The ICJ has provided a submission to the UN Human Rights Committee for its consideration during the examination of the Second and Third Periodic Reports of Malta under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
During its 112th session, from 7 to 31 October 2014, the Committee will examine Malta’s implementation of the provisions of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).
In this submission, the ICJ expresses concern that the State party has violated its obligations under the Covenant in relation to the continued criminalization of abortion and its interference with the enjoyment of Covenant rights in connection with sexual orientation and gender identity. Further, the ICJ raises questions about the continuing necessity of Malta’s reservations to the Covenant.