Universal Periodic Review

This UPR tool reflects the global recommendations made to Austria by all countries world-wide during the Universial Priodic Review process (UPR) at the UN Human Rights Council and their current status of implementation. The League coordinates a significant part of Austrian civil society in the UPR process. 

The recommendations can be filtered in the menu below by human rights topics, SDGs, proponent states etc. also a search function is available. 

 

We welcome your comments and suggestions at upr@liga.or.at.


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Progress: No progress

Promote specific policies for supporting the family as it is the basic and natural unit of society

Proponent:

Egypt


Arab Republic of Egypt

Egypt


Arab Republic of Egypt

Remarks to progress by Liga (last modified Apr 1, 2025):

The recent extension of the Equal Treatment Act in Austria, particularly in the context of caring activities, is a positive step. Nevertheless, precise wording is needed to ensure legal certainty. Austria has recently extended the scope of protection of the Equal Treatment Act to cover discrimination in the context of care work. This is a significant step forward, but requires clear wording in the extended § 5a to ensure clarity and legal certainty.   The missed opportunity to distribute parental leave more evenly is regrettable and contradicts the goal of gender equality. The current amendment of the law offers the opportunity to rectify shortcomings, in particular by introducing a statutory minimum compensation for cases of discrimination. Despite positive developments, however, there is still no uniform standard of protection for all those affected by discrimination. Civil society, including the Litigation Association, appeals to legislators to seriously consider the recommendations, particularly with regard to the clear wording of Section 5a, the equal distribution of parental leave and the introduction of statutory minimum compensation. A holistic view beyond the world of work and the transfer of responsibility to the Federal Equal Treatment Commission in accordance with Directive (EU) 2019/1158 are crucial. These measures strengthen the protection of families and promote gender equality in Austria (see statement of the Litigation Association: https://www.klagsverband.at/klav/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Stellungnahme-Klagsverband-10.07.2023.pdf).  As part of the Government Plan 2025-2029, the federal government is pursuing this goal through close cooperation with all stakeholders (see Government Plan 2ß025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html).

Progress: No progress

Ratify the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families

Proponent:

Sri Lanka


Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka


Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka

Remarks to progress by Liga (last modified Dec 31, 2024):

The International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families is an agreement supported by the United Nations that aims to improve the legal status of migrants with worker status, seasonal and casual workers and their family members. Despite its international commitment, Austria has not yet ratified this convention (see resolution on ratification ICMW: https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXII/A/763). The discrepancy between the signing of international agreements and their actual implementation in national law raises questions and could give rise to a review and possible reassessment of these decisions. This could be an opportunity for Austria to strengthen its commitment to the protection and promotion of the rights of migrant workers and their family members. 

Progress: No progress

Ratify the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families

Proponent:

Azerbaijan


Republic of Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan


Republic of Azerbaijan

Remarks to progress by Liga (last modified Dec 31, 2024):

The International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families is an agreement supported by the United Nations that aims to improve the legal status of migrants with worker status, seasonal and casual workers and their family members. Despite its international commitment, Austria has not yet ratified this convention (see resolution on ratification ICMW: https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXII/A/763). The discrepancy between the signing of international agreements and their actual implementation in national law raises questions and could give rise to a review and possible reassessment of these decisions. This could be an opportunity for Austria to strengthen its commitment to the protection and promotion of the rights of migrant workers and their family members. 

Progress: No progress

Ratify the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families

Proponent:

Togo


Republic of Togo

Togo


Republic of Togo

Remarks to progress by Liga (last modified Dec 31, 2024):

The International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families is an agreement supported by the United Nations that aims to improve the legal status of migrants with worker status, seasonal and casual workers and their family members. Despite its international commitment, Austria has not yet ratified this convention (see resolution on ratification ICMW: https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXII/A/763). The discrepancy between the signing of international agreements and their actual implementation in national law raises questions and could give rise to a review and possible reassessment of these decisions. This could be an opportunity for Austria to strengthen its commitment to the protection and promotion of the rights of migrant workers and their family members. 

Progress: No progress

Ratify the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families

Proponent:

Rwanda


Republic of Rwanda

Rwanda


Republic of Rwanda

Remarks to progress by Liga (last modified Dec 31, 2024):

The International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families is an agreement supported by the United Nations that aims to improve the legal status of migrants with worker status, seasonal and casual workers and their family members. Despite its international commitment, Austria has not yet ratified this convention (see resolution on ratification ICMW: https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXII/A/763). The discrepancy between the signing of international agreements and their actual implementation in national law raises questions and could give rise to a review and possible reassessment of these decisions. This could be an opportunity for Austria to strengthen its commitment to the protection and promotion of the rights of migrant workers and their family members. 

Progress: No progress

Sign and ratify the International Convention for the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families

Proponent:

Egypt


Arab Republic of Egypt

Egypt


Arab Republic of Egypt

Remarks to progress by Liga (last modified Dec 31, 2024):

The International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families is an agreement supported by the United Nations that aims to improve the legal status of migrants with worker status, seasonal and casual workers and their family members. Despite its international commitment, Austria has not yet ratified this convention (see resolution on ratification ICMW: https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXII/A/763). The discrepancy between the signing of international agreements and their actual implementation in national law raises questions and could give rise to a review and possible reassessment of these decisions. This could be an opportunity for Austria to strengthen its commitment to the protection and promotion of the rights of migrant workers and their family members. 

Progress: No progress

Sign and ratify the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families

Proponent:

Honduras


Republic of Honduras

Honduras


Republic of Honduras

Remarks to progress by Liga (last modified Dec 31, 2024):

The International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families is an agreement supported by the United Nations that aims to improve the legal status of migrants with worker status, seasonal and casual workers and their family members. Despite its international commitment, Austria has not yet ratified this convention (see resolution on ratification ICMW: https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXII/A/763). The discrepancy between the signing of international agreements and their actual implementation in national law raises questions and could give rise to a review and possible reassessment of these decisions. This could be an opportunity for Austria to strengthen its commitment to the protection and promotion of the rights of migrant workers and their family members. 

Progress: No progress

Consider ratifying the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families

Proponent:

Bangladesh


People's Republic of Bangladesh

Bangladesh


People's Republic of Bangladesh

Remarks to progress by Liga (last modified Dec 31, 2024):

The International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families is an agreement supported by the United Nations that aims to improve the legal status of migrants with worker status, seasonal and casual workers and their family members. Despite its international commitment, Austria has not yet ratified this convention (see resolution on ratification ICMW: https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXII/A/763). The discrepancy between the signing of international agreements and their actual implementation in national law raises questions and could give rise to a review and possible reassessment of these decisions. This could be an opportunity for Austria to strengthen its commitment to the protection and promotion of the rights of migrant workers and their family members. 

Progress: No progress

Consider ratifying the International Convention on the Protection of All Migrant Workers and Members of their Families

Proponent:

Indonesia


Republic of Indonesia

Indonesia


Republic of Indonesia

Remarks to progress by Liga (last modified Dec 31, 2024):

The International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families is an agreement supported by the United Nations that aims to improve the legal status of migrants with worker status, seasonal and casual workers and their family members. Despite its international commitment, Austria has not yet ratified this convention (see resolution on ratification ICMW: https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXII/A/763). The discrepancy between the signing of international agreements and their actual implementation in national law raises questions and could give rise to a review and possible reassessment of these decisions. This could be an opportunity for Austria to strengthen its commitment to the protection and promotion of the rights of migrant workers and their family members. 

Progress: No progress

Consider ratifying the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families

Proponent:

Senegal


Republic of Senegal

Senegal


Republic of Senegal

Remarks to progress by Liga (last modified Dec 31, 2024):

The International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families is an agreement supported by the United Nations that aims to improve the legal status of migrants with worker status, seasonal and casual workers and their family members. Despite its international commitment, Austria has not yet ratified this convention (see resolution on ratification ICMW: https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXII/A/763). The discrepancy between the signing of international agreements and their actual implementation in national law raises questions and could give rise to a review and possible reassessment of these decisions. This could be an opportunity for Austria to strengthen its commitment to the protection and promotion of the rights of migrant workers and their family members. 

Progress: No progress

Consider the ratification of the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families

Proponent:

Philippines


Republic of the Philippines

Philippines


Republic of the Philippines

Remarks to progress by Liga (last modified Dec 31, 2024):

The International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families is an agreement supported by the United Nations that aims to improve the legal status of migrants with worker status, seasonal and casual workers and their family members. Despite its international commitment, Austria has not yet ratified this convention (see resolution on ratification ICMW: https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXII/A/763). The discrepancy between the signing of international agreements and their actual implementation in national law raises questions and could give rise to a review and possible reassessment of these decisions. This could be an opportunity for Austria to strengthen its commitment to the protection and promotion of the rights of migrant workers and their family members. 

Progress: No progress

Ratify the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families and the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights

Proponent:

Chile


Republic of Chile

Chile


Republic of Chile

Remarks to progress by Liga (last modified Dec 31, 2024):

The International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families is an agreement supported by the United Nations that aims to improve the legal status of migrants with worker status, seasonal and casual workers and their family members. Despite its international commitment, Austria has not yet ratified this convention (see resolution on ratification ICMW: https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXII/A/763). The discrepancy between the signing of international agreements and their actual implementation in national law raises questions and could give rise to a review and possible reassessment of these decisions. This could be an opportunity for Austria to strengthen its commitment to the protection and promotion of the rights of migrant workers and their family members. The Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights is an additional protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and enables individuals and groups to submit complaints to the United Nations if their rights have been violated. Austria ratified this protocol in 1978. The Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights is an additional protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and allows individuals and groups to submit complaints to the United Nations when their rights have been violated. Austria, however, ratified this protocol in 1978 (see State Report, Concluding Observations of the Committee on wsk Rights: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:40fa2699-4b9e-450e-a246-fdf4a7dcc164/CESCR_WSK_4_de.pdf). 

Progress: No progress

Undertake concrete actions towards the ratification of the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families

Proponent:

El Salvador


Republic of El Salvador

El Salvador


Republic of El Salvador

Remarks to progress by Liga (last modified Dec 31, 2024):

The International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families is an agreement supported by the United Nations that aims to improve the legal status of migrants with worker status, seasonal and casual workers and their family members. Despite its international commitment, Austria has not yet ratified this convention (see resolution on ratification ICMW: https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXII/A/763). The discrepancy between the signing of international agreements and their actual implementation in national law raises questions and could give rise to a review and possible reassessment of these decisions. This could be an opportunity for Austria to strengthen its commitment to the protection and promotion of the rights of migrant workers and their family members. 

Progress: No progress

Strengthen the national legislative framework, in particular by ratifying the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families

Proponent:

Algeria


People's Democratic Republic of Algeria

Algeria


People's Democratic Republic of Algeria

Remarks to progress by Liga (last modified Dec 31, 2024):

The International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families is an agreement supported by the United Nations that aims to improve the legal status of migrants with worker status, seasonal and casual workers and their family members. Despite its international commitment, Austria has not yet ratified this convention (see resolution on ratification ICMW: https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXII/A/763). The discrepancy between the signing of international agreements and their actual implementation in national law raises questions and could give rise to a review and possible reassessment of these decisions. This could be an opportunity for Austria to strengthen its commitment to the protection and promotion of the rights of migrant workers and their family members. 

Progress: No progress

Ratify the International Covenant on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families, the Domestic Workers Convention, 2011 (No. 189) of the International Labour Organization, the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, and sign the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration

Proponent:

Venezuela


Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela

Venezuela


Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela

Remarks to progress by Liga (last modified Dec 31, 2024):

The International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families is an agreement supported by the United Nations that aims to improve the legal status of migrants with worker status, seasonal and casual workers and their family members. Despite its international commitment, Austria has not yet ratified this convention (see resolution on ratification ICMW: https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXII/A/763). The discrepancy between the signing of international agreements and their actual implementation in national law raises questions and could give rise to a review and possible reassessment of these decisions. This could be an opportunity for Austria to strengthen its commitment to the protection and promotion of the rights of migrant workers and their family members. The Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights is an additional protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and enables individuals and groups to submit complaints to the United Nations if their rights have been violated. Austria ratified this protocol in 1978. The Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights is an additional protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and allows individuals and groups to submit complaints to the United Nations when their rights have been violated. Austria, however, ratified this protocol in 1978 (see State Report, Concluding Observations of the Committee on wsk Rights: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:40fa2699-4b9e-450e-a246-fdf4a7dcc164/CESCR_WSK_4_de.pdf). In June 2011, Austria adopted Convention No. 189 of the International Labour Organization (ILO) regarding domestic workers. This agreement sets out an ambitious level of protection for domestic workers under labour law. However, it has not yet been fully implemented at national level. Domestic workers contribute significantly to the global economy by improving employment opportunities for workers with family responsibilities. They provide care for the elderly, children and people with disabilities and create significant income shifts within and between countries. It is crucial that Austria continues to take measures to strengthen the protection of workers, including the ratification of ILO Convention No. 189 on Domestic Workers (see RIS Convention No.189: https://www.ris.bka.gv.at/Dokumente/RegV/REGV_COO_2026_100_2_651606/COO_2026_100_2_653149.html). In 2018, the Austrian government decided to withdraw from the UN migration pact. The official vote declaration to the United Nations lists a total of 17 reasons for rejecting the agreement. At the same time, the „Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration“ was adopted, an international agreement of the United Nations that aims to improve international cooperation on migration and strengthen the contribution of migrants to sustainable development. Although this pact is not legally binding, it acts as a co-operative guide to better coordinate migration at different levels – local, national, regional and global. The Austrian government could consider rejoining the United Nations Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration. This would not only promote international cooperation but also support a collaborative approach to more effective migration policies (see Outcome Document of the Intergovernmental Conference on the Adoption of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration:https://www.un.org/depts/german/migration/A.CONF.231.3.pdf). 

Progress: No progress

Reduce legal and administrative barriers to family reunification and effective access to the labor market for the beneficiaries of international protection

Proponent:

Afghanistan


Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Afghanistan


Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Remarks to progress by Liga (last modified Dec 31, 2024):

In order to ensure successful integration, it is of great importance to grant asylum seekers effective access to the labour market during their asylum procedure. This requires adjustments to legislation and administrative procedures. The opportunity to work during the asylum procedure enables asylum seekers to utilise their skills, contribute to society and secure their livelihood. Such access promotes the independence and well-being of those affected. However, there is unequal treatment in terms of access to the labour market, especially in the basic welfare system. While Ukrainians have protection status and access to the labour market from the outset, asylum seekers and displaced persons from Ukraine must obtain an employment permit. This inequality is exacerbated by bureaucratic procedures and an additional income limit, which penalises some groups of people. It is emphasised that the current system of basic services is in urgent need of fundamental reform. All groups, regardless of their status, should have fair access to the labour market in order to promote integration.   A sensible care system should encourage, not hinder, income-earning opportunities through work to enable people to manage without support at an early stage. A fundamental reform of the current system is needed to ensure that no one is permanently denied effective access to the labour market. 

Progress: No progress

Ratification UN Convention on the Rights of all Migrant Workers and Members of their Families dated 18.12.1990 (ICRMW)

Proponent:

League


Österreichische Liga für Menschenrechte


Rahlgasse 1/26, A-1060 Wien


http://www.liga.or.at/projekte/universal-periodic-review-2020-upr/

League


Österreichische Liga für Menschenrechte


Rahlgasse 1/26, A-1060 Wien


http://www.liga.or.at/projekte/universal-periodic-review-2020-upr/

Remarks to progress by Liga (last modified Dec 31, 2024):

The International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families is an agreement supported by the United Nations that aims to improve the legal status of migrants with worker status, seasonal and casual workers and their family members. Despite its international commitment, Austria has not yet ratified this convention (see resolution on ratification ICMW: https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXII/A/763). The discrepancy between the signing of international agreements and their actual implementation in national law raises questions and could give rise to a review and possible reassessment of these decisions. This could be an opportunity for Austria to strengthen its commitment to the protection and promotion of the rights of migrant workers and their family members. 

Progress: No progress

Provide sufficient high-quality childcare places on a national level to improve the compatibility of family and career

Proponent:

League


Österreichische Liga für Menschenrechte


Rahlgasse 1/26, A-1060 Wien


http://www.liga.or.at/projekte/universal-periodic-review-2020-upr/

League


Österreichische Liga für Menschenrechte


Rahlgasse 1/26, A-1060 Wien


http://www.liga.or.at/projekte/universal-periodic-review-2020-upr/

Remarks to progress by Liga (last modified Apr 1, 2025):

The recent extension of the Equal Treatment Act in Austria, particularly in the context of caring activities, is a positive step. Nevertheless, precise wording is needed to ensure legal certainty. Austria has recently extended the scope of protection of the Equal Treatment Act to cover discrimination in the context of care work. This is a significant step forward, but requires clear wording in the extended § 5a to ensure clarity and legal certainty.   The missed opportunity to distribute parental leave more evenly is regrettable and contradicts the goal of gender equality. The current amendment of the law offers the opportunity to rectify shortcomings, in particular by introducing a statutory minimum compensation for cases of discrimination. Despite positive developments, however, there is still no uniform standard of protection for all those affected by discrimination. Civil society, including the Litigation Association, appeals to legislators to seriously consider the recommendations, particularly with regard to the clear wording of Section 5a, the equal distribution of parental leave and the introduction of statutory minimum compensation. A holistic view beyond the world of work and the transfer of responsibility to the Federal Equal Treatment Commission in accordance with Directive (EU) 2019/1158 are crucial. These measures strengthen the protection of families and promote gender equality in Austria (see statement of the Litigation Association: https://www.klagsverband.at/klav/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Stellungnahme-Klagsverband-10.07.2023.pdf).  As part of the Government Plan 2025-2029, the federal government is pursuing this goal through close cooperation with all stakeholders (see Government Plan 2ß025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html).

Redaktionelle Verantwortung UPR-Tool:

Österreichische Liga für Menschenrechte, upr@liga.or.at

Lizenz CC-BY-SA 

Unterstützung durch:

Forschungskooperation mit der Volksanwaltschaft

Förderung des Zukunftsfonds der Republik Österreich

 

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