24/10 Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review - Djibouti

GE.13-15502 (E) 190713 240713

Human Rights Council Twenty-fourth session Agenda item 6 Universal Periodic Review

Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review*

Djibouti

* The annex to the present report is circulated as received.

United Nations A/HRC/24/10

General Assembly Distr.: General 8 July 2013 English Original: English/French

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Contents Paragraphs Page

Introduction............................................................................................................. 1–4 3

I. Summary of the proceedings of the review process................................................ 5–142 3

A. Presentation by the State under review........................................................... 5–37 3

B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review........................ 38–142 6

II. Conclusions and/or recommendations .................................................................... 143–146 17

Annex

Composition of the delegation ......................................................................................................... 27

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Introduction

1. The Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review, established in accordance with Human Rights Council resolution 5/1 of 18 June 2007, held its sixteenth session from 22 April to 3 May 2013. The review of Djibouti was held at the 8th meeting on 25 April

2013. The delegation of Djibouti was headed by the Minister of Justice. At its 13th meeting held on 30 April 2013, the Working Group adopted the report on Djibouti. 2. On 14 January 2013, the Human Rights Council selected the following group of rapporteurs (troika) to facilitate the review of Djibouti: Burkina Faso, Qatar and the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

3. In accordance with paragraph 15 of the annex to resolution 5/1 and paragraph 5 of the annex to resolution 16/21, the following documents were issued for the review of Djibouti: (a) A national report submitted/written presentation made in accordance with paragraph 15 (a) (A/HRC/WG.6/16/DJI/1); (b) A compilation prepared by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in accordance with paragraph 15 (b) (A/HRC/WG.6/16/DJI/2); (c) A summary prepared by OHCHR in accordance with paragraph 15 (c) (A/HRC/WG.6/16/DJI/3).

4. A list of questions prepared in advance by Lichtenstein, Mexico, Montenegro, the Netherlands, Slovenia, Spain and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland was transmitted to Djibouti through the troika. These questions are available on the extranet of the universal periodic review (UPR).

I. Summary of the proceedings of the review process

A. Presentation by the State under review

5. The head of the delegation of Djibouti, the Minister of Justice, said that Djibouti had become a party to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Optional Protocol thereto in 2010. It had also ratified the two optional protocols to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, and the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination.

6. Since 2009, Djibouti had submitted a large number of reports to treaty bodies, including the core document in 2010,1 the report on the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment in 2010,2 the report on the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women,3 the report on the implementation of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural

1 HRI/CORE/DJI/2010.

2 CAT/C/DJI/1.

3 CEDAW/C/DJI/1-3.

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Rights in 2010,4 and the report on the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights in 2012.5

7. A three-pronged cooperation programme had been launched, comprising capacity- building for the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and civil society; social mobilization for human rights, targeting both the general public and law enforcement officials such as the judiciary, the police, the gendarmerie and prison guards; and measures to clear the backlog in the submission of reports.

8. In 2010, the Constitution had been revised to abolish capital punishment. The practice of torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment was also prohibited by the Constitution.

9. Training courses were conducted for law enforcement officials on the rights and freedoms of persons taken in for questioning or detained, and article 330 of the Criminal Code provided for more severe punishment of officials found guilty of committing acts of torture.

10. Regarding access to justice, recruitment of magistrates had doubled since 2009. In 2012, pursuant to legal aid reform legislation, a service providing counsel at all stages of the proceedings, and a unit for reception and guidance for those involved in proceedings, had been set up.

11. In 2011, the Government had launched the innovative “mobile court” programme, whereby judges and courts came to communities where none existed. Concerning the communications sector, new regulations governing print and audiovisual media journalists, Act No. 187/AN/07/5 on the Status of Press and Audiovisual Media Staff (March 2007), had been promulgated by the Head of State in May 2007.

12. Djibouti had journalists’ trade unions and associations mandated to promote freedom of expression at the national, regional and international levels. They networked with the Federation of African Journalists (FAJ) and the Eastern Africa Journalists Association.

13. The Minister of Communications, responsible for postal and telecommunication services, had implemented a training and information programme on freedom of expression together with the East Africa Regional Office of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and the National Human Rights Commission.

14. Two projects would be launched to set up regulatory bodies, namely a national commission on communications and a national commission responsible for issuing press cards.

15. In the political realm, the Government had recently made important headway through the adoption of an organic Act which partially amended the 1992 Organic Act on Elections.

16. The Ministry of Health had conducted a series of activities to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality, including by increasing antenatal and postnatal checkups, which had helped reduce the number of hospital deaths. Antenatal care coverage had increased from 63.60 to 87.27 per cent. Likewise, maternal mortality had fallen from 546 per 100,000 live births in 2002 to 300 per 100,000 live births in 2011.

4 E/C.12/DJI/1-2.

5 CCPR/C/DJI/1.

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17. Infant and under-5 mortality rates, which had stood at 67 and 94 per 1,000 live births in 2006, had declined. For 2012, the outcome of the current survey on the subject was awaited.

18. Regional hospitals had been built and others were planned.

19. The number of Ministry of Health staff was increasing steadily, and had risen from 509 in 1999 to 2,353 in 2012. The health budget currently accounted for 14 per cent of the total State budget, health thus representing a significant portion of the national budget.

20. Concerning the right to education, the education policy 2010–2019 had made the quality of education a central concern of the 10-year strategy.

21. In the area of governance and sustainable development, Djibouti was currently in the process of redrafting anti-corruption legislation, with the support of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). In connection with that reform, Djibouti was under review and reviewing at the same time.

22. Djibouti was also engaged in comprehensive civil service reform to make it more efficient.

23. Following the statement made by the head of the delegation, the Minister for the Advancement of Women said that Djibouti had a national gender policy for the period 2011–2021, which had been enacted as legislation. Its main purpose was to promote equity and gender equality, in accordance with regional and international commitments relating to the economic, social and cultural rights of women.

24. In cooperation with various technical departments such as the department of agriculture and development partners, many families had attended courses in agriculture, poultry farming and fishing, with a special focus on women’s role.

25. With regard to the protection of women’s physical integrity and the practice of female genital mutilation (FGM), at the initiative of the Ministry for the Advancement of Women legislation had been promulgated in 2009 which enabled associations working to combat FGM to bring a claim for damages on behalf of victims unable to lodge a complaint.

26. Advocacy and awareness-raising campaigns in recent years had led to a considerable reduction in FGM among girls and a gradual decline in its most serious form, infibulation, with rates dropping from 98 to 73 per cent.

27. Two key institutional measures had been taken in regard to children’s rights, namely the adoption and implementation of the national policy on comprehensive childhood development in 2008, and the adoption of a National Strategic Action Plan for Children in

2010.

28. When it came to the protection of vulnerable children, a programme launched in 2007 had provided assistance to nearly 1,000 children in the form of school aid, free transport, food for persons living with AIDS and income-generating activities for the parents.

29. Concerning the right to education, the Government ensured respect for the right to education for all, and the Ministry had paid particular attention to the question of equality in education, as shown by measures to reduce gender gaps at school and combat school dropout, especially among girls. Those efforts had borne fruit, with the male/female ratio in primary schools currently standing at 0.98 per cent.

30. With regard to socioeconomic changes, Djibouti had undertaken ambitious programmes and reforms to combat poverty and economic hardship, notwithstanding its arid climate. The country’s agricultural potential was being developed by setting up mini-

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greenhouses and modern irrigation systems, and by installing solar pumps and micro- irrigation kits throughout the country on a trial basis.

31. The fight against poverty was one of the major projects implemented by the Government since 2007, when the National Social Development Initiative was launched.

32. A national solidarity fund of 1 million Djibouti francs, financed exclusively from Government funds, had facilitated the implementation of various activities, including a poverty study and the development of a social safety net strategy based on providing assistance to the population.

33. The implementation of social safety net pilot projects had facilitated the launching of various programmes, including food distribution for vulnerable households during the lean season and the distribution of food coupons. Microfinance development, involving the establishment of savings and loan banks and the launching of youth employment and solar electricity programmes, had also been financed through the solidarity fund.

34. With regard to access to water, 20 new boreholes had been drilled in order to supplement the drinking water supply in the capital. Thirty new boreholes had given more than 100,000 people in rural areas, and their livestock, access to water. In addition, more than 100 cemented wells had been rehabilitated.

35. With regard to the right to housing, the authorities had embarked on turnkey projects for low-cost or social housing. Over 6,000 plots had been cleaned up and almost 2,000 housing units had been built.

36. Under the Millennium Development Goals framework, the authorities were studying options for implementing a comprehensive slum-clearance programme called “Djibouti, zero slums”.

37. A bright future was possible if the international community made sure that Djibouti had the means at its disposal to implement all these programmes, which aimed to strengthen the rule of law.

B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review

38. During the interactive dialogue, 87 delegations made statements. Recommendations made during the dialogue are to be found in section II of the present report.

39. Qatar welcomed Djibouti’s progress at the constitutional and legal levels and in the increasing capacity of the National Human Rights Committee. It commended Djibouti’s close attention to improving children’s rights, its signing of several conventions and its establishment of a strategy for children. It made recommendations.

40. The Republic of Moldova noted the strengthening of Djibouti’s institutional framework and policy in favour of human rights. It commended efforts to educate the public and make it aware of negative stereotypes regarding women, as well as its adoption of measures to eliminate discrimination against women. It made recommendations.

41. Romania appreciated Djibouti’s progress in various areas of human rights, especially the ratification of several conventions including the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the establishment of the National Committee on the Rights of the Child, and measures to combat violence against women.

42. Rwanda congratulated Djibouti for its efforts to promote and protect human rights through the implementation of UPR first cycle recommendations. It noted with satisfaction Djibouti’s establishment of a National Gender Policy, aimed at eliminating inequalities

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between men and women, and its strategies in favour of children. It made recommendations.

43. Saudi Arabia commended Djibouti for its national report reflecting its efforts for the promotion and protection of human rights. Djibouti is making tangible efforts to establish human rights-related laws and institutions and to adopt measures for the enjoyment of adequate living conditions, free education and improved economic welfare. It made recommendations.

44. Senegal noted an improvement in the general human rights framework through measures adopted to strengthen rights and guarantee the public freedoms enshrined in its Constitution. This positive approach also applies to measures adopted in favour of women, children and disabled persons. It made recommendations.

45. Sierra Leone noted Djibouti’s ratification of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, its establishment of juvenile courts, the National Strategic Action Plan for Children and Education and the National Gender Policy, its awareness campaigns on violence against women and its recruitment of Ministry of Health staff, amongst others. It made recommendations.

46. Singapore noted Djibouti’s adoption of a National Gender Policy and its measures to empower women in health, education, policymaking and economic activities. It also noted that health is a priority and the considerable efforts to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality, and HIV/AIDS. It made recommendations.

47. Slovakia noted Djibouti’s ratification of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict, the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography, the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. It welcomed the fact that ratified international treaties take precedence over Djiboutian domestic laws and commended its establishment of a Legal and Judicial Reform Commission. It made recommendations.

48. Slovenia commended Djibouti for ratifying the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict, and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography. It welcomed Djibouti’s adoption of national action plans for children and for gender policy. Slovenia noted its positive steps in tackling female genital mutilation (FGM) and encouraged it to pursue elimination of discrimination and violence to women. It made recommendations.

49. Somalia commended Djibouti for ratifying the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict, the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography, and the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination. It also commended it for measures taken regarding the country’s electoral system, allowing the opposition to gain seats in Parliament, thereby strengthening the democratic process. It made a recommendation.

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50. South Africa applauded Djibouti’s commitment to eliminate discrimination against women and its legislative amendments addressing violence against women. It called on the international community to assist Djibouti with the requested technical assistance and capacity-building. It made recommendations.

51. Spain commended Djibouti for its recent advances in the promotion and protection of human rights, including the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the constitutional amendment to abolish the death penalty. It was pleased that the issue of FGM is a major concern. It made recommendations.

52. Egypt noted the important measures taken by Djibouti, including the establishment of national mechanisms to promote women and children’s rights and the submission of all reports due to international treaty bodies. Egypt commended it for allocating the necessary resources to implement national human rights programmes. It made recommendations.

53. The State of Palestine appreciated Djibouti’s efforts to implement UPR first cycle recommendations and its accession to core international human rights instruments. It commended it for establishing a legal and institutional reform commission to amend laws in line with international obligations, and for its law on free, compulsory education. It made recommendations.

54. Sudan noted that Djibouti’s acceptance and implementation of UPR first cycle recommendations shows its cooperation with the Human Rights Council. Its Government is protecting vulnerable groups, including women, children and the disabled, demonstrating its commitment to promote and protect human rights. It made a recommendation.

55. Thailand commended Djibouti’s commitment to enhance children’s rights through the ratification of the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict, and of the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography, and the establishment of a National Committee on the Rights of the Child. It noted that Djibouti has adopted a law on women’s rights to ensure non-discrimination. It made recommendations.

56. Togo congratulated Djibouti for implementing UPR first cycle recommendations, including ratification of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. It appreciated the strategic orientations of Djibouti’s National Gender Policy, but remained concerned by violence against women and children, despite the Government’s public awareness campaign. It made a recommendation.

57. Tunisia encouraged Djibouti to intensify its efforts for the promotion and protection of human rights by ratifying the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance and the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, among others. It welcomed its efforts regarding gender equality and the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women through the implementation of its National Gender Policy. It made a recommendation.

58. Turkmenistan appreciated Djibouti’s adoption of a National Strategic Action Plan for Children in 2010 and its ratification in 2011 of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. It made recommendations.

59. Uganda appreciated Djibouti’s progress in promoting human rights, especially at the Ministry of Health, which has achieved targets such as antenatal care and reduced maternal

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mortality. It noted its establishment of institutional and human rights infrastructure and a Legal and Judicial Reform Commission. It made a recommendation.

60. The United Arab Emirates noted that Djibouti’s high-level delegation is indicative of the importance it attaches to promoting and protecting human rights. It welcomed the constructive, responsible path taken by Djibouti in its efforts to implement recommendations accepted at the first UPR and to take up the challenges. It made recommendations.

61. The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland was encouraged by Djibouti’s initiatives to protect women from discrimination and gender-based violence, including prevention of FGM. It was concerned that Penal Code articles criminalizing defamation may limit freedom of expression and that media ownership restrictions may limit independence. It made recommendations.

62. The United States of America congratulated Djibouti on conducting peaceful legislative elections involving opposition parties and independent media coverage, but was concerned at interference with peaceful demonstrations. It recognized efforts to raise awareness of FGM but remained concerned that relevant existing laws are not enforced. It made recommendations.

63. Uruguay commended Djibouti’s constitutional reforms leading to abolition of the death penalty, establishment of an ombudsman and the ratification of international instruments. It noted the measures implemented by Djibouti to combat FGM, although its incidence remains frequent in practice, and its efforts regarding women’s rights. It made recommendations.

64. The Venezuela Bolivarian Republic of noted that the 2010 constitutional reforms have enabled Djibouti to abolish the death penalty and establish an ombudsman’s office. Djibouti is working to provide universal medical insurance embracing prenatal and postnatal consultations, vaccination and reduction of infant mortality. It made a recommendation.

65. Viet Nam took note of the serious implementation of recommendations accepted by Djibouti following the first cycle of the UPR. It has overcome a number of difficulties and achieved positive results in consolidating democracy, enhancing the quality of life and guaranteeing the rights and freedoms of its population. It made a recommendation.

66. Responding to questions and comments, the head of the delegation of Djibouti thanked countries for their recommendations and support. He informed countries that the replies to the questions posed in writing in advance had been provided in writing and distributed in the meeting room. Djibouti would be happy to provide clarification if necessary.

67. He made reference to the issues raised, including torture and ill-treatment, human trafficking, the right to education, health, the rights of children and vulnerable persons, access to justice and the fight against FGM. Before handing over to the Minister for the Advancement of Women and Family Planning, he responded to some of the questions and observations.

68. He informed Romania that there was a training programme for criminal investigation officers, which was being implemented with the support of development partners.

69. Replying to Spain on the issue of prison overcrowding and the prohibition of child labour, he said that two remand prisons had been rehabilitated and a sentence enforcement judge had been appointed to tackle overcrowding in such prisons.

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70. Replying to a question by Sierra Leone concerning reform of the National Human Rights Commission, he said that a bill was about to be promulgated to enhance the Commission’s effectiveness and bring it into line with the Principles relating to the Status of National Institutions (Paris Principles).6

71. The authorities punished torture, as it was a punishable offence under the Constitution.

72. With regard to the parliamentary elections held in February 2013, he told the United States that Djibouti had no political prisoners. He said that opposition parties had actively participated in the electoral process. He mentioned the vote by proportional representation of 20 per cent and the presence of international observers, who had welcomed the smooth running of the elections.

73. However, the leaders of insurrectionist movements had been held accountable for their actions in court.

74. With regard to the right of members of the opposition to demonstrate after the election, he said that the Minister of the Interior had not given authorization for obvious security reasons.

75. The Minister for the Advancement of Women and Family Planning took up the question of women’s and children’s rights and replied, in particular, to the United Kingdom and the United States by referring to the lengthy awareness-raising process conducted to combat discriminatory practices, which had made it possible for the groups concerned to speak about those issues. Article 333 of the Criminal Code had been strengthened in 2009 by increasing the penalties incurred and allowing non-governmental organizations to bring civil suits for damages.

76. Yemen appreciated the Government of Djibouti’s efforts to improve and develop human rights. It commended its constitutional amendments and laws enacted to promote constitutional rights and freedoms, its National Strategic Action Plan for Children and its ratification of several international human rights conventions. It made a recommendation.

77. Afghanistan noted Djibouti’s efforts to implement first cycle UPR recommendations and appreciated its ratification of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. It commended its adoption of the national Education Master Plan 2010–2019 and implementation of a pilot literacy project in rural areas. It made a recommendation.

78. Algeria commended Djibouti for important steps taken to promote human rights despite the scarcity of resources. These efforts reflect Djibouti’s attachment to promoting and protecting human rights and its citizens’ living conditions. It made recommendations.

79. Angola commended Djibouti’s establishment of an independent body ensuring children’s rights and its adoption of a National Strategic Action Plan for Children and implementation of a National Gender Policy. It acknowledged its political reforms, leading to a national wastewater management strategy and reform of the National Human Rights Commission. It made a recommendation.

80. Argentina commended Djibouti for its National Strategic Action Plan for Children (2011–2016) and for ratifying the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. It made recommendations.

6 General Assembly resolution 48/134 of 20 December 1993 (A/RES/48/134).

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81. Australia was concerned about post-electoral violence in Djibouti and allegations of politically motivated arrests in its wake. It acknowledged Djibouti’s criminalization of FGM and noted its implementation of FGM awareness campaigns, but remained deeply concerned by its continued prevalence. It made recommendations.

82. Azerbaijan appreciated the Government of Djibouti’s efforts to protect women, children and disabled persons against discrimination. It commended its strengthening of bodies involved in the promotion and protection of human rights, including the National Human Rights Commission and the Ministries of Health and for the Promotion of Women. It made recommendations.

83. Bangladesh commended Djibouti’s adoption of a law to end discrimination against women in pension as well as its programmes to fight poverty and unemployment, and its National Strategic Action Plan for Children. It noted progress in institution-building despite severe economic constraints and challenges, and indicated that the international community must complement government efforts.

84. Belgium congratulated Djibouti for establishing a joint programme between its ministries and the United Nations office to implement accepted recommendations. It welcomed Djibouti’s peaceful elections, but was concerned about restrictions in freedom of expression and demonstrations. Credible sources report deterioration in conditions for exercising these rights. It made recommendations.

85. Benin appreciated its introduction of the principle of banning torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatments within its criminal and criminal procedure codes. It stressed the importance of adopting measures promoting education, health, food and housing. It invited Djibouti to continue efforts to ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance and the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of their Families.

86. Botswana welcomed Djibouti’s many institutional and policy reforms in the area of human rights, including the National Strategic Action Plan for Children, the National Gender Policy and its specialized administrative and juvenile courts, among others. It made a recommendation.

87. Brazil noted that Djibouti has implemented several measures, including abolishing the death penalty, appointing an ombudsman, establishing special jurisdictions for minors and a National Strategic Action Plan for Children. It also noted its ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and hoped that implementation of its Criminal Code would be effective in fighting FGM. It made recommendations.

88. Burkina Faso noted initiatives to implement recommendations received during the first UPR cycle. It encouraged Djibouti to strengthen the public sector involved in the promotion of human rights, the national body charged with statistics and the interministerial committee charged with preparing reports, as well as the National Human Rights Commission.

89. Burundi congratulated Djibouti for establishing institutions including an ombudsman and its National Human Rights Commission based on the Paris Principles. It commended it for adopting a National Strategic Action Plan for Children and a framework for combating FGM through the enactment of legislation to further repress this practice. It made recommendations.

90. Canada asked Djibouti to detail possible reasons for the continued high number of instances of FGM, despite its measures to implement the national strategy on this issue, as well as which new measures will be adopted to accelerate the process of eliminating this practice. It made recommendations.

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91. Cape Verde noted Djibouti’s establishment of policies concerning the situation of women, its institution of quotas for elective and state functions, its National Gender Policy, its National Strategic Action Plan for Children and its establishment of universal health insurance. It made recommendations.

92. Chad welcomed the implementation by state institutions and civil society organizations of recommendations accepted during the first UPR, and the ratification of various instruments. It noted the instigation of proportional voting during legislative elections, allowing opposition participation. Chad made a recommendation.

93. Chile commended measures to implement recommendations and voluntary commitments accepted during the first UPR cycle, and applauded the ratification of international treaties, which had been given precedence over domestic legislation. Chile made recommendations.

94. China welcomed the implementation of previous recommendations, including ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, and the commitment to economic development, poverty elimination, and education and health-care development, as well as gender equality by protecting women’s rights and abolishing harmful practices. China made recommendations.

95. The Comoros commended the steps taken to prioritize policies on access to justice, the rights of persons with disabilities and access to medical and social services for people with HIV/AIDS. It applauded the electoral reform, particularly proportional representation, and encouraged Djibouti to continue on this track.

96. The Congo noted the creation of a national committee and legislation on excision, abolition of the death penalty, ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, electoral reform, the introduction of compulsory education to age 16 and measures to eliminate gender discrimination in education. The Congo made a recommendation.

97. Costa Rica welcomed the National Gender Policy and reporting to treaty bodies, particularly the Committee against Torture. It was concerned by the use of torture and mistreatment in prisons. It asked about the compatibility of human rights obligations and the hosting, within the context of the fight against terrorism, of a secret detention centre. It made recommendations.

98. Côte d’Ivoire welcomed the implementation of previous recommendations, particularly efforts to better protect vulnerable population groups, including by ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and their implementation in national law. It welcomed the National Gender Policy. It made a recommendation.

99. Cuba welcomed progress towards reducing poverty and unemployment, and in empowering women. It noted the focus on universal access to resources, the right to food and health, particularly efforts to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality. Cuba made recommendations.

100. The Democratic Republic of the Congo commended the adoption of laws, measures and strategies aimed at protecting vulnerable population groups, including women’s access to microfinance, especially in rural areas, and steps towards free education, which would combat illiteracy. It made recommendations.

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101. Ecuador welcomed the constitutional reforms to include the principles of protecting human rights, non-discrimination and equality. It highlighted the abolition of the death penalty and the ratification of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination. Ecuador made recommendations.

102. Sri Lanka commended consultations to ratify the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of their Families, and the efforts to safeguard women and children’s rights. It noted the National Strategic Action Plan for Children and the National Gender Policy. It also noted measures to combat human trafficking. It made recommendations.

103. Estonia acknowledged adoption of the National Strategic Action Plan for Children. Welcoming steps towards gender equality and women’s rights, it urged efforts to eradicate FGM. It noted improvements in freedoms of expression, and the development of information and communication technologies. Estonia made recommendations.

104. Ethiopia commended electoral reform to allow opposition representation. It recognized the improved coverage of education, health and housing services, particularly the adoption of the national educational master plan. It noted steps to combat harmful traditional practices and address gender equality. Ethiopia made recommendations.

105. France took note of the national report, and welcomed the progress made by Djibouti in human rights, in particular the ratification of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. France made recommendations.

106. The head of the delegation of Djibouti, the Minister of Justice, reiterated that there were no political prisoners in Djibouti. However, the leaders of insurrectionist movements had been held accountable for their actions in court.

107. Djibouti was working with the European Union to eradicate human trafficking. The Minister had tabled a draft bill to that effect.

108. Concerning child beggars, the Minister for the Advancement of Women said that a study was being conducted on street children with a view to taking appropriate measures.

109. Concerning mother and child health in connection with early marriage and family planning, in 2011 family planning had been made a responsibility of the Ministry for the Advancement of Women, which showed the importance attached to family planning.

110. Concerning the Family Code, the Minister replied to Australia and the United States that a study was being conducted on a partial revision of the Family Code with the participation of civil society. With regard to FGM, and replying to Australia, the Minister added that a strategy had been adopted in 2006 to do away with all forms of excision. Implementation had commenced at once with the establishment of a counselling centre providing legal guidance in particular.

111. Gabon welcomed legal and administrative reforms and creation of the Constitutional Council, the Office of the Ombudsman and the National Human Rights Commission, as well as the adoption of national laws to protect vulnerable population groups. It noted the abolition of the death penalty. Gabon made a recommendation.

112. Germany noted that, despite progress to combat FGM, including its criminalization, no one had yet been convicted for that crime. It reiterated the need to combat that practice, and offered its support to Djibouti. Germany made recommendations.

113. Ghana commended the efforts to address education, health and housing, and improve women’s rights by adopting relevant international instruments and the National

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Gender Policy and raising awareness of gender-based violence and harmful traditional practices. FGM was of concern. Ghana made a recommendation.

114. Guatemala commended the National Strategy for the Integration of Women in Development and the National Gender Policy, and ratification of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination. It expressed concern at the lack of gender equality in marriage and the lack of an independent complaint mechanism for mistreatment by security forces. Guatemala made a recommendation.

115. Hungary acknowledged the constitutional amendments to ensure precedence of international instruments over domestic law, and noted the changes to the Criminal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure, and judicial reform. It welcomed reform of the justice system, particularly the law on legal aid and circuit court hearings. Hungary made recommendations.

116. Indonesia welcomed efforts to improve women’s and children’s rights, including the adoption and implementation of the National Strategic Action Plan for Children and the National Gender Policy Action Plan. The legal framework could be further strengthened. Indonesia made recommendations.

117. Iraq recognized Djibouti’s accession to international conventions, including the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict, and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography, and subsequent compliance with international obligations. It noted measures to improve the judicial structure. Iraq made a recommendation.

118. Italy remained concerned regarding widespread FGM, despite Djibouti’s support of the related General Assembly resolution.7 Noting numerous reports of human trafficking, it commended efforts to combat that practice, despite geographical challenges. Italy made recommendations.

119. Jordan commended the ratification of international instruments, including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. It noted efforts to strengthen the institutional framework by creating the Constitutional Council, the Office of the Ombudsman and the National Human Rights Commission. Jordan made a recommendation.

120. Kenya acknowledged the detailed presentation of the report. It recognized the reforms of the Criminal Code and Code of Procedure, enabling the inclusion of treaty standards in domestic law, noting in particular the definition of torture under the Convention against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. Kenya made recommendations.

121. Kuwait noted the submission of reports to treaty bodies. It commended the National Strategic Plan for Children and the related institutional framework, and the ratification of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination. It acknowledged the adoption of the national education master plan and the poverty reduction initiative. Kuwait made recommendations.

7 General Assembly resolution 67/146 of 20 December 2012.

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122. Lebanon applauded Djibouti’s role in the Human Rights Council, as well as its accession to international instruments, particularly the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination. It urged Djibouti to continue the necessary consultations to ratify other human rights instruments. Lebanon made recommendations.

123. Lesotho welcomed the harmonization of domestic legislation with regional and international instruments, the ratification of which reflected commitment and cooperation. It recognized progress in education, including free primary education. Limited capacity and resources hindered further advancement. Lesotho made a recommendation.

124. Madagascar acknowledged improved reporting to treaty bodies. It noted wider access to health care and the justice system, and poverty reduction efforts. It encouraged capacity-building in the National Human Rights Commission, the protection of vulnerable groups and the implementation of the national strategy for the total elimination of all forms of excision.

125. Malaysia commended the legislative and institutional reforms, and welcomed the improvements in extreme poverty and access to education, aiming for universal education by 2015. It considered that technical assistance would be necessary to overcome challenges to further progress. Malaysia made recommendations.

126. Maldives applauded the ratification of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict, the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography, and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and noted efforts to empower women by reorganizing the Ministry for the Promotion of Women and Family Planning and creating a National Gender Policy. Maldives made recommendations.

127. Mali welcomed ratification and implementation of international instruments and the creation of an independent body and strategic plan for children, protecting rights and combating begging and exploitation. It recognized judicial reforms, which improved rural access through circuit courts.

128. Mauritania commended the prioritization of human rights promotion and the rule of law, and noted that the judicial reform provided greater institutional independence. It welcomed the creation of new bodies to protect the rights of children and people with a disability and to combat racism.

129. Mexico recognized a strengthened international framework through the ratification of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and the adoption of legislation to protect women. It encouraged the development of the National Human Rights Commission to bring it in line with Paris Principles. Mexico made recommendations.

130. Montenegro reiterated the need to implement the Criminal Code in investigating and punishing FGM. It commended the ratification of international instruments and the abolition of the death penalty. It urged amendment of the Family Code to introduce gender equality. Montenegro made recommendations.

131. Morocco welcomed political reforms introducing proportional representation. The National Human Rights Commission had received capacity-building support. The National Social Development Initiative included food stamps, social safety nets and microfinance. It commended judicial reform, incorporating legal aid and circuit courts. Morocco made a recommendation.

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132. Mozambique commended the adoption of legislative measures to enhance human rights, in particular the ratification of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and the abolition of the death penalty, all in challenging economic circumstances. Mozambique made a recommendation.

133. Namibia applauded the constitutional reform, the abolition of the death penalty, the establishment of the Senate and the improved election law. It commended Djibouti for hosting refugees and asylum seekers. It noted efforts to increase access to health care, education, potable water and employment. Namibia made recommendations.

134. The Netherlands noted that despite criminalizing FGM, promoting women’s rights and combating violence and discrimination, reports of domestic violence and harmful traditional practices persisted. It called for improved freedoms of expression and association. It applauded improved treaty body reporting. The Netherlands made recommendations.

135. Nicaragua welcomed the abolition of the death penalty and the creation of the Office of the Ombudsman. It urged independence of the human rights institution, according to the Paris Principles. It noted the National Gender Policy, promoting gender equality, eradicating violence and empowering women. Nicaragua made a recommendation.

136. Niger commended the ratification of regional and international instruments and their implementation through national legislation. It acknowledged the establishment of universal obligatory education to the age of 16 years, and the National Strategic Action Plan for Children. Niger made recommendations.

137. Nigeria acknowledged the effort Djibouti had put into preparing its national report. It welcomed progress in promoting and protecting human rights, taking particular note of numerous laws enacted to implement constitutional rights. Nigeria made recommendations.

138. Oman recognized the implementation of recommendations from the first UPR cycle, as well as efforts to strengthen and reform the institutional human rights framework and carry out strategic planning in accordance with its human rights obligations. Oman made a recommendation.

139. Pakistan commended Djibouti’s increased reporting compliance, legislative amendments and creation of the National Committee on the Rights of the Child and national education master plan. It welcomed electoral reform and a more independent National Human Rights Commission. Pakistan made recommendations.

140. The Philippines noted the improved normative and institutional framework, and the establishment of the Office of the Ombudsman, Senate and Court of Audit. It welcomed the focus on women’s empowerment and access to resources in poverty reduction. The Philippines made recommendations.

141. In its concluding remarks, the delegation thanked all those taking part in the meeting. With regard to freedom of expression, the Minister for the Advancement of Women informed States that an association of journalists for human rights had been set up in 2011 with the assistance of the OHCHR East Africa Regional Office; there was also a Djiboutian journalists’ union and association.

142. The head of the delegation referred once again to the unfounded allegations of acts of torture in Djibouti and condemned them.

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II. Conclusions and/or recommendations** 143. The recommendations listed below enjoy the support of Djibouti:

143.1 Pursue efforts to ratify international human rights instruments (Kuwait); 143.2 Ratify the international human rights instruments to which Djibouti is not yet party (Niger); 143.3 Carry on with the ratification of international conventions and treaties to which it is not a party to (Democratic Republic of Congo); 143.4 Speed up measures aimed at ratifying the Optional Protocol to CEDAW (Republic of Moldova); 143.5 Ratify the OP-CEDAW (Brazil); 143.6 Speed up on going consultations to ratify the ICRMW (Rwanda); 143.7 Ratify the ICRMW (Ecuador, Guatemala, Philippines); 143.8 Complete the already-initiated process of the ratification of the ICRMW (Indonesia); 143.9 Ratify OP-CAT (Estonia, Slovenia) to establish a national mechanism to visit all places of detention (Costa Rica); 143.10 Become party to OP-CAT and CPED (Montenegro); 143.11 Continue the commendable process of ratification of the CPED and ICRMW (Afghanistan); 143.12 Ratify the CPED (Ecuador, France, Spain); 143.13 Consider the possibility to ratify the CPED (Mexico); 143.14 Ratify the CPED and make, at the moment of ratification, the declarations provided for on articles 31 and 32 (Chile); 143.15 Ratify OP-ICESCR, OP-CEDAW and OP-CAT (France, Spain); 143.16 Continue its efforts to ratify CPED, ICRMW and OP-CAT (Argentina); 143.17 Consider signing and ratifying the new Optional Protocol to the CRC on a communications procedure (Slovakia, Thailand) to further ensure the protection of children’s rights (Thailand); 143.18 Ratify the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide (Estonia, Slovenia); 143.19 Concentrate on the implementation of the international human rights instruments that have been ratified by Djibouti (Turkmenistan); 143.20 Continue its on-going review of national laws to ensure that they are in line with its international human rights law obligations (Turkmenistan); 143.21 Continue its efforts in reforming Djibouti’s Criminal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure by incorporating a clear definition of torture and

** Conclusions and recommendations have not been edited.

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an explicit prohibition of torture and other ill-treatment in its domestic law (Maldives); 143.22 Enforce the provisions of the Criminal Code by prosecuting domestic and sexual violence against women and girls and punishing the perpetrators (Slovenia); 143.23 Continue to review the laws on the National Human Rights Commission (Egypt); 143.24 Continue developing the institutional framework with respect to the promotion and protection of human rights (Jordan); 143.25 Further strengthen the capacity of the National Human Rights Commission (Niger); 143.26 Greater support for Djibouti in the field of technical assistance to strengthen the NHRC and the national body responsible for statistics (Morocco); 143.27 Revise the National Human Rights Commission to ensure that it is in conformity with the Paris Principles (Sierra Leone); 143.28 Intensify efforts to conform the National Human Rights Commission to the Paris Principles and foresee its accreditation by the ICC (Uruguay); 143.29 Conform the National Human Rights Commission to the Paris Principles (Cape Verde); 143.30 Complete its process to conform the National Human Rights Commission to the Paris Principles (Democratic Republic of Congo); 143.31 Continue to bolster the role and mandate of the National Human Rights Commission in line with the Paris Principles (State of Palestine); 143.32 Ensure that the work of the National Human Rights Commission is aligned with the Paris Principles (Maldives); 143.33 Continue efforts to further strengthen the National Human Rights Commission and bring it in line with the Paris Principles (Pakistan); 143.34 Ensure respect of the independence of the National Human Rights Commission in accordance with the Paris Principles (France); 143.35 Speed up the process to conform its National Human Rights Institution to the Paris Principles (Tunisia); 143.36 Revise domestic legislation governing the National Human Rights Commission to bring it in line with the Paris Principles (Philippines); 143.37 Continue strengthening the national human rights institution in line with the Paris Principles (Kenya); 143.38 Strengthen the independence of the National Human Rights Commission from the executive and seek its accreditation with the ICC to promote in order to promote and safeguard human rights and its conformity with the Paris Principles (Germany); 143.39 Continue further on its effort to establish synergy between different institutions in the country (Ethiopia); 143.40 Continue its measures on the field of strengthening of bodies involved in the promotion and protection of human rights (Azerbaijan);

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143.41 Continue and intensify public awareness campaigns against harmful traditional practices (Sierra Leone); 143.42 Elaborate a comprehensive strategy to address trafficking, particularly of women and children (Sierra Leone); 143.43 Consider formulating a national strategy to combat trafficking in persons, including women and children (Indonesia); 143.44 Seek multilateral and bilateral cooperation with a view to achieving progressively full realization of the rights contained in the ICESCR (Somalia); 143.45 Increase the awareness campaign for the Government programmes (Uganda); 143.46 Work to continue its ongoing efforts in the media sector to develop the capacities of professional associations in this field (United Arab Emirates); 143.47 Call on Djibouti to request the international community for capacity-building and technical assistance in the area of human rights (Angola); 143.48 Seek assistance of the international community in order to be supported in the implementation of recommendations received during this session (Chad); 143.49 Call on Djibouti to seek assistance from the international community and OHCHR to provide more support to Djibouti with regard to training and capacity-building in human rights (Qatar); 143.50 Call on Djibouti to seek the appropriate technical assistance from the international community to enable the country to build its human right capacities (United Arab Emirates); 143.51 Step up its efforts for the mobilizations of resources and necessary international assistance for a successful implementation of the Human Rights National Programme and related activities (Mozambique); 143.52 Continue its efforts to seek assistance from the international community for capacity-building and technical assistance in the area of human rights, especially in the strengthening of its National Human Rights Commission (Botswana); 143.53 Consider prioritizing the stated objective of developing a comprehensive national action plan for promotion and protection of all human rights (South Africa); 143.54 Continue to implement recommendations to which it agreed at its first UPR (Sudan); 143.55 Continue its active engagement with the human rights mechanisms of UN for the protection and promotion of human rights (Azerbaijan); 143.56 Pursue its collaboration, already fruitful, with the human rights mechanisms, in order to make it possible to reach its objectives in all areas, to promote and protect all the rights over its territory (Côte d’Ivoire); 143.57 Continue cooperating with the United Nations human rights mechanisms (Kenya); 143.58 Increase the pace of cooperation with Treaty Bodies (Niger);

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143.59 Modify the discriminatory provisions of the Family Code in order to harmonize those provisions with the CEDAW (Uruguay); 143.60 Take further steps in the implementation of CEDAW by prioritizing combating of gender-based violence, abuse and exploitation (Maldives); 143.61 Continue to prioritise the enforcement of mechanisms for compliance with the core provisions on the CEDAW by ensuring a rapid change in mentalities regarding women’s rights, female genital mutilation, early marriage and the perception of the role and place of women, through education (South Africa); 143.62 Continue its efforts to enhance the protection of women’s rights and promote gender equality (Singapore); 143.63 Adopt the necessary measures to achieve the elimination of existing patriarchal and gender stereotypes that lead to discrimination against women (Argentina); 143.64 Put in place a global strategy aimed at eliminating harmful practices and stereotypes against women (Republic of Moldova); 143.65 Remain steadfast in pursuing its impressive policies towards gender equality, particularly by strengthening measures to eradicate gender-based violence (Lesotho); 143.66 Continue to work within the frame of the Gender National Policy 2011–2021, in a standing national campaign to fight against discrimination and violence against women (Nicaragua); 143.67 Continue its measures in promoting gender equality through the implementation of its National Gender Policy Action Plan for the period 2011 to 2021 (Malaysia); 143.68 Continue to support the work of the national mechanism for the promotion of the rights of women (Egypt); 143.69 Continue adopting laws and policies to promote and protect the rights of women and their role in society, particularly in education health and employment (Egypt); 143.70 Reinforce efforts in addressing violence against women, including through increasing victims’ access to justice (Slovakia); 143.71 Take measures aimed at eliminating all forms of discrimination against women and girls, and to protect their rights, especially to education at all levels, and to receive medical care during all their stages of life, including during pregnancy (Ecuador); 143.72 Continue to make efforts to promote the rights of children so as to improve their situation, particularly in the areas of education and health care (Qatar); 143.73 Strengthen programs aiming at the promotion and protection of children rights (Algeria); 143.74 Redouble its efforts for promotion and protection of the rights of vulnerable persons (Senegal); 143.75 Continue with its efforts to better protect women, children and the disabled in order to consolidate the progress made in this area (Nigeria);

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143.76 Eliminate all forms of sexual exploitation and violence, including domestic violence, with a view to avoid trafficking of persons, and implement legal measures to investigate complaints, bring perpetrators of sexual crimes and violence to justice and punish them (Ecuador); 143.77 Strengthen, through community action committees, awareness among the population in order to combat the slow change mentality vis-à-vis harmful practice (Democratic Republic of Congo); 143.78 Promote relevant national strategy in order to change its traditional practices and stereotypes regarding women to better protect women’s physical and psychological integrity (China); 143.79 Continue on its efforts in combating harmful traditional practices (Ethiopia); 143.80 Continue to combat violence against women and implement a national awareness plan to for the elimination of cultural and traditional practices harmful to women, including female genital mutilation (France); 143.81 Redouble efforts to prevent, combat and punish violence against women and children and to fight effectively against traditional practices harmful to women, particularly in rural areas (Togo); 143.82 Further reinforce the laws banning FGM and take other proactive measures to fight against these practices (Netherlands); 143.83 Escalate its efforts to eliminate female genital mutilation and instigate relevant legal reforms to facilitate effective prosecutions (Australia); 143.84 Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy to eliminate harmful practices, including early and forced marriage, FGM and unequal access to inheritance, based on the recognition of the equality between men and women, and supported by religious and traditional leaders, civil society, men and boys, as well as other relevant stakeholders (Canada); 143.85 Continue to adopt all measures considered necessary to eliminate definitively the practice of female genital mutilation (Spain); 143.86 Take measures related to preventive sexual education for women and men, with a view to prevent early pregnancies and abortion practiced under risk conditions, and strengthen education in rural areas, in order to prevent harmful traditional practices such as FGM or excision (Ecuador); 143.87 Continue applying the provisions of the Penal Code regarding FGM, bringing to justice and punishing perpetrators of those crimes, their accomplices and those who do not denounce them; intensify awareness raising campaigns and training with a view to explain that FGM is a form of discrimination and violence based on gender, and thus eradicate this practice and the cultural justifications in which it is based (Uruguay); 143.88 Ensure the implementation of the Criminal Code with regard to the ban on FGM, to strengthen awareness campaigns and educate people about the harmful effects of this practice (Germany); 143.89 Enforce Djibouti’s existing laws to prosecute perpetrators of FGM (United States of America); 143.90 Continue to implement the national strategy for the total elimination of FGM and all forms of excision (Ghana);

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143.91 Step up efforts aimed at combating FGM, inter alia by improving the monitoring mechanism, and fighting against the stereotypes and the culture of no-reporting, also through awareness-raising campaigns targeted to communities as well as individuals (Italy); 143.92 Increase public awareness-raising and training of officials designed to tackle cultural justifications for FGM and discrimination against women, with the aim of increasing the number of reported cases under article 333 of the Criminal Code (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland); 143.93 Take efficient, comprehensive measures to combat female genital mutilation, including through appropriate public oriented awareness-raising campaigns (Slovakia); 143.94 Enhance its efforts to fight against trafficking in persons and fully protect the human rights of victims, especially women, children and migrants in transit (Italy); 143.95 Act to combat the trafficking in persons, especially women and children (Romania); 143.96 Further strengthen measures to combat human trafficking, including by adopting a comprehensive strategy to combat trafficking, especially of women and children (Sri Lanka); 143.97 Ensure the effectiveness of labour law and of the prohibition of child labour, especially child prostitution (Spain); 143.98 Take all appropriate measures to better combat child labour and child begging (Congo); 143.99 Strengthen steps to protect children from the worst forms of child labour (Sri Lanka); 143.100 Investigate the allegations of torture and ill-treatment in a prompt, impartial and effective manner and prosecute perpetrators (Romania); 143.101 Consider establishing an independent complaint mechanism specifically devoted to allegations of torture and ill-treatment committed by law enforcement, security, military and prison officials (Hungary); 143.102 Take all necessary measures to allow victims to have access to effective remedies and reparation, and provide training to judges, magistrates and police authorities in order to apply the pertinent legislation in conformity with the Convention (Uruguay); 143.103 Strengthen the Judiciary control over detention conditions (Cape Verde); 143.104 Continue the reforms undertaken with a view to improve the life conditions of detainees (Gabon); 143.105 Adopt the necessary measures to prevent overcrowding in prison facilities (Spain); 143.106 Consider incorporating the “Bangkok Rules”, to its internal regulations for the treatment of women prisoners (Thailand); 143.107 Establish a juvenile justice system in compliance with the Beijing Rules and the Riyadh Guidelines (Hungary);

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143.108 Take the necessary measures to ensure easy and effective access to the free birth register, especially for those births outside hospitals (Mexico); 143.109 Continue to strengthen its efforts to ensure equality in marriage (Namibia); 143.110 Take appropriate action to guarantee freedom of expression, association and assembly – including by allowing the participation of opposition parties and civil society (Australia); 143.111 Bring its laws and practice fully in conformity with article 19 of the ICCPR (Belgium); 143.112 Limit to a strictly necessary level the use of prosecutions against persons that exercising their rights to freedom of expression and peaceful demonstration (Belgium); 143.113 Create a genuinely favourable environment-free and safe- to promote functioning of truly independent media (Slovakia); 143.114 Consider developing and adopting a freedom of information law in accordance with international standards (Estonia); 143.115 Give priority to the activities on promotion and protection of trade unions freedom with a view to continue strengthening free and independent trade unions (Uruguay); 143.116 Take necessary measures to reduce gender gap in the labour market (Pakistan); 143.117 Continue Government efforts to ensure decent living conditions and improve the country’s economic welfare (Saudi Arabia); 143.118 Seek the necessary financial support, technical assistance and capacity-building from relevant UN and other international organisations to promote the right to an adequate standard of living (Namibia); 143.119 Continue implementing polices that will make it possible to increase the accessibility and quality of health care services (Cuba); 143.120 Strengthen policies aimed at achieving economic, social and cultural rights, in particularly in the areas of health and education (Senegal); 143.121 With the support from the WHO and other relevant UN agencies, continue to implement programmes to improve access to quality health-care services by its people (Singapore); 143.122 Strengthen programs of public health services, especially those related to reducing maternal and infantile mortality (Algeria); 143.123 Take measures to broaden antiviral treatment for people living with HIV/AIDS (Brazil); 143.124 Continue to implement plans which offer free and compulsory education in line with MDGs (Saudi Arabia); 143.125 Continue applying the six objectives of the National Education Plan 2010–2019 (Cuba); 143.126 Increase investment in education and improve its work to eliminate illiteracy in rural areas (China);

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143.127 Continue its efforts to eliminate illiteracy with the support of the international community (Lebanon); 143.128 Ensure implementation of its National Education Plan 2010–2019 aiming to provide equal opportunities to boys and girls (Lebanon); 143.129 Continue its positive resolve in the education sector in line with its National Education Master Plan for 2010 to 2019 (Malaysia); 143.130 Continue to strengthen its policies and programmes to increase access to quality education (Namibia); 143.131 Continue efforts to ensure access to basic education and equal opportunities (Kuwait); 143.132 Continue to work on improving access to education and reducing the disparity between boys and girls in schools, within the framework of its National Education Master Plan 2010–2019 (Nigeria); 143.133 Continue its policy aimed at combating illiteracy among girls and women (Burundi); 143.134 Continue to take measures to ensure equal rates of school enrolment for girls and women at all levels and to overcome obstacles to education of girls and women (State of Palestine); 143.135 Continue to address barriers to education of girls, with a view of increasing school enrolment at the primary and secondary levels, especially in rural areas (Sri Lanka); 143.136 Continue to take further measures for the education of persons with disabilities (Egypt); 143.137 Develop ways to reduce smuggling of migrants and human trafficking across maritime borders (Yemen); 143.138 Take steps to increase the protection afforded to women and girl refugees against violence, including by increasing the number of law enforcement officials in refugee camps, and providing effective care for women and girls who are victims of violence (Canada); 143.139 Continue to consolidate its social policies to improve the living conditions of its people, in particular for those most in need, with the support of the cooperation and solidarity of the international community (Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of)); 143.140 Continue to empower women through its micro credit programme and intensify efforts to support rural women with access to water (Nigeria); 143.141 Intensify its fight against poverty and strengthen access to education for all Djiboutian while eliminating gender disparities in this area (Viet Nam); 143.142 Continue with the programmes already launched to combat poverty (Burundi); 143.143 Take additional measures to reduce poverty, by establishing plans and programmes to improve living conditions of the whole population (Oman); 143.144 Continue to prioritise policies and programmes aimed at eradicating poverty and underdevelopment and ensuring the enjoyment of all economic, social and cultural rights (South Africa);

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143.145 Strengthen current efforts aimed at improving the national production system so as to achieve the creation of sufficient jobs in order to overcome poverty and reduce unemployment (Cuba); 143.146 Continue its efforts to accelerate the achievement of the MDGs targets (Turkmenistan); 143.147 Ensure that legal and administrative measures taken to combat terrorism respect the enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms (Mexico).

144. The following recommendations will be examined by Djibouti which will provide responses in due time, but no later than the twenty-fourth session of the Human Rights Council in September 2013:

144.1 Ratify conventions on stateless persons (Slovenia); 144.2 Review relevant legislation, such as the Family Code, with a view to prevent discrimination of women, including with regards to marriage, inheritance or the freedom of movement (Slovakia); 144.3 In favour of women, harmonize the provisions of the Family Code, with the CEDAW provisions, and increase efficiency of awareness raising campaigns and training to eliminate FGM and early marriage (Cape Verde); 144.4 Continue its efforts with a view to modifying the discriminatory provisions of the Family Code, in particular those related to inequalities against women in heritance matters (Rwanda); 144.5 Carry out a review of the Family Code and amend the relevant provisions to ensure equality between men and women with regard to marriage, divorce and inheritance (Canada); 144.6 Take steps to eliminate all forms of discrimination against women and girls in relation to marriage, family relations and succession (Sierra Leone); 144.7 Consider extending invitations to the relevant mandate holders of thematic UN special procedures, and intensify its collaboration with the human rights mechanisms of this organization (Chile); 144.8 Issue a standing invitation to United Nations Special Procedures mandate holders (Guatemala, Hungary, Iraq, Montenegro, Sierra Leone, Slovenia, Tunisia); 144.9 Extend an invitation to the Special Rapporteur on freedom of opinion and expression and the Special Rapporteur on the right of peaceful assembly and of association to visit Djibouti (Belgium); 144.10 Extend an open invitation to the Human Rights Council Special Procedures, and in particular to the Special Rapporteur on Torture and the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism (Costa Rica); 144.11 Create a legislative framework that guarantees freedom of information favouring the establishment of private media (Spain); 144.12 Review Penal Code clauses on defamation in line with international standards and make public results (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland).

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145. The recommendations below did not enjoy the support of Djibouti: 145.1 Return to the government’s previous practice of announcing full election results within days of the election, broken down by polling stations (United States of America); 145.2 Remove restrictions on activities by the media and allow them an independent and critical coverage of Government’s action (Belgium); 145.3 Authorize the press to work freely, lift all restrictions to political opposition, put stop to the prosecution of journalists and ensure that cases of harassment against defenders of economic and social rights are investigated (Netherlands); 145.4 Take the necessary measures to guarantee the freedom of expression of journalists, workers, media and members of the opposition, and allow them to operate without being intimidated or arbitrarily arrested and detained (Canada); 145.5 Guarantee respect for freedom of information and expression, especially regarding the press, both local and foreign, and the political sphere (France); 145.6 Release detainees whose arrests are linked to their support for the opposition (United States of America).

146. All conclusions and/or recommendations contained in the present report reflect the position of the submitting State(s) and/or the State under review. They should not be construed as endorsed by the Working Group as a whole.

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Annex

[English/French only]

Composition of the delegation The delegation of Djibouti was headed by HE Mr Ali Farah Assoweh, Minister of Justice and composed of the following members:

• S/E Mme Hasna Barkat Daoud, Ministre de la promotion de la femme et du planning familial;

• S/E Mohamed Siad Doualeh, Ambassadeur, Représentant permanent auprès des Nations Unies à Genève;

• Mr. Abdi Ismael Hersi, Secrétaire générale du Ministère de la justice; • Mme Halo Aboubaker, Secrétaire générale du Ministère de la femme et du planning

familial;

• Mr. Mohamed Ibrahim Ahmed, Secrétaire général du Ministère de la justice; • Mr. Ahmed Mohamed Abro, Premier Conseiller, Mission permanente de Djibouti,

Genève;

• Mr. Mohamed Mahyoub Hatem, Conseiller technique du Ministère de la santé;

• Mr. Ahmed Osman Hachi, Directeur de la législation et des réformes;

• Mme Souad Houssein Farah, Conseillère juridique du Président de la République du Djibouti;

• Mr. Ali Mohamed Abdou, Président de la CNDH;

• Mr. Djibril Osman Houffaneh, Secrétaire général de la CNDH.