UNSR James Anaya

The Government of Australia is to be commended for various programs aimed at reducing the disadvantaged conditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples; however, in a number of respects these programs should be better devised to advance the cultural integrity and self-determination of these peoples, says Special Rapporteur James Anaya in a report following a visit to the country. Especially troublesome, he says, is the government’s Northern Territory Emergency Response, which includes a series of aggressive measures that discriminate against aboriginal people in a manner incompatible with Australia’s Human Rights obligations. See Press Release and Report.