30/11 Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review - Honduras

Human Rights Council Thirtieth session

Agenda item 6

Universal Periodic Review

Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review*

Honduras

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

Contents

Page

Introduction ...................................................................................................................................... 3

I. Summary of the proceedings of the review process ......................................................................... 3

A. Presentation by the State under review .................................................................................... 3

B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review ................................................. 8

II. Conclusions and recommendations .................................................................................................. 14

Annex

Composition of the delegation ......................................................................................................... 26

Introduction

1. The Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review, established in accordance

with Human Rights Council resolution 5/1, held its twenty-second session from 4 to 15

May 2015. The review of Honduras was held at the 9th meeting, on 8 May 2015. The

delegation of Honduras was headed by Secretary of State, General Coordinator of

Government, José Ramón Hernández Alcerro. At its 14th meeting, held on 12 May 2015,

the Working Group adopted the report on Honduras.

2. On 13 January 2015, the Human Rights Council selected the following group of

rapporteurs (troika) to facilitate the review of Honduras: Namibia, Paraguay and the

Republic of Korea.

3. In accordance with paragraph 15 of the annex to Human Rights Council resolution

5/1 and paragraph 5 of the annex to Council resolution 16/21, the following documents

were issued for the review of Honduras:

(a) A national report (A/HRC/WG.6/22/HND/1);

(b) A compilation prepared by the Office of the United Nations High

Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) (A/HRC/WG.6/22/HND/2);

(c) A summary prepared by OHCHR (A/HRC/WG.6/22/HND/3).

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

Liechtenstein, Mexico, the Netherlands, Norway, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland,

the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the United States of

America, was transmitted to Honduras through the troika. These questions are available on

the extranet of the Working Group. Additional questions raised during the dialogue by

Montenegro, India and France are summarized in section I.B below.

I. Summary of the proceedings of the review process

A. Presentation by the State under review

5. The head of the delegation noted that Honduras had submitted its first report to the

universal periodic review in 2010. Since then, Honduras had been implementing the

recommendations it had received. As a demonstration of its commitment to human rights,

in 2013, Honduras had submitted a voluntary mid-term progress report.

6. With the assistance of OHCHR, Honduras had also led an extensive consultation

process for the development of a public policy and the adoption of the National Action Plan

on Human Rights 2013–2022.

7. Honduras noted that the national report for its second universal periodic review had

been drafted following broad discussions at national level, including with civil society.

8. In the past five years, Honduras had held two general elections with the participation

of new political movements from a broad ideological spectrum. Honduras now participated

fully in all international forums and had diplomatic relations with more than a hundred

countries. Commercial and financial exchanges and services had also allowed Honduras to

have positive economic growth. Progress on citizen security and social protection

programmes were very important for Honduras.

9. Honduras had implemented 106 recommendations of a total of 129

recommendations received in 2010. Another 20 were in the process of being completed and

only three recommendations had so far not been implemented. Those achievements were

the result of a series of efforts highlighted during the presentation and in the second

national report, and showed the commitment of Honduras to human rights.

10. Honduras recognized that the universal periodic review offered an invaluable space

for dialogue with civil society and the international community. The composition of the

delegation attending the universal periodic review reflected the work of all institutions in

the field of human rights.

11. Reference was made to progress in the development of a policy and institutional

framework, as well as cooperation with human rights mechanisms.

12. Reference was also made to the amendments introduced to, among others, domestic

legislation to define the crimes of disappearance of persons, torture, discrimination and

incitement to hatred, in accordance with international norms.

13. The National Human Rights Commissioner had been appointed through a

competitive public process. The Executive Branch had created the Secretariat for Human

Rights and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. The National Action Plan on Human

Rights had been adopted.

14. Honduras had made a concerted effort to submit reports due to the treaty bodies. In

the framework of the open invitation to special procedures, visits had been made by five

special rapporteurs and working groups and the subsequent recommendations had been

taken into account in the National Action Plan on Human Rights. Honduras had also

complied with judgements of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights.

15. Since the first cycle, the National Congress had ratified six core international human

rights instruments and withdrawn reservations about the status of refugees.

16. The delegation noted that Honduras had been the victim of the aggression of

organized crime and had taken forceful measures to combat it. Honduras was no longer the

main bridge for the traffic of drugs between South and North America or the most violent

country in the world. Honduras had managed to make significant progress in protecting the

right to life. The national police had been subjected to a process of profound reform.

Honduras had also reinforced the public security system by approving a legal and

institutional framework that had enabled a reduction in killings and violence in general,

although there was still much to do.

17. The national policy for the prevention of violence against children and young

persons of Honduras had also been adopted.

18. Between 2014 and 2015, no murder or violent death linked to social conflicts had

been committed.

19. Regarding the protection of persons at risk, Honduras had complied with measures

recommended by the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights and precautionary

provisional measures issued by the Inter-American Court. The National Congress had

approved the law on the protection of human rights defenders, journalists, social

communicators and justice officials, which was being regulated in a participatory and

inclusive manner. The law provided for a series of preventive measures and emergency

protection according to the type of risk faced by a person, and the creation of a protection

system within the Secretariat for Human Rights.

20. Measures against trafficking in persons, contained in the recently passed law, had

also been introduced.

21. The creation and integration of the National Committee for the Prevention of

Torture and Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment was noteworthy. The Committee had

established itself as a national, independent institution with administrative, technical and

budgetary autonomy.

22. Regarding democracy and participation, the National Congress had amended the

Constitution to allow bills to be introduced by plebiscite, referendum and citizen’s

initiative. A constitutional amendment had also been made to include the guarantee of

habeas data as a mechanism of protection of private data and the rights to honour, privacy

and personal image.

23. Impeachment and the right to freedom of association were also guaranteed as part of

the constitutional reform.

24. In relation to the rights of indigenous peoples, Honduras promoted access to land.

The Secretariat for Energy, Natural Resources and the Environment was currently working

with the Confederation of Autochthonous Peoples of Honduras in drafting a bill on prior

and informed consultation of indigenous peoples.

25. The National Commission against Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related

Forms of Intolerance had also been reactivated.

26. With regard to sexual diversity, Honduras had prioritized the implementation of

actions in the National Action Plan on Human Rights in favour of that group. Actions

included legal reforms, awareness-raising and training.

27. In the areas of economic, social and cultural rights, as well as efforts to combat

poverty, the Constitution had been amended to include the right to water and sanitation.

Among others, Honduras launched a plan for the prevention of pregnancy in adolescents,

strengthened public education and adopted legislation to address the impact of climate

change.

28. Honduras had created the Directorate on Children, Adolescent and Family Issues,

which had an agreement with local governments to launch the national system of protection

of children for local- and national-level actions. It was also in the process of ratifying the

Convention on Protection of Children and Cooperation in respect of Intercountry Adoption.

29. The special criminal justice programme, favouring alternative measures, had been

created by the Directorate. The Directorate also monitored all social reintegration

programmes. Special criminal justice programmes had been introduced by Honduras as part

of the Partnership Plan for Prosperity.

30. The protection of children against abuse was a principle incorporated in the

Constitution. The National Congress had approved a comprehensive reform of the Children

and Adolescents Code and the Family Code, taking into account the recommendations of

the Committee on the Rights of the Child.

31. The delegation referred to the request made to the United Nations High

Commissioner for Human Rights to open an OHCHR country office in Honduras.

Honduras believed that the office would contribute to strengthening the national system for

the protection of human rights. It would open up spaces for dialogue, and monitor and

report objectively on the human rights situation in the country. The High Commissioner

would also provide technical assistance to institutions in Honduras.

32. The President of the Supreme Court of Justice reported that the National Congress

had created the Council of the Judiciary and Judicial Staff, which eliminated the possibility

of discretionary or political appointments. To ensure the right of citizens to demand

accountability for the conduct of judicial officials, all decisions of the Council can be

reviewed before ordinary and constitutional courts.

33. Honduras had created national judges who dealt with organized crime cases, to

protect judges from external influence. It was also part of an Organization of American

States judicial programme which aimed at strengthening access to justice. Through the

Centre for the Support and Protection of Women’s Rights, the judiciary had also put into

practice, with the participation of civil society, coordinated actions to assist women victims

of violence. The Public Defender had also assigned human resources to assist women,

including through awareness-raising for the empowerment of women deprived of their

liberty.

34. The President of the Supreme Court of Justice referred to the case of the judges

separated from their posts in 2009, coinciding with the institutional crisis in Honduras that

same year. He reiterated that the decision by the Supreme Court of Justice had been based

on the verification of the Commission’s various violations of the disciplinary provisions to

which such former officials were subject. At the time, the former officials had had access to

legal recourses, which had not yet been exhausted.

35. The President of the Legislative Commission on Human Rights noted that the

National Congress of Honduras had legislative functions, and oversight functions of the

work of public authorities. It played an essential role in the promotion and protection of

human rights. The Congress had created spaces for dialogue and consultations with civil

society, non-governmental organizations and other interested groups, which had generated

a considerable number of legislative proposals.

36. Close cooperation was maintained with United Nations entities and the international

community in general. The Congress was working on a priority basis on issues related to

the fulfilment of the rights of children, education, security, development, lesbian, gay,

bisexual, transgender and intersex groups, indigenous communities and Afro-descendants,

the environment and gender. It had identified as a challenge the construction of a legislative

agenda agreed with the relevant institutions and civil society.

37. The Congress had the responsibility of ensuring that institutions with a

responsibility to protect and promote human rights, such as the Supreme Court of Justice,

the Public Prosecutor’s Office and the National Human Rights Commissioner, had the

necessary resources to implement their respective mandates. The Congress also played a

role in the selection of persons for those positions, received their annual reports and had the

responsibility of publicly assessing their performance.

38. The Secretary of State for Human Rights, Justice, Governance and Decentralization

reported that, in 2012, the Law on the National Prison System had been adopted. It created

the National Penitentiary Institute, assigned resources for the construction of four new

prisons to reduce prison overcrowding and contributed to the governance of 29 centres of

deprivation of liberty. A new corps of correctional officers had also been created.

39. The Secretariat for Human Rights, together with the National Penitentiary Institute

and with the advice of the Human Rights Adviser of OHCHR, had been coordinating the

development of the first national policy on the penitentiary, which was expected to be

completed soon. The General Regulation of the Law on the National Penitentiary System

had been approved and the National Penitentiary Academy was being designed. The

provision of food and access to hydro-sanitary and electric systems in detention centres had

also been improved.

40. In 2014, the National Institute for Migration for the implementation of the law on

migration and the immigration policy had been created. One of the main achievements had

been the introduction of the immigration control biometric system and the establishment of

a mechanism for combating trafficking.

41. Honduras had also tackled the emerging migration of unaccompanied minors.

Through institutional and intersectoral coordination under the leadership of the First Lady

of Honduras, the Special Commission for Migrant Children offered comprehensive services

of reception, health assessment, counselling support, training for work, school reintegration,

emergency food aid and economic aid so that children and family units could return to their

places of origin. Those actions have resulted in a substantial reduction of unaccompanied

children.

42. The Minister of the National Institute for Women noted that Honduras was

determined to make structural changes in favour of women’s equality. The elaboration of

the Second Gender Equality and Equity Plan had been led by the National Institute for

Women through a national consultation process. The Institute was currently implementing

an advocacy strategy and strengthening institutional mechanisms.

43. Honduras had established Gender Units in the Judicial Branch, Secretaries for

Health and Safety, and Gender Commissions in different municipalities. Processes were

also coordinated in Municipal Offices for Women.

44. Honduras had incorporated femicide in legislation and imposed penalties on the

perpetrators of that crime. The Law against Trafficking of Persons and the National Plan

against Violence towards Women had also been adopted.

45. Honduras had launched a public-awareness campaign to eradicate the practices of

sexual harassment at work, covering public offices and the private sector.

46. The Protocol for Comprehensive Assistance to Women Victims of Violence and a

technical guide for use by health officials and justice operators had been developed.

Shelters in Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula had also been established.

47. Honduras had adopted the Law on Equality of Wages between Women and Men.

There was a dialogue with the feminist movement, which allowed the State to ensure better

social impact and to promote a better quality of life for women in Honduras.

48. The Undersecretary of Labour and Social Security referred to the Second National

Plan of Action for the Prevention and Eradication of Child Labour, which envisaged the

creation of national structures, the ratification of international norms, the harmonization of

national legislation and strengthening of national capacities and knowledge. A road map to

make Honduras a country free from child labour and its worst forms had been adopted. An

agreement had recently been signed with the United States of America to implement a

programme called “Bright futures” with an investment of US$ 7.5 million in four years.

49. The Ministry of Labour and Social Security had the responsibility of ensuring that

the employment conditions were decent. Efforts were being made for the

professionalization of the General Directorate of Inspection through various regulatory

proposals, such as the Law on Inspection and an International Labour Organization (ILO)

audit process.

50. A tripartite commission had also been created to follow up on the compliance of the

action plan on the Free Trade Agreement with the United States.

51. Honduras had also signed an agreement for the promotion of investment, protection

of employment, health and access to housing for workers of the Honduran maquila textiles

sector.

52. A social protection system framework law had been approved. Thanks to the

promotion of investment of the private sector and reactivation of the agricultural and

housing sectors, and various government placement programmes, new job opportunities

had been generated. Efforts were also under way, together with the National Congress, to

improve the employability of young people. One goal was for the generation of 200,000 job

opportunities.

53. The Undersecretary of State in the Offices of Development and Social Inclusion

referred to the policy of social protection and the Better Life programme targeting people in

condition of poverty and extreme poverty, with components of healthy housing, such as

water filters, latrines, ecological ovens, construction of cement floors, storage of water,

roofs and solidarity bags with food, which had benefited more than 100,000 families.

54. Other programmes included ones for productive micro-enterprises and family

farming, the Presidential Better Life Bonus programme and the School Lunch programme.

55. Honduras was currently holding consultations for the elaboration of a policy against

racism and racial discrimination to ensure the social and political participation of

indigenous peoples and Afro-descendants and the exercise of intercultural citizenship, as

well as the right to bilingual intercultural education, right to health, land and natural

resources.

56. A public policy and strategic plan to guarantee the human rights of persons with

disabilities had been adopted. Honduras had also subscribed to the Program of Action for

the Decade of the Americas for the Rights and Dignity of Persons with Disabilities.

57. The Undersecretary of Human Rights and Justice noted that, after the first universal

periodic review, Honduras had led a broad process of consultation to design and adopt the

National Action Plan on Human Rights 2013–2022, which incorporated and transformed

into strategic action over 1,200 recommendations, including from civil society, the human

rights treaty bodies and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

58. The first phase of the Human Rights Observatory, to measure progress on human

rights issues and to facilitate reporting to treaty bodies and society in general, was also

under way. Honduras was currently designing an integrated monitoring and evaluation

system to assess the impact of the National Action Plan on Human Rights.

59. Honduras was committed to continuing the citizen’s dialogue and participation. It

would share the outcome of the second review and promote the implementation of

subsequent recommendations.

B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review

60. During the interactive dialogue, 60 delegations made statements. Recommendations

made during the dialogue can be found in section II of the present report. All written

statements of the delegations, to be checked against delivery on the United Nations

Webcast archives,1 are posted on the extranet of the Human Rights Council when available.

61. Guatemala commended the creation of the Secretariat for Human Rights and the

adoption of the National Action Plan on Human Rights. It shared the concern of the

Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination regarding the loss of the A-status

by the National Human Rights Commission.

62. The Holy See acknowledged Honduran efforts to bring national legislation into

greater conformity with the international human rights instruments, especially those relating

to the prevention of enforced disappearances and torture, the national human rights

institution and the ratification of several instruments.

1 http://webtv.un.org/meetings-events/human-rights-council/universal-periodic-review/watch/honduras-

review-22nd-session-of-universal-periodic-review/4224969251001.

63. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela appreciated the decisive commitment of

Honduras to address challenges and highlighted progress made since the first review.

64. Indonesia welcomed Honduran efforts to set up mechanisms to further promote and

protect human rights including the adoption of the Public Policy and National Action Plan

on Human Rights 2013–2022 and looked forward to full implementation of that plan.

65. Ireland was deeply concerned at the climate of violence and insecurity affecting

human rights defenders in Honduras, and was also concerned at widespread and systematic

violence against women and girls.

66. Italy welcomed the adoption of the Public Policy and National Action Plan on

Human Rights 2013–2022 and actions taken to provide human rights training for military

personnel and the police to combat violence against women and children.

67. Lebanon welcomed the desire of Honduras to work towards the promotion of human

rights for its people and welcomed its accession to the Convention on Cluster Munitions.

68. Madagascar welcomed the participative and inclusive approach of Honduras in

drafting its national report, as well as the advances in combating poverty and improving

social protection, the quality of education, health and the protection of vulnerable persons.

69. Mexico recognized progress, in particular the strengthening of the legislative

framework. It valued efforts for the strengthening of the public security system and the

reforms introduced to the electoral law.

70. Montenegro commended Honduras for a comprehensive reform of legislation

covering children, families and women in the sphere of justice. It welcomed the willingness

for the opening of an OHCHR country office. Montenegro asked about measures taken to

improve the living conditions of vulnerable groups with a view to reducing the negative

impact of migrant flows.

71. Namibia congratulated Honduras on the creation of a specific ministerial portfolio

for human rights with responsibility for facilitating dialogue with the international human

rights community and on the adoption of the Public Policy and National Action Plan on

Human Rights 2013–2022.

72. The Netherlands appreciated the ratification of the Protocol to the American

Convention on Human Rights to Abolish the Death Penalty and other measures taken. It

was concerned that there was an environment in which vulnerable groups were victims of

threats, violence and sometimes murder and at the number of social conflicts relating to

mining or hydroelectric projects.

73. Nicaragua commended Honduras for introducing legislative and institutional

reforms to strengthen the human rights protection. It encouraged Honduras to consolidate

its national human rights action plan, taking into account the outcome of the second review.

74. Nigeria welcomed the introduction of various government policies aimed at the

establishment of a public policy and national plan on human rights and improvement in the

security situation.

75. Norway noted efforts to bring national legislation into line with international

obligations and the development of the Public Policy and National Action Plan on Human

Rights. It expressed concern about the removal of four judges by the Congress.

76. Panama expressed its appreciation for the implementation of recommendations from

the first review. It commended the commitment of Honduras to cooperating with the

international human rights mechanisms, which was reflected in the standing invitation

issued to the special procedures.

77. Paraguay welcomed the establishment of a national mechanism for the follow-up of

the recommendations from the universal periodic review. It took note of progress made in

the development of legislation. It expressed concern about the vulnerability of women,

children and migrants, including non-accompanied children.

78. Peru highlighted progress made by Honduras, notably the adoption of the National

Action Plan on Human Rights, the ratification of the Convention relating to the Status of

Stateless Persons and the Convention on the Reduction of Statelessness, as well the

harmonization of domestic legislation with their international obligations.

79. The Philippines noted the multi-year National Action Plan on Human Rights; efforts

to align domestic legislation with international human rights standards; and the ratification

of human rights conventions. It expressed concern about the unaccompanied children

leaving Honduras.

80. Poland welcomed the latest constitutional and legal reforms. It expressed concerns

about cases of violence against journalists and judges, and the lack of independent

investigations of those cases.

81. Portugal noted the amendment of the Criminal Code that brought the definition of

torture in line with international standards and the adoption of the Education Act providing

for free and compulsory education. It expressed concern about violence against women.

82. Qatar stated that considerable progress had been made in harmonizing national

legislation with international standards. It noted efforts that had been made to enhance

security and public order.

83. The Republic of Korea noted the policies for vulnerable groups, the revision of the

definitions of torture and enforced disappearances and the efforts made to implement the

recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

84. Romania noted the efforts that had been made to implement recommendations from

the first review. It congratulated Honduras for cooperating with the human rights

mechanisms, particularly special procedures.

85. The Russian Federation welcomed the implementation of international treaties. It

noted the adoption of National Action Plan on Human Rights 2013–2022 and supported

efforts taken to establish a human rights department within the Cabinet of Ministers.

86. Rwanda noted the establishment of a human rights portfolio in the Cabinet, the

implementation of a vast majority of recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation

Commission, and the policy and National Action Plan on Human Rights 2013–2022.

87. Sierra Leone urged Honduras to develop incentives for the participation of poor,

marginalized communities; implement laws prohibiting hate crimes and violence against

women of African descent; and seek funding to address the problems of drugs and human

trafficking.

88. Singapore acknowledged the progress made in reducing the murder rate,

commended Honduras for its commitment to protecting the rights of women and

recognized the efforts taken under the Better Life Programme to provide housing upgrades

and improvements.

89. Slovenia welcomed efforts to bring the legislation into line with international

standards. It noted that the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination had

deplored the assaults of indigenous and Afro-Honduran leaders and journalists, and also

noted the draft bill on the protection of human rights defenders.

90. Spain underscored the readiness of Honduras to open an OHCHR country office. It

was concerned about high levels of violence against women and girls, and the high

impunity rate in those cases.

91. Sweden welcomed the decision of Honduras to request the establishment of an

OHCHR country office. It welcomed the amendment of the Criminal Code to incorporate

femicide as a specific crime. It was concerned about violence against women and impunity

for perpetrators. It noted the concern of the Special Rapporteur on violence against women

regarding the ban on abortion.

92. Switzerland welcomed the upcoming opening of an OHCHR country office. It

considered that the engagement of human rights defenders must be better protected. It was

also concerned about the increasing militarization of the country.

93. Thailand commended Honduras on establishing the Ministry of Justice and Human

Rights. It noted the reduction of murder rate over the past years and the enactment of the

Basic Education Act. It encouraged Honduras to consider ratifying the Optional Protocol to

the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and the

Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on a communications

procedure.

94. Timor-Leste welcomed the establishment of the Ministry of Justice and Human

Rights, and the adoption of the National Action Plan on Human Rights.

95. Trinidad and Tobago commended the establishment of Anti-Trafficking in Persons

Act, the mobile magistrates’ courts, the redistribution of State land to the benefit of

indigenous and Afro-Hondurans and the enshrinement of the right to water and sanitation as

a constitutional right.

96. Turkey welcomed Honduran Public Policy and National Action Plan on Human

Rights, the Gender Equality and Equity Plan, and cooperation with special procedures. It

welcomed the opening of an OHCHR office.

97. The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland welcomed the Criminal

Code amendments. It was concerned about the intention to use military police to tackle

security, and continued high levels of impunity and difficulties by significant sectors of

society in accessing justice.

98. The United States of America congratulated Honduras for its goal of opening an

OHCHR office, its accord with Transparency International and the passing of a law to

protect human rights defenders. It urged continued efforts to strengthen the justice and

security sectors for all Hondurans, ensure independence of the Nominating Committee, and

strengthen the Honduran National Police.

99. Uruguay commended Honduras for the adoption of a comprehensive reform of the

Children and Adolescents Code, and the Family Code. It welcomed the adoption of the

Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act and the bill on the protection of human rights defenders,

journalists, social communicators and justice officials.

100. India commended the adoption of the Public Policy and National Action Plan on

Human Rights and of other plans and measures. It encouraged Honduras to continue its

efforts to make its national human rights institution compliant with the principles relating to

the status of national institutions for the promotion and protection of human rights (the

Paris Principles) and welcomed the announcement of the opening of an OHCHR office later

in 2015. India asked the delegation to share information on the issue of unaccompanied

child migrants.

101. Algeria welcomed the Honduran 2014–2020 Plan for Human Dignity (Vanguardia

de la Dignidad Humana), the establishment of the Ministry of Justice and Human Rights,

reduction in violence against women and cooperation with treaty bodies.

102. Angola welcomed the national policy for the prevention of violence against children

and young persons in Honduras and the reformed Criminal Code. It was concerned about

violence towards minority groups.

103. Argentina commended Honduras for the harmonization of domestic legislation with

international human rights norms, including the amendment introduced to the Criminal

Code and the definition of enforced disappearance as a specific offence.

104. Australia welcomed the Honduran establishment of a special court against domestic

violence. It noted concern about violence against women. It urged Honduras to implement

recommendations of the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders and

of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights.

105. Austria welcomed Honduran approval of the Public Policy and National Action Plan

on Human Rights. It was concerned about attacks against journalists and impunity in that

regard. Austria remained worried about shortcomings in the administration of justice, and

ongoing discrimination against indigenous, Afro-Honduran and lesbian, gay, bisexual,

transgender and intersex persons.

106. Belgium welcomed the opening of an OHCHR country office. It was, however,

concerned about challenges, in particular with regard to the independence of the justice

system and the fight against impunity, violence against women and freedom of expression.

107. Brazil commended Honduras for a comprehensive reform of the legislation on right

of children, families and women and welcomed steps taken to reduce violence against

women.

108. Canada encouraged Honduras to continue its efforts to ensure the protection of

human rights defenders, journalists and justice sector officials and also encouraged it to

reduce overcrowding in prisons and juvenile detention centre by respecting maximum

occupancy rates and taking other measures.

109. Chile was concerned about the perseverance of violence, intimidation and attacks

against human rights defenders, judges, prosecutors and journalists. It welcomed the

discussion and adoption of a law on the subject.

110. China appreciated that Honduras had implemented recommendations from the first

review and welcomed its cooperation with treaty bodies, special procedures and the inter-

American system for human rights protection. It noted the challenges faced by Honduras in

human rights protection and requested the international community to provide technical and

financial support.

111. Colombia underscored efforts to comply with recommendations from the previous

cycle of universal periodic review, in particular the National Action Plan on Human Rights,

and actions related to previous recommendations made by Colombia on the fight against

lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons.

112. Costa Rica stated that the Honduran commitment would be strengthened with the

establishment of an OHCHR country office and welcomed the National Action Plan on

Human Rights. It expressed concern about the high level of violence, particularly against

women, journalists and human rights defenders.

113. Cuba underscored the adoption of the social protection policy in 2012, the Law on

Protection Benefits and Regularization of Informal Activity and the Law on Vaccines,

which had been developed despite important challenges, including structural poverty,

inequality and crime.

114. The Czech Republic thanked Honduras for its presentation and made

recommendations.

115. Denmark recognized Honduran efforts to break the vicious circle of human rights

violations, but was concerned about reports that the human rights situation had worsened

since the first universal periodic review. It regretted the decision to downgrade certain

relevant ministries and was concerned at reported impunity for attacks on lesbian, gay,

bisexual, transgender and intersex persons.

116. Ecuador welcomed reforms of the Criminal Code, particularly those related to

enforced disappearance, torture, discrimination and incitement to hatred. It welcomed

measures adopted to strengthen the judiciary, through the Council of the Judiciary and

Judicial Staff.

117. Equatorial Guinea welcomed amendments to the Constitution, which had extended

participatory democracy mechanisms through the system of popular initiatives. It also

welcomed efforts to integrate into its decision-making a human rights-based approach

taking into account the contributions of civil society organizations.

118. Estonia commended the National Action Plan on Racism and Racial Discrimination

and expressed concern that indigenous and Afro-Honduran women continued to face

multiple forms of discrimination. It invited Honduras to ensure that human rights defenders

could freely carry out their activities without unfair restrictions or fear of reprisals.

119. France asked about the follow-up to the efforts taken to improve the conditions of

detention in Honduras.

120. Germany acknowledged the partial reforms made to the Criminal Code. It expressed

concern about persistent human rights violations, particularly regarding the right to life,

widespread impunity and discrimination against women, children, lesbian, gay, bisexual,

transgender and intersex persons and indigenous population.

121. To conclude, Honduras thanked States for their participation in the second review,

and for their comments and recommendations. Honduras believed that the universal

periodic review generated opportunities to assess progress and challenges and opened

spaces for improving human rights in the country.

122. Honduras was committed to having a permanent mechanism to follow-up on the

commitments made as part of the universal periodic review. It was currently working on the

establishment of a human rights observatory and would strengthen the role of the Ministry

of Justice and Human Rights to respond to the various reports that the State was committed

to submitting. Honduras would also create a monitoring and assessment system for the

National Action Plan on Human Rights and continue the dialogue with civil society.

123. Honduras acknowledged that, while it had made some progress during the past

years, there were structural, institutional and cultural challenges that it still needed to

overcome. With the support of the friends of Honduras, the country hoped to build a

country which was free from extreme poverty, educated, healthy, democratic, safe and

without violence.

II. Conclusions and recommendations

124. The recommendations formulated during the interactive dialogue and listed

below enjoy the support of Honduras:

124.1 Continue working towards the harmonization of its domestic

legislation with the international human rights instruments to which it is a

State Party (Nicaragua);

124.2 Draft guidelines to report violations of the rights of persons deprived

of their liberty through the national mechanism for the prevention of torture

(Panama);

124.3 Allocate adequate resources for the implementation of its National

Action Plan on Human Rights (Philippines);

124.4 Adopt new concrete measures for the implementation of the National

Action Plan on Human Rights of 2013, in order to sustain the decrease in crime

rates in the context of strengthening the rule of law (France);

124.5 Consider developing Human Rights Indicators as suggested by the

OHCHR as an instrument that allows for a more precise and coherent

evaluation of national human rights policies (Portugal);

124.6 Strengthen the functioning of the National Commission against

Racial Discrimination Racism, Xenophobia and Related Forms of Intolerance

in favour of intercultural dialogue, tolerance and awareness-raising

programmes (Argentina);

124.7 Step up awareness campaigns through the national plan of action to

combat racism and racial discrimination that is currently being drafted

(Panama);

124.8 Strengthen the institutional framework undertaken for the benefit of

indigenous and Afro-Honduran peoples (Equatorial Guinea);

124.9 Effectively implement the Gender Equality and Equity Plan 2010–

2022, by allocating technical and financial resources to achieve the envisaged

objectives as well as the reopening of the emergency “line 114” to provide care

to women victims of gender violence (Spain);

124.10 Implement policies and programs that promote tolerance and non-

discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons,

and to guarantee the compliance with the current norms in order to punish

offences and violence motivated by prejudices (Uruguay);

124.11 Strengthen its national institutions in charge of the promotion and

protection of human rights, with a view to fostering access to justice,

particularly for the most vulnerable groups, such as women, older persons,

children, indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, people of African

descent and the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex community

(Brazil);

124.12 Develop a national action plan to implement the United Nations

Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, including specific actions to

strengthen the implementation of ILO convention No. 169 (Netherlands);

**

The conclusions and recommendations have not been edited.

124.13 Support the efforts of the national mechanism for the follow-up of

universal periodic review recommendations through the establishment of an

online monitoring system (Paraguay);

124.14 Cooperate closely with the OHCHR office to be soon established in

the country while implementing universal periodic review recommendations

(Czech Republic);

124.15 Submit the overdue report to the relevant United Nations treaty

bodies (Sierra Leone);

124.16 Reply in a timely manner to all thematic special procedure

communications (Montenegro);

124.17 Improve birth registration system and be supported by awareness-

raising activities, in order to sustain the rise in registration numbers, especially

in rural areas (Turkey);

124.18 Undertake awareness-raising campaigns and programmes to

promote tolerance and to address violence against lesbian, gay, bisexual,

transgender and intersex persons (Slovenia);

124.19 Strengthen actions that aim at eliminating cultural patterns that

discriminate against women, promoting adequate access to judicial protection

in order to prevent cases of violence affecting their life, health and integrity

remaining unpunished (Chile);

124.20 End discrimination in law and practice against indigenous and Afro-

Honduran people and strengthen protection for lesbian, gay, bisexual,

transgender and intersex persons (Austria);

124.21 Take appropriate measures to improve living conditions and address

the issue of overcrowding in prisons and other detention centres, as well as to

reduce violence between and among prisoners (Republic of Korea);

124.22 Take effective measures to bring conditions of detention in line with

international standards, in particular by reducing overcrowding and inter-

prisoner violence (Austria);

124.23 Implement the recommendations contained in the 2013 report of the

Inter-American Commission on Human Rights on the status of persons

deprived of liberty in Honduras, and that the national penitentiary policy is

finalized and implemented accordingly (Denmark);

124.24 Consider widening the criminal legislation, not only criminalizing

cases of femicide, but also all cases of violence against women (Guatemala);

124.25 Create specialized courts responsible exclusively for cases of domestic

violence which are particularly problematic (Guatemala);

124.26 Take all necessary measures to ensure the effective implementation of

the Criminal Code offence of gender-related killings of women and to

guarantee effective access to justice for women who are victims of violence, as

well as their protection (Ireland);

124.27 Guarantee protection and effective access to justice to women victims

of violence, including by ensuring that perpetrators are brought to justice and

by providing sufficient resources and targeted training to law enforcement, the

judiciary and health-service personnel (Italy);

124.28 Prevent and punish all forms of violence against women and girls;

and consolidate a higher representation of women in management and decision

making positions (Peru);

124.29 Ensure adequate budget allocation to the prevention of sexual and

gender-based violence (Sweden);

124.30 Guarantee protection and access to justice for women who are

victims of violence (Belgium);

124.31 Step up efforts aimed at effectively preventing violence against

women, including rape, domestic violence and sexual harassment (Panama);

124.32 Take adequate and necessary measures to address violence against

women (Portugal);

124.33 Respond effectively to all forms of violence against women including

by providing law enforcement official with gender training (Sweden);

124.34 Reduce violence against women and increase the number of shelters

for battered women (Trinidad and Tobago);

124.35 Take specific measures to protect women from being victim of

discrimination and violence, including the appropriate investigation of such

cases as well as the prosecution and punishment of perpetrators (Turkey);

124.36 Take measures to ensure full protection of children at all levels and in

all spheres and to ensure that the institutions tasked to implement such

measures are adequately funded and resourced in order to carry out this

function effectively (Namibia); 2

124.37 Defend children’s rights by ensuring that the Directorate on

Childhood, Adolescent and Family Issues has the appropriate legislative

framework and financial resources to meet its mandate, and by implementing

policies and programmes to protect children, adolescents and returned child

migrants (Canada);

124.38 Re-establish its police unit specialized to combat human trafficking

and sexual exploitation (Timor-Leste);

124.39 Adopt necessary measures to guarantee fair justice for all (Nigeria);

124.40 Strengthen the judiciary by implementing a transparent, merit-based

and clearly defined selection process for Supreme Court justices (United States

of America);

124.41 Ensure transparency and impartiality in the appointment process of

judges, implementing clear procedures and objective criteria and ensure that

judicial staff are not subject to political interference (Switzerland);

124.42 Effectively fight impunity against the perpetrators of the crimes

against judges, journalists and human rights defenders and conduct effective

investigations of human rights violations in these cases (Poland);

2 The recommendation as read during the interactive dialogue: Take measures to ensure full protection

of children at all levels and in all spheres, including military operations, and to ensure that the

institutions tasked to implement such measures are adequately funded and resourced in order to carry

out this function effectively (Namibia).

124.43 Guarantee that all complaints regarding human rights violations and

other abuses committed by the police, armed forces or members of private

security companies are subject to, in a brief period of time, independent and

exhaustive investigations; and that those responsible for such violations are

brought to justice and that the victims have access to reparations (Belgium);

124.44 Enhance the Criminal Code which punishes hate crimes (Lebanon);

124.45 Take further measures for the effective investigation, prosecution and

punishment of hate crimes against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and

intersex persons and women, including femicides, as well as crimes against

human rights defenders, journalists, justice workers and campesino community

members in Bajo Aguán (Norway);

124.46 Exhaustively investigate the killings of women on gender grounds

(Spain);

124.47 Ensure that all hate crimes are categorized as such and thoroughly

investigated (Denmark);

124.48 Redefine clearly the role of the military police as a temporary

measure and to step up the professionalizing process of the national police to

ensure the protection of human rights in all their work (Switzerland);

124.49 Enhance efforts to create a safe environment for human rights

defenders and journalists (Italy);

124.50 Ensure freedom of expression and take steps to end threats and

attacks against journalists and human rights defenders, including lesbian, gay,

bisexual, transgender and intersex defenders (Australia);

124.51 Establish effective mechanisms to guarantee the safety of human

rights defenders, judges, prosecutors and journalists, and ensure that acts of

violence which in many cases result in deaths, intimidation and attacks against

them, do not remain unpunished (Chile);

124.52 That the implementation of the new law on the protection of human

rights defenders, journalists, social communicators and justice officials is

allocated sufficient resources and without it being necessary to resort to civil

society contributions (Switzerland);

124.53 Implement the new law (on the protection of human rights defenders,

journalist, social communicators and justice officials) through an open

consultation and participation process with civil society (Switzerland);

124.54 Approve and implement a law on the protection of human rights

defenders, journalists, social communicators and justice officials, and provide

adequate human and financial resources to establish an effective State

mechanism to protect those at risk (Belgium);

124.55 Improve the effectiveness of prevention, investigation and

prosecution of all forms of attacks against human rights defenders, journalists,

lawyers and judges in order to lower their incidence and to tackle impunity for

these crimes (Czech Republic);

124.56 Ensure that a robust law protecting human rights defenders,

journalists and justice officials is adopted and effectively implemented and that

its impact is regularly assessed (Czech Republic);

124.57 Further promote the participation of Afro-Hondurans and the

indigenous communities in the public sphere (Sierra Leone); Step-up

socioeconomic policies to enable the active participation of people of African

descent in economic, social and political sphere (Angola);

124.58 Take necessary measures to achieve the social reintegration of boys,

girls and adolescents victims of armed gangs (Paraguay);

123.59 Improve the precarious situation of indigenous peoples and Afro-

descendent communities (Estonia).

125. The following recommendations enjoy the support of Honduras which

considers that they are already implemented or in the process of implementation:

125.1 Fully adapt their legislation to the Rome Statute of the International

Criminal Court (Spain); fully align its national legislation with the Rome

Statute of the International Criminal Court (Estonia); fully implement the

Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court in national law (Portugal);

125.2 Elaborate a legal framework regarding disciplinary proceedings (for

judges) (Norway);

125.3 Develop laws against racial discrimination (Lebanon);

125.4 Continue its efforts to reform laws on the rights of women and

children in the justice sphere (Qatar);

125.5 Adopt laws protecting freedom of expression and freedom of the

media (Lebanon);

125.6 Strengthen the legislative process under way related to the education

sector (Equatorial Guinea);

125.7 Strengthen the National Human Rights Commission in line with the

Paris Principles (Guatemala); Continue efforts in ensuring that National

Human Rights Commission be strengthened to be in line with the Paris

Principles (Indonesia);

125.8 Take concrete actions to implement the Public Policy and National

Action Plan on Human Rights and to ensure that all forms of discrimination

against Afro-Honduran peoples and other minority groups is eliminated

(Namibia);

125.9 Take concrete measures to implement the Public Policy and National

Action Plan on Human Rights, including the assigning of appropriate funding

(Norway); take all measures necessary to put the public policy and the National

Action Plan on Human Rights into practice (Uruguay); pursue the

implementation of the Public Policy and the National Action Plan on Human

Rights 2013–2022 (Algeria);

125.10 Involve civil society more actively in developing national human

rights policies, strategies and action plans (Germany);

125.11 Continue with the effective implementation of measures to combat

discrimination and violence based on sexual orientation and gender identity,

particularly through the implementation of differentiated approaches to

guarantee the enjoyment of the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and

intersex persons (Colombia);

125.12 Continue efforts to address gender-related killing of women and girls

(Rwanda);

125.13 Strengthen normative standards and measures aimed at eliminating

domestic violence perpetrated against women (Sierra Leone);

125.14 Continue to strengthen legislative and policy measures to counter

violence against women (Singapore);

125.15 Continue efforts to reduce violence against children and young

persons (Rwanda);

125.16 Continue with the policy to reduce violence against children and

young people (Algeria);

125.17 Provide comprehensive child protection, particularly for

unaccompanied minors, by addressing the problems that give rise to their

migration, and often to their exploitation, and also affording them the means by

which they may be repatriated (Holy See);

125.18 Take additional measures to prevent the poor and marginalized

children from early entry into the labour market and provide incentives for

them to enrol in school (Thailand);

125.19 Take further measures to safeguard those Hondurans living abroad,

particularly as regards to child’s protection, and providing comprehensive

protection for migrant boys, girls and non-accompanied adolescents once they

are repatriated (Uruguay);

125.20 Take measures to empower young people, particularly through

education, with a view to preventing them from joining criminal and

transnational gangs; and ensure their rehabilitation and social reintegration

(Colombia);

125.21 Follow up on initiatives taken to strengthen the protection of

children’s rights (Equatorial Guinea);

125.22 Adopt measures to combat trafficking in persons, particularly women

and children (Romania);

125.23 Continue to work on combating trafficking in human beings and

illegal drug trafficking (Russian Federation);

125.24 Conduct a comprehensive review and structural reform of the

administration of justice with the aim of ensuring judicial independence and

reducing the growing number of cases of impunity (Sweden);

125.25 Ensure that human rights bodies such as the Public Prosecutor’s

Office and the Judiciary have the necessary financial and human resources as

well as human rights training to guarantee their independence and impartiality

so that they can perform their work effectively (United Kingdom of Great

Britain and Northern Ireland);

125.26 Continue strengthening government capacity to effectively investigate

and prosecute all crimes, including labour law violations (United States of

America);

125.27 Continue strengthening judicial and administrative measures

initiated to ensure the effective investigation and punishment of those

responsible for acts of violence, in particular those targeting human rights

defenders (Argentina);

125.28 Raise the capacity and effectiveness of investigation and prosecution

of all allegations of torture and ill-treatment by members of both State security

forces and private companies and strengthen legal safeguards available for

victims of torture and ill-treatment (Czech Republic);

125.29 Strengthen efforts to reform the justice and security sector with a

view to fighting corruption and strengthening the independence of the

judiciary, including by fostering effective supervision and disciplinary control

of the criminal justice institutions and by providing adequate supply of

financial and human resources (Germany);

125.30 Strengthen and guarantee the autonomy, independence and

impartiality of the judiciary, including by adopting safeguards to prevent

irregular dismissals and appointments of judges (Italy); take measures to

strengthen and guarantee the autonomy, independence and impartiality of the

judiciary, including transparent and impartial procedures for appointment and

dismissal of judicial officers (Namibia); take effective measures to strengthen

and guarantee the independence and impartiality of the judiciary, including by

adopting safeguards to prevent irregular dismissals and appointments

(Norway); adopt measures to guarantee the independence of the judiciary

(Romania);

125.31 Strengthen and guarantee the independence and impartiality of the

judiciary by enforcing the constitutional process for electing judges of the

Supreme Court, adopting safeguard measures to prevent irregular dismissals

and appointments and adopting additional anti-corruption measures (Canada);

125.32 Strengthen independence and transparency of the judiciary and step

up efforts to fight impunity by, inter alia, establishing a merit system of

selecting and appointing judges and preventing political and other interference

in their work, including arbitrary dismissals (Czech Republic);

125.33 Continue efforts towards due protection of women who are part of

the victim and witness protection programmes (Ecuador);

125.34 Take decisive steps to combat criminal impunity (Estonia);

125.35 Reinforce the public institutions responsible for the investigations of

crimes and the execution of criminal justice, especially in the area of organized

criminal activities involving drug and human trafficking, so as to create a more

stable and peaceful social environment (Holy See);

125.36 Taking into account the high level of violence which persists in the

county, step up efforts to fight crime and tackle impunity with a view to

ensuring the rights to life, liberty and security of its citizens (Republic of

Korea);

125.37 Take all necessary measures to ensure the effective implementation of

the Criminal Code, which sanctions the crime of femicide (Slovenia);

125.38 Continue to strengthen the response of its criminal justice system to

violent crimes against women and girls; in particular measures to support

capacity to investigate, prosecute and punish such crimes (Australia);

125.39 Continue the work of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission

(Lebanon);

125.40 Take effective measures to reduce and control the proliferation of

firearms (Rwanda);

125.41 Continue to take measures to counter organized crime, in particular

drug trafficking with a view to fostering an environment that is conducive to

the enjoyment of human rights for all (Singapore);

125.42 Formulate and implement a disarmament control and reduction

policy (Sweden); 3

125.43 Tighten its regulation on civilian possession of weapons and firearms,

enhance oversight on private security companies and put in place stronger

safeguards to protect the safety of Honduran citizens, especially in the conflict

in the Aguan River Valley (Thailand);

125.44 Increase the number of law enforcement officials, judges and

prosecutors receiving training specific to human rights and minority groups

(Canada);

125.45 Strengthen the security apparatus through a civilian police in order

to combat impunity, especially in cases of crimes against journalists and

femicides, without involving the military apparatus (Costa Rica);

125.46 Continue working, nationally and internationally, in the

implementation of the Central America security strategy (Nicaragua);

125.47 Establish a mechanism for the protection of human rights defenders

(Timor-Leste);

125.48 Promptly and impartially investigate any allegations of violence or

reprisals against journalists and human rights defenders and ensure that

perpetrators are held accountable (Austria);

125.49 Continue to give priority to efforts aimed at the recognition and

protection of journalists and human rights defenders (Colombia);

125.50 Respect and protect the right to freedom of expression and

strengthen the protection of journalists, civil society activists and human rights

defenders against attacks (Estonia);

125.51 Ensure provision of adequate financial and human resources for the

implementation of the law on the protection of human rights defenders,

journalists, social communicators and justice officials and commit to reviewing

its operation, including its consistency with international human rights

standards, after a period of initial implementation (Ireland);

125.52 Ensure effective implementation of the law on the protection of

human rights defenders, journalists, social communicators and justice officials

and provide adequate resources to establish an effective protection mechanism

for human rights defenders (Italy);

125.53 Adopt laws and policies protecting human rights defenders and

journalists; involve civil society in this process as well make available sufficient

funding for implementation (Netherlands);

125.54 Expedite the enactment and implementation of the bill on the

protection of human rights defenders, journalists and justice officials, and

3 The recommendation as read during the interactive dialogue: Formulate and implement a

disarmament policy (Sweden).

provide adequate resources to establish an effective protection mechanism

(Sierra Leone);

125.55 Ensure prompt investigations into attacks and threats against human

rights defenders, indigenous people, and journalists as well as to ensure that

they can carry out their activities without fear of reprisals (Slovenia);

125.56 Continue the proceedings relating to human rights defenders,

journalists, social communicators and justice officials for their full and effective

protection, enabling them to perform their functions with all guarantees

(Spain);

125.57 Guarantee that all human rights defenders in Honduras are able to

carry out their legitimate human rights activities according to the Declaration

on Human Rights Defenders (Sweden);

125.58 Bring to a conclusion the legislative process and proceed to

implement the bill on the protection of human rights defenders, journalists,

those working in the media, and justice officials (Uruguay);

125.59 Guarantee the effective implementation of the bill on the protection

of human rights defenders, journalists, social communicators and justice

officials, including appropriate financing (Brazil);

125.60 Pursue the legislative work initiated in 2014 to protect journalists,

human rights defenders and some members of the judiciary in the fight against

crime (France); consider approving the draft bill for the protection of human

rights defenders, journalists, social communicators and justice officials

(Paraguay); continue ongoing efforts aimed at the adoption of the law for the

protection of human rights defenders, journalists, social communicators and

justice officials (Peru);

125.61 Create and further implement social policies focused on providing

better education, increasing the enrolment of students and reducing the

number of school dropouts (Holy See);

125.62 Make every effort to respect the dignity of human life, especially of

women and children who are most vulnerable to gross abuses (Holy See);

125.63 Continue strengthening its social assistance programmes, in favour of

the most vulnerable in the country (Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of));

125.64 Adopt institutional measures to improve the quality of live, ensuring

that minors and adolescents remain permanently in the country, and

preventing their unaccompanied migration. In the repatriation processes,

ensure that the principle of the best interest of the child is respected and

promote their effective social reintegration (Mexico);

125.65 Continue to promote and protect the enjoyment of fundamental

freedoms and rights of its citizens in the areas of education, health, rights of

women and children, and persons with disabilities (Nigeria);

125.66 Continue further work on the protection of vulnerable groups of the

population, such as women, children and youth (Russian Federation);

125.67 Strengthen the system for the protection of persons at risk, notably

women and children (Angola);

125.68 Continue to focus on developing its economy, increasing employment,

strengthening poverty eradication and raising the standard of living of its

people (China);

125.69 Strengthen actions aimed at implementing social inclusion and

development policies to reduce levels of inequality and poverty (Ecuador);

125.70 Design a comprehensive strategy with a gender and human rights

perspective to assist the population that are living in situations of poverty and

extreme poverty (Mexico);

125.71 Implement measures to reduce poverty and instances of social

exclusion among indigenous people and Afro-Honduran communities (Trinidad

and Tobago);

125.72 Continue to prioritize efforts to improve the health of its people,

including through the enactment of water and sanitation services (Singapore);

125.73 Continue implementing the policy of free, public, compulsory

education, redefining the length and cycles, including by allocating sufficient

budget and resources (Indonesia);

125.74 Continue reforms initiated in education (Qatar);

125.75 Continue implementing concrete actions for the enforcement of the

Fundamental Law on Education (Cuba);

125.76 Continue ongoing efforts aimed at enhancing the participation and

consultations of indigenous peoples on public policies that affect them, fully

implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous

Peoples and the ILO Convention No. 169 concerning Indigenous and Tribal

Peoples in Independent Countries (Peru);

125.77 Take the necessary measures to guarantee the human rights of

migrant woman and children, including single mothers and unaccompanied

children (Paraguay);

125.78 Consider entering into bilateral and multilateral cooperation

agreements with concerned States to address the protection needs of

unaccompanied migrant children from Honduras, including their repatriation

and reintegration (Philippines);

125.79 Adopt measures in order to appropriately receive children and

adolescents deported from another country (Poland);

125.80 Continue implementing measures to comprehensively address the

phenomenon of unaccompanied migrant children (Cuba);

125.81 Pursue efforts initiated to limit the flow of migration, especially of

unaccompanied children, and continue implementing the legislative framework

to achieve a quality education for children (France).

126. The following recommendations will be examined by Honduras, which will

provide responses in due time, but no later than the thirtieth session of the Human

Rights Council in September 2015:

126.1 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on

Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (Madagascar; Montenegro; Costa Rica;

the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights

(Portugal); consider the ratification or adhesion to the Optional Protocol to the

International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (Peru);

126.2 Consider the ratification or adhesion to the Optional Protocol to the

Convention on the Rights of the Child on a communications procedure (Peru)4;

ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on a

communications procedure (Portugal);

126.3 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of

All Forms of Discrimination against Women (Costa Rica) (Portugal) (Slovenia)

(Sweden) (Timor-Leste) (Austria) (Canada); consider the ratification or

adhesion to the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of All

Forms of Discrimination against Women (Peru); consider positively the

ratification of the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of All

Forms of Discrimination against Women (Mexico); ratify the Optional Protocol

to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against

Women, as previously recommended (Spain); sign and ratify the Optional

Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination

against Women (Turkey); consider ratifying the Optional Protocol to the

Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women

(Uruguay); pursue the ratification of the Optional Protocol to the Convention

on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (Chile);

126.4 Sign and ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the

Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, establishing a

communication mechanism in order to strengthen the tools in the fight against

violence and discrimination against women (France); take additional steps to

guarantee equal access for women to appropriate health services, especially

sexual and reproductive health services, and ratify the Optional Protocol to the

Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women

(Germany);

126.5 Ratify the Arms Trade Treaty thereby providing the potential for

reducing the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, the illegal drug

trade and high levels of violence (Trinidad and Tobago);

126.6 Ratify ILO Convention No. 189 (Madagascar); step up its efforts

towards the ratification of other international human rights conventions,

including ILO Convention No. 189 (Philippines);

126.7 Align the Criminal Code with the International Code of Medical

Ethics and that Honduras considers to legalize abortion in case of rape or incest

(Norway);

126.8 Adopt a law on gender identity allowing legal recognition in the

national register of persons in accordance with their sexual orientation and

image of the persons concerned (Madagascar);

126.9 Ensure that the Gender Identity Law that is currently before

Congress is adopted and implemented (Denmark);

126.10 Amend legislation to decriminalize defamation, slander and libel and

convert them into matters regulated by civil law rights standards set by the

United Nations and the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights

4 The recommendation as read during the interactive dialogue: Consider the ratification or adhesion to

the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights; the

Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against

Women and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child (Peru).

observations and recommendations (United Kingdom of Great Britain and

Northern Ireland);

126.11 Comply with the recommendations of the Inter-American

Commission on Human Rights and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission

to ensure that security strategies promote prevention and are implemented by

properly organized and trained civil police forces and not military forces

(Norway);

125.12 Uphold its commitment to introduce a comprehensive police reform

plan and pass the new organic police law by June 2015, and share a

benchmarked time-bound plan to remove the military from civilian police

duties (United States of America).

127. All conclusions and recommendations contained in the present report reflect

the position of the submitting State and the State under review. They should not be

construed as endorsed by the Working Group as a whole.

Annex

[English/Spanish only]

Composition of the delegation

The delegation of Honduras was headed by S. E. Doctor José Ramón Hernández

Alcerro, Secretary of State, General Coordinator of Government and composed of the

following members:

• Abogado Jorge Alberto Rivera Avilés, Magistrado Presidente de la Corte Suprema

de Justicia

• Diputado Yury Cristhian Sabas Gutiérres, Presidente de la Comisión de Derechos

Humanos del Congreso Nacional

• Abogado Rigoberto Chang Castillo, Secretario de Estado en los Despachos de

Derechos Humanos, Justicia, Gobernación

• Abogado Abraham Alvarenga Urbina, Procurador General de la República

• S.E. Karla Cueva, Subcretaria de Estado en el Despacho de Derechos Humanos y

Justicia

• Licenciada Olga Margarita Alvarado Rodríguez, Subsecretaria de Estado en los

Despachos de Desarrollo e Inclusion Social

• Abogado Ramón Fernando Carranza Discua, Subsecretario de Estrado en los

Despachos de Trabajo y Seguridad Social

• Licenciada Ana Aminta Madrid Paz, Presidenta Ejecutiva del Instituto Nacional de

la Mujer

• Sr. Giampaolo Rizzo Alvarado, Embajador, Representante Permanente Adjunto,

Encargado de Negocios a.i., Misión Permanente de Honduras

• Abogada Sagrario Prudott, Jefa del Departamento de Derechos Humanos de la

Secretaría de Estado en el Despacho de Seguridad

• Abogada Alma Yaneth Coello, Coordinadora de la Unidad de Prevención de la

Violencia del Instituto Nacional de la Mujer (INAM)

• Abogado José Rubén Pineda Rubí, Asistente de Presidencia y Jefe de Protocolo del

Poder Judicial