III62 as the baseline for identifying national priorities and key commitment areas namely:
• Climate Change;
• Good Governance;
• Health and Social Development;
• Island Development;
• Private Sector Development;
• Education and Human Resources;
• Natural Resources;
• Infrastructure and support services;
• Environment;
• Migration and Urbanisation;
• Migration and urbanisation Ocean and Seas.
89. The Government of Tuvalu has also identified key priority areas that need additional attention. Listed below are some key area of concern that is being currently considered:
• National Human Rights Institution - human and technical resource;
• Legislative compliance review of national laws and policies in alignment with the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities;
• Endorsement of the Draft Tuvalu Policy on Disability;
• Completion and endorsement of the Draft Housing Policy.
VII. Expectations of the State concerned in terms of capacity- building and technical assistance and support received
90. The Government of Tuvalu acknowledges the ongoing and continuing support provided for by regional and international partners in the fulfilment of human rights obligations. To this end, the Government of Tuvalu welcomes the ongoing support of the UNICEF Pacific Regional Office, Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS), Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC), UN Women, International Labour Organisation, Integrated Water Resource Management, Pacific Adaption to Climate Change, United Nations Development Programme – Multi Country Office.
91. The Government of Tuvalu recognises and acknowledges the support from our donor partners namely: Asian Development Bank; Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT); Canada Fund for local Initiatives (CFLI); Commonwealth;
European Union, Food and Agriculture Organisation; Forum Fisheries Agency; Global Environment Facility (GEF); Government of India; Pacific Media Assistance Scheme;
Pacific regional Infrastructure Facility (PRIF); Republic of China Taiwan; Republic of Cuba; Republic of Korea; Republic of Turkey; Russian Federation; Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme, New Zealand Aid Program (NZAID); NZAID- Pacific Island participation Fund.
VIII. Voluntary commitments
92. The Government of Tuvalu commits to continuing work on the implementation of the key priorities identified under the Te Kakeega III (National Strategy for Sustainable Development 2016–2020) Furthermore, Tuvalu commits to working with partners nationally, regionally and internationally to implement its human rights obligations.
IX. Conclusion
93. The Government of Tuvalu looks forward to the constructive dialogue with the members of the Council. It will continue to work towards the fulfilment of its human rights obligations with partners to fully realise human rights obligations and priorities.
94. The Government of Tuvalu calls on the international community to assist in the implementation of human rights norms and standards through the provision of technical and financial support.
Notes
1 Memo 31/18 Tuvalu’s Universal Periodic Review. Cabinet authorised the OAG to initiate preparation, recruitment of a Technical Adviser and drafting of the UPR Report.
2 Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), the Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).
3 The Child Protection and Welfare Bill 2017 is the first law in Tuvalu to make comprehensive provision for issues related to the rights, protection and welfare of children in accordance with the principles and provisions of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). This new law will empower the government to take action to ensure that children are protected whenever necessary. It also guarantees that the laws of Tuvalu will be applied in the best interests of children.
4 The Policy for the Protection of Children in all Educational Institutions in Tuvalu.This Policy provides a framework for the protection, identification, managing and reporting incidents of child abuse in schools and educational institutions and whenever school activities and programs are conducted or provided.
5 The consequential amendments will be effective upon the passing the proposed Child Protection and Welfare Bill 2017.
6 Is amended as follows: (a) by amending the title of the section to be "39. Offenders under the age of 18 years"; and (b) by deleting the words "16 years" from subsections (1) and (6), and replacing them with the words "18 years”.
7 The Prisons Act [Cap 20.28] is amended as follows: (a) Section 3 is amended by: (i) deleting the definitions of "juvenile" and "young person"; and (ii) inserting the following definition – "child prisoner" means any person under the age of 18 years who has been sentenced to serve a term of imprisonment; (b) Section 26A is inserted as follows: “26A Treatment of child prisoners (1) All child prisoners must be treated in accordance with the requirements of the Child Protection and Welfare Bill 2017 during their time in custody. (2) In addition to the requirements under subsection (1), child prisoners must be given the following entitlements: (a) access to visits by their parents or guardian at any time during prescribed hours; (b) appropriate counselling, rehabilitation and other support services; (c) opportunities to continue their education through arrangements made between the Superintendent and the Ministry of Education.
8 Section 5(c) of the Education (Compulsory Education) Order 1984 [Cap 30.05.4] is amended and replaced with the following: “(c) a child whose level of disability is assessed by a medical practitioner as resulting in there being no substantial benefit from schooling or further schooling”.
9 Section 3 of the Gaming and Lotteries Act [Cap 54.10] is amended by deleting subsection (3) and replacing it with the following: “(3) No gaming is to take place at which any person under the age of 18 years is included among the players".
10 Cabinet decision M082-17.
11 Cabinet Decision M241-17.
12 Cabinet Decision M246-16.
13 Cabinet Decision M288-16.
14 Cabinet Decision M337-16.
15 Cabinet Decision M356-16.
16 Cabinet Decision M028-16.
17 Cabinet Decision M067-15.
18 Cabinet Decision M035-15.
19 Cabinet Decision M031-14.
20 Cabinet Decision M005-14.
21 s38 Leadership Code Act 2008.
22 Gender Affairs Division – AUD 93,100; Legal Services – AUD 31, 120; Public Utilities – AUD 28,400; Health – AUD 3,120.000; Natural Resources 53,000; Home Affairs and Rural Development – AUD 471,506 and Education, Youth and Sports AUD 237, 505.00.
23 The Office of the Attorney General is the lead government agency that deals with all human rights issues and concerns in Tuvalu. The OAG is mandated to oversee all human rights related activities including treaty ratification, reporting and implementation. It is also responsible for ensuring that laws, regulations and policies are human rights compliance.
24 MHARD is responsible for issues relating to persons with disabilities. Also has the mandate to oversee disability financial scheme and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. It is also mandated to coordinate and manage the affairs of the cabinet endorsed Tuvalu National Coordinating Committee on Disability.
25 The Ministry of Education vision is to provide quality education for sustainable living for all. Its mission is to provide and sustain excellence in Education for all. MOE is also responsible for the
