Evaluating India’s Engagement with the Universal Periodic Review: A Focus on Women’s Rights

Abstract

The Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of the United Nations Human Rights Council serves as a crucial mechanism for monitoring and promoting human rights globally. It provides a platform for member states to report on their human rights practices and receive recommendations. This study evaluates India’s engagement with the UPR, focusing on its commitments and actions concerning women’s rights across the first three review cycles. Key issues such as violence against women, gender equality, and health and reproductive rights are critically analysed to understand progress and persisting challenges. The paper assesses India’s implementation of UPR recommendations in depth; pointing out noteworthy accomplishments and persisting hurdles while offering insights into socio-cultural, legal and policy dimensions affecting women’s rights in India. However, there is still a huge gap between international commitments and the lived realities despite some progress having been made. Consequently, these findings call for continuous efforts together with international support toward improving women’s status in India. This paper concludes with recommendations for enhancing India’s future engagements with the UPR and strengthening its framework for protecting and promoting women’s rights.