Human Rights Council
MORNING

25 June 2015 

The Human Rights Council this morning adopted the outcomes of the Universal Periodic Review of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Spain and Lesotho.

Thongphane Savanhphet, Permanent Representative of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to the United Nations Office at Geneva, said that of the 196 received recommendations, it fully supported 116 and noted 80.  More time was needed to study and create necessary conditions for future accession to the Convention on the Protection of Rights of Migrant Workers and their Family Members, and the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court.  The death penalty was intended to deter the most serious crimes and the Government was willing to revise the Penal Law in order to bring it into full accordance with obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.  The Constitution and relevant laws clearly provided for the rights to freedoms of speech, press, expression and assembly, while the 2014 Decree on the Internet provided a legal basis for the enjoyment of the right to access to information and expression of opinion in a more responsible manner.

In the ensuing discussion, speakers welcomed the collaboration of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and the positive engagement in the Universal Periodic Review process.  They welcomed the efforts to reduce poverty, carry out reforms and improve health and education for all, and said that the successful implementation of the Master Plan on the Development of the Rule of Law was vital in pursuit of a just and peaceful society.  Speakers raised grave concern about enforced disappearances and restrictions on freedom of expression in the country, and urged the Government to investigate all cases of enforced disappearances.

Speaking were Burkina Faso, Cambodia, China, Cuba, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Djibouti, Egypt, Kuwait, India, Indonesia, Viet Nam, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Sierra Leone, Singapore, and Sri Lanka.  Also speaking were Asian Forum for Human Rights, Human Rights Watch, International Federation for Human Rights, United Nations Watch, Jubilee Campaign, and Amnesty International.

The Council then adopted the outcome of the Universal Periodic Review of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.

Ana María Menéndez Pérez, Permanent Representative of Spain to the United Nations Office at Geneva, said that Spain had carefully examined 189 recommendations it had received, of which it had accepted 169 recommendations, including five partially.  Spain had already implemented the recommendation referring to immediate access to detainees; the Law on Citizen Security had been revised during the Parliamentary debate; and the Protocol on unaccompanied minors had been adopted.  Steps were already being taken to identify the most appropriate institutional model for the creation of the Inter-ministerial Committee for Human Rights.  The existing legislation on racism, racial discrimination, and xenophobia provided sufficient protection; there was a need to strengthen its implementation, rather than reform it.  Spain was one of the few countries in the world which had adequate data on gender-based violence and continued to promote zero tolerance policy.

Speakers in the discussion welcomed the efforts to promote human rights despite the obstacles posed by the financial crisis, and the progress made in reforming its Criminal Code, adopting the Strategic Plan for the Integration of All Citizens, and combatting gender-based violence.  Speakers appreciated the ongoing efforts to more effectively address hate crimes, discrimination and human trafficking through cohesive national initiatives, and encouraged Spain’s further efforts on trafficking, protection of migrant workers, social inclusion, and implementation of the law on comprehensive protection measures against gender-based violence.  Concern was raised about three challenges Spain was facing, namely the deficient asylum procedures and issues related to illegal immigration; ethnic profiling by law enforcement authorities; and conditions of detention as a result of the overcrowding of prisons. 

Speaking were Sierra Leone, Sudan, Togo, Venezuela, Albania, Algeria, Angola, Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Chad, China, Côte d’Ivoire, Council of Europe, Cuba, Ghana, India, and Iran. 

The following non-governmental organizations also spoke: European Bureau for Lesser Used Languages, Save the Children International, International Federation for Human Rights, Action Canada for Population and Development, International Service for Human Rights, Istituto Internationale Maria Ausiliatrice delle Salesiane di Don Bosco, Amnesty International, Center for Economic and Social Rights, Caritas International, and Federacion de Asociaciones de Defensa y Promocion de los Derechos Humanos.

The Council then adopted the outcome of the Universal Periodic Review of Spain.

Tebello Thabane, Principal Secretary of Law, Constitutional Affairs and Human Rights of the Kingdom of Lesotho, said 121 recommendations made to Lesotho enjoyed its support and 24 recommendations had been rejected because some were not in accordance with existing laws, policies, traditions and cultures which were deeply rooted in the society.  The recommendations to decriminalize defamation, to repeal the Sedition Proclamation and the Internal Security Act and to fully legalize abortion did not enjoy Lesotho’s support.  Lesotho reiterated its commitment to accelerate sustainable economic growth, establish a national human rights institution, improve access to justice for all, intensify the fight against corruption, and strive to achieve the objectives of Vision 2020 and the National Strategic Development Plan. 

Speakers in the discussion welcomed Lesotho’s efforts despite limited resources, particularly in the fields of access to health, education and poverty reduction.  Speakers welcomed Lesotho’s cooperation with United Nations mechanisms and its commitment to ratify further international human rights conventions.  Concerns were raised about the human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons and violations against women in rural areas. 

The following delegations took part in the discussion: Mali, Niger, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Sudan, Togo, Venezuela, Algeria, Angola, Botswana, Burkina Faso, China, Cuba, Djibouti, Ethiopia, and Ghana. 

COC Nederland and Rencontre Africaine pour la défense des droits de l’homme also spoke. 

The Council then adopted the outcome of the Universal Periodic Review of Lesotho.

The Human Rights Council is holding a full day of meetings today.  At noon, it will continue its general debate on human rights situations requiring the Council’s attention, followed by the presentation of the reports of the Social Forum, the Forum on Business and Human Rights, and the Intergovernmental Working Group on the right to peace, and a general debate on subsidiary bodies of the Human Rights Council.

Consideration of Outcome of Universal Periodic Review of Lao People’s Democratic Republic

THONGPHANE SAVANHPHET, Permanent Representative of Lao People’s Democratic Republic to the United Nations Office at Geneva, said that out of 196 recommendations, the Lao Government fully supported 116 and noted the remaining ones.  The noted recommendations did not enjoy full support because some of them could only be partially supported, or because they were not in line with the Constitution and laws, or because they did not reflect the real situation in the country, or because the country could not implement them due to the lack of human and financial resources.  Referring to accession to international human rights conventions, it was noted that the Lao People’s Democratic Republic was now party to seven core human rights conventions, and that it was considering the ratification of the Convention on the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearances.  It needed more time to study and create the necessary conditions for future accession to the Convention on the Protection of the Rights of Migrant Workers and their Family Members, and the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court.  The Government recognized the role of Special Procedures, and it would extend an invitation to the Special Rapporteur on the right to adequate housing and would maintain regular dialogue with other Special Rapporteurs.  As for the abolition of the death penalty, imposing a moratorium on executions and on ratification of the Second Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, he explained that the death penalty was intended to deter the most serious crimes.  Furthermore, it was not applicable to persons under the age of 18 and pregnant women.  The Government was willing to revise the Penal Law in order to bring it into full accordance with its obligations under the Covenant.

With respect to freedoms of speech, press, expression and assembly, the Constitution and relevant laws clearly provided for those rights.  All citizens had the right to express their opinions and to make comments on the State administration.  In 2014 the Government issued a decree on the Internet in order to manage and facilitate its use.  It provided a legal basis for the enjoyment of the right to access to information and expression of opinion in a more responsible manner.  As for the recommendation concerning the work of civil society, relevant decrees would provide a legal framework for the activities of those organizations.  Local civil society organizations were consulted about the Universal Periodic Review recommendations.  As for the case of Mr. Sombath Somphone, the concerned authorities were still seriously conducting the investigation, and would continue to do so to find out the truth and bring the perpetrators to justice in accordance with the law. 

Burkina Faso welcomed the collaboration of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and encouraged it to implement the recommendations it had freely accepted.  With the support of international community, the Lao authorities would make good on the commitments made during their second Universal Periodic Review cycle.

Cambodia was encouraged by the steps taken by the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to protect and promote the human rights and fundamental freedoms of its people, and by the acceptance of the majority of recommendations it had received during its Universal Periodic Review, including those made by Cambodia.

China welcomed the constructive engagement of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic in the Universal Periodic Review and the acceptance of its recommendations to increase input in education, increase enrolment of girls and use legislation and policies to promote gender equality and enhance women’s status.

Cuba reiterated its gratitude for the efforts of the Government to reduce poverty, carry out reforms, and improve education and health services for the population.  Cuba believed that by implementing its national Socio-economic Plan, Lao authorities would be able to lift most of its people out of poverty.

Democratic People's Republic of Korea appreciated the commitment of the Lao Government to continue with the promotion and protection of human rights which would contribute to the enjoyment of economic, social and cultural rights by all people, especially the right to development.

Djibouti welcomed the decision of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to assign concerned ministries and State organizations to implement the recommendations, and the attaching of many of the recommendations to the National Socio-economic Plan 2011-2015, which would later be translated into laws, policies, and action plans.

Egypt welcomed the efforts of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic in promoting human rights, strengthening anti-corruption measures, stepping up progress achieved in eradication of extreme poverty, enhancing compliance of national laws with international human rights obligations, and acceding to the United Nations Convention against Torture.

Kuwait commended the Lao People’s Democratic Republic’s achievements in spite of obstacles and challenges, such as the underdevelopment of the infrastructure, natural disasters and lack of resources.  It welcomed achievements in the economic, social and cultural fields and the fight against poverty.  It encouraged the country to continue enhancing the right to work, education and health

India commended the Lao People’s Democratic Republic for the constructive manner in which it participated in the Universal Periodic Review.  It was encouraging that the Lao People’s Democratic Republic had accepted 116 recommendations.  The country had gained much from the process and India believed that it would continue to implement the recommendations.

Indonesia welcomed the constructive engagement of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic in the Universal Periodic Review, and its acceptance of many recommendations, including Indonesia’s recommendations to adopt the anti-trafficking law, and to ratify the Convention on the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of their Families.

Viet Nam appreciated the Lao People’s Democratic Republic’s continuous efforts to promote and protect human rights, including the acceptance and commitment to many recommendations.  Besides the national development of socio-economic conditions, Viet Nam looked forward to the country’s further constructive contribution to human rights protection.

Malaysia appreciated the continued engagement and the cooperation of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic in the Universal Periodic Review process and was pleased that the Government had accepted the recommendations made by Malaysia concerning the eradication of poverty and capacity building for law enforcement officials dealing with trafficking in persons.

Myanmar acknowledged the constructive participation of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic in the Universal Periodic Review process and that it had accepted a large number of recommendations that it had received, including the three made by Myanmar.

Philippines welcomed the measures taken by the Government of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to further enhance the normative and institutional framework for the promotion and protection of human rights.  The successful implementation of the Master Plan on the Development of the Rule of Law was vital in pursuit of a just and peaceful society.

Sierra Leone noted that the Lao People’s Democratic Republic considered that many of the recommendations had been integrated into national norms and policies and into the National Socio-economic Development Plan 2011-2015, and commended their poverty reduction efforts.

Singapore endorsed the adoption of the Universal Periodic Review Working Group report by the Council and welcomed the commitment of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to continue to seriously investigate the disappearance of Mr. Sombath Somphone, a Lao spouse of a Singaporean citizen.

Sri Lanka appreciated the constructive engagement of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic in the Universal Periodic Review process.  The adoption of decrees on the rights of persons with disabilities was particularly noteworthy.  Other positive developments were insurances for the rule of law, and efforts to reduce poverty.

Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development regretted that the Government of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic did not accept recommendations on human rights defenders.  The Government continued to restrict civil society organizations and their work.  Existing laws continued to impose severe restrictions on freedom of the media.  The Forum deplored the Government’s refusal to fully investigate enforced disappearances. 

Human Rights Watch said that the report of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic showed insufficient progress in the promotion of human rights, including the lack of credible investigation of enforced disappearances.  The Government gave no credible explanation why it had passed an Internet decree that contained provisions that went well beyond internationally accepted limits on free speech.

International Federation for Human Rights said that justice must be rendered to all victims of enforced disappearances and their families, and that the disappearance of the eminent leader of civil society Sombath Sombphone must be fully investigated.  The Government should ratify the Convention on Enforced Disappearances and guarantee the rights to freedom of expression and media freedoms.

United Nations Watch was concerned about grave human rights violations in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, including numerous enforced disappearances and restrictions on freedom of expression.  The Government had rejected the most important recommendations concerning enforced disappearances, including conducting independent and in-depth investigation in all cases of enforced disappearances.

Jubilee Campaign asked the Government to amend its legislation to ensure full adherence to freedom of religion or belief as stipulated in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.  Decree 92 regarding Governance and Protection of Religious Activity was discriminatory and open to abuse.

Amnesty International welcomed recommendations made on the enforced disappearance of civil society leader Sombath Somphone, but regretted that the Lao People’s Democratic Republic was unable to accept these recommendations and recommendations to extend a standing invitation to Special Procedures.  The case of Mr.  Somphone was symbolic of a climate of repression and impunity for human rights violations. 

The Vice-President of the Council said that out of 196 recommendations received, 116 enjoyed the support of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, while 77 were noted and three required additional clarification. 

THONGPHANE SAVANHPHET, Permanent Representative of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to the United Nations Office at Geneva, regretted that some comments had been made on the basis of incorrect information or misunderstanding of the real situation in the country.  The Universal Periodic Review process provided an opportunity to move forward the promotion and protection of human rights and share best practices with the international community.  The Lao People’s Democratic Republic hoped the international community would continue to support its efforts, including for the implementation of recommendations. 

The Council then adopted the outcome of the Universal Periodic Review of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. 

Consideration of Outcome of Universal Periodic Review of Spain

ANA MARÍA MENÉNDEZ PÉREZ, Permanent Representative of Spain to the United Nations Office at Geneva, said that Spain had actively participated in the Universal Periodic Review process since its beginning, and considered the process to be an ongoing and constant exercise.  Spain had carefully examined 189 recommendations that it had received, with the involvement of all relevant ministries and civil society, and it accepted 169 recommendations, including five partially.  Spain had already implemented the recommendation referring to immediate access to detainees; the Law on Citizen Security had been revised during the Parliamentary debate; and the Protocol on unaccompanied minors had been adopted.  Twenty recommendations had been noted.

Spain had received a recommendation to create the Inter-ministerial Committee for Human Rights, and steps were already being taken to identify the most appropriate institutional models.  The creation of this institution would be a turning point in the history of human rights in Spain and would be a clear demonstration of the value of the Universal Periodic Review.  This body would also have in its remit further development of human rights indicators.  Spain considered that the existing legislation on racism, racial discrimination, and xenophobia provided sufficient protection and did not consider that overall reform was needed; what was needed was to strengthen the implementation of the legislation.  With regard to gender-based violence, Spain was one of the few countries in the world which had adequate data on and continued to promote zero tolerance policy on gender-based violence, which included legislative and judiciary measures and the implementation of the Strategy for the Eradication of Gender-based violence.

Sierra Leone commended the ongoing efforts to more effectively address hate crimes, discrimination and human trafficking through cohesive national initiatives.  It expressed hope that Spain would enact into national laws the recommendations which enjoyed support.

Sudan commended Spain’s acceptance of most of the recommendations, including those suggested by Sudan.  It congratulated Spain on the successful completion of the Universal Process Review and endorsed it.

Togo welcomed the relevant information contained in Spain’s report and its efforts to promote human rights despite the obstacles posed by the financial crisis.

Venezuela welcomed that Spain had provided good information regarding its human rights achievements and challenges and noted that Spain had a good legislative framework for the implementation of its human rights obligations. 

Albania welcomed that Spain had accepted its recommendations and encouraged its further efforts on trafficking and social inclusion.  Albania complimented Spain for its assessment and appreciation of civil society suggestions. 

Algeria appreciated the quality of Spain’s cooperation during the Universal Periodic Review process, and its acceptance of most recommendations, including those pertaining to vulnerable groups, austerity measures and access to health.  Algeria encouraged Spain to continue its efforts relating to the protection of migrant workers. 

Angola welcomed the acceptance by Spain of recommendations made by Angola and noted the progress made in reforming its Criminal Code, in adopting a Strategic Plan for the Integration of All Citizens, and in combatting gender-based violence.

Bulgaria was confident that Spain would continue to improve coordination between various national administrations working in different human rights fields and increase the effectiveness of the Human Rights Office.  Bulgaria appreciated Spain’s commitment to continue to mainstream gender equality policy and implement the law on comprehensive protection measures against gender-based violence.

Burkina Faso welcomed the cooperation of Spain with the Human Rights Council and its commitment to present a mid-term report on the implementation of the recommendations it had received.

Chad welcomed Spain’s ratification of most of the human rights instruments and their optional protocols, regular submission of reports to treaty bodies, and willingness to submit an interim report.

China commended Spain’s constructive participation in the Universal Periodic Review process and its acceptance of China’s recommendations that it continue to work on the issues of discrimination, migration and employment.

Côte d’Ivoire thanked the Spanish Government for having paid careful attention to the recommendations, and encouraged it to continue its exemplary cooperation with the United Nations human rights mechanisms.

Council of Europe highlighted three challenges Spain was facing, namely the deficient asylum procedures and issues related to illegal immigration; ethnic profiling by law enforcement authorities; and conditions of detention as a result of the overcrowding of prisons. 

Cuba welcomed that Spain had accepted its recommendation to introduce social measures to assist the most disadvantaged by the economic and financial crisis.  Cuba encouraged the implementation by Spain of its recommendations. 

Ghana appreciated that Spain had accepted its recommendations to ensure the participation of women in decision making and that persons with disabilities were allowed to vote.  It called on Spain to consider the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of their Families. 

India took positive note of the receptive and constructive manner in which Spain had participated in the Universal Periodic Review mechanism.  It was encouraging that Spain had accepted as many as 174 recommendations.

Iran said it remained concerned about a number of issues in Spain, such as discrimination against migrants and Roma, hate speech and xenophobic discourse among politicians, and racial discrimination against minorities, in particular Muslims. 

European Bureau for Lesser Used Languages detailed many cases of discrimination based on languages, including against the use of Catalan, Basque, Galician, Aragonese and Asturian.  The discrimination against non-Castilian languages in the Spanish system was systemic, and it called on the Council to take measures to end that discrimination. 

Save the Children International said that more than 2.5 million children lived below the poverty line in Spain and were adversely affected by policy reforms and budget cuts.  It was welcomed that Spain had accepted to undertake impact assessment, and that it had accepted the recommendations on adequate funding of the education sector and the reduction of early dropouts.

International Federation for Human Rights urged Spain to recognize the right to justice, truth, non-repetition, and compensation to victims of human rights violations committed under the Franco dictatorship, and repeal the Amnesty Law.  Spain should apply the principle of universal justice and enable its domestic courts to prosecute international crimes committed outside of Spain.

Action Canada for Population and Development welcomed the acceptance of recommendations related to violence against women and the right to sexual and reproductive rights and said that the measures to implement them should also include migrant women and the modification of school curriculum to include sexual and reproductive health.

International Service for Human Rights was concerned by the new Citizen Safety Law, which would criminalize the exercise of the right to peaceful assembly.  This law could give rise to arbitrary interpretations and be used to curtail the right to peaceful assembly.  The fact that legal counsel was less available was also a matter of concern. 

Istituto Internationale Maria Ausiliatrice delle Salesiane di Don Bosco said there was a huge challenge for families receiving minimum wage, and their ability to ensure their children’s access to school.  Many women were the victims of smuggling, and migrants were subjected to slavery networks.  Spain had to continue to provide free school meals, and ensure the holistic protection of women and the rehabilitation of victims of trafficking. 

Amnesty International was concerned that the law regulating the right to freedom of assembly in Spain did not envisage or recognize the right to spontaneous demonstrations.  Spain continued to prevent people fleeing human rights violations to access effective asylum procedures.  Spain should criminalize torture and enforced disappearance as separate crimes.  Impunity for past violations remained a problem. 

Amnesty International welcomed the acceptance of the recommendation on the right to free assembly but noted that the law on free assembly did not recognize the right to hold spontaneous demonstrations in accordance with international law.  The rights of migrants, especially those on the border with Morocco, were worrying. 

Centre for Economic and Social Rights noted that the economic crisis had had an adverse effect on migrants and that they could not gain access to the health system.  The crisis also negatively affected refugees from Syria, Afghanistan and other countries.  It urged Spain to allow non-discriminatory access to social services to migrants.

Caritas International called attention to the following issues: guarantees for access to justice to non-nationals in Ceuta and Melilla, the establishment of remedies for racial and ethnic discrimination, criminalization of poverty, and provision of assistance to victims of trafficking and sexual violence.  

Federacion de Asociaciones de Defensa y Promocion de los Derechos Humanos said that Spain had not accepted the recommendations urging it to assess the impact of austerity measures on the enjoyment of economic, social and cultural rights.  Spain was sliding back in its observance of basic human rights and in only six days, the Law on Citizen Security would come into force which would limit the right to peaceful demonstration.

The Vice-President said that of the 189 received recommendations, Spain had fully supported 164, and noted 20.  Five recommendations required additional clarification.

Concluding Remarks:

ANA MARÍA MENÉNDEZ PÉREZ, Permanent Representative of Spain to the United Nations Office at Geneva, said that the Universal Periodic Review required the participation of all, particularly civil society organizations which worked on the ground; they had undertaken impressive work during the crisis to support the citizens and the State.  Spain had to deal with the financial crisis and continued to alleviate the impact of the adopted measures on the society as a whole, and in particular on disadvantaged groups.  A cross-sectoral approach was in place to combat child poverty and minimum criteria had been adopted for the provision of health services to the irregular migrants.  Further, Spain was taking measures to improve the quality of education across the country and reduce the number of drop outs.  The rights of foreign workers were amply protected by the Constitution and the relevant law.  With regard to the Citizen Security Law, Ms. Pérez stressed that only the demonstrations where the notifications had not been filed could be prevented.  Spain would be submitting an interim report on the implementation of the recommendations and this was a demonstration of its commitment to the process.

The Council then adopted the outcome on the Universal Periodic Review of Spain.

Consideration of Outcome of Universal Periodic Review of Lesotho

TEBELLO THABANE, Principal Secretary of Law, Constitutional Affairs and Human Rights of the Kingdom of Lesotho, welcomed the impartial and objective manner in which Lesotho’s review had been conducted, and said 121 recommendations made to Lesotho enjoyed its support; 24 recommendations had been rejected because some were not in accordance with existing laws, policies, traditions and cultures which were deeply rooted in the society.  The Government would endeavour to ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture in the near future, and would consult with relevant stakeholders regarding the recommendations to ratify the Third Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of Children and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.  The Anti-trafficking in Persons Act had been implemented in 2011, and a National Action Plan on this issue had been launched in 2014, accompanied with awareness raising and training campaigns.  The Children’s Protection and Welfare Act of 2011 had a dedicated chapter relating to protection against trafficking.  Lesotho had accepted recommendations to continue developing human rights indicators and would continue to monitor the implementation of its human rights policies.  Registration of births and deaths was free of charge in the country, and officers regularly held awareness raising activities on this.  Lesotho welcomed recommendations to investigate cases of gender violence, and said the Government would establish a compensation fund for the victims.  Lesotho accepted recommendations on public health expenses but noted its limited resources. 

Lesotho did not support recommendations relating to the ratification of the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights because its principles were already enshrined in the Constitution.  The ratification to decriminalize defamation did not enjoy Lesotho’s support, but the draft Media Policy was in place and would soon be approved by the Cabinet.  Lesotho did not accept recommendations on discrimination against women in relation to succession to the throne.  The Sedition Proclamation and the Internal Security Act were in compliance with international human rights law and would not be amended.  Lesotho was providing education on sexual and reproductive health, and did not support recommendations to fully legalize abortion.  Lesotho reiterated its commitment to accelerate sustainable economic growth, establish a National Human Rights Institution, improve access to justice for all, intensify the fight against corruption, and strive to achieve the objectives of Vision 2020 and the National Strategic Development Plan. 

Mali commended Lesotho’s normative and institutional achievements, notably the ratification of the Convention on the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearances, and the adoption of numerous legal measures aimed at reinforcing the respect and promotion of human rights. 

Niger congratulated Lesotho on its accomplishments in the domain of the promotion of human rights, such as the protection of children, combatting violence against women, and combatting trafficking in persons.

Rwanda commended Lesotho on its constructive participation in the Universal Periodic Review process, and took note of the new developments in promoting and protecting human rights since its last review.

Sierra Leone applauded Lesotho’s commitment to actively engage in promoting and protecting human rights, in particular the adoption of several key human rights instruments since its last review.

South Africa welcomed positive developments in the country since its first Universal Periodic Review, such as the implementation of the National Action Plan to End Gender Based Violence against Women, and the enactment of the draft National Policy on Social Development.

Sudan noted the positive engagement of Lesotho with the Universal Periodic Review process and the fact that it had accepted most of the recommendations, including those made by Sudan. 

Togo welcomed Lesotho’s commitment to the Universal Periodic Review, and encouraged the implementation of recommendations relating to access to water and sanitation and to combatting HIV/ AIDS. 

Venezuela welcomed Lesotho’s cooperation with the Universal Periodic Review, as well as its commitment to establish a national human rights institution.  Venezuela welcomed Lesotho’s policies to protect vulnerable groups. 

Algeria congratulated Lesotho for accepting most recommendations, including Algeria’s recommendations relating to access to healthcare and access to education. 

Angola welcomed the acceptance by Lesotho of the majority of recommendations made to it.  Angola commended Lesotho for progress made in the area of education, advancement of women and the implementation of the Millennium Development Goals. 

Botswana commended Lesotho for efforts to achieve democracy and the rule of law, and welcomed efforts to address poverty.  Botswana supported the adoption of the outcome, and wished every success to Lesotho.

Burkina Faso said Lesotho faced numerous difficulties in relation to resources and capacity, and welcomed that Lesotho had accepted many recommendations.  Burkina Faso wished Lesotho every success in implementing the recommendations it had accepted. 

China welcomed Lesotho’s constructive participation in the Universal Periodic Review process and its positive feedback to the recommendations.  China applauded Lesotho’s continuous prioritization of poverty reduction, and of economic, social and cultural rights.

Cuba said that Lesotho had demonstrated its commitment to the Universal Periodic Review and commended its efforts to continue promoting economic, social and cultural rights.  It appealed to the international community to provide technical assistance to Lesotho.

Djibouti congratulated Lesotho on drawing up and submitting regular reports to treaty bodies.  It commended its work towards poverty reduction, care for elderly persons, and vulnerable children.

Ethiopia noted with great satisfaction the indicators of the comprehensive country review conducted as part of the African Peer Review Mechanism, and the achievements and Lesotho’s engagement with the Human Rights Council.

Ghana welcomed Lesotho’s commitment to the Universal Periodic Review mechanism, and that a significant number of recommendations were supported by the Government.  Ghana welcomed the policy that would decriminalize defamation. 

COC Nederland said lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons faced tremendous difficulties, discrimination and abuses in Lesotho.  Their right to privacy and their access to justice were limited.  They also faced discrimination at work and in terms of access to health, making them vulnerable to HIV/ AIDS.  Their rights had to be respected irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Rencontre Africaine pour la Défense des Droits de l’Homme welcomed progress made by Lesotho in terms of reduction of poverty, literacy, access to justice, education and health.  Lesotho remained a patriarchal country where women faced all sorts of violence, particularly in rural areas.  Lesotho should repeal laws that discriminated against women and abolish the death penalty. 

The Vice-President said that out of 169 recommendations received by Lesotho, 137 enjoyed Lesotho’s support while 31 were noted.  Additional clarification had been provided on one recommendation. 

TEBELLO THABANE, Principal Secretary of Law, Constitutional Affairs and Human Rights of the Kingdom of Lesotho, thanked Member States and observer States for their constructive dialogue.  He noted that the Government’s priority was to ensure the observance of human rights, democracy, respect for the rule of law and good governance.  That was reflected in the high level of compliance with recommendations previously accepted, and the number of recommendations that had been accepted by the Government of Lesotho.  A workshop held in February 2015 aimed to disseminate the outcome of the Universal Periodic Review and to sensitize stakeholders to begin implementing recommendations that were specific to their mandates.  A coordinating committee composed of Government ministries and civil society organizations had been formed to oversee the implementation process.

____________
For use of the information media; not an official record

Follow UNIS Geneva on: Website | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube |Flickr