In theory, the Council "undertake[s] a universal periodic review (UPR), based on objective and reliable information, of the fulfillment by each State of its human rights obligations and commitments..."
In practice, the UPR is a process in which the worst violators of human rights are commended and democracies are heavily criticized - in the name of non-selectivity.
On April 28, 2014 the human rights situation in Norway was reviewed by members of the Council and any other UN member wanting to comment. Here are some of the gems from the "interactive dialogue."
- • Iran was "concerned with a number of human rights issue in the country." Iran recommended Norway "Prevent, prohibit and combat hate speech, stop and combat all forms of discrimination against persons from immigrant background especially Muslims and to support the cultures of persons belonging to national minorities."
• Saudi Arabia was concerned "at the increasing cases of domestic violence rape crimes and non-equality in wages" and "continuation of hate crimes against various races especially against Muslims. We hope government will criminalize such actions... " The Saudis recommended combating "discrimination against indigenous peoples", enacting "legislation to criminalize any disrespect of religion and prophets in the media and law to define the crime of rape", and enacting "laws on gender equality and wages and to prevent domestic violence."
• Sudan recommended to Norway that it intensify "efforts to combat hate crime and domestic violence."
• Russia accused Norway of "tangible problems in respect to human rights in particular in freedom of confession" and "serious problems in Norwegian child welfare system and high level of violence against foster children". It recommended ensuring "fuller respect of freedom of confession and religion" and "combating public expressions of racial intolerance."