Presentation of the 2024 monitoring report

The latest monitoring report is being published at a time when the principles of the rule of law and human rights achievements are coming under pressure worldwide. As emphasized in the foreword, freedom of expression, democracy and compliance with obligations under international law are key prerequisites for countering authoritarian tendencies.

With this report, the Advisory Council on Human Rights fulfills its legal mandate to monitor the human rights situation in Liechtenstein and strengthen it with concrete recommendations. It documents both progress and urgent areas for action. Positive developments include Liechtenstein's accession to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the introduction of marriage for all, the establishment of an advice center for migrants, the adoption of an ageing strategy and a national psychiatry concept

The ICESCR makes a total of 53 recommendations to the state and authorities in order to close existing gaps in human rights protection. It focuses on the following areas:

• Protection against violence: a comprehensive strategy for the protection against violence is urgently needed - both in the area of domestic violence and the protection of children. The VMR is also calling for the introduction of a silent emergency hotline, an independent complaints office for care home residents, preventative measures against racism and extremism and the mandatory recording of police interrogations. The Istanbul Convention must finally be implemented consistently.
• Anti-discrimination law: Discrimination should be clearly defined and sanctionable under civil law. International bodies have been calling for years for a comprehensive law that gives those affected effective legal remedies.
• Inclusion and disability: Despite the entry into force of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, there is a great need for action. There is a lack of resources and strategies to achieve genuine inclusion. Election documents and processes should be designed to be barrier-free and the exclusion from voting and electoral rights should be reviewed. Better opportunities are also needed for children and young people with disabilities - for example in apprenticeships.
• Religious Communities Act: The VMR is calling for a fair legal basis for all religious communities. In particular, equal treatment in terms of financial support must be ensured. The Muslim population's request for their own cemetery must also finally be resolved.

The 2024 monitoring report makes it clear that progress has been made, but key challenges remain unresolved. A clear strategy and concrete measures are now needed to combat violence, discrimination and exclusion in the long term and further strengthen human rights in Liechtenstein.