人权理事会通过希腊、苏丹和匈牙利的普遍定期审议结果（部分翻译）

人权理事会
下午

2016年9月21日

人权理事会今天下午通过了希腊、苏丹和匈牙利的普遍定期审议结果。

希腊常驻联合国日内瓦办事处代表安娜·科尔卡（Anna Korka）表示，希腊接受了173条建议，注意到32条建议并部分接受了两条建议。在关于严重的经济危机问题上，它十分遗憾，国际社会未能制定并落实对债务危机基于人权的对策；必须采取充分符合人权的政策措施寻求出路，力图实现公平的经济增长并促进社会凝聚力。作为进入欧洲的主要入口，自2015年初以来，希腊接收了约100万难民和非正规移民，希腊人民尽管处于严峻的金融形势下，仍对他们表示欢迎。单边措施包括一系列西巴尔干移徙路线上的国家关闭边界，导致6万人被困在希腊。

希腊国家人权委员会肯定了希腊政府批评性的自我评估，并指出，鉴于《欧盟土耳其协议》，促进和保护人权方面仍面临着挑战。委员会呼吁有效落实《残疾人权利公约》并制定综合性的国家人权战略且有适当监督的国家人权行动计划。

在随后的讨论中，发言者称赞了希腊不顾目前的经济危机努力解决当前的难民和移民危机，并十分关切营地和接待设施的条件以及对孤身未成年人的保护。发言者敦促欧盟展现团结力量并支持希腊，使其支持难民和移民的有益努力获得成功，包括为大规模的移民融入提供财政支持。代表十分积极地指出其接受采取措施减轻紧缩措施带来的负面影响、建立独立的机制调查警察所犯酷刑的指控、通过关于儿童权利的国家行动计划以及努力解决种族主义暴力问题，包括加强反法西斯主义的立法。

阿尔巴尼亚、亚美尼亚、博茨瓦纳、保加利亚、中国、科特迪瓦、欧洲委员会、古巴、塞浦路斯、埃及、伊拉克、以色列、意大利、马尔代夫、马耳他、尼日利亚和巴基斯坦作了发言。

以下非政府组织也作了发言：杰苏尔青年组织（Jssor Youth Organization）、非洲维护人权会议（Rencontre Africaine pour la Défense des Droits de l'Homme）、阿拉伯人权委员会（Arab Commission for Human Rights）、英国人道主义协会（British Humanist Association，与国际人道与伦理联合会（International Humanist and Ethical Union）的联合声明）、捍卫自由联盟（Alliance Defending Freedom）、国际特赦组织（Amnesty International）、国际和睦团契（International Fellowship of Reconciliation）、人权观察（Human Rights Watch）以及欧洲西色雷斯土耳其人联合会（Federation of Western Thrace Turks in Europe）。

理事会随后通过了关于希腊的普遍定期审议结果。

苏丹大使兼常驻联合国日内瓦办事处代表穆斯塔法·奥斯曼·伊斯梅尔·埃拉明（Mustafa Osman Ismail Elamin）重申了苏丹承诺落实普遍定期审议程序的承诺，审议提出了244项建议。苏丹支持其中74%的建议并成立了一个国家级特别小组以落实这些建议。它同意加入《禁止酷刑和其他残忍、不人道或有辱人格的待遇或处罚公约》、《保护所有人免遭强迫失踪公约》并承诺采取立法措施使其可以批准《消除对妇女一切形式歧视公约》。苏丹不可改变立法系统并强调了为其选择辩护的文化原因。

讨论中的发言者积极地注意到开展了打击人口贩运和腐败的立法改革、批准了大量国际人权公约，包括《禁止酷刑公约》以及通过了国家人权计划。他们十分关切青尼罗州（Blue Nile）、达尔富尔州（Darfur）和南科尔多凡州（South Kordofan）冲突地区的无差别轰炸、非法杀戮以及基于性别的暴力问题，以及对自2003年起在达尔富尔所犯罪行的问责缺乏显著进展。该国拒绝了废除2010年《国家安全法》中有罪不罚条款和确保对国家情报和安全服务部门所犯人权侵犯行为进行独立调查和起诉的建议，令人怀疑安全部队终结人权侵犯行为的承诺。

以下代表团作了发言：美国、卡塔尔、也门、阿富汗、阿尔及利亚、安哥拉、巴林、比利时、博茨瓦纳、乍得、中国、刚果共和国、科特迪瓦、古巴、朝鲜民主主义人民共和国、吉布提和埃及。

非洲维护人权会议（Rencontre Africaine pour la Défense des Droits de l'Homme）、加拿大人口与发展行动组织（Action Canada for Population and Development）、国际人权同盟联合会（International Federation of Human Rights Leagues）、阿拉伯人权委员会（Arab Commission for Human Rights）、非洲通信和促进国际经济合作组织（Organisation pour la Communication en Afrique et de Promotion de la Coopération Economique International，与人权与和平倡导中心（Centre for Human Rights and Peace Advocacy） 和南美洲印第安人理事会（Indian Council of South America）联合声明）、东非和非洲之角人权维护者项目（East and Horn of Africa Human Rights Defenders）、国际特赦组织（Amnesty International）、人权观察（Human Rights Watch）、马利基和平与发展基金会（Maarij Foundation for Peace and Development）以及祖贝尔慈善基金会（Al Zubair Charitable Foundation）也作了发言。

理事会随后通过了关于苏丹的普遍定期审议结果。

匈牙利一等参赞兼常驻联合国日内瓦办事处副代表安德雷斯·什佐伦伊（András Szörényi）表示，匈牙利支持189条建议，以及其他12条建议中的部分，而有91条建议已得到落实。匈牙利批准了《难民公约》及其议定书、《关于无国籍人地位的公约》及其他国际人权文书，且还将批准《伊斯坦布尔公约》。详细的反歧视条款可在《平等待遇法》中找到，这条法律与《基本法》一同禁止基于任何理由包括基于性别认同和性取向的歧视。正在采取打击种族歧视和隔离的综合性措施，同时《国家社会包容战略》及其多部门的行动计划特别强调罗姆人妇女和儿童。

匈牙利基本权利事务专员表示，需要更好地管理青少年司法系统，残疾人的权利应包括能获取更多基于社区的适当服务。

讨论中的发言者肯定了匈牙利在参与对话以及找到符合国际人权规范和标准的解决方案这方面的意愿。例如包括颁布新的《刑法》并使其包含对暴力侵害妇女行为更广泛的定义、批准《难民公约》及其议定书以及表达批准《伊斯坦布尔公约》的意愿。令人遗憾的是，许多关于难民和移民的建议遭到了拒绝，包括终结对非正规入境的非法化、中转区的使用以及对寻求庇护者的羁留。匈牙利应加强打击仇恨言论的政策和战略，其方式包括加强仇恨罪的特警网络；通过仇恨罪调查议定书，以确保受害者有效获取了补救；处理欧洲安全与合作组织关于2014年选举的建议并创造公平选举竞争环境。

埃及、马尔代夫、尼日利亚、巴基斯坦、摩尔多瓦共和国、罗马尼亚、俄罗斯、塞拉利昂、塔吉克斯坦、多哥、美国、阿富汗、阿尔巴尼亚、博茨瓦纳、中国和欧洲委员会作了发言。

以下非政府组织也做了发言：世界公民参与联盟（CIVICUS – World Alliance for Citizen Participation）、阿拉伯人权委员会（Arab Commission for Human Rights）、英国人道主义协会（British Humanist Association）、捍卫自由联盟（Alliance Defending Freedom）、国际特赦组织（Amnesty International）、人权观察（Human Rights Watch）、国际律师协会（International Bar Association）以及同性恋整合协会荷兰联合会（Federatie van Nederlandse Verenigingen tot Integratie Van Homoseksualiteit - COC Netherlands，与国际男女同性恋联合会（International Lesbian and Gay Association，联合声明）。

理事会随后通过了关于匈牙利的普遍定期审议结果。

理事会随后将于9月22日（周四）上午9点举行全天会议。首先，理事会将审议巴布亚新几内亚、塔吉克斯坦和坦桑尼亚的普遍定期审议结果，随后将开展关于年轻人和人权问题的小组讨论。下午，理事会将审议安提瓜和巴布达、斯威士兰以及特立尼达和多巴哥的普遍定期审议结果。

Documentation

The Council has before it the Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review – Greece (A/HRC/33/7).

The Council has before it an addendum to the Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review – Greece: views on conclusions and/or recommendations, voluntary commitments and replies presented by the State under review (A/HRC/33/7/Add.1).

The Council has before it the Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review – Sudan (A/HRC/33/8).

The Council has before it an addendum to the Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review – Sudan: views on conclusions and/or recommendations, voluntary commitments and replies presented by the State under review (A/HRC/33/8/Add.1).

The Council has before it the Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review – Hungary (A/HRC/33/9).

The Council has before it an addendum to the Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review – Hungary: views on conclusions and/or recommendations, voluntary commitments and replies presented by the State under review (A/HRC/33/9/Add.1).

Consideration of Outcome of Universal Periodic Review of Greece

ANNA KORKA, Permanent Representative of Greece to the United Nations Office at Geneva, said that Greece attached great importance to the Universal Periodic Review, which constituted one of the foundations of the international human rights system.  In total, 170 recommendations had been accepted, three had already been implemented, two had been partially accepted and 32 had been taken note of.  Turning to the issues which were raised during the examination of Greece’s national report, she noted that several delegations had raised the issue of the negative impact of the economic crisis on the enjoyment of economic, social, and cultural rights.  It was regrettable that the international community had not been able to design and implement a human rights-based response to debt crises.  The way out of a severe economic crisis had to be paved with policy measures in full compliance with human rights, seeking to achieve fair economic growth and fostering social cohesion. 

A great number of delegations had raised issues related to the migration and refugee crisis.  As the main entry gate to Europe, Greece had received around one million refugees and irregular migrants since the beginning of 2015.  The people of Greece, in particular local communities in the Greek islands, had welcomed refugees and migrants and catered for their immediate needs, providing food and shelter despite their challenging financial situation.  Unilateral measures involving border closures by a series of countries along the Western Balkans migratory route had left around 60,000 people stranded in Greece.  One major challenge was to ensure the protection of unaccompanied child migrants, and serious concerns persisted in that regard.  The integration of refugees and migrants was not easy due to the high unemployment rate in Greece.  An international crisis of such a magnitude could only be tackled through international cooperation and burden sharing.  Another cluster of recommendations had concerned the fight against racism and discrimination.  National human rights institutions and civil society organizations played a critical role in the fight against racism.  Greece expressed confidence that the Universal Periodic Review process would help it in its endeavour to further promote the realization of all human rights for all.

Greek National Human Rights Commission acknowledged the Government of Greece for its critical self-assessment, but noted that its commitment to human rights had to be proven in practice.  It welcomed the fact that the recommendations included specific references to economic, social and cultural rights, and the protection of core labour rights.  Given the European Union–Turkey agreement, there were still challenges in the promotion and protection of human rights.  There was insufficient emphasis on awareness raising about marginalized groups.  The Commission thus called for the effective implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, adding that Greece was in need of a comprehensive national human rights strategy and duly monitored national human rights action plans. 

Albania was pleased that Greece had taken into consideration Albania’s recommendations on improving the treatment of migrants, asylum seekers, Roma populations and other marginalized groups by law enforcement officials, and the one on the establishment of an independent mechanism to investigate allegations of torture by police officers.

Armenia appreciated Greece’s positive engagement with the Universal Periodic Review process, and expressed hope that it would continue good cooperation with Greece within the Human Rights Council.  It wished Greece the best of success in the implementation of the recommendations.

Botswana welcomed the establishment by Greece of a number of national plans, including the National Action Plan on Human Rights and the National Board against Racism and Intolerance.  It commended Greece’s efforts in dealing with racist violence through the enactment of laws that aimed to strengthen the country’s anti-fascist legislation.

Bulgaria commended the measures taken by the Greek National Commission for Human Rights and the efforts of the Government to protect the most vulnerable groups of society.  It also welcomed the National Action Plan on the Rights of the Child, which was aimed at promoting and protecting children’s rights, focusing on support services for children and families, preventing institutionalization, and reinforcing foster parenting, including for children with disabilities.

China thanked Greece for having taken on board its recommendations, including on combatting racist crimes and adopting the national action plan on the rights of the child.  China praised the efforts of Greece to address the current refugee and migrant crisis and recommended the adoption of the outcome report.

Côte d’Ivoire commended Greece for the attention given to the recommendations it had received and congratulated it on the measures taken to ensure the equality of all citizens, and on its collaboration and cooperation with international human rights mechanisms. 

Council of Europe was aware of the economic conditions that burdened Greece while ensuring the human rights of all in its territory, and welcomed the ratification of the Revised European Social Charter.  There was a concern about the situation of asylum seekers, refugees and migrants, the conditions in the camps and reception facilities, and the protection of unaccompanied minors.  The recommendations aimed to assist the authorities in addressing the increasing levels of xenophobia and racism, as well as discrimination against persons belonging to minorities and racist violence.

Cuba said that the acceptance of the great number of recommendations was evidence of the commitment of Greece to human rights and commended Greece for living up to its human rights obligations despite the serious economic crisis.  Cuba took positive note of the acceptance of the recommendations it had made, on the mitigation of the negative effect of the economic crisis and on increasing the participation of women in political life in Greece.

Cyprus commended Greece’s humane approach to the migrant crisis and praised ordinary Greeks for the spirit of solidarity with which they welcomed refugees and migrants.

Egypt said that there had been significant developments by the Government of Greece on many issues, including citizenship education and promoting the rights of refugees and migrants, and commended Greece’s commitment to implementing the recommendations it had accepted.

Iraq commended Greece for accepting Iraq’s recommendations, and also noted Greece’s aid to refugees and migrants.  Iraq urged Greece to accept the rest of the recommendations put forward to it.

Israel commended Greece for its efforts towards assisting refugees and migrants, and for its many measures against racism and Holocaust denial.  All Israel’s recommendations had been accepted immediately after the review, and Greece was encouraged to continue to make advances. 

Italy welcomed Greece’s attempts towards striking a balance between reforms agreed with the international creditors and efforts to mitigate their impact on the Greek social fabric.  The hospitality, solidarity and assistance of the people of Greece to more than one million refugees and irregular migrants since the beginning of 2015 was noted.  

Maldives appreciated the constructive engagement of Greece with the Universal Periodic Review Working Group and that it had accepted the recommendations made by Maldives on domestic violence and the protection of vulnerable groups.  It urged Greece to reach to its international partners to seek technical assistance in the implementation of the recommendations.

Malta expressed hope that Greece would continue to cooperate with the Universal Periodic Review Working Group.  It welcomed the assistance given by Greece to migrants and refugees, and commended the progress made in the fight against discrimination based on gender identity.

Nigeria appreciated that Greece had accepted most of the recommendations, including those made by Nigeria, adding that this would go a long way in strengthening the promotion and protection of the human rights of all its citizens.

Pakistan welcomed the steps to curtail hate speech and to strengthen anti-discrimination legislation, and the formulation of a strategy for combatting hate speech in the media.  It urged Greece to take further steps to protect the rights of Muslims, and to enhance the protection of migrants, especially of unaccompanied child migrants and women. 

Jssor Youth Organization commended the efforts of Greece to promote the human rights of youth and said that the impact of the economic recession had been significant, with youth unemployment reaching 49 per cent.  Greece must consult with its youth to address their immediate needs, problems in employment, social inclusion, civic participation, and other issues.

Rencontre Africaine pour la défense des droits de l’homme welcomed the political will of Greece to promote tolerance and raise awareness about xenophobia and racism.  It urged the European Union to show solidarity and support with Greece, so that its worthwhile efforts in favour of refugees and migrants were successful, including in providing financial support for the integration of a high number of migrants in the country.

Arab Commission for Human Rights wished Greece all success in taking legislative measures to amend its laws in accordance with the recommendations it had accepted and hoped that it would also address the issue of foreign debt.  While welcoming the positive steps by Greece to promote and protect human rights, the non-acceptance of the recommendation to ratify the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families was an issue of concern.

British Humanist Association, in a joint statement, urged Greece to recognize that the fundamental right to freedom of expression should not undermine the principles of dignity, tolerance, equality and non-discrimination, as the exercise of this right carried the responsibility and the obligation not to disseminate ideas relating to racial superiority or hatred.  Greece should bring its anti-racism legal framework into full compliance with the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination.

Alliance Defending Freedom expressed support for the recommendations by Member States urging Greece to ensure freedom of religion and belief for religious minorities and the prevention of violence perpetrated on the basis of national, racial, or religious hatred or intolerance. This included the repeal of anti-blasphemy laws.  It also supported the recommendations by Member States to ensure freedom of expression as Greece had some of the most restrictive speech laws in Europe. 
Amnesty International noted that Greece’s current response to the refugee crisis, including the European Union-Turkey deal of 18 March, was not consistent with international human rights and refugee law, including the principle of non-refoulement.  The Greek authorities were urged to urgently provide asylum-seekers with suitable accommodation.

International Fellowship of Reconciliation noted that Greece had not supported recommendations related to making alternative service to military service of a nature which was neither punitive nor discriminatory.  Greece was called on to reconsider its arrangements for conscientious objectors to military service in order to bring those in line with international standards.  

Human Rights Watch said that since the implementation of the European Union-Turkey migration agreement, the majority of asylum seekers and migrants that arrived on Greek islands had been restricted to the islands, often held in overcrowded and unsafe hotspots. The Greek Government was urged to prohibit the detention of unaccompanied children, and to increase shelter capacity for unaccompanied children seeking asylum.

Federation of Western Thrace Turks in Europe regretted that competent Greek authorities had in no manner consulted any association or civil society organization belonging to the Turkish minority in Western Thrace.  Greece did not confer official status on any indigenous ethnic group nor did it recognize “ethnic minority” or “linguistic minority” as legal terms.  It urged Greece to comply with the applicable bilateral treaties and allow the Turkish minority in Thrace to freely elect its own religious leaders.

The Vice-President said that out of 207 recommendations, Greece had accepted 173 and noted 32.

ANNA KORKA, Permanent Representative of Greece to the United Nations Office at Geneva, thanked Member States and civil society organizations for their interventions.  She was pleased that the efforts of Greece were recognized despite the current challenges.  Ms. Korka was grateful to those who had acknowledged the huge effort of the Greek authorities in dealing with the migration crisis.  Despite the difficulties, she assured that the Government of Greece would continue to invest those same efforts.  As for unaccompanied child migrants, they remained a priority.  Regarding references to ethnic minorities, only one group was qualified as such, namely the Muslim minority in Western Thrace, established by the 1923 Treaty of Lausanne.  It was established as a religious rather than ethnic minority.  Those groups which were not recognized as minorities nevertheless enjoyed full legal protection.  Concerning the fight against racism, xenophobia and hate speech, the Government was resolved to take appropriate measures.  

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

Consideration of Outcome of Universal Periodic Review of Sudan

MUSTAFA OSMAN ISMAIL ELAMIN, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Sudan to the United Nations Office at Geneva, reaffirmed the commitment of Sudan to implementing the results of the Universal Periodic Review, which was a key element of reform in the domain of the promotion and protection of human rights.  Sudan had received 244 recommendations of which 74 per cent had enjoyed support.  The Universal Periodic Review enjoyed great support at the national level, and a special team had been created for the implementation of the recommendations.  Sudan reaffirmed its commitment to acceding to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, and the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance, and was studying the possibility of acceding to other human rights instruments.  In the same vein, Sudan was committed to taking legislative measures which would enable it to ratify the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. 

Sudan had also accepted the recommendations concerning gender-based violence and was aware that a panoply of measures must be taken to fight this scourge; Sudan had started the process with the decision to criminalize rape.  Sudan could not change its legal system; it adhered to its principles and highlighted cultural reasons to justify its choices, and stressed the negative impact of unilateral coercive measures on the human rights of the Sudanese people.  The politicization of human rights and their manipulation for other purposes made it impossible for Sudan to fully implement certain accepted choices.  Sudan appealed to the Council to instruct all Special Procedures to acknowledge countries’ specific features in the protection of human rights, devoid of any politicization and fostering an exchange of good practices. 

United States urged the Sudanese Government to take seriously its commitment to create an environment fully conducive to negotiations, so that all Sudanese stakeholders could participate.  The end of the offensive operations in Darfur was welcomed.  All parties were encouraged to further facilitate humanitarian access to populations in need of assistance. 

Qatar commended the cooperation of Sudan and its acceptance of many recommendations put to it, also welcoming the Government of Sudan’s taking many measures which had had a positive effect on human rights in the country, such as the Doha document on peace in Darfur. 

Yemen commended efforts made by Sudan to improve the human rights situation in the country, noting that Sudan’s acceptance of more than 75 per cent of recommendations bore witness to its commitment to progress on human rights.  The Human Rights Council was recommended to adopt the report.

Afghanistan commended the adoption and issuance of a series of laws by Sudan to promote fundamental freedoms and protect human rights, among others the freedom of information act of 2015.  Afghanistan urged Sudan to stop carrying out any violent acts which had a disproportionate effect on a specific ethic group, and ensure that its armed forces refrained from attacking civilians and civilian objects.

Algeria congratulated Sudan on its efforts to promote human rights and noted achievements in accepting a large number of recommendations, in particular legal reforms to counter human trafficking and corruption, as well as acceding to numerous international human rights conventions.

Angola congratulated Sudan on accepting the majority of the recommendations and encouraged Sudan’s continued cooperation with human rights mechanisms.  Angola praised Sudan’s adoption of a nation human rights plan and a law to combat human trafficking, and encouraged Sudan to fully implement their provisions. 

Bahrain paid tribute to the efforts and work done by the Sudanese Government in an attempt to achieve the full implementation of the recommendations.  Bahrain stressed the importance of lifting unilateral coercive measures against Sudan which impeded the appropriate implementation of the recommendations, notably those on curbing infant and child mortality. 

Belgium appreciated Sudan’s efforts in awareness raising on domestic violence, sexual violence and female genital mutilation.  It took note of the fact that the Sudanese authorities were studying the ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Dissemination against Women.  However, it regretted that Sudan retained the death penalty and expressed hope that it would consider establishing a moratorium on the death penalty. 

Botswana commended Sudan for the adoption of laws and policies to address trafficking in persons, corruption, protection of children, and the empowerment of women.  Those efforts demonstrated the commitment to the improvement of the human rights of the Sudanese people.  Botswana urged Sudan to step up efforts to adopt the Constitution, which was crucial to the human rights of the people, particularly their civil and political rights.

Chad said that the acceptance of a great number of recommendations was evidence of the importance that Sudan attached to the Universal Periodic Review.  Chad recognized the progress made in the human rights situation in the country since the first cycle of the Universal Periodic Review, despite the negative impact of unilateral coercive measures. 

China appreciated Sudan’s acceptance of its recommendations to continue the implementation of the national strategic plan on education, with the focus on education of vulnerable groups, and on the elimination of female genital mutilation and child marriage.  China was concerned about the negative impact of unilateral coercive measures and urged the international community to understand the challenges that Sudan faced in addressing the armed conflict in the country.

Republic of the Congo congratulated Sudan on the significant progress made in bolstering the legal and institutional framework for the promotion and protection of human rights, and the clear will to comply with international human rights norms and standards.  The international community should support Sudan in its reform process.

Côte d’Ivoire thanked Sudan for the provision of answers during the session, noting that the Government of Sudan had spared no effort in working to achieve effective implementation of the recommendations.  The international community was urged to support Sudan in its work toward protecting human rights.

Cuba said that Sudan’s acceptance of a majority of recommendations had shown the Government’s commitment to the Universal Periodic Review process.  Thanking Sudan for accepting Cuba’s recommendations, Cuba reiterated the need to eliminate unilateral coercive measures, which would go toward ensuring progress on human rights for all.

Democratic People's Republic of Korea commended and encouraged Sudan’s continued commitments to the promotion and protection of human rights. The dialogue had provided an opportunity to better understand Sudan’s experience under the difficult situation resulting from unilateral sanctions imposed by some foreign countries.

Djibouti welcomed the delegation from Sudan and further welcomed the determination of the Government of Sudan to strengthen human rights by working with all mechanisms.  Djibouti urged Sudan to continue making progress, and wished Sudan the best of success in implementing the results of the process.

Egypt wished Sudan all success in implementing all recommendations it had accepted, and congratulated the Government for accepting over 70 per cent of recommendations put forward.  Egypt appreciated the attention given to the promotion and protection of human rights at the level of legislative developments.  It noted that great efforts had been exerted by Sudan on the promotion and protection of human rights despite the country suffering under unilateral coercive measures and sanctions.

Rencontre Africaine pour la Defense des Droits de l’Homme commended Sudan for its cooperation over the past four years with treaty bodies, the African Union and the United Nations.  Progress was noted with respect to the adoption of the Human Trafficking Act, the National Commission on Human Rights and the National Action Plan on Human Rights.  However, it was concerned about the continuation of violence and crimes in Darfur, Blue Nile and South Kordofan. 

Action Canada for Population and Development welcomed the fact that Sudan was considering ratifying the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, and implementing recommendations that prohibited early and forced marriage.  But, it remained concerned that the Government was trying to combat female genital mutilation only through prevention and awareness raising activities rather than through a specific law.

International Federation for Human Rights Leagues was dismayed by the failure of Sudan to accept multiple recommendations to take concrete steps to ratify the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and the Convention against Torture and its Optional Protocol.  Sudan had also failed to accept multiple recommendations calling for a moratorium on the death penalty.

Arab Commission for Human Rights commended the acceptance by Sudan to adhere to the Convention against Torture.  It expressed hope that the country would forge ahead swiftly and amend its national legislation in line with that Convention, and that it would be universally respected.  It called on Sudan to clear ambiguity with respect to the ratification of the Optional Protocol.

Organisation pour la Communication en Afrique et de Promotion de la Coopération Economique Internationale - OCAPROCE Internationale, in a joint statement with Centre for Human Rights and Peace Advocacy and Indian Council of South America, noted the recommendations concerning the recruitment of children in the armed forces and welcomed the adoption of the national action plan and the measures to guarantee women’s rights.  Sudan should improve collaboration with non-governmental organizations and civil society on human rights issues throughout the country.

East and Horn of Africa Human Rights Defenders said that despite the commitment to ensure a safe environment to human rights defenders, concern remained about the repeated arbitrary detention of human rights defenders, political and civil society activists, and journalists.  The Government had also sought to block the participation of civil society organizations in the Universal Periodic Review.  The Government continued to attack villages and bomb civilian areas indiscriminately, and to block humanitarian access from accessing South Kordofan and Blue Nile. 

Amnesty International noted that Sudan had rejected the recommendations to remove impunity provisions from the National Security Act 2010 and ensure independent investigation and prosecution of human rights violations committed by the National Intelligence and Security Service, which raised doubts about the commitment to ending human rights violations by the security forces.  Amnesty International remained concerned by the indiscriminate bombardments, unlawful killings, abductions and gender-based violence in the conflict areas of Blue Nile, Darfur and Kordofan.

Human Rights Watch said that Darfur, Southern Kordofan and Blue Nile states remained engulfed in armed conflicts in which countless abuses had been committed against civilians, and the fighting had forced hundreds of civilians to flee their homes.  Sudan continued to severely limit the humanitarian access into those areas.  No tangible progress had been made in providing accountability for crimes committed in Darfur since 2003, the killing of peaceful protesters, and the ill-treatment and torture of detainees.

Maarij Foundation for Peace and Development said that since the Universal Periodic Review had started, it had been noted that the Government of Sudan had been keen to link recommendations with the national strategic plan for human rights.  A number of genuine challenges had been monitored, for instance the results of the United States embargo which had weakened the performance and delivery of services.

Al Zubair Charitable Foundation said that the human rights situation in Sudan was complex, adding that a major challenge was the sanctions imposed unilaterally for over two decades.  That had had an adverse impact on the State’s capacity at all levels in meeting its international obligations.  Economic, social, and cultural rights were particularly affected by the United States’ sanctions.  A number of rights had been almost completely affected by the embargo, such as the figure for enrolment in schools.

The Vice-President said that out of 244 recommendations received, 180 had been supported, while 64 had been noted.

MUSTAFA OSMAN ISMAIL ELAMIN, Permanent Representative of Sudan to the United Nations Office at Geneva, thanked all those who made comments and commended the States that had provided support and assistance to Sudan, especially Qatar, which had provided assistance for peace and stability in Darfur.  The Government was working to cooperate with the international community in order to achieve the desired goals.  Although it was one of the least developed countries, it hosted hundreds of thousands of refugees from neighbouring countries without receiving support from the Office of the High Commissioner for Refugees.  On the contrary, Sudan was receiving sanctions.  The adverse effects of unilateral coercive measures on the Sudanese people were clear, particularly on education and the provision of drinking water.  The doors of Sudan were wide open and yet many civil society organizations provided groundless information about the situation in the country.  There had been a cease fire in the states of Darfur, Blue Nile and South Kordofan.  The Government of Sudan thus called on civil society organizations to provide credible information about the situation in the country.

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

Consideration of Outcome of Universal Periodic Review of Hungary

ANDRÁS SZÖRÉNYI, First Counsellor and Deputy Permanent Representative of Hungary to the United Nations Office at Geneva, said that Hungary had supported 189 recommendations, as well as parts of 12 other recommendations, and that the implementation of 91 recommendations was already ongoing.  Hungary was already a party to the Rome Statute, and the regulations of the International Criminal Court were part of its Criminal Code.  The draft bill on the promulgation of the Rome Statute had been introduced in the Parliament.  Hungary had ratified the Refugee Convention and its Protocol, the Stateless Persons Convention, the Reduction of Statelessness Convention, and other international human rights instruments.  The ratification of the International Labour Organization Convention 189 was currently being discussed and the Istanbul Convention would be ratified after a thorough examination.  By ratifying the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and the European Social Charter, Hungary had committed itself to a comprehensive protection system in the field of economic, social and cultural rights. 

Turning to the recent developments and the current institutional framework in the field of human rights protection in Hungary, Mr. Szörényi said that the enjoyment of human rights was ensured by the new Fundamental Law which also set the main rules of functioning, procedure and financial independence of the Constitutional Court.  The A status Commissioner for Fundamental Rights was a central element of the protection system, while the inter-Ministerial Human Rights Working Group monitored human rights, advised the Government and observed the implementation of Universal Periodic Review recommendations.  The recommendations received during the review in May 2016 had already been deliberated and civil society was involved in general consultations on proposals for bills and decrees.  The detailed anti-discrimination provisions could be found in the Equal Treatment Act, which together with the Fundamental Law prohibited discrimination on any ground, including on gender identity and sexual orientation.  Comprehensive measures against racial discrimination and segregations were being taken, and the National Social Inclusion Strategy and its multi-sectoral Action Plan put special emphasis on Roma women and children.  The protection of national minorities was guaranteed at the constitutional level and Hungary took stern action against hate acts. 

Office for the Commissioner for Fundamental Rights of Hungary said that the Office’s report contained several recommendations.  Regarding children’s rights, there was a need for a better regulated system for juvenile justice.  Awareness-raising strategies for teaching children’s rights should be developed.  The rights of people with disabilities should include access to more efficient community-based services.  Regarding environmental rights, public participation should be fully ensured.

Egypt welcomed Hungary’s acceptance of five recommendations presented by Egypt during the Universal Periodic Review, which were related to addressing migration and asylum seekers in accordance with international law.  Egypt further welcomed Hungary taking specific measures to prevent and eliminate racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and intolerance against migrants, refugees and asylum seekers.  

Maldives was pleased that Hungary had reviewed 221 recommendations and accepted or partly accepted 201.  Of the recommendations that had been accepted, three had been made by Maldives, and had been on raising the legal age of marriage for women and men to 18 years and ensuring that all persons with disabilities had a right to vote, among other issues.  Given the importance of combatting racial and ethnic discrimination and ensuring the rights of migrants, Maldives encouraged Hungary to take a human rights-based approach in dealing with refugees.

Nigeria expressed appreciation for the decision by the Government of Hungary to accept most of the recommendations made during the Universal Periodic Review Working Group session, including recommendations made by the Nigerian delegation.  Nigeria valued the constructive engagement of Hungary with human rights mechanisms, including treaty bodies and the Universal Periodic Review mechanism.

Pakistan appreciated the decision of Hungary to accept many of the recommendations, and wished it success in their implementation.  It took note of measures taken by Hungary to improve the condition of migrants and asylum seekers, and urged it to continue enhancing their protection. 

Republic of Moldova positively noted the actions taken by Hungary to further address the issues related to domestic violence, especially the inclusion of other forms of violence against women in the new Criminal Code.  It encouraged Hungary to give greater importance to the reintegration of child offenders and to ensure that criminal procedures involving children duly took into account the best interest of the child.

Romania commended Hungary for having accepted the majority of the recommendations and was pleased to see that one recommendation made by Romania regarding self-governments was supported by Hungary, while another one on education in national minority languages was already in the course of implementation.

Russian Federation commended the fact that Hungary had accepted more than 200 recommendations, especially those pertaining to ethnic and religious based discrimination, hate speech and the protection of Roma. 

Sierra Leone acknowledged the willingness of Hungary to engage in dialogue and find solutions in line with international human rights norms and standards.  Hungary should continue to promote tolerance towards its vulnerable groups, strengthen policies and implement strategies to combat hate speech.

Tajikistan said that the Universal Periodic Review was a mechanism to improve national human rights systems and implement international commitments.  Tajikistan took positive note of the measures to address racial discrimination, assistance to provide support to victims of violence, and the improvements in the institutional framework.

Togo congratulated Hungary on its full cooperation with the Universal Periodic Review and other human rights mechanisms and welcomed the decision to criminalize anti-Semitism and hate speech, and guarantee support to victims to those crimes.

United States called upon Hungary to address the recommendations made by the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe concerning the 2014 elections, which painted a troubling picture of a lack of fairness in the electoral system.  No action had been taken to strengthen judicial independence, improve administration of the court system, or buttress the rule of law.

Afghanistan commended the efforts of the Hungarian Constitutional Court in nullifying domestic laws, if they seemed to be in contravention with the human rights obligations of Hungary.  Afghanistan wished Hungary a successful implementation of the accepted recommendations.

Albania welcomed Hungary’s acceptance of Albania’s recommendation on the intensification of national efforts to prevent and eliminate all manifestations of anti-Semitism, as well as resolute measures to condemn hate speech, including against Roma.  Albania looked forward to Hungary’s successful implementation of the accepted recommendations.

Botswana noted with appreciation Hungary’s adoption of a new and progressive constitution, with legislative measures to combat domestic violence, protect children and minority groups, and combat human trafficking, among other issues.  Hungary had made strides on the juvenile justice system.  Hungary was urged to review the decision of the age 14 as the age of criminal responsibility, as set by international law.

China welcomed Hungary’s commitment to implementing recommendations, and thanked Hungary for accepting China’s recommendations on migrants and refugees.  China took note of Hungary’s efforts to promote social inclusion and provide support to families.

Council of Europe reviewed some areas where recommendations had been made to Hungary by various monitoring bodies of the Council of Europe, which included the treatment of asylum seekers and migrants.  Hungary had responded inadequately to the asylum and migrant crisis by hampering international protection and by unjustifiably criminalising immigrants and asylum seekers. 

CIVICUS – World Alliance for Citizen Participation remained seriously concerned about the Government’s current attempts to target and undermine the good name of certain civil society organizations, in particular those promoting human rights, and democracy, transparency and accountability in public life.  It was also concerned about waning respect for media freedoms and free speech, and the treatment of refugees in Hungary.

Arab Commission for Human Rights encouraged Hungary to accede to the relevant human rights instruments and to make further efforts to help migrants and their families.  It expressed surprise at the position of Hungary that there was no need for it to accede to the Convention on the Rights of Migrant Labourers.  It recommended that Hungary increase its efforts to monitor the implementation of the recommendations. 

British Humanist Association, in a joint statement with European Humanist Federation, shared the concern of several States that noted numerous human rights violations committed against migrants and refugees attempting to enter Hungary from neighbouring countries.  It criticized the building of a razor wire fence on the border with Serbia, summary returns of asylum seekers without due legal process, and vicious beatings of migrants by the police. 

Alliance Defending Freedom was concerned about recommendations which asked Hungary to put limitations on the right to freedom of expression in an attempt to address hate speech.  It was disappointing to see how many Member States enthusiastically recommended the tightening of freedom of expression despite the lack of agreed definition of hate speech, and the risk that hate speech laws carried in supressing opposition.

Amnesty International regretted the rejection of many recommendations related to the rights of refugees and migrants, including to end the criminalization of irregular entry, the use of transit zones, and the detention of asylum seekers.  Amnesty International welcomed the acceptance to strengthen the special police network for hate crimes and a partial acceptance to adopt a hate crime investigation protocol to ensure that victims had effective access to remedy.

Human Rights Watch was concerned that the responses of Hungary failed to reflect the reality on the ground in terms of handling the refugee crisis.  Pushbacks of asylum seekers including unaccompanied minors were routine, and the situation had worsened since the adoption of a new law on July 5 which enabled the police to apprehend persons caught inside Hungarian territory within eight kilometres of the border and push them back to the Serbian border.

International Bar Association urged the Hungarian Government to review the procedure for the selection, appointment, and promotion of judges to ensure that independence was guaranteed.  Hungary was also called on to respect judicial security of tenure and freedom of expression.  The Hungarian Government was urged to ensure a safe and enabling environment for civil society organizations.

Federatie van Nederlandse Verenigingen tot Integratie Van Homoseksualiteit - COC Nederland, in a joint statement with International Lesbian and Gay Association, urged the Government to take several steps, including working out a comprehensive strategy and action plan to be implemented against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identification, as well as eliminating discrimination against same-sex couples and their children.  Those actions would ensure that lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons were respected and protected.

The Vice-President said that out of 221 recommendations received, 189 had been supported, while 20 had been noted.  Additional clarification had been provided on 12 recommendations, indicating which parts of those recommendations were supported and which parts were noted.

ANDRÁS SZÖRÉNYI, First Counsellor and Deputy Permanent Representative of Hungary to the United Nations Office at Geneva, thanked the Member States and civil society organizations for the open dialogue, stressing that Hungary remained committed to the protection of human rights nationally and abroad.  Hungary had welcomed recommendations concerning children’s rights, the fight against xenophobia, racism, the situation of minorities, and the fight against domestic violence.  He reiterated that the Government was satisfied to hear that its efforts were appreciated concerning the fight against racism and xenophobia, where the Government had established a policy of zero tolerance.  As for the situation of migrants and refugees, Hungary remained committed to the protection of the rights of refugees, children, women and persons with disabilities.  It continuously aimed to improve the conditions for migrants and refugees.  However, the abuse of the right to asylum was a huge burden for the asylum system and it took away benefits from others in real need.  There was a need for the Human Rights Council and other human rights mechanisms to shift from declarations to implementation.  Hungary aimed to lead by example in that respect.

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

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