UPR

The Universal Periodic Review 

The Universal Periodic Review is a unique mechanism under the Human Rights Council (HRC), whereby all 193 UN Member States undergo individual reviews of the human rights records in the respective country. A State's examination involves a three hours’ review where the State presents its national report on the current human rights situation, followed by other UN Member States delivering concrete recommendations on how to promote, protect and fulfil human rights on the ground. Every year, three UPR sessions are conducted with approximately 14 countries reviewed per session, whereby all 193 UN Member States will be examined approximately every four to five years. These three sessions are usually held in January/February, April/May and October/November.

Denmark considers the UPR mechanism an important tool towards promoting, protecting and fulfilling human rights in all countries. It sets the frame for a horizontal dialogue between all UN Member States based on the recognition that no State has a perfect human rights record and that there is always room for improvements. At the same time, the UPR provides a rare opportunity to raise awareness between States on legislation or practices at national level, which may have negative consequences for human rights effect on the ground.

On 2nd May 2011, Denmark underwent its first Universal Periodic Review. The review resulted in 133 recommendations from  Member States, of which Denmark has accepted 102. Denmark’s second review took place on 21st of January 2016. During this review, Denmark received 199 recommendations from Member States, of which Denmark accepted 126 recommendations. Denmark’s last review took place on  6th of May 2021. During this review, Denmark received 288 recommendations, of which Denmark accepted 202 recommendations from Member States. 

Denmark’s next review will take place in April/May 2026.