28/17 Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review - Bosnia and Herzegovina

GE.14-23365



Human Rights Council Twenty-eighth session

Agenda item 6

Universal periodic review

Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review*

Bosnia and Herzegovina

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

Contents

Paragraphs Page

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

I. Summary of the proceedings of the review process ................................................ 5–106 3

A. Presentation by the State under review ........................................................... 5–34 3

B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review ........................ 35–106 7

II. Conclusions and/or recommendations ..................................................................... 107–108 15

Annex

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

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 twentieth session from

27 October to 7 November 2014. The review of Bosnia and Herzegovina was held at the

16th meeting on 5 November 2014. The delegation of Bosnia and Herzegovina was headed

by Miladin Dragičević, Deputy Minister for Human Rights and Refugees of Bosnia and

Herzegovina. At its 18th meeting, held on 7 November 2014, the Working Group adopted

the report on Bosnia and Herzegovina.

2. On 15 January 2014, the Human Rights Council selected the following group of

rapporteurs (troika) to facilitate the review of Bosnia and Herzegovina: Republic of Korea,

the Russian Federation and Sierra Leone.

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

Bosnia and Herzegovina:

(a) A national report submitted/written presentation made in accordance with

paragraph 15 (a) (A/HRC/WG.6/20/BIH/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.6/20/BIH/2);

(c) A summary prepared by OHCHR in accordance with paragraph 15 (c)

(A/HRC/WG.6/20/BIH/3).

4. A list of questions prepared in advance by Belgium, the Czech Republic, Germany,

Liechtenstein, Mexico, the Netherlands, Norway, Slovenia, Spain and the United Kingdom

of Great Britain and Northern Ireland was transmitted to Bosnia and Herzegovina through

the troika. Those questions are available on the extranet of the universal periodic review.

I. Summary of the proceedings of the review process

A. Presentation by the State under review

5. The delegation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, headed by Miladin Dragičević, Deputy

Minister for Human Rights and Refugees, reported that a number of activities had been

launched and carried out following the first universal periodic review. However, the

country had been confronted with many economic and developmental problems which had

influenced the situation of human rights. Among those problems were the extensive floods

which had affected the greater part of the country.

6. The delegation referred to some of the instruments it had recently acceded to,

including the Council of Europe Convention on the Protection of Children against Sexual

Exploitation and Sexual Abuse, the Council of Europe Convention on Contact concerning

Children and the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and

Cultural Rights (OP-ICESCR).

7. The initial report to the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities had

been submitted and the delegation stated that Bosnia and Herzegovina had joined activities

of the Council of Europe to improve the situation of persons with disabilities. The Council

of Ministers had decided to establish the Council for People with Disabilities of Bosnia and

Herzegovina as an advisory body in charge of monitoring the implementation of the

Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and had initiated

amendments to the relevant legislation. Bosnia and Herzegovina had ratified the

International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance

(ICPPED) in 2012 and recognized the competence of the Committee on Enforced

Disappearances. The Missing Persons Institute of Bosnia and Herzegovina had been

established and there were efforts under way to create a new management structure for it

and a fund to provide support to the families of missing persons.

8. The delegation mentioned measures that were being taken, including expansion of

the number of trained officials at the entity level and improvements to the monitoring

system of discrimination at the national level through the establishment of a system for

collecting data on cases of discrimination.

9. As regards child protection, the delegation referred to the action plan for children

and cited several policy documents.

10. With regard to inclusive education, the delegation mentioned a number of measures

related to the education of Roma children, including the provision of Roma teaching

assistants in cooperation with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and a number of

incentives for enrolment and attendance at school. It noted that the number of children

dropping out at primary and secondary level had significantly decreased.

11. The delegation emphasized that the legal and strategic documents governing

education had created the preconditions for the development of a tolerant, multi-ethnic

environment in schools.

12. The delegation stated that representatives of all minorities in Bosnia and

Herzegovina sat on the Council for National Minorities at the State and entity levels. A

strategy for Roma and a revised action plan for addressing Roma issues in the areas of

employment, housing and health care had been adopted in 2013, and a budget of EUR

1.5 million created for its implementation. A strategic platform to address the issues of

national minorities was also being developed.

13. On the issue of social inclusion, the delegation stated that Bosnia and Herzegovina

reported regularly on the problems of vulnerable groups and proposed programmes aimed

at minorities, children and women victims of violence and trafficking, which were provided

through the use of additional funds from the budget and the donor programmes of a number

of international organizations. Protection programmes were also undertaken with domestic

NGOs.

14. In relation to the right to travel documents, the delegation stressed that citizens who

fulfilled the criteria under the legislation on identity cards were entitled to travel documents

and significant progress had been made in implementing the relevant regional declaration

(the Zagreb Declaration).

15. The delegation noted that in the last 15 years, since trafficking had first been

observed in Bosnia and Herzegovina, comprehensive measures had been undertaken to

prevent it. The delegation noted that a number of indicators given in international

monitoring reports were consistent in their assessment that the problem persisted, but to a

much lesser extent than in previous years. The delegation mentioned the adoption of the

Strategy to Counter Trafficking in Human Beings in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Action

Plan 2013–2015. It noted that it was based on an innovative approach, involving the full

participation of civil society.

16. The delegation stated that adequate psychological, medical, social and legal

assistance was provided for foreigners who had been victims of trafficking, and mentioned

amendments in 2010 to the criminal code of Bosnia and Herzegovina, which introduced the

criminal offence of trafficking in persons, in line with relevant international standards. The

delegation also provided many other details of the domestic legal framework in relation to

trafficking in human beings.

17. Regarding anti-corruption and organized crime, the delegation reported that the Law

on the Protection of Persons Reporting Corruption (Whistleblowers) in the Institutions of

Bosnia and Herzegovina was passed in late 2013. The anti-corruption strategy for the

period 2009–2014 and an action plan for the implementation of strategy had been adopted

and the delegation provided details of various related legislative and policy measures.

18. In relation to gender issues, the delegation stated that Bosnia and Herzegovina had

signed and ratified a number of international conventions dealing with the prohibition of

violence against women and domestic violence, and had harmonized national laws and

facilitated their implementation. At the entity level, laws and by-laws for the prevention of

and protection from domestic violence had been enacted. The new laws provided access to

all levels of health care in family planning for women, regardless of the status of their

health insurance.

19. The delegation mentioned that the gender action plan had specific sectorial

strategies, such as the 2014–2017 action plan of Bosnia and Herzegovina for the

implementation of Security Council resolution 1325 (2000), the 2013–2017 strategy for

preventing and combating domestic violence of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina

(the Federation) and the 2014–2019 strategy for combating domestic violence of Republika

Srpska.

20. The delegation also mentioned the 2014–2018 strategy for the implementation of the

Council of Europe Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence against Women and

Domestic Violence, which was in the process of being adopted. Among other measures to

which the delegation referred were projects to promote the representation of women in

political and public life, implemented by the Agency for Gender Equality of Bosnia and

Herzegovina and entity gender centres. A women’s parliamentary caucus of the Federation

had been established. From its inception in March 2013, the caucus parties had made a

significant effort in organizational development and influence in parliament.

21. The representative of Republika Srpska recalled that the constitution of Bosnia and

Herzegovina was part of the Framework Agreement for Peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina

(the Dayton agreement) and was thus part of an international treaty, as well as of domestic

legislation. The constitution set out the limited competencies of the institutions of Bosnia

and Herzegovina and left all other competencies to the entities. Many of the issues being

considered by the meeting were within the competencies of Republika Srpska. It was also

important to note that the constitution included direct implementation of the European

Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms.

22. The representative noted that during the period under consideration, Republika

Srpska had made significant progress in combating corruption, including the adoption of an

action plan and strategy and the formation of an expert group for the monitoring of their

implementation.

23. In relation to combating trafficking in human beings, the representative mentioned

the important step that had been taken through the harmonization of the criminal code of

Republika Srpska with international standards relating to the definition of trafficking.

Republika Srpska had also taken measures to implement the recommendations of the

European Committee for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or

Punishment in relation to sentenced prisoners. Conditions of detention had been improved

and any abuse of authority or use of excessive force or inhuman treatment by police officers

was strictly punished.

24. The representative stated that the criminal code of Republika Srpska provided

sanctions against incitement of national, racial or religious hatred, discord or intolerance.

25. Republika Srpska had been active in judicial reform, but the representative noted

that many judicial institutions had been created in the post-war period in contravention of

the constitution. It was necessary to eliminate ethnic discrimination in the work of the

Prosecutor’s Office and Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina, especially in processing cases of

war crimes committed against Serbs.

26. The representative of Republika Srpska expressed the hope that the new

Government, which would be constituted after the recent general elections, would support

all reasonable proposals for the implementation of the decision in the case of Sejdić and

Finci v. Bosnia and Herzegovina. Republika Srpska had already proposed a way to

eliminate all discriminatory election provisions on its territory. The representative also

noted that in the case of Maktouf and Damjanović v. Bosnia and Herzegovina, the

European Court of Human Rights had proposed that the practice of retroactive application

of the law in war crimes cases be eliminated, but that the Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina

had not yet adopted measures to implement this.

27. In relation to the equality of all ethnic minorities, the representative of Republika

Srpska noted that none of the entity’s laws contained discriminatory provisions in that

respect. Members of the Roma community enjoyed the same rights as other citizens,

including health care. Republika Srpska had undertaken numerous measures to advance the

status of women, including in combating violence against women, their political

participation and employment. Notably, the criminal code had been amended to treat

domestic violence as a crime rather than a misdemeanour. Republika Srpska had adopted a

strategy on combating domestic violence, a related law and protocols, and had also formed

the Council for Children.

28. The representative of the Federation noted that its Government was conscious of the

existence of discrimination in certain fields within the entity and was clear in condemning

all acts of discrimination. A series of legal measures had been introduced to address the

issue, but the entity Government had spoken boldly in favour of constitutional reform, the

need to simplify and reduce the structures of governance and against discrimination on any

basis. The support of friendly countries was necessary to enable citizens to enjoy the same

rights as those in the most developed countries. He noted that, while the entities did have

certain competencies, they did not have international legal personality and the statements of

the representative of Republika Srpska, which went outside the existing constitutional

framework, underlined the need for constitutional reform, which would assist democracy

and the fulfilment of the international obligations of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

29. The representative of the Federation stated that education in the entity was within

the competency of its cantons and the Federal Ministry had only a coordinating role.

However, the Ministry of Education and the Government of the Federation had invested

much effort and adopted a strategy and recommendations for the elimination of divided

structures and segregation in schools, commonly known as “two schools under one roof”.

Those were preconditions for the creation of a multi-ethnic and tolerant environment in

schools in the Federation. The representative also highlighted the investment and efforts

needed to improve conditions for children with special needs.

30. In relation to employment rights the Government of the Federation was

unswervingly committed to respecting the fulfilment of the rights and obligations of both

employees and employers. A new modern labour law was being drafted. The Federation

regretted the length of some judicial proceedings in labour-related cases. Tackling the

informal economy was another priority for the Government of the Federation: new laws on

misdemeanours and labour inspection had been adopted to increase employee protection,

with increased inspections and penalties.

31. The representative noted that the Government of the Federation fully understood the

significance and gravity of the problems caused by corruption and had consequently

initiated several major reform processes. The general plan on combating corruption and two

related laws were probably the most important recent reforms. Specialized courts and

prosecutors’ offices were important elements of those.

32. Significant progress had been made in improving the conditions of detention and the

representative mentioned that the legislation had been amended. Particularly important

were the provisions for the serving of sentences under home detention orders and for

substituting the payment of financial compensation for imprisonment. Those provisions had

greatly relieved overcrowding.

33. The representative noted that the damage caused during the recent floods had

amounted to billions of euros and the Government of the Federation had undertaken great

efforts to help the affected citizens to return to normal life, with a particular emphasis on

ensuring the equitable distribution of assistance.

34. The representative highlighted the cooperation of the Federation with the Office of

the High Representative and international organizations, such as the International

Commission for Missing Persons and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in

Europe, and thanked them for the assistance of those and numerous other domestic and

international institutions. The Government of the Federation remained united in its support

for human rights as an overarching priority and would continue to apply itself to full

implementation of the accepted international instruments.

B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review

35. During the interactive dialogue, 62 delegations made statements. Recommendations

made during the dialogue are to be found in section II of the present report.

36. The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia commended the standing invitation to

special procedures, the ratification of international instruments and the progress regarding

Roma housing needs. It requested details on health and employment measures for Roma. It

welcomed the action plans on women, peace and security and children’s rights, requesting

information on implementation.

37. Turkey welcomed the progress in addressing gender-based violence, including the

ratification of regional instruments and the work by the Agency for Gender Equality,

encouraging further efforts. It applauded the progress regarding corruption and human

trafficking, noting related strategies and action plans, and the harmonization of national

legislation with international standards.

38. The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland noted the work of the

Ombudsman institution, the development of a national plan for human rights and financial

and political support for institutional and judicial bodies. It welcomed implementation of

the National War Crimes Strategy, encouraging a focus on the prosecution of sexual

violence cases.

39. The United States of America commended the elections, but urged investigation into

reported irregularities. It expressed concern regarding alleged police ill-treatment of

suspects, despite acceptance of the relevant recommendation. It noted the issues of child

labour, particularly among Roma, and the right of refugees to return to pre-war homes.

40. Uruguay highlighted the ratification of OP-ICESCR and ICPPED. It welcomed the

standing invitation to special procedures independent experts, which showed commitment

to cooperation with the international human rights system.

41. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela noted efforts to improve the living conditions

of Roma, particularly through education. It further noted the development of the normative

framework for the prevention of gender-based violence, domestic violence and the

protection of victims.

42. Viet Nam commended achievements in promoting and protecting human rights,

including adoption of the guidelines for implementation of the World Programme for

Human Rights Education in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It also noted improvements regarding

institutional capacities, media freedom, education, social and health care, and employment

rates.

43. Afghanistan commended efforts to implement recommendations accepted during the

first cycle of the universal periodic review, particularly the ratification of CRPD and

acceptance of its inquiry procedure. It welcomed the progress towards ensuring the rights of

vulnerable and minority groups, noting the establishment of the Council of National

Minorities and new laws and strategies.

44. Algeria welcomed the ratification of international instruments, including CRPD. It

noted the creation of the Council for Children of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the

adaptation of school curricula to meet the needs of minorities and improve integration. It

welcomed the progress regarding gender equality, noting greater numbers of women in

decision-making positions.

45. Angola welcomed the accession to international conventions and directives to

improve living conditions for Roma children. It commended the work to harmonize gender

equality legislation and ensure its application, in line with the the recommendation of the

Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women. It noted efforts to

improve the social position of persons with disabilities.

46. Argentina commended efforts to strengthen criminal proceedings in relation to war

crimes, noting the adoption of the protocol on the treatment of victims and witnesses of war

crimes, sexual assault and other criminal acts of gender-based violence. It expressed an

interest in the information provided regarding the prohibition of discrimination.

47. Australia welcomed the successful general elections and the progress in combating

systematic abuses by the security forces. It expressed concern about constitutional clauses

restricting full political participation by all citizens; undue influence and lack of capacity in

the justice system; and reports of intimidation against journalists.

48. Austria commended the ratification of international instruments, noting concerns

about implementation of the national policy framework. It expressed concern regarding

violence against women; lack of progress on the ruling on the case of Sejdić and Finci; and

Roma children outside the education system. It welcomed the ratification of CRPD and its

Optional Protocol (OP-CRPD), urging further implementation.

49. Bahrain commended the method used to prepare the national report and noted efforts

to implement recommendations accepted during the first cycle of the universal periodic

review. It welcomed the reform of the criminal courts through the establishment of an

efficient judicial system, guaranteeing the right to a fair trial, and related staff training

programmes.

50. Belgium expressed regret that ethnic minorities had been prevented from standing

for high-level State positions during recent elections; that right had only been granted to the

three ethnic groups recognized in the constitution. It acknowledged local efforts to combat

discrimination but noted ongoing issues, especially regarding returnees, disabled persons

and Roma.

51. Brazil welcomed adoption of the guidelines for handling cases of violence against

children in Bosnia and Herzegovina, calling for further measures in that regard and the

promotion of access to education among vulnerable groups. It recognized the commitment

to establishing the truth about persons missing during the war, urging further efforts.

52. Bulgaria welcomed the incorporation of the Rome Statute of the International

Criminal Court into national legislation. It noted the concerns of the Committee on the

Elimination of Racial Discrimination and the Human Rights Committee regarding hate

speech and intolerance. It requested information on the progress made and the measures

taken in that respect and the steps towards a legal framework against hate crime and

discrimination based on ethnicity.

53. Canada requested information regarding progress towards ending ethnic segregation

in schools and remaining obstacles. It welcomed the constructive approach to dialogue,

acknowledging the challenges faced, but noted that segregation was not conducive to

meeting the right to education; rather the education system should strengthen the country’s

multicultural character.

54. Chile welcomed the initiatives to implement the recommendations from the first

cycle, the ratification of international instruments, the promulgation of legislation and the

strengthening of human rights institutions, particularly the implementation of plans of

action regarding Security Council resolution 1325 (2000) and demining.

55. China commended the implementation of the recommendations accepted during the

first cycle of the universal periodic review, noting the measures regarding vulnerable

groups, gender equality and domestic violence, and the strategies and policies to protect

children’s rights. It welcomed the measures to ensure equal opportunities for persons with

disabilities and combat discrimination against ethnic minorities including Roma.

56. Costa Rica noted efforts to align national legislation with international standards,

urging further efforts to implement recommendations and court rulings from regional and

international bodies. It commended the measures to protect children’s rights, but expressed

concern regarding street children. It welcomed the measures regarding domestic violence

and women’s rights, noting the Election Law.

57. Croatia welcomed efforts to implement the recommendations accepted during the

first cycle of the universal periodic review and institutional and legislative changes

regarding women’s rights. It commended the establishment of an independent national

preventive mechanism against torture, aligned with the procedures of the Optional Protocol

to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or

Punishment (OP-CAT), and asked for information concerning a post-2014 action plan for

children.

58. The Czech Republic warmly welcomed the members of the Bosnia and Herzegovina

delegation and delivered recommendations.

59. Egypt commended institutional improvements, noting progress regarding children’s

rights, the Ombudsman institution, the revised definition of torture, and measures against

corruption. It welcomed the ratification of CRPD and asked whether a national action plan

on human rights would add value, particularly in terms of national coordination.

60. Estonia commended the ratification of CRPD and OP-CRPD, welcoming an action

plan for the implementation of Security Council resolution 1325 (2000). It expressed

concern regarding the implementation of the ruling on Sejdić and Finci and legislation

regarding discrimination. It welcomed measures regarding Roma and the collection of data

on discrimination, but noted failures regarding fundamental freedoms.

61. Finland commended the establishment of a national Council for Persons with

Disabilities and efforts to eliminate differential treatment based on disability or

geographical location, despite remaining challenges. It expressed concern regarding justice

for victims of war crimes involving sexual violence and called for accelerated prosecutions

and the ensuring of access to judicial and health services for victims.

62. France welcomed ratification of ICPPED. It asked what practical measures had been

taken to increase the participation of women in civic and professional spheres and combat

domestic violence. It also asked what action had been taken to combat impunity in cases of

sexual violence committed during the war.

63. Germany welcomed the progress regarding human rights legislation, particularly

steps to combat trafficking and address the situation of internally displaced persons. It

encouraged further efforts to improve the human rights situation, in particular through

adequately resourced implementation programmes in accordance with the rule of law.

64. Hungary commended efforts to ensure proper data collection, but reiterated concerns

regarding the failure to fully implement previous recommendations, notably due to

inadequate resources. It welcomed the progress on Roma inclusion, women’s rights, and

gender equality. The situation of internally displaced persons and returnees remained a

concern, despite a revised strategy in that regard.

65. The head of the delegation of Bosnia and Herzegovina enumerated a number of the

human rights issues which had been raised in the review. In relation to the return of

refugees and internally displaced persons, he noted that 99 per cent of their housing had

been returned to them since the end of the war, but problems in ensuring sustainability had

contributed to a slow rate of return. Moreover, the living conditions for many of those that

had returned were not yet satisfactory. The recent elections had still not resulted in the

formation of a new Government, but the leaders had spoken of the priority of implementing

the decision in the case of Sejdić and Finci and improving cooperation within Bosnia and

Herzegovina. He expressed the hope that it would finally be resolved and that the electoral

law would be amended.

66. The Assistant Minister for Human Rights noted the communications which Bosnia

and Herzegovina had recently received under the individual communications procedures of

several treaties, and its standing invitation to the special procedures. She also noted a

number of activities in the process, including the action plan for children and amendments

to the Law on the Ombudsman, which would be submitted to parliament in early 2015. The

latter would include the creation of a national preventive mechanism and an increase in the

independence of the Ombudsman institution, in accordance with the Paris Principles.

Technical amendments to the Anti-Discrimination Law would improve the procedures for

protection from discrimination. She noted the many judgements under that law in the past

years.

67. The Assistant Minister also noted the elimination in the majority of municipalities of

the problem of birth registration of Roma children, with the assistance of the Office of the

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and the United Nations Children’s Fund,

and amendments to the legislation. In relation to street children and their social exclusion

and exploitation, the Ministry had initiated research and created local teams and a number

of day-care centres to support both the children and their families. The Bosnia and

Herzegovina and entity Governments had adopted plans and activities, in cooperation with

the NGOs, with the aim of ensuring support for victims of domestic violence.

68. A draft action plan for human rights and related directives in the field of human

rights had been prepared and the Assistant Minister also noted that there was legislation in

place to protect persons of various sexual orientations. The Ministry was seeking to

improve practices in that area. Both the Council for Children and the Council for Persons

with Disabilities had continued their work.

69. The delegation referred to the measures taken to implement CRPD since the last

review, including the creation of the Association of Persons with Disabilities, which

monitors policy at the State and entity levels. Both entities have laws to stimulate

employment. Measures included financial incentives for employers and support for self-

employment. All strategies related to employment took into account persons with

disabilities as one of the target groups. Other policies, including those in education, also

targeted that group. Bosnia and Herzegovina had made progress with regard to the rights of

persons with disabilities, but would re-examine issues raised in the interactive dialogue.

70. The representative of the Ministry of Justice of Bosnia and Herzegovina noted the

importance of the case of Sejdić and Finci. Although the issue had not been resolved,

Bosnia and Herzegovina had taken some measures for enforcing the decision of the court,

including the creation of a commission, which was to prepare the draft constitutional and

legislative amendments. Unfortunately, no agreement had been reached, but the work had

continued and the working group for drafting the amendment to the Election Law had not

yet submitted its report.

71. The delegation referred to the training of judges and prosecutors, which was carried

out by the entity judicial and prosecutorial training centres and which covered a wide range

of topics. Other projects covered the training of prison staff.

72. The head of the delegation regretted that there had not been time to provide verbal

answers to all the questions raised in the interactive dialogue, but stressed that written

answers on the achievements and plans of Bosnia and Herzegovina would be made

available.

73. Iceland echoed concerns raised by the Committee on the Elimination of Racial

Discrimination regarding hate speech and discrimination on grounds of ethnicity and race.

It commended the efforts to improve the situation of women in post-conflict situations, but

expressed concern regarding the slow progress in prosecutions and poor conviction rates. It

encouraged further efforts against human trafficking.

74. Indonesia welcomed the accession to core international instruments, good

cooperation and the standing invitation to special procedures. It believed that a national

action plan would enable better protection of human rights. It commended efforts to combat

discrimination through policies to end segregation in schools, but noted remaining

challenges.

75. The Islamic Republic of Iran welcomed the positive steps taken since the first cycle

of the universal periodic review and expressed the hope that further measures would be

taken to protect human rights and fundamental freedoms. It encouraged Bosnia and

Herzegovina to accede to the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the

Child on a communications procedure.

76. Ireland noted the national action plans on women’s and children’s rights and the

standing invitation issued to special procedures. It expressed concern regarding the limited

cooperation with treaty bodies; the fragmented implementation of policies; and the low rate

of prosecution and conviction of alleged perpetrators of war crimes, especially as regards

sexual violence.

77. Italy welcomed the accession of Bosnia and Herzegovina to the core international

human rights instruments; the lack of use of the death penalty; and the steps to combat

corruption, organized crime and human trafficking through related strategies and action

plans. A multi-ethnic and multicultural education system was important.

78. Kuwait noted efforts in many sectors, especially regarding discrimination, poverty,

children’s rights, minorities and gender equality. It commended the establishment of the

Council for Children and efforts to promote the rights of persons with disabilities and the

most vulnerable population groups.

79. Latvia welcomed the progress made and noted efforts towards removing landmines

and the development of educational programmes for children and young people on the

threat of landmines. However, there were several areas in which further steps could be

taken to promote and protect human rights.

80. Libya welcomed the ratification of CRPD and OP-CRPD, and compliance with

international commitments. It commended the establishment of the Council for Children to

monitor implementation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) and the related

action plan on children’s rights, as well as the reform of the High Judicial and Prosecutorial

Council.

81. Lithuania recognized the ratification of international and regional instruments on

women’s rights and protecting children from sexual exploitation and abuse, but expressed

concern regarding the implementation of international obligations and the need for justice

for female victims of sexual and gender-based violence during the war.

82. Malaysia welcomed the improved social protection of vulnerable population groups,

the harmonization of domestic violence legislation with international standards and efforts

to combat human trafficking and for the protection of victims, as well as progress in

poverty eradication, primary education and gender equality, as it had recommended

previously.

83. Mauritania noted efforts to bolster democracy and the rule of law and cooperation

with international mechanisms and civil society. It appreciated the legislation and practical

measures to strengthen human rights institutions, the alignment of national legislation with

international law and the accession to human rights conventions.

84. Mexico recognized the country’s cooperation with international mechanisms,

including the ratification of ICPPED and CRPD, the submission of treaty body reports and

the agreement to receive visits by various special procedures mandate holders. It

commended the adoption of the revised strategy for the implementation of Annex VII of the

Dayton Peace Agreement.

85. Montenegro welcomed the revised strategy for the implementation of Annex VII of

the Dayton Peace Agreement and asked about the challenges facing its implementation. It

welcomed the protection of children’s rights, asking about the results of the implementation

of the guidelines for improving the situation of Roma children.

86. Morocco noted efforts to promote respect for religious and cultural diversity,

including those aimed at political cohesion. It welcomed the independent High Judicial and

Prosecutorial Council; efforts to harmonize legislation on discrimination; simplifying

procedures for civil registration processes; and efforts to implement the World Programme

for Human Rights Education.

87. The Netherlands encouraged judicial reform, equal rights for ethnic and religious

groups and continuing harmonization with international standards. It expressed concern

about discriminatory articles in the electoral legislation; weakened judicial institutions;

deteriorating freedoms of the media and of assembly; and the low conviction rate of

perpetrators of sexual violence.

88. Norway encouraged implementation of the Gender Equality Law. It noted that

access to justice, particularly regarding war crimes, was difficult. Norway highlighted the

importance of an integrated education system for reconciliation and peaceful coexistence;

the participation of civil society; and the rights to freedom of assembly and non-

discrimination for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities.

89. The Philippines recognized measures to prohibit discrimination, promote the

inclusion of Roma, implement the World Programme for Human Rights Education and

ensure the Ombudsman’s compliance with the Paris Principles. Noting ratification of the

International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and

Members of Their Families, it asked what procedural safeguards were being established to

ensure access to effective redress.

90. Poland welcomed the efforts of Bosnia and Herzegovina to implement the

recommendations accepted during the first cycle of the universal periodic review. It

expressed concern regarding the human rights situation of persons belonging to national

minorities, especially the Roma community.

91. Portugal welcomed the standing invitation issued to special procedures and the

ratification of CRPD and ICPPED. It expressed concern regarding the domestic trafficking

and exploitation of children, including begging, and asked for further information about

those issues.

92. Qatar applauded efforts to promote children’s rights, including the Council for

Children and related action plans. It commended the Council for Persons with Disabilities

and the strategy and action plan for improvement of the social position of persons with

disabilities. It encouraged the alignment of national legislation with international standards.

93. The Republic of Moldova noted the alignment of domestic legislation with

international instruments and the adoption of sector-based strategies, asking whether a

national action plan on human rights would be considered. It noted the commitment to

human rights education for public officials and the priority given to combating domestic

violence.

94. Romania noted the ratification of the Council of Europe Convention on Preventing

and Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence and OP-ICESCR;

adoption of the strategy to counter trafficking in human beings and its action plan; and

measures to protect the rights of women and children.

95. The Russian Federation noted the country’s adherence to international instruments,

improvements in national legislation and the implementation of multilateral agreements.

However, challenges remained. Additionally, it noted that, as regards the situation of

women, several indicators lagged behind European averages and that the Roma remained a

marginalized group.

96. Saudi Arabia commended the cooperation with human rights mechanisms and

efforts to implement international treaties. It noted the achievements in protecting the rights

of the child and commended the establishment of the Council for Children.

97. Senegal noted the progress in combating poverty and discrimination against

minorities and refugees; protecting the rights of children and persons with disabilities; and

freedom of religion. It noted the institutional reform, which would address human rights

violations; and the accession to regional instruments against the sexual exploitation and

abuse of children and violence against women.

98. Serbia commended the steps towards safeguarding equality and minority rights,

combating discrimination, reducing poverty and the sustainable return of refugees and

internally displaced persons. It encouraged implementation of the ruling of the European

Court of Human Rights in the case of Sejdić and Finci and close cooperation with non-

governmental organizations on human rights issues. It asked about specific activities to

promote religious tolerance.

99. Sierra Leone commended the ratification of the core conventions and the submission

of reports to treaty bodies. It noted human rights legislation and strategies, including on

landmines and women’s rights, which should be implemented. It encouraged the protection

of ethnic minorities and their political integration and the prosecution of enforced

disappearances.

100. Slovakia encouraged compliance with international obligations and hoped the new

Government would continue in that regard, including a review of electoral legislation. It

encouraged steps towards inclusive education and awareness-raising of anti-discrimination

legislation. Social assistance should address the needs of the most vulnerable groups.

101. Slovenia welcomed the standing invitation to the special procedures, ratification of

CRPD and ICPPED, the establishment of the Council for Children and the protection of

children’s rights. It encouraged a multi-ethnic learning environment and expressed concern

regarding the lack of access to contraception and sexual and reproductive health education.

102. Spain recognized the efforts to improve the living conditions of persons with

disabilities, legislative amendments to ensure hate crimes were investigated and the

combating of discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. It noted that the Committee

on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women had emphasized the need to achieve

de facto equality for men and women in the labour market. It expressed concern at the

retention of the death penalty in the criminal legislation of parts of the territory of Bosnia

and Herzegovina.

103. Sweden noted ongoing incidences of discrimination, threats and attacks against

lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons and activists, despite previously accepted

recommendations. Welcoming the explicit prohibition of corporal punishment of children

in Republika Srpska, it expressed concern that a similar prohibition was not contained in

legislation in the other administrative entities.

104. Switzerland referred to the efforts to implement the recommendations from the first

cycle of the universal periodic review, in particular with regard to the situation of women

and ongoing discrimination against them. It noted the ratification of the Council of Europe

Convention on the Protection of Children against Sexual Exploitation and Sexual Abuse,

albeit with limited implementation. It encouraged efforts to prosecute war crimes and

combat impunity.

105. Thailand encouraged the country to continue to meet its international and regional

obligations, and to complete the amendment of legislation to ensure that the unified

Ombudsman institution complied with the Paris Principles and received sufficient

resources. It reiterated the importance of a multi-ethnic education system and further

strengthening of institutional capacity.

106. In conclusion, the head of delegation stated that the delegation had tried to answer

the questions to the extent possible within the short time available. He summarized by

stating that Bosnia and Herzegovina had made great progress and was encouraged to

implement the recommendations received and also to continue implementation of its own

plans. The delegation was grateful for the questions and recommendations received.

II. Conclusions and/or recommendations**

107. The following recommendations will be examined by Bosnia and Herzegovina

which will provide responses in due time, but no later than the twenty-eighth session

of the Human Rights Council in March 2015.

107.1 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the

Child on a communications procedure (Portugal);

107.2 Sign and ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights

of the Child on a communications procedure (Slovakia);

107.3 Make necessary amendments to the constitution to ensure full

integration of all national minorities (Norway);

107.4 Maintain and strengthen the harmonization process of the criminal

legislation of the country with international standards (Senegal);

107.5 Take further measures in order to ensure the effective

implementation of the international human rights instruments and to enhance

the coordination between the different institutional levels involved (Italy);

107.6 Strengthen the capacities of the Ombudsman; intensify government

support to this institution and take its recommendations into account (France);

107.7 Strengthen the capacity and improve the effectiveness of the national

Ombudsman, ensuring full adherence to the Paris Principles (Germany);

107.8 Allocate adequate funding to strengthen the State level Human

Rights Ombudsman and allow early implementation of Venice Commission

recommendations (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland);

107.9 Provide the Ombudsman with the necessary financial resources, with

a view to preserving its “A” status of accreditation (Morocco);

107.10 Provide budgetary and legal support to the Ombudsman for Human

Rights in order to ensure its effectiveness and institutional independence

(Poland);

107.11 Enhance the independence of the Ombudsman, in accordance with

the Paris Principles, ensuring adequate funding for its proper functioning

(Portugal);

107.12 Provide the Ombudsman institution with adequate financial and

human resources so that it can fulfil its mandate effectively (Slovakia);

107.13 Expedite the establishment of its national preventive mechanism, in

accordance with its obligations under OPCAT (the former Yugoslav Republic

of Macedonia);

107.14 Create a national mechanism to prevent torture in conformity with

OPCAT (France);

107.15 Act on its previous commitment and establish a national preventative

mechanism, as defined under OPCAT, and ensure the allocation of adequate

resources for its functioning (Hungary);

** Conclusions and recommendations have not been edited.

107.16 Adopt a comprehensive national plan for human rights as a

comprehensive document that includes effective measures for all human rights

issues (Croatia);

107.17 Develop and implement a national action plan for human rights in

order to framework a systematic approach to the promotion and protection of

human rights (Indonesia);

107.18 Continue with further efforts to guarantee children’s rights,

particularly in the field of social protection and education (Viet Nam);

107.19 After the implementation of the action plan for children in Bosnia

and Herzegovina for the period 2002–2010, continue developing programmes

for the protection of children, particularly on the fight against child

exploitation for begging, their possible recruitment and use in armed conflicts,

their protection in judicial processes, as well as their separation from adults in

places of detention (Chile);

107.20 Further strengthen the rule of law and institutions to enforce social

cohesion, tolerance and equality in order to comprehensively guarantee human

rights for her people, in particular the vulnerable groups (Viet Nam);

107.21 Take measures to improve cooperation and coordination of activities

among bodies at all levels which have a role to play in the promotion and

protection of human rights (Ireland);

107.22 Implement transparent and inclusive mechanisms of public

consultations with civil society organizations on all issues mentioned above (i.e.

gender equality, minority rights, redressing wartime crimes, inclusive quality

education for minorities and discrimination against LGBT persons) (Norway);

107.23 Improve the programmes for human rights training, in particular

those designed for judges and law enforcement agents (Algeria);

107.24 Develop a national plan to combat discrimination, including through

training for law enforcement agents and legal professionals and a campaign to

raise public awareness (France);

107.25 Take all necessary measures to ensure the application of all laws and

the training of officials in the rights of the child (Libya);

107.26 Continue its efforts to promote and protect the rights of vulnerable

groups and provide them with more equal opportunities for advancement

(China);

107.27 Draft and adopt a countrywide anti-discrimination strategy, in close

cooperation with all relevant stakeholders, including with regard to sexual

orientation and gender identity, and the Roma community (Germany);

107.28 Harmonize the Law on the Prohibition of Discrimination with the

laws and provisions at entity, district and municipal levels and increase general

awareness of the law (Estonia);

107.29 Bring all the national legislation into conformity with the 2009 Anti-

Discrimination Law (France);

107.30 Implement the Anti-Discrimination Law by adopting an anti-

discrimination strategy and action plan (Serbia);

107.31 Further efforts to foster intercultural dialogue, tolerance and

understanding among the different communities and groups living in Bosnia

and Herzegovina (Italy);

107.32 Ensure the effective implementation of the Convention on the

Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and actively

promote gender equality (Switzerland);

107.33 Fully implement without further delay the provisions on the Law on

Gender Equality and include the prohibition of discrimination against women

in the new constitution (Austria);

107.34 Implement the Law on Gender Equality and the gender action plan

and ensure their adequate resourcing (Lithuania);

107.35 Continue increasing concrete measures within the framework of the

2011–2015 Strategy and its plan of action, for the promotion and protection of

gender equality and women’s rights (Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of));

107.36 Allocate adequate resources for the full effectiveness of the gender

plan of action (2013–2017) (Spain);

107.37 Implement measures that ensure equality of rights and non-

discrimination, especially on the grounds of gender, sexual orientation or

gender identity (Uruguay);

107.38 Strengthen actions to ensure the effective implementation of

legislation for protection against all forms of racial or ethnic discrimination,

with a particular consideration to the creation of oversight mechanisms

(Argentina);

107.39 Establish and strengthen programmes for combating prejudice and

mechanisms for monitoring acts of ethnic-based discrimination and violence

(Iceland);

107.40 Establish programmes for combating prejudice against ethnic

minorities (Poland);

107.41 Enact legislation and norms prohibiting the creation of associations

that promote and disseminate hate speech and racism, consistent with

appropriate international instruments (Chile);

107.42 Combat hate speech and hate crime, including in the political sphere,

and, to this end, collect and evaluate hate speech and hate crime data, and

promote inter-ethnic and interreligious tolerance, in particular in the education

system (Czech Republic);

107.43 Redouble its efforts to combat public manifestation of hate speech

and intolerance (Indonesia);

107.44 Strengthen legislation to combat incitement to hate and

discrimination on the grounds of ethnicity, culture, religion or nationality,

particularly when it comes in political statements or from public officials

(Mexico);

107.45 Investigate and prosecute incidents of hate speech (Sierra Leone);

107.46 Reform laws that contain discriminatory provisions, in particular

against Roma people (Iran (Islamic Republic of));

107.47 Reinforce measures aimed at combating ethnic, racial and gender-

based discrimination. Bearing in mind that Bosnia and Herzegovina is

currently holding the chairmanship of the Decade for Roma Inclusion,

undertake more measures to promote the inclusion of persons belonging to the

Roma minority during the tenure of this initiative (Romania);

107.48 Continue its efforts to combat all forms of discrimination and

religious fanaticism (Kuwait);

107.49 Step up measures to establish trust between religious communities

within the country (Algeria);

107.50 Take measures to effectively combat discrimination based on sexual

orientation or gender identity (France);

107.51 Build upon developments in Sarajevo Canton police regarding

training, coordination and awareness-raising in tackling discrimination of

LGBT persons and implement these practices throughout the judiciary and the

police (Norway);

107.52 Develop a communications strategy to raise the awareness of society

of the difficulties faced by groups of LGBTI persons and foster an environment

of tolerance (Spain);

107.53 Publicly and unequivocally condemn any attack, verbal or physical,

against LGBT groups and bring those responsible to justice (Sweden);

107.54 Proceed with the adaptation of legislation in all its national territory,

in conformity with the provisions of the Second Optional Protocol to the

International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, signed and ratified by the

country (Spain);

107.55 Abolish the death penalty in Republika Srpska (France);

107.56 Repeal the death penalty provision in the constitution of Republika

Srpska, so that the existing moratorium gives way to the full abolition of the

death penalty (Italy);

107.57 Provide training to police officers about unacceptable conduct and

adequately punish all cases of ill-treatment (United States of America);

107.58 Harmonize domestic legislation with international standards in

relation to crimes of sexual violence during armed conflicts, continuing with

investigations and ensuring the protection of witnesses and victims of these

crimes (Uruguay);

107.59 Bring its legislation into line with the international standards related

to the prosecution of war crimes of sexual violence (Finland);

107.60 Expedite the adoption of laws and programmes designed to ensure

effective access to justice for all victims of wartime sexual violence, including

adequate reparation (Iceland);

107.61 Thoroughly investigate acts of sexual violence committed during the

conflict, with a view to holding perpetrators to account, ensure reparation and

full reintegration into society of victims of wartime rape and other sexual

violence, and take action to counter any manifestations of stigma and exclusion

directed against them (Ireland);

107.62 The judiciary and other relevant authorities to provide justice,

reparation and rehabilitation to the victims of wartime rape and sexual

violence (Norway);

107.63 Amend the criminal code in order to ensure that the definition of war

crimes of sexual violence is in accordance with international standards and to

implement the National War Crimes Strategy (Lithuania);

107.64 Ensure adequate trained prosecutors, judges and staff in the justice

systems of the Federation and of Republika Srpska, in order to make timely

and efficient progress on war crime cases, including the sensitive handling of

those dealing with sexual violence (United Kingdom of Great Britain and

Northern Ireland);

107.65 Implement the recommendations of the Committee on the

Elimination of Discrimination against Women, establishing a monitoring

system and implementing legislation to combat domestic violence and other

forms of violence against women (Uruguay);

107.66 Take measures to monitor the implementation of measures aimed at

protecting victims of domestic violence (Bahrain);

107.67 Continue strengthening legislation aimed at protecting victims of

domestic violence (Latvia);

107.68 Continue its positive measures in combatting domestic violence,

including by ensuring effective investigation of domestic violence cases,

bringing the perpetrators to justice and providing victims with the necessary

assistance and protection (Malaysia);

107.69 Further ensure on its territory harmonized legislation on domestic

violence and continue strengthening the referral mechanisms in order to

provide protection to victims of domestic violence (Republic of Moldova);

107.70 Implement measures to reduce and eliminate child, early and forced

marriage, including by addressing factors leading to high school drop-out rates

among Roma children (Canada);

107.71 Step up its efforts to address the prevalence of violence against

women by adopting a strategy for the implementation of the Council of Europe

Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence against Women and

Domestic Violence (Hungary);

107.72 Revise and harmonize legislation on sexual and domestic violence

with a view to penalizing all acts of violence committed against women (Sierra

Leone);

107.73 Continue implementing its development plans, since development is

an inalienable right, and support practical efforts to achieve development and

to strengthen institutional capacities, focusing on the Government’s priorities

which are education, social welfare and health services, and develop an

effective national plan to combat human trafficking in cooperation with

neighbouring countries (Saudi Arabia);

107.74 Ensure the explicit legal prohibition of corporal punishment of

children in all settings (Croatia);

107.75 Enact legislation explicitly prohibiting all corporal punishment in all

settings, including the home, in the District of Brčko and in the Federation of

Bosnia and Herzegovina (Sweden);

107.76 Prosecute the exploitation and trafficking of children, in particular of

girls from ethnic minorities forced into early marriage (Sierra Leone);

107.77 Address serious problems associated with pursuing perpetrators of

child pornography and other forms of sexual exploitation and sexual abuse of

children and providing assistance for and protection of victims and witnesses

(Iran (Islamic Republic of));

107.78 Make necessary amendments to the national legislation in order to

bring it into line with international obligations and commitments for the

protection of children and in particular for their protection against sexual

abuses, as well as against trafficking of persons (Switzerland);

107.79 Raise public awareness of the Council of Europe Convention on the

Protection of Children against Sexual Exploitation and Sexual Abuse

(Lithuania);

107.80 Create a national system for information management to collect data

on human trafficking, including human traffickers and identified victims

(Turkey);

107.81 Amend laws to explicitly prohibit all forms of human trafficking,

with a specific focus on child labour and forced begging (United States of

America);

107.82 Strengthen the work on the fight against the trafficking of persons

(Uruguay);

107.83 Continue efforts to combat the trafficking of persons, in particular of

women and children, with the prosecution of perpetrators (Costa Rica);

107.84 Maintain its efforts in the area of combating trafficking in persons,

especially women and children, including through a victim-oriented approach

and an enhanced level of international and regional cooperation (Egypt);

107.85 Enhance efforts to establish and regularly update a countrywide

database of human trafficking and enhance the support and assistance offered

to the victims of trafficking (Italy);

107.86 Strengthen efforts aimed at combating and punishing trafficking in

persons, particularly children and women, for labour and sexual exploitation

(Mexico);

107.87 Continue efforts to implement the existing strategies and action plans

to combat trafficking in human beings and to establish channels and

mechanisms for international cooperation in this field (Qatar);

107.88 Implement the 2011–2014 action plan for children and the Strategy

for combating violence against children 2012–2015, provide sufficient resources

for the Strategy, enact a comprehensive national law on the rights of the child,

ensure effective means of reporting violence against children and provide

material and psychological assistance to victims of such violence (Saudi

Arabia);

107.89 Adopt measures to address the problems of exploitation and domestic

trafficking of children and ensure that all cases of trafficking are subject to

proper investigation (Portugal);

107.90 Ensure the effective implementation of existing legislation, including

the provision of protection and assistance to victims and timely prosecution and

punishment of traffickers (Iceland);

107.91 Take further steps to improve the enforcement of anti-trafficking

laws (Iran (Islamic Republic of));

107.92 Provide additional and sustained political and financial support to

the justice system, including the Prosecutor’s Office (Australia);

107.93 Give priority to judicial system reform, especially to ensure equal

access to justice, expeditious court proceedings and effective enforcement of

court decisions, as well as to integrate human rights education into professional

training programmes for judges and prosecutors (Thailand);

107.94 Ensure that all the courts and the prosecutors’ offices of various

entities take adequate measures to support and protect witnesses, in order to

avoid the transfer of files to these entities resulting in impunity, particularly in

cases of sexual violence (Belgium);

107.95 The Government of Bosnia and Herzegovina restrict the transfer of

jurisdictions to the two entities, thus preventing further fragmentation of the

judiciary in Bosnia and Herzegovina (Netherlands);

107.96 Eliminate from legislation the concept of preventive detention on the

grounds of threats to public security or property and ensure due process in all

detentions (Mexico);

107.97 Adopt a law on reparation and compensation for victims of torture

during the war (France);

107.98 Continue efforts to fight impunity for serious violations of human

rights committed during the armed conflict (Argentina);

107.99 Modify the criminal codes with a view to harmonizing them and

bringing them into conformity with international criminal law obligations and

commitments in the sphere of proceedings against perpetrators of international

crimes, in particular war crimes involving sexual violence (Switzerland);

107.100 Harmonize the penal code applied in cases of war crimes, in addition

to the review of verdicts where appropriate. In addition, it is necessary to

define adequately the condition of victims of war and to provide necessary

reparation (Chile);

107.101 Continue aligning the juvenile justice system with international

standards (Latvia);

107.102 Continue implementing the plan to fight corruption (Bahrain);

107.103 Continue strengthening anti-corruption policies and ensure wider

access to justice for every citizen, including through the provision of free legal

assistance to the most vulnerable groups (Italy);

107.104 Set up clear regulatory frameworks for the activities of the security

companies in order to ensure their legal accountability regarding human rights

abuses (Iran (Islamic Republic of);

107.105 Provide, in accordance with its obligations under international

human rights law, effective protection for the family as the fundamental and

natural unit of society (Egypt);

107.106 Ensure that all children born in the country, who have not been

registered, are provided with birth certificates and personal documents (Czech

Republic);

107.107 Ensure that all children are registered at birth and provide

unregistered children with personal documents (Estonia);

107.108 Take further steps to ensure registration of all births and provide

identity documents to all persons whose birth was not registered (Romania);

107.109 Consider stepping up efforts to achieve free and universal birth

registration by, among other measures, harmonizing State and local

Government entities’ legislation pertaining to civil registration and eliminating

remaining obstacles that prevent Roma women from registering births and

obtaining birth certificates for their children (Philippines);

107.110 Develop and encourage tolerance between religious groups and fully

guarantee the right to freedom of conscience and religion (Russian Federation);

107.111 Take the necessary measures to guarantee, in all circumstances, full

respect for freedom of expression and freedom of the press (France);

107.112 Take steps to further ensure freedom of speech and freedom of access

to information both online and offline (Latvia);

107.113 Take immediate steps to ensure that allegations of threats and

intimidation against journalists and the media are fully investigated

(Australia);

107.114 Ensure the protection of journalists, media personnel and human

rights defenders against any attacks, investigate and prosecute such attacks and

bring those responsible to justice (Estonia);

107.115 Combat intimidation and pressure practices against journalists and

human rights defenders (France);

107.116 Publicly condemn any attack or intimidation of journalists and

human rights defenders, investigate such acts and bring perpetrators to justice

(Lithuania);

107.117 Use international good practices as specific benchmarks for progress

to improve the situation of the media community, as proposed by the media

freedom representative of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in

Europe, Dunja Mijatović (Lithuania);

107.118 Protect freedom of assembly and hold accountable any police officers

involved1 (Lithuania);

107.119 Make the necessary constitutional changes to end discrimination

against minorities in exercising their right to full political participation

(Australia);

107.120 Review national legislation in order to ensure equal political

participation for ethnic and religious minorities (Brazil);

1 The recommendation read in the meeting was “[p]rotect the freedom of assembly and hold

accountable any police officers”.

107.121 Step up efforts to achieve an effective participation of minorities in

political life (Costa Rica);

107.122 The new Government, once formed, ensures equal rights to all

citizens, enabling political representation in a way that would reflect the multi-

ethnic richness of the country (Slovenia);

107.123 The Government of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the entity

Governments join forces and amend the constitution in order to ensure the full

political participation of all citizens at all levels of governance, regardless of

their national and ethnic origin, and take further steps towards the

implementation of the Sejdi ć and Finci decision of the European Court of

Human Rights, including by establishing an implementation timeline (Czech

Republic);

107.124 Bring the constitution into line with the Sejdić and Finci decision of

the European Court of Human Rights (France);

107.125 Amend the national constitution and the Electoral Law and to bring

them into line with the European Court of Human Rights ruling on Sejdić and

Finci (Germany);

107.126 The Government of Bosnia and Herzegovina amend its constitution

and the election law to remove discrimination on the basis of ethnicity in

politics, in line with the European Court of Human Rights judgements in both

Sejdić and Finci v. Bosnia and Herzegovina and Azra Zornić v. Bosnia and

Herzegovina (Netherlands);

107.127 Implement the European Court of Human Rights judgement in the

case of Sejdić and Finci (Romania);

107.128 Take all necessary measures to remove discriminatory provisions

from the constitution and the electoral law in line with the European Court of

Human Rights judgement (Austria);

107.129 Amend without delay the constitution with a view to the elimination

of discrimination on the basis of ethnicity in public political life and access to

public service jobs in conformity with the judgement of the European Court of

Human Rights (Belgium);

107.130 Take all necessary measures to raise the level of involvement of

women in public and political life according to the quota stated in the relevant

laws (Turkey);

107.131 Adopt additional measures to achieve gender equality, in policy

formulation and decision-making at all levels of Government (Bahrain);

107.132 Fully ensure gender equality in labour recruitment and appointments

to political posts (Russian Federation);

107.133 Include affirmative measures for women in employment policies and

programmes at all governance levels and ensure women’s social protection and

access to socioeconomic rights (Germany);

107.134 Ensure that all people in Bosnia Herzegovina including returnees,

people with disabilities or Roma, have access to public services, including

health care and education without discrimination (Belgium);

107.135 Develop as a matter of priority a multi-ethnic, inclusive and non-

discriminatory common core curriculum, with all levels of Government

ensuring that the content of school textbooks promotes and encourages

tolerance among ethnic minority groups (Slovenia);

107.136 Strengthen programmes for the promotion of work, food and social

assistance aimed at national minorities and other vulnerable sectors of the

population in the fight against poverty and social inequality (Venezuela

(Bolivarian Republic of));

107.137 Step up its measures in combating poverty, including by providing

adequate funds for its social protection system and its national employment

strategy to reduce unemployment (Malaysia);

107.138 Provide the necessary resources to address the extreme poverty and

marginalization faced by Roma (Poland);

107.139 All levels of Government in Bosnia and Herzegovina consider

providing equal access to sexual and reproductive health education and

services, including affordable modern methods of contraception (Slovenia);

107.140 End school segregation on the basis of ethnicity, as well as review and

revise school curriculums and textbooks with a view to promoting intercultural

understanding and appreciation for the history and religion of all ethnic groups

and national minorities (Canada);

107.141 The Government of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the cantons

introduce a truly inclusive multi-ethnic educational system and launch an

efficient coordination mechanism on education (Czech Republic);

107.142 Take measures to make schools more inclusive, without any form of

discrimination (Italy);

107.143 Ensure access to joint and inclusive quality education, with special

attention towards the Roma minority, persons with disabilities and LGBT

issues (Norway);

107.144 Take all necessary measures to put an end to the system known as

“two schools under the same roof” and eliminate ethnic segregation in the

school system (Uruguay);

107.145 The Government and local entities expeditiously eliminate

segregation and ethnic divisions in schools and promote a multi-ethnic learning

environment that will allow students to learn their own languages, cultures,

histories and religions (Thailand);

107.146 Continue to raise awareness on the needs of the Roma population, in

particular children, and establish an adequate system that provides for their

social and educational inclusion, including by allocating sufficient resources

(Austria);

107.147 Implement a single harmonized national school core curriculum,

agreed upon by the representatives of the country’s ethnic groups and national

minorities (Canada);

107.148 Bring the State legislation into line with CRPD (Angola);

107.149 Further improve the social status of persons with disabilities

(Afghanistan);

107.150 Harmonize all laws and regulations in order to ensure equal

treatment of persons with disabilities throughout the country, and to eliminate

differential treatment of persons with disabilities based on a cause of disability

(Finland);

107.151 Draft a single national action plan on the rights of persons with

disabilities, with an associated budget and a clear time frame for its

implementation (Austria);

107.152 Further its efforts in promoting the rights of persons with disabilities,

including through considering a consolidated national action plan and

designating an implementation national focal point, and providing the

necessary resources to further ensure inclusive education and accessibility for

persons with disabilities (Egypt);

107.153 Step up the process of elaboration of the action plan on the

implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

with a clearly defined time frame (Slovakia);

107.154 Continue consolidating the social protection programmes for the

application of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

(Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of));

107.155 Adopt a national action plan to promote the rights of persons with

disabilities, in line with CRPD, with special attention to the implementation of

inclusive education and the promotion of labour market inclusion (Brazil);

107.156 Fully implement the Convention on the Rights of Persons with

Disabilities and in this regard designate a focal point as coordination

mechanism based on appropriate consultation with DPOs (Germany);

107.157 Strengthen the application in all its territory of the Convention on the

Rights of Persons with Disabilities, guaranteeing that the different measures

initiated are in line with the approach defined in the Convention (Spain);

107.158 Continue efforts to eliminate all forms of discrimination against

persons with disabilities, in line with best practices and international standards

(Qatar);

107.159 Continue strengthening education measures and policies for the

integration of Roma students in the education system, as well as strengthening

literacy campaigns for the population (Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of));

107.160 Create effective mechanisms for the social integration of Roma

(Russian Federation);

107.161 Continue promoting social inclusion by strengthening the protection

of ethnic minorities, in particular the Roma (Senegal);

107.162 Pursue vigorously the action plan for the Roma, including ensuring

equal treatment and easy access to social services for them (Sierra Leone);

107.163 Ensure the inclusion and consultation of Roma while designing,

implementing and evaluating policies, programmes or initiatives that might

affect their rights (Austria);

107.164 Reinvigorate efforts to fulfil article VII of the Dayton Accords,

guaranteeing refugees the right to return to their homes of origin (United States

of America);

107.165 Consistently and rigorously implement the revised strategy for the

implementation of Annex VII of the Dayton Peace Agreement and make all

efforts to improve the living conditions of internally displaced persons and

returnees (Czech Republic);

107.166 Ensure that IDPs and returnees can fully enjoy their rights relating

to social protection, health care, education, housing, employment and physical

security (Hungary);

107.167 Share the experience of Bosnia and Herzegovina in the field of multi-

ethnic teaching of tolerance in schools (Morocco).

108. 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.

Annex

[English only]

Composition of the delegation

The delegation of Bosnia and Herzegovina was headed by H.E. Mr. Miladin

Dragičević, Deputy Minister for Human Rights and Refugees of Bosnia and Herzegovina,

and composed of the following members:

• H.E. Dr. Miloš Prica, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of Bosnia and.

Herzegovina to the United Nations Office at Geneva;

• Ms. Saliha Đuderija, Assistant Minister for Human Rights of Bosnia and

Herzegovina;

• Ms. Draženka Malićbegović, Assistant Minister for Civil Affairs of Bosnia and

Herzegovina;

• Mr. Željko Bogut, Secretary of the Ministry of Justice of Bosnia and Herzegovina;

• Mr. Mario Đuragić, Head of the Regional Representative Office of Republika

Srpska in Brussels;

• Mr. Veljko Đurković, Inspector in the Ministry of Security of Bosnia and

Herzegovina;

• Ms. Rajko Kličković, Head of Department in the Ministry of Labour of Republika

Srpska;

• Mr. Nemanja Pandurević, Head of Cabinet of the Deputy Minister for Human Rights

and Refugees of Bosnia and Herzegovina;

• Mr. Jasenko Muharemagić, Advisor in the Cabinet of the Prime Minister of the

Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina;

• Mr. Cvijetin Nikolić, Advisor in the Cabinet of the Mayor of Brčko District;

• Ms. Sanela Lalić, Expert in the Ministry of Justice of Bosnia and Herzegovina;

• Ms. Snežana Višnjić, First Secretary in the Permanent Mission of Bosnia and

Herzegovina to the United Nations Office at Geneva;

• Ms. Roksanda Mičić, Interpreter;

• Ms. Amira Sadiković, Interpreter.