. 16th HRC session - 18 March 2011
“The promotion and protection of human rights in Mauritius is guided by the basic principle underlying Government actions which is “Putting People First”. In addition to the human rights provisions being enshrined in the Constitution, a series of measures have been adopted and are aimed at ensuring that the citizens of Mauritius, irrespectively of their race, place of origin, political opinions, colour, creed or sex are able to exercise and enjoy effectively their civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights. In its Government Programme 2010-2015, the Government of Mauritius stressed the importance of a constitutional regime that will strengthen democracy, promote national building and further entrench the fundamental rights of freedom of Mauritian citizens. In keeping with these principles, a string of measures have been taken or are in the process of being implemented. These include: the finalization of the National Plan for Human Rights, awareness campaigns for better protection of human rights, development strategies to combat poverty, enactment to the Combating of Trafficking of Persons Act, ratification of the Convention on the rights of persons with disabilities.”