31/11 Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review - Oman
Document Type: Final Report
Date: 2016 Jan
Session: 31st Regular Session (2016 Feb)
Agenda Item:
Human Rights Council Thirty-first session
Agenda item 6
Universal periodic review
Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review*
Oman
* 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 ................................................. 6
II. Conclusions and/or recommendations .............................................................................................. 13
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, held its twenty-third session from 2 to 13
November 2015. The review of Oman was held at the 8th meeting on 5 November 2015.
The delegation of Oman was headed by the Minister of Legal Affairs, Abdullah
Mohammed Said Al Sa’eedi. At its 14th meeting, held on 10 November 2015, the Working
Group adopted the report on Oman.
2. On 13 January 2015, the Human Rights Council selected the following group of
rapporteurs (troika) to facilitate the review of Oman: Montenegro, South Africa and Viet
Nam.
3. In accordance with paragraph 15 of the annex to Human Rights Council resolution
5/1 and paragraph 5 of the annex to resolution 16/21, the following documents were issued
for the review of Oman:
(a) A national report submitted/written presentation made in accordance with
paragraph 15 (a) (A/HRC/WG.6/23/OMN/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.6/23/OMN/2);
(c) A summary prepared by OHCHR in accordance with paragraph 15 (c)
(A/HRC/WG.6/23/OMN/3).
4. A list of questions prepared in advance by the Czech Republic, Germany, Kenya,
Liechtenstein, Mexico, the Netherlands, Norway, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and the United
Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland was transmitted to Oman through the
troika. These questions are available on the extranet of the Working Group.
I. Summary of the proceedings of the review process
A. Presentation by the State under review
5. The delegation of Oman expressed thanks to the Human Rights Council, OHCHR
and the troika members.
6. The delegation noted that following the first universal periodic review, the Sultanate
had established a committee to examine and follow up on the recommendations made by
other States. The committee encompassed representatives of the Government and
institutions from civil society. It had elaborated a plan to implement the results of the
interactive process of the universal periodic review.
7. The delegation highlighted that as the Sultanate was committed to protecting human
dignity and rights, its Constitution expressly provided that no person should be subjected to
physical or psychological torture, inducement or demeaning treatment and that any
statement or confession proven to have been obtained as a result of torture, or demeaning
treatment or the threat of any such acts would be deemed void. The delegation added that
the Constitution also affirmed that accused persons were innocent until proven guilty in a
legal trial in which the essential guarantees to exercise their right of defence in accordance
with the law were upheld, and that it was not permissible to harm an accused, either bodily
or mentally.
8. The delegation stated that the amendments introduced to the Constitution in 2011
constituted a comprehensive development in the protection, promotion and respect of
human rights. In that vein, the Sultanate had agreed in principle to adhere to the following
conventions: the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the
Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or
Punishment and the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from
Enforced Disappearance.
9. According to the delegation, the Sultanate had also agreed in principle to withdraw
its reservation to article 15 (4) of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of
Discrimination against Women. Furthermore, Oman guaranteed, through articles 11 to 40
of its Constitution, the three generations of human rights. Although the Sultanate was not a
party to the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant
Workers and Members of Their Families, it guaranteed the large majority of rights
enshrined in that convention.
10. The delegation noted that the political system in Oman was stable and founded on
the rule of law, good governance and equality among citizens. One of the main principles in
the Constitution was the achievement of economic and social development. Constitutional
amendments gave extensive legislative and regulatory powers to the Council of Oman in
order to affirm the importance of political participation and the democratic process. Free
and transparent elections for the Shura Council had been held recently under the
supervision of the high electoral commission, as stipulated by the Constitution. The
National Human Rights Commission had observed the elections.
11. The delegation highlighted that the judicial system had been reformed and that the
judiciary consequently enjoyed further administrative and financial independence. The
Constitution expressly stated that the judiciary should be independent, its authority should
be exercised by the courts in their different types and hierarchies, and their judgments
should be rendered in accordance with the law; that there should be no power over judges
in their ruling except for the law; that judges should be irremovable; and that it was not
permissible for any party to interfere in lawsuits or affairs of justice, and such interference
would be considered a crime punishable by law.
12. The delegation noted that the Constitution also affirmed the freedom of opinion and
expression, which could be exercised in speech, in writing and in other means of
expression, and that that freedom was enshrined in Omani legislation.
13. The delegation stated that the right to education was one of the most important
rights; it had been among the Government’s priorities since 1970. The Constitution
affirmed that education was the cornerstone for the progress of society and that the State
was to work to combat illiteracy and encourage and promote the sciences, arts, literature
and scientific research. The Sultanate supported the establishment of innovation within the
national education goals to enable students to keep abreast of scientific progress, especially
in the technical field, which provided more employment opportunities for young people.
14. The delegation indicated that the United Nations, in a joint report, had noted the
progress achieved by the Sultanate in developing the national strategy for the child. The
Government had developed, in consultation with the civil society, a national work plan for
the advancement of children and established a commission to prevent the ill-treatment of
children.
15. The delegation stated that the Sultanate was a pioneer in the region with respect to
women’s rights. Women had equal opportunities in higher education and in the labour
market and were represented in the highest positions in the State as ministers, deputy
ministers, ambassadors and members of the Council of Oman and in other administrative
posts in both the public and private sectors. Women had also become active members in the
judiciary, the police and the armed forces. In recognition of women’s role in society, the
Sultanate annually celebrated Omani women’s day on 17 October.
16. In respect of the fight against human trafficking, the delegation recalled that Oman
had been among the first States in the region to have issued a comprehensive law in that
area and had established a national commission, presided by an official with the rank of
minister. Since its first review in 2011, Oman had achieved remarkable progress in respect
of its strategy to combat human trafficking, which was based on four pillars: developing
legislation and rules to combat human trafficking; providing the authorities concerned with
guidance on preventive and deterrent measures; providing protection and support to the
victims; and strengthening international collaboration to combat human trafficking.
17. The delegation noted that Oman had established a strategy to combat all forms of
forced labour by imposing heavy fines on offenders, and had increased the number of
shelters for women and children who were victims of sexual exploitation.
18. In the humanitarian field, the delegation indicated that the Sultanate worked on
providing financial support to developing countries, and the Oman Charitable Organization
supported urgent relief operations worldwide in response to natural disasters.
19. The delegation noted that in order to ensure a national staff capable of tackling
human rights issues, the National Human Rights Commission, in collaboration with
OHCHR and many specialized training centres, trained staff on human rights and strove to
promote a culture of human rights.
20. The delegation stated that the Sultanate consistently emphasized the importance of
dialogue between stakeholders on human rights issues that references the Universal
Declaration of Human Rights, the diversity of civilizations and the cultural specificity of
each society. Oman made concrete efforts to consolidate the concepts of coexistence and
tolerance through the reinforcement of the principle of respect of religious freedom; in that
context, the Sultanate had created centres for dialogue between different religions and
confessions and had established chairs in science at international universities. Tolerance
was an inherent characteristic of Omani society; the Government ensured religious and
intellectual freedom for citizens and residents.
21. The delegation mentioned that Oman was located in a troubled region, but that did
not dissuade it from seeking peaceful resolutions and narrowing the differences to put an
end to regional conflicts. That role was noted recently by the Secretary-General, who had
thanked Oman for its constructive role in helping to resolve the conflict in Yemen and in
discussing the latest developments in the peace process in the Middle East and the Syrian
Arab Republic.
22. The delegation recalled the firm position of Oman in supporting the Palestinian
people in exercising their right to self-determination; establishing their State with East
Jerusalem as its capital, side by side with Israel; and ending the longest occupation in the
world.
23. The delegation highlighted that the events that the Arab world had been witnessing
had brought major challenges to several countries. Through wise policies implemented
under the leadership of the Sultan, Oman had worked to balance the addition of further
rights and freedoms with the dictates of maintaining stability and security.
24. The delegation concluded by saying that Oman would continue its efforts to foster
the protection and promotion of human rights and to make the Council a forum in which to
advance human rights, free from politicization and selectivity.
B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review
25. During the interactive dialogue, 85 delegations made statements. Recommendations
made during the dialogue are to be found in section II of the present report.
26. Costa Rica expressed concern at, among other things, the limited representation of
women in decision-making positions; the lack of independence of the judiciary and
restrictions on the freedom of expression and of association.
27. Bahrain commended the efforts made by Oman to adopt measures and initiatives to
strengthen and protect human rights, in particular through its commitment to fulfil its
obligations and pledges.
28. Cyprus welcomed the decision of Oman to agree in principle to accede to a number
of international human rights legal instruments.
29. The Czech Republic expressed appreciation for the responses made to some of its
advance questions.
30. The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea commended Oman on the promotion of
the role of women, noting in particular that women constituted 43 per cent of the workforce
in the civil service sector.
31. Denmark was pleased to note that Oman had agreed in principle to accede to the
Convention against Torture.
32. Qatar valued the developments in promoting and protecting human rights and
commended legislative measures, such as the law on children; the military judicial law; and
the ratification of treaties.
33. Egypt highlighted the adoption of several national laws and strategies and the
establishment of institutions for the promotion of human rights.
34. Estonia noted with appreciation the cooperation of Oman with the Special
Rapporteur on the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association and
encouraged Oman to implement his recommendations.
35. France made recommendations to Oman.
36. While acknowledging the steps taken to protect the rights of the child and promote
the role of women, Georgia encouraged Oman to increase efforts to reach international
standards.
37. Germany asked Oman what the state of affairs was regarding accession to the
International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and the International
Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
38. Ghana was concerned at reports of discrimination against women; use of excessive
force by the police against citizens exercising their rights to the freedom of speech and of
assembly; and conditions of employment of migrant workers.
39. Honduras welcomed the decision to prohibit female genital mutilation in hospitals. It
also acknowledged the national strategy for the period 2016-2025 on the rights of women,
persons with disabilities and children.
40. While welcoming the Omani citizenship law, which enabled Omani women married
to foreigners to transmit their citizenship to their children, Iceland expressed concern at
some provisions that undermined efforts towards equal treatment of all citizens.
41. Brunei Darussalam welcomed laws and legislations enacted to uphold the rights of
workers and employers.
42. Indonesia noted that Oman had developed education that was compulsory up to the
completion of the basic level, and also noted its commitments to ensure access to education
for all people.
43. The Islamic Republic of Iran expressed its appreciation for the legislative measures
taken by Oman since its first review and for the positive developments in human rights
institutions and mechanisms.
44. Iraq commended the human rights achievements made since the first review and the
efforts in amending national legislation in accordance with the ratified international human
rights treaties.
45. Ireland expressed concern at reports of discrimination against women and of arrests
of human rights defenders and journalists. It called upon Oman to take further steps to
protect and support civil society organizations.
46. Italy welcomed the commitment of Oman to ratify the International Covenant on
Economic, Social and Cultural Rights; the ongoing review of the International Covenant on
Civil and Political Rights; and the promulgation of decrees No. 22/2014 and No. 38/2014.
It also acknowledged the efforts made by Oman to strengthen women’s empowerment.
47. Jordan commended the initiatives and special measures to develop the legislative,
institutional and constitutional framework and to establish action plans and special
commissions on human rights.
48. Kuwait acknowledged the cooperation of Oman with civil society, the ratification of
human rights treaties and the amendment of legislation in accordance with the constitution.
49. Latvia encouraged Oman to strengthen its efforts to eliminate discrimination against
women, in particular with regard to divorce, inheritance, child custody and legal
guardianship of children.
50. Lebanon highlighted good practices in human rights education and the free and
compulsory education, in particular the inclusion of human rights in curricula.
51. Libya commended Oman for its ratification of the Arab treaty on money laundering
and financing terrorism.
52. Malaysia expressed appreciation for efforts made by Oman to combat trafficking
and noted its promotion of the rights of persons with disabilities, particularly in education.
53. Maldives expressed appreciation for the efforts made in establishing institutional
mechanisms focusing on strategies for social work, women and children, and persons with
disabilities.
54. Mauritania noted with satisfaction the amendments to the nationality law granting
additional rights to Omani citizens, and encouraged Oman to comply with the
implementation of the law.
55. Mexico welcomed the action taken to promote a more inclusive education in
connection with the adoption of the national strategy for persons with disabilities.
56. Montenegro asked the delegation to elaborate on the measures that the Government
planned to take to prohibit discrimination against women in all areas of life.
57. Namibia commended the adoption of the children’s act, and the increased
representation of women in the public and private sectors. It encouraged Oman to increase
the participation of citizens in public life.
58. The Netherlands commended Oman for its invitation to the Special Rapporteur on
the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association.
59. Nigeria commended Oman for the policies and legislation implemented to promote
human rights, including in respect of citizenship and transparency in the electoral appeal
law.
60. While Norway acknowledged that Oman had made progress in advancing the status
of women, it noted that their status still lagged behind that of men, especially regarding the
right to transfer their nationality to their children.
61. Pakistan welcomed the various programmes and mechanisms established for the
welfare of children and disabled and elderly people.
62. Panama commended Oman for the development of a national work plan for the
implementation of the recommendations that it had accepted in the context of its first
universal periodic review.
63. The Philippines encouraged Oman to set up a 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 urged the Government to continue
to ensure the protection of migrant workers.
64. The delegation of Oman stated that the Sultanate’s policies, plans and programmes
were all devoted to achieving the objectives of sustainable development. The Sultanate
strove to take measures to improve social development, and focused on a concept of
development based on partnership, empowerment and equality.
65. The delegation noted that the Sultanate ensured the social protection of children,
women, persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups. In that context, it had ratified
a number of international conventions in the field of human rights. In addition, since 2013
the Sultanate had been preparing a social work strategy.
66. Regarding women’s rights, the delegation indicated that women had a privileged
position in Omani society and played an active role in the economic and social
development process in the country. They had the same rights as men, in accordance with
the Constitution.
67. The delegation noted that the provision of rehabilitation programmes for persons
with disabilities was a priority of the Sultanate; such programmes were aimed at developing
the potential and abilities of persons with disabilities and promoting their participation and
integration in society.
68. In fulfilment of its commitments under the Convention on the Rights of the Child
and its optional protocols to which Oman was a party, and in reinforcement of the rights of
the child in Oman, the delegation noted that the Government had promulgated the child law
in 2014 and had created child protection committees in various governorates. The
committees received and followed up on complaints and communications, from individuals
and governmental and civil actors, related to any violation of the rights of the child.
69. The delegation reaffirmed the importance of civil society institutions and indicated
that their representatives were invited to participate in various committees and conferences.
70. The delegation explained that the cooperation of the Ministry of Manpower with the
International Labour Organization (ILO), and the technical expertise and practical
capacities of ILO that Oman had been able to draw on, had helped enable the Sultanate to
develop labour legislation, organize the labour market and develop programmes and
regulations guaranteeing the rights of employers and workers.
71. Regarding the expatriate labour force, the delegation stated that contracts were
agreed by the employer and the worker and approved by the official authorities in the
Sultanate, including the embassies of some sending States.
72. The delegation noted that the Sultanate paid great attention to workers; that was
reflected in the labour law, which did not distinguish between man and woman. That law
also provided for penalties for those who violated its provisions, including workers’ rights
defined in the law. The Ministry of Manpower provided various services to ensure the
application of the labour law and related ministerial decisions, as well as the monitoring of
private enterprises through inspection services. It also settled labour disputes, received
complaints and sought their amicable settlement. In addition, the Ministry ensured that
workers receive their wages through the protection-of-wages system. The Ministry had also
issued, through Ministerial Decision No. 322/2011, the regulation on safety and
occupational health measures in enterprises subject to the labour law.
73. The delegation stated that the Sultanate paid utmost attention to the labour force
engaged in domestic work, as reflected in Ministerial Decision No. 189/2004 on the rules
and conditions related to the work of domestic workers and Ministerial Decision
No. 1/2011 related to the regulation of the recruitment of non-Omani domestic workers,
whereby the Government regulated the work of offices recruiting expatriate domestic
workers in order to guarantee their rights and prevent trafficking. The Ministry had also
established a committee mandated to meet with the embassies of the sending States to find
adequate solutions for the difficulties facing women employed as domestic workers and to
discuss the situation of the expatriate labour force.
74. The delegation noted that in the event that any worker was subject to exploitation,
violence or a violation of any of his or her rights, he or she was entitled to resort to the
competent judicial authorities to seek legal protection. Committed to its obligations in
respect of the international labour standards, the Sultanate had signed a memorandum of
understanding with ILO in 2011 to implement the national programme for decent work.
75. The delegation affirmed the commitment of Oman to implementing the international
labour standards in accordance with its national needs, with a view to achieving sustainable
development and an equitable labour market for all.
76. Portugal welcomed the efforts made by Oman to consolidate the legal framework for
the protection and promotion of human rights, but expressed regret that Oman still retained
the death penalty.
77. Djibouti commended Oman for its efforts to strengthen human rights, in particular in
targeting economic growth and improving the living conditions of its population.
78. The Republic of Korea noted with appreciation the withdrawal or modification of
the reservations to the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the invitation extended to
the Special Rapporteur on the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association.
79. Saudi Arabia commended Oman for its achievements in education and human rights
awareness among different sectors.
80. Senegal welcomed efforts towards the establishment of compulsory primary
education free of charge, access to health care and the new law on transmission of Omani
nationality.
81. Sierra Leone noted with appreciation the passing of an impressive number of
decrees. It encouraged the implementation of the recommendation of the Committee on the
Elimination of Discrimination against Women on ensuring active participation of women in
society.
82. Singapore commended the commitment of Oman to ensure equal educational
opportunities without discrimination and encouraged Oman to continue its efforts to
develop quality health care.
83. Slovakia acknowledged efforts to improve the level of protection of children’s
rights. It encouraged Oman to explore further ways of increasing cooperation with other
special procedure mandate holders.
84. Slovenia noted positively the withdrawal of reservations to the Convention on the
Rights of the Child, and efforts towards the eradication of child labour. It remained
concerned about the lack of legal protection addressing violence against women.
85. Spain acknowledged the progress made in the participation of women in public life
and the reform of the law on nationality. It welcomed the visit to Oman of the Special
Rapporteur on the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association.
86. Sri Lanka noted the promulgation of the child law, which made education
compulsory and free; Health Vision 2050, including strategies for the advancement of
women; and the national plan for the elderly.
87. The State of Palestine noted the efforts in strengthening the judiciary to ensure its
independence. It commended Oman for making education free and compulsory and for
incorporating human rights into the curricula.
88. The Sudan commended Oman for the constitutional, legislative and institutional
changes, such as the child law, the law on nationality and the establishment of the general
directorate for persons with disabilities.
89. Sweden made recommendations to Oman.
90. Switzerland welcomed the absence, for over 10 years, of executions in Oman. It
expressed concern about restrictions on the rights to freedom of expression, association and
peaceful assembly.
91. The Syrian Arab Republic noted that Oman had taken on a humanitarian role of
bringing religions and cultures together.
92. Tajikistan noted the measures taken in the area of labour, measures to improve the
situation of families and measures to improve education through an approach promoting
human rights.
93. Thailand acknowledged the progress made in education, health care and social
services and welcomed initiatives to promote and empower Omani women.
94. Tunisia noted the adoption of laws to strengthen human rights; the ratification of
treaties and the agreement to accede to additional treaties; and the implementation of the
strategy for the empowerment of women and persons with disabilities.
95. Turkey encouraged Oman to continue its efforts in the area of women’s rights,
particularly in respect of women’s representation in decision-making mechanisms such as
the Shura Council.
96. Turkmenistan noted that Oman enhanced the working conditions of expatriate
labourers by issuing legislation and regulations.
97. Ukraine noted the elaboration by Oman of national strategies and plans for the
advancement of women, children and elderly persons, for health care and for the combating
of human trafficking.
98. The United Arab Emirates commended Oman for the measures taken to achieve
human development, in particular through the adoption of a number of national strategies
on women, the elderly and children.
99. The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland welcomed the visit to
Oman undertaken by the Special Rapporteur on the rights to freedom of assembly and of
association. It encouraged Oman to grant the National Human Rights Commission greater
independence.
100. The United States of America remained concerned at the Government’s limited
efforts to hold forced-labour offenders accountable through criminal prosecution, at the
continuing restrictions on freedom of expression and civil society and at the detention of
bloggers.
101. The delegation of Oman noted that Omani legislation guaranteed freedom of
assembly as long as the assembly was peaceful, did not disturb the public order or
jeopardize health and avoided violating others’ rights. It explained that the law did not
criminalize assembly per se, but rather only in respect of the commission of offences under
provisions of the law. In the event that such an offence was committed, a trial in which all
legal rights were guaranteed was held.
102. The delegation added that the Omani legislation also guaranteed freedom of
association. Although the law on civil associations promulgated through Royal Decree No.
14/2000 made the Ministry of Social Development responsible for receiving applications
for the registration of civil associations, it required the Ministry to justify negative
decisions in that regard in accordance with article 11 of the law. The law also provided for
the possibility, should an application be rejected, for associations to appeal to the Minister
within a month from the date of receipt of the refusal decision. In the event the Minister
rejected the appeal, the association concerned had the right to appeal the Minister’s
decision before the independent administrative judiciary court to verify the validity of the
administrative decisions. The registration of many associations during the recent period, in
various fields and for various purposes, underlined the flexibility and transparency of the
registration procedures.
103. The delegation noted that the Sultanate had experience as a leader in integrating
human rights in the field of education. The most prominent steps taken in that regard were
the issuance of the child law, which made education free and compulsory, and the
implementation of the Arab plan for human rights education for the period 2009-2014. The
plan was based on several pillars, including the integration of the concepts of human rights
in school curricula, the training of staff in human rights education and the dissemination of
a culture of human rights.
104. With regard to children with disabilities, the delegation mentioned that the Ministry
of Education worked to provide equal educational opportunities for all students in the
Sultanate without discrimination. Integration programmes for persons with mental
disabilities and hearing impairment were included in elementary education. Further
opportunities were provided for the completion of university studies; in that context, a
number of deaf students — graduates of the school year 2013/14 — had been sent to the
United States of America and Jordan to complete their studies.
105. The delegation noted that the institutions of higher education had introduced the
concepts of human rights in their cultural programmes. Moreover, advisory student councils
at institutions of higher education had been launched in the academic year 2014/15 with a
view to promoting among students the practice of the democratic process.
106. Uruguay expressed hope that Oman would soon implement its decision to accede to
the Convention against Torture. It encouraged Oman to ensure the full independence of the
National Human Rights Commission.
107. Uzbekistan welcomed the national strategies to protect and promote the rights of
children, women, the disabled and the elderly, as well as activities to raise awareness of
human rights.
108. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela highlighted the adoption of the national
strategy for the development of women and the decree on free and compulsory education.
109. Viet Nam noted progress regarding children’s rights, women, persons with
disabilities and human rights education.
110. Yemen welcomed the ratification by Oman of most international human rights
instruments and its efforts in promoting the rights of women, children, and persons with
disabilities.
111. Afghanistan commended the measures aimed at eradicating illiteracy and ensuring
there is no quality gap in education between males and females.
112. Algeria noted the adoption of and amendments to legislation on the judiciary and the
fight against corruption. It welcomed the intention of Oman to adopt policies regarding
children, women, workers and persons with disabilities.
113. Argentina congratulated Oman for its national strategy for children and the increase
in the enrolment of women and girls in all levels of education. It expressed concern about
the lack of free compulsory education for all.
114. Australia commended the progress of Oman in providing access to education for
women and girls. It was concerned at the restrictions to freedom of expression and
assembly.
115. Azerbaijan appreciated the establishment of the ministerial steering committee and
executive working group aimed at enabling Oman to fulfil its commitments vis-à-vis
human rights mechanisms.
116. Cuba highlighted the progress made by Oman in its health-care system and the
guarantee of universal access to quality education.
117. Bangladesh expressed appreciation for the adoption of laws and regulations to
develop the labour market in a manner consistent with national requirements and
international labour standards.
118. Bhutan noted the steps taken by Oman to address the rights of all children through
the promulgation of the children’s act. It also expressed appreciation for the policy of
providing universal education.
119. Brazil praised Oman for providing financial contributions to OHCHR. It encouraged
Oman to ensure that its National Human Rights Commission complied with the Paris
Principles.
120. India commended Oman for its achievements in health and education, and
encouraged it to continue to take additional measures to promote gender equality.
121. Burundi congratulated Oman for the measures taken to ensure the independence of
the judiciary, and for its policies on free education and human rights education.
122. Canada welcomed efforts to strengthen the participation of women during the Shura
Council elections and the establishment of a committee to monitor the compliance of Oman
with the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. It
expressed concern at limits imposed on freedom of opinion and expression.
123. Chad noted the legislation adopted and measures taken by Oman, such as the
nationality law, the labour law, the inclusion of human rights in policies and programmes,
and the provision of free and compulsory education.
124. Chile expressed concern about discrimination against women in Oman.
125. China commended Oman for the formulation of strategic plans to promote the right
to health among women, children, persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups. It
noted positively the drop in illiteracy rates, as well as fairness in education.
126. The Comoros congratulated Oman for its progress in the elimination of all forms of
discrimination against women, including in respect of education, training and access to
decision-making positions.
127. Morocco welcomed the efforts to enshrine the foundations of the rule of law through
judicial reforms, and the adoption of the law that permitted women with foreign husbands
to transmit their nationality to their children.
128. In concluding, the delegation of Oman thanked all delegations for their statements
and for their recommendations aimed at promoting and protecting human rights. It stated
that all of the recommendations would be taken into consideration and that all of the
competent authorities would be consulted.
II. Conclusions and/or recommendations**
129. The following recommendations will be examined by Oman, which will provide
responses in due time, but no later than the thirty-first session of the Human Rights
Council, in March 2016:
129.1 Speed up the accession to the international human rights instruments
that were approved in principle and take the necessary measures to apply their
provisions (Algeria);
129.2 Ratify the outstanding human rights treaties (Slovenia);
129.3 Ratify the two 1966 Covenants and their Optional Protocols (Italy);
129.4 Ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights
(Australia) (Costa Rica) (Montenegro) (Slovakia) (Slovenia) (United Kingdom
of Great Britain and Northern Ireland) (Uruguay);
129.5 Ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights
without reservations (Germany) (Switzerland);
129.6 Accede to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights
(Canada);
129.7 Consider ratifying the International Covenant on Civil and Political
Rights (Ghana);
129.8 Consider acceding to the International Covenant on Civil and
Political Rights (Republic of Korea);
129.9 Continue to positively consider the accession to the International
Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (1966) (Viet Nam);
129.10 Sign and ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political
Rights (Sierra Leone);
129.11 Sign and ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International
Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death
penalty (Sierra Leone);
** The conclusions and recommendations have not been edited.
129.12 Accede to the Second Optional Protocol to the International
Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death
penalty (Australia) (France);
129.13 Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on
Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty
(Portugal);
129.14 Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on
Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty
(Montenegro);
129.15 Consider ratification of the International Covenant on Civil and
Political Rights and its Optional Protocol (Namibia);
129.16 Ratify the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural
Rights (Australia) (Slovakia) (Slovenia);
129.17 Accede to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and
Cultural Rights (Canada);
129.18 Ratify the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural
Rights without reservations (Germany);
129.19 Sign and ratify the International Covenant on Economic, Social and
Cultural Rights (Sierra Leone);
129.20 Consider ratifying the International Covenant on Economic, Social
and Cultural Rights (Ghana);
129.21 Consider acceding to the International Covenant on Economic, Social
and Cultural Rights (Republic of Korea);
129.22 Pursue the necessary procedure to accede to the International
Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (1966) (Viet Nam);
129.23 Take the necessary measures to accede to the International Covenant
on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights of 1966 (Jordan);
129.24 Take all appropriate actions in order to become a party to the
International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (Cyprus);
129.25 Expedite the domestic legal procedures required for early ratification
of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (India);
129.26 Ratify the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural
Rights and its Optional Protocol (France) (Portugal);
129.27 Ratify the Convention against Torture (Canada) (France) (Slovakia);
129.28 Ratify the Convention against Torture, as previously recommended
(Denmark);
129.29 Ratify the Convention against Torture without reservations
(Germany) (Switzerland);
129.30 Sign and ratify the Convention against Torture (Sierra Leone);
129.31 Pursue the necessary procedure to accede to the Convention against
Torture (1984) (Viet Nam);
129.32 Take all appropriate actions in order to become a party to the
Convention against Torture (Cyprus);
129.33 Consider ratification of the Convention against Torture and its
Optional Protocol (Namibia);
129.34 Ratify the Convention against Torture and its Optional Protocol
(Slovenia) (Portugal);
129.35 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture
(Denmark);
129.36 Withdraw its reservations to the Convention on the Elimination of
All Forms of Discrimination against Women, as supported by Oman during its
first cycle universal periodic review (Netherlands);
129.37 Take all necessary measures to officially withdraw the reservation
from paragraph 4 of article 15 of the Convention on the Elimination of All
Forms of Discrimination against Women (Djibouti);
129.38 Lift its reservations to paragraph 4 of Article 15 of the Convention on
the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, not only in
practice but also in its legislation (Burundi);
129.39 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of
All Forms of Discrimination against Women (France) (Turkey);
129.40 Consider the possibility to accede to the Optional Protocol to the
Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women
(Panama);
129.41 Withdraw the remaining reservations to the Convention on the
Rights of the Child and to the Optional Protocols to the Convention on the
Rights of the Child ratified by Oman (Estonia);
129.42 Ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons
from Enforced Disappearance (Argentina);
129.43 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of
Persons with Disabilities (Slovenia);
129.44 Accede to the International Convention on the Protection of the
Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (Nigeria);
129.45 Ratify the human rights instruments to which it is not yet party, in
particular the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All
Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (Honduras);
129.46 Consider accession to the International Convention on the Protection
of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families and ILO
Convention No. 189 (Philippines);
129.47 Ratify the Convention relating to the Status of Refugees and its
Protocol (France);
129.48 Ratify the Convention relating to the Status of Stateless Persons
(France);
129.49 Ratify the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (Chad)
(France);
129.50 Take all necessary measures towards ratifying the Rome Statute of
the International Criminal Court (Cyprus);
129.51 Ratify and fully align its national legislation with the Rome Statute of
the International Criminal Court (Latvia);
129.52 Ratify the Rome Statute that it signed on 20 December 2000
(Switzerland);
129.53 Ratify and fully align its national legislation with the Rome Statute of
the International Criminal Court, and accede to the Agreement on Privileges
and Immunities of the Court (Estonia);
129.54 Ratify the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court and
implement it fully at national level and accede to the Agreement on the
Privileges and Immunities of the International Criminal Court (Slovakia);
129.55 Ratify and fully align its national legislation with the Rome Statute of
the International Criminal Court (Portugal);
129.56 Ratify ILO Conventions No. 87 and No. 98 (Slovenia);
129.57 Accede to the International Labour Organization (Nigeria);
129.58 Accede to the ILO Convention No. 189 on domestic workers
(Senegal);
129.59 Ratify the different ILO conventions on the labour market (Chad);
129.60 Continue improving the protection of labour rights, in particular
regarding foreign and domestic workers, by ratifying and implementing ILO
Convention No. 189 concerning Decent Work for Domestic Workers
(Germany);
129.61 Increase the participation of its citizens in governance in line with the
pledge in the previous round of the universal periodic review and support the
National Human Rights Commission by ratifying and implementing ILO
Convention No. 87 regarding freedom of association and protection of the right
to organize (Sweden);
129.62 Ratify the Convention against Discrimination in Education
(Afghanistan);
129.63 Seek means and guarantees to apply the provisions of the Basic Law
of the State and its amendments (Syrian Arab Republic);
129.64 Continue strengthening domestic legislation in light of recognized
international human rights standards, including the Convention on the Rights
of the Child (Islamic Republic of Iran);
129.65 Include an explicit provision in the Omani domestic legislation on
prohibition of discrimination against women in all areas of life, including in the
private sphere (Portugal);
129.66 Put in place policies, legal frameworks and executive actions for
human development and empowerment of women (Costa Rica);
129.67 Further revise the current legislation on personal status, nationality,
employment and education in order to reinforce non-discrimination against
women (Italy);
129.68 Consider amending its domestic laws to grant Omani women equal
rights with men with regard to transmission of their nationality to their
children, as previously recommended (Republic of Korea);
129.69 Review its Nationality Law in order to ensure that an Omani mother
has the right to confer the Omani citizenship to her children without
discrimination (Portugal);
129.70 Take further measures to eradicate discrimination against women, as
prescribed by Article 17 of the Omani Basic Statute of the State, as well as by
the positive remarks made during the previous round of the universal periodic
review in 2011, by considering the withdrawal of its reservation to Article 9 of
the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against
Women and allowing women to pass on their citizenship to their children in the
same manner as men (Sweden);
129.71 End discrimination against women and girls in accordance with the
Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women
and allow women to pass on their nationality in an equal manner with men
(Iceland);
129.72 End discrimination in law and practice against women and girls,
including by allowing women to pass their nationality onto their children in an
equal manner with men (Ireland);
129.73 Modify the law on citizenship to grant women the right to transmit
the Omani nationality to their children (France);
129.74 Amend the provisions of the Nationality Law to ensure that women
are granted equality with men in conferring nationality to their children
(Canada);
129.75 Adopt legal measures to ensure equality between men and women
regarding nationality rights (Chile);
129.76 Take active steps to amend or repeal all discriminatory provisions
that prevent women acquiring, retaining and transferring citizenship on equal
basis with men and ensure the effective implementation of the provisions of the
Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women
(Namibia);
129.77 Take further concrete measures to advance the personal status of
women, including their right to transfer nationality to their children (Norway);
129.78 Revise the Omani Nationality Law, to guarantee citizenship for
children born to non-Omani fathers (Sierra Leone);
129.79 Amend the Nationality Code to eliminate the possibility that the
withdrawal of the Omani nationality would lead to cases of statelessness
(France);
129.80 Take steps to eliminate violence against women and include in the
legislation an explicit prohibition on discrimination against women (Mexico);
129.81 Adopt legislation to prevent and combat violence against women and
domestic violence (Italy);
129.82 Pass a law to criminalize violence against women explicitly (Chile);
129.83 Ensure by law the effective protection of women against gender-
based violence, including domestic violence, sexual harassment, and marital
rape (Slovenia);
129.84 Continue to make efforts to eliminate female genital mutilation by
enacting legislation which prohibits this practice and adopt a National Action
Plan to increase awareness among women of the harmful consequences of the
practice of female genital mutilation (Italy);
129.85 Consider withdrawing reservations to the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and to adopt and
implement specific legislation to prevent and counter violence against women,
including domestic violence, and to create an institutional framework dedicated
to receiving complaints, to ensuring the effective protection of women who
suffered or are at the risk of suffering from violence and to provide
compensation and accountability against perpetrators (Brazil);
129.86 Further ensure, in accordance with the positive stated ambitions in
the previous round of the universal periodic review and Omani practice, the
well-being of Omani girls by formally and explicitly encoding the prohibition
against female genital mutilation into the Child Law, accompanied by a public
information campaign (Sweden);
129.87 Continue efforts to close the gender gap, especially in workforce
participation and equality before the law (Australia);
129.88 Strengthen its efforts to ensure that youth and children who come
into contact with the justice system enjoy adequate protection and are subject
to courts specialized in juvenile justice (Thailand);
129.89 Undertake a process with a view to repealing the legislation that
criminalizes homosexuality and adopt measures to combat discrimination on
the ground of sexual orientation (Mexico);
129.90 Safeguard the right to opinion and speech, as prescribed by Article
29 of the Omani Basic Statute of the State, by reviewing current legislation and
working towards specifying its limits and boundaries in a clear and consistent
manner (Sweden);
129.91 Adopt and implement a national legislation with the view to provide
public access to information, including governmental information (Ukraine);
129.92 Revise its Law to Counter Information Technology Crimes to protect
online expression and allow internet access without blocking content (United
States of America);
129.93 Reform civil society laws to establish a streamlined legal framework
through which independent organizations can register, and to allow these
organizations to accept assistance and contributions from foreign sources
(United States of America);
129.94 Continue its efforts to enhance the working conditions of expatriate
labourers by issuing legislation and regulations to promote and protect the
rights of expatriate workers in Oman Labour Law (Turkmenistan);
129.95 Consider participating in solving the problems of refugees from the
Middle East region that are forced to seek asylum abroad. In this regard,
elaboration of the national legislation on refugees could be advisable (Ukraine);
129.96 Recommend that the National Committee to Combat Human
Trafficking carry out further efforts to implement its mandate, taking into
account the standards contained in the international and regional conventions
to which Oman is a party (Qatar);
129.97 Allow the National Human Rights Commission to function in an
independent manner in full compliance with the Paris Principles (Ghana);
129.98 Ensure that the National Human Rights Institution is in full
compliance with the Paris Principles and has a broad and inclusive human
rights mandate (Sierra Leone);
129.99 Reform the status of the National Commission of Human Rights in
line with the Paris Principles, thereby guaranteeing its independence (Spain);
129.100 Ensure the institutionalization of an independent national human
rights commission in accordance with the Paris Principles (Chile);
129.101 Continue the significant reforms that have been already implemented
to enable the National Human Rights Commission to be in conformity with the
Paris Principles (Comoros);
129.102 Continue forward with the humanitarian efforts undertaken by the
Omani Charitable Organization (United Arab Emirates);
129.103 Continue efforts to develop laws and legislation to bring them in line
with international texts and strengthen efforts in education (Morocco);
129.104 Develop a mainstreaming strategy for women’s rights, to be applied
to policies in all fields, with a view to ensure gender equality (Turkey);
129.105 Continue to strengthen its policies and programmes for enhancing
women’s rights, empowerment and equality in accordance with its socio-
cultural and national context (Bangladesh);
129.106 Continue to adopt policies and legislations to guarantee the equality
for women in all spheres and that they benefit from judicial remedies against
any discriminatory practice or violence (Honduras);
129.107 Adopt concrete policy measures to eradicate the clandestine practice
of female mutilation and to allocate human and financial resources to relevant
authorities to succeed (Honduras);
129.108 Redouble efforts to effectively end the practice of female genital
mutilation, in line with recommendations by the Committee on the Rights of
the Child (Slovenia);
129.109 Continue to carry out various programs for the advancement of the
status of women and children in the Sultanate (Bahrain);
129.110 Continue its positive measures in the advancement of women and
children in the country including by ensuring effective implementation of its
policies and programmes (Malaysia);
129.111 Enhance its awareness-raising campaign to combat negative
stereotyping against women and prohibit violence against women (Malaysia);
129.112 Intensify the efforts and the measures taken to protect women rights
in an effective way which corresponds with the culture of the society (Saudi
Arabia);
129.113 Establish a coordinated general strategy on gender issues in all public
institutions (Chile);
129.114 Continue including young people in the democratic process through
the commission established for this purpose (Democratic People’s Republic of
Korea);
129.115 Continue to seriously combat trafficking in persons, implementing
legislation in this area, the National Plan against Trafficking in persons (2008-
2016), the on-line police system to receive complaints of victims of trafficking in
persons and to fight this scourge (Cuba);
129.116 Implement what came in the women’s and children’s strategies, and
the development of policies and programs that promote these two issues
(Kuwait);
129.117 Continue strengthening practical measures to bring about effective
implementation of the Children’s Act (Bhutan);
129.118 Thoroughly implement the Child Law and strengthen awareness-
raising campaigns to promote children’s rights (Slovakia);
129.119 Ensure effective monitoring of the electronic wage protection system
at national level and extend its implementation to all companies based in Oman
(Turkey);
129.120 Continue to address the challenges which impede progress in human
rights (Cuba);
129.121 Pursue the strengthening of the capacity-building of country’s
qualified specialists and managers working in the human rights field (Viet
Nam);
129.122 Raise the level of human rights awareness among members of society
(Bahrain);
129.123 Enhance its efforts to promote and raise awareness of the culture of
human rights (Sudan);
129.124 Launch media campaigns to raise awareness of human rights (State
of Palestine);
129.125 Continue raising awareness of the culture of human rights
(Lebanon);
129.126 Exchange information and opinions with States to achieve the best
practices on human rights issues (Kuwait);
129.127 Continue its engagement with the human rights mechanisms of the
United Nations for the protection and promotion of human rights and consider
the issuance of a standing invitation to these human rights mechanisms
(Azerbaijan);
129.128 Extend a standing invitation to all special procedures (Spain);
129.129 Strengthen cooperation with the special procedures of the Human
Rights Council by extending a standing invitation to all the special procedures
mandate holders (Latvia);
129.130 Adopt measures to address all forms of discrimination — such as
against women or religious minorities — including support to public debates,
awareness-raising campaigns and steps towards the revision of discriminatory
provisions in the legislation (Czech Republic);
129.131 Further work to achieve effective equality between men and women,
particularly when it comes to laws governing divorce, inheritance and custody
of children (Uruguay);
129.132 Adopt the necessary measures to abolish the death penalty (Mexico);
129.133 Adopt a moratorium on the death penalty (Costa Rica);
129.134 Announce a moratorium on the application of the death penalty with
a view to its abolition in law (France);
129.135 Adopt a moratorium on the death penalty with a view to abolishing
capital punishment in national legislation (Italy);
129.136 Establish a moratorium on the death penalty as an interim measure
towards its total abolition (Portugal);
129.137 Establish an official moratorium on the use of the death penalty with
a view to abolishing it (Slovenia);
129.138 Consider the possibility to establish a moratorium on the application
of the death penalty, and commute death sentences to prison sentences (Spain);
129.139 Establish a de jure moratorium on the death penalty and a
commutation of all capital sentences with a view to its future abolition
(Switzerland);
129.140 Ensure that foreign nationals in detention have access to consular
assistance by establishing measures that could facilitate timely issuance of
permits for prison visits by consular authorities (Philippines);
129.141 Increase its efforts for more attention to child issues (Iraq);
129.142 Explicitly prohibit all corporal punishment of children in all settings,
including the home (Estonia);
129.143 Continue efforts to prohibit child labour (Georgia);
129.144 Organize awareness-raising programmes in favour of public as well
as local and national authorities on issues related to combating human
trafficking and relevant laws (Islamic Republic of Iran);
129.145 Strengthen measures to combat human trafficking and take measures
to protect victims of trafficking (Sri Lanka):
129.146 Increase efforts aiming at building the capacity of the judicial
personnel technically and administratively (State of Palestine);
129.147 Increase human rights training and awareness-raising programmes
for prosecution and judicial officers and the media (Egypt);
129.148 Implement training programs on human rights to further increase
awareness of civil servants, including law enforcement and justice system
personnel (Uzbekistan);
129.149 Continue its efforts to organise intensive courses for members of the
public prosecutor office in the field of human rights, in line with the steps being
made for the independence of the public prosecutor and to separate it from the
police (Yemen);
129.150 Enhance efforts in a way which guarantees combatting corruption as
the government amended its financial and administrative bureau and expand
its mandate in accordance with the sultanate decree 27 of 2011 (Iraq);
129.151 Continue its efforts to protect freedoms and to strengthen human
rights (Lebanon);
129.152 Continue in its efforts in protecting general freedoms and basic rights
in all areas that the Constitution emphasised in harmony with the principles of
human rights (United Arab Emirates);
129.153 Ensure the full enjoyment of the rights to freedom of expression,
association and peaceful assembly, including those of human rights activists,
journalists and users of social networks, so that they no longer have to fear
being arrested, detained, harassed or intimidated (Switzerland);
129.154 Improve protection of the rights to freedom of expression, assembly
and association, by amending the Press and Publications Law and the Civil
Societies Law in line with international standards and by accepting the
recommendations by the Special Rapporteur on the rights to freedom of
peaceful assembly and of association in 2014 (United Kingdom of Great Britain
and Northern Ireland);
129.155 Ensure that all criminal law provisions, including Articles 126, 135,
137 and 173 of the Penal Code, which impose harsh penalties for a wide range
of legitimate expression, are fully consistent with the full enjoyment of the right
to freedom of opinion and expression, and the right to freedom of peaceful
assembly and association (Canada);
129.156 Guarantee that the law on media and publications enables full
exercise of freedom of expression, in particular on the Internet (France);
129.157 Keep up with the environment of freedom of publication and freedom
of expression (Libya);
129.158 Demonstrate the Government’s commitment to uphold international
human rights standards by ensuring full respect for the rights of citizens to
freedom of speech and peaceful assembly (Ghana);
129.159 Amend the relevant labour laws to enhance the protection of the
human rights of all migrant workers (Ghana);
129.160 Guarantee in legislation and in practice the right to peaceful
assembly for all, without exceptions, regardless of nationality (Chile);
129.161 Take steps to guarantee the right to peaceful assembly for its citizens
(Namibia);
129.162 Facilitate procedures for holding peaceful protests and refrain from
criminally punishing the exercise of the right to peaceful assembly, including
through unregistered peaceful assemblies (Czech Republic);
129.163 Properly investigate cases of the excessive use of force by law
enforcement officials against protestors in 2011 and 2012, including prosecuting
and punishing all those responsible (Czech Republic);
129.164 Guarantee in law and in practice the freedom of peaceful assembly
and of association and remove all restrictions placed on the right to peaceful
protests (Estonia);
129.165 Guarantee the full exercise of freedom of association, promote and
facilitate the activities of all non-governmental organizations (France);
129.166 Amend article 134 of the Penal Code of Oman and any other
legislation that disproportionately restricts the right to freedom of association
(Iceland);
129.167 Implement the recommendations of the Special Rapporteur on the
rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association (Netherlands);
129.168 Fully and effectively implement the recommendations by the Special
Rapporteur on the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association,
following his mission to Oman in September 2014 (Republic of Korea);
129.169 Implement the recommendation of the Special Rapporteur on the
rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association to extend the
guarantee of peaceful assembly to non-Omani citizens (Sierra Leone);
129.170 Review its legislative measures and practices in relation to freedom of
peaceful assembly and association, with regard to the report of the United
Nations Special Rapporteur on the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and
of association following his mission in September 2014 (Australia);
129.171 Amend or, at least, abstain from applying any law or measure which
might endanger the right to life, to freedom and to physical integrity of
individuals for reasons associated with their alleged or perceived sexual
orientation or gender identity (Brazil);
129.172 Enact a law on access to freedom of information in line with
international standards (Chile);
129.173 Allow for a more open expression of individual opinions, allow civil
society organisations to develop and allow public expression of popular
demands (Norway);
129.174 Support the efforts of civil society in strengthening human rights
through specifying the necessary resources to implement its activities in
spreading awareness on the principles of human rights (Iraq);
129.175 Provide more support to civil society associations (Bahrain);
129.176 Take measures to protect rights activists and remove any
impediments to the work of political opposition parties, human rights groups,
and other independent civil society organizations (Ireland);
129.177 Take new measures to eliminate all forms of discrimination against
women and to promote their participation in public life, including in decision-
making positions and governmental functions (Spain);
129.178 Provide more opportunities to women to be represented in high-level
government posts (Georgia);
129.179 Continue the efforts aimed at empowering and protecting women’s
rights, in addition to empowering women socially and politically (Jordan);
129.180 Increase the space for the representation of women in senior
government positions (Lebanon);
129.181 Take additional efforts towards the participation of women in the
area of political life (Libya);
129.182 Strengthen efforts to promote the active presence of women in society
and in political life, including by combating stereotypes through awareness-
raising campaigns (Turkey);
129.183 Increase the representation of women in high government positions
and elected councils (Algeria);
129.184 Take steps to increase women’s participation in elections to the Shura
Council, both as voters and candidates, and to widen the participation of all
citizens in the decision-making processes (Czech Republic);
129.185 Continue the efforts aiming at economic growth in the country
(Pakistan);
129.186 Continue efforts to promote and strengthen human rights, in
particular by focusing on the economic growth and by improving the well-being
of the population (Djibouti);
129.187 Continue making further efforts to promote the enjoyment of
economic, social and cultural rights (Qatar);
129.188 Take steps to ensure the successful implementation of the various
programmes in accordance with its social security law (Brunei Darussalam);
129.189 Continue the establishment of development programmes, especially
in rural areas (Brunei Darussalam);
129.190 Continue the practices of valuing social dialogue and promoting the
concept of tolerance in Omani culture (Turkmenistan);
129.191 Continue strengthening its excellent programmes for social
protection, working for the achievement of welfare and the best possible
standard of living for its people (Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);
129.192 Continue its efforts aiming at providing adequate housing to all its
citizens (United Arab Emirates);
129.193 Continue to work collaboratively with the private sector and relevant
stakeholders in protecting the labour rights (Thailand);
129.194 Continue to make efforts to enhance the awareness among workers
and employers on laws and rules on labour by implementing concrete
programmes for awareness-raising (Tajikistan);
129.195 Continue efforts to improve labour relations system through the
development of social dialogue between the Government and the organizations
of employers and workers (Uzbekistan);
129.196 Increase efforts to investigate and criminally prosecute forced labour
offenses and sentence convicted offenders to adequate terms of imprisonment
(United States of America);
129.197 Strengthen the mechanism dealing with expatriate workers to meet
the service requirements and to protect their rights according to its Labour
Law (Brunei Darussalam);
129.198 Step up its efforts in promoting and protecting human rights of
migrant workers in the country (Indonesia);
129.199 Continue its policies to improve access to education for all, including
for migrant workers and members of their families (Indonesia);
129.200 Continue increasing the rate of women in the workforce in the civil
service sector and further enabling women in the labour area (Democratic
People’s Republic of Korea);
129.201 Abolish the kafala system which restricts rights of foreign workers
and their access to redress mechanisms and make them vulnerable to various
forms of abuse (Czech Republic);
129.202 Continue its efforts in addressing the welfare of foreign workers
(Bangladesh);
129.203 Take all necessary measures, as appropriate, to ensure the legal
protection of foreign workers through policies designed at preventing any form
of abuse (Panama);
129.204 Review the kafala system, and study possible alternatives in
managing foreign labour, with a view to strengthening protection for domestic
workers, including from violence and abuse, and to provide effective avenues
for redress (Philippines);
129.205 Continue to take measures for greater participation, involvement and
empowerment of women in all socio-economic fields of the country (Pakistan);
129.206 Continue efforts to improve the status of women in society and
further promote gender equality at all levels, enhancing the contribution of
women to the country’s development process (Sri Lanka);
129.207 Support the social integration of women in all spheres of life
(Tajikistan);
129.208 Promote the active presence of women in the society (Chile);
129.209 Take further steps to strengthen the delivery of health-care services
and improve health-care infrastructure (Singapore);
129.210 Pursue efforts to ensure fairness in education, in particular the right
to basic education for students with disabilities (China);
129.211 Continue providing universal and free education (Bhutan);
129.212 Ensure compulsory and free education for all (Slovenia);
129.213 Establish a mandatory and free education for all, with a view to
continue the fight against illiteracy (Argentina);
129.214 Continue its efforts in finalizing the process of free and compulsory
basic education (Sudan);
129.215 Continue its efforts in strengthening moderation and religious
tolerance, particularly through the education sector (Syrian Arab Republic);
129.216 Continue efforts to ensure equal access to education for women and
girls, and advocate for broader participation of women in the labour force
(Maldives);
129.217 Continue setting up national annual plans on education and
awareness-raising of human rights, including through a field visit in this area
(Saudi Arabia);
129.218 Continue to pursue efforts to improve access to education, including
for persons with disabilities (Singapore);
129.219 Taking into account the capacity of Oman in protecting the right to
education, carry out an exchange of experience in the area of education, and an
exchange of achievements in the area of the oversight of educational institutions
(Tajikistan);
129.220 Consolidate the concepts of human rights through students’ activities
and exhibitions organized by Omani Universities (Cuba);
129.221 Adopt a comprehensive policy to protect the rights of persons with
disabilities, and to build on measures already adopted such as the establishment
of the General Directorate for persons with disabilities (Spain);
129.222 Increase the access to education of children with disability by
allocating more resources (Honduras);
129.223 Continue strengthening its policy to improve access by persons with
disabilities to education (Panama);
129.224 Further improve access by persons with disabilities to education
through the implementation of the National Strategy for the Disabled
(Maldives);
129.225 Improve the access of disabled children to education by increasing
the number of specialized educational teams and customized facilities (Turkey);
129.226 Strengthen the protection of people with disabilities, step up
exchange of experience with other States in the field of protection of rights of
children with disabilities (China);
129.227 Work to share and implement best practices in the area of promoting
the rights of children with disabilities (Saudi Arabia);
129.228 Continue to assist and protect minorities, vulnerable groups and
persons displaced due to natural disasters or conflicts (Senegal);
129.229 Continue its efforts to combat the phenomenon of terrorism and
money laundering (Libya);
129.230 Strengthen the legal mechanisms for combating terrorism and
extremism (Uzbekistan);
129.231 Implement training programmes for information technology to help
combat electronic crimes (Morocco);
129.232 Continue the efforts to combat cyber-technology crimes, in particular
when committed against youth (Egypt);
129.233 Continue efforts to protect the environment (Djibouti).
130. 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
Composition of the delegation
The delegation of Oman was headed by H.E. Dr. Abdullah Mohammed Said Al
Sa’eedi, Minister of Legal Affairs, and composed of the following members:
• H.E. Mr. Abdulla Nasser Al Rahbi, Ambassador, Permanent Representative,
Permanent Mission of the Sultanate of Oman in Geneva;
• H.E. Mr. Taleb Miran Al Rayissi, Advisor to the Minister Responsible for Foreign
Affairs, Head of the Legal Committee, Ministry of Foreign Affairs;
• Mr. Yousuf Said Al Amri, Deputy Permanent Representative, Permanent Mission of
the Sultanate of Oman in Geneva;
• Dr. Yahya Mohammed Zaher Al Hinai, General Director of Family Development,
Ministry of Social Development;
• Mr. Mohammed Asalam Al Shanfari, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of the
Sultanate of Oman in Geneva;
• Dr. Hamda Hamad Al Saadi, Associate Professor in the Rustaq College of Applied
Science, Ministry of Higher Education;
• Mr. Khalid Saleh Al Lamki, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of the Sultanate of
Oman in Geneva;
• Mr. Saif Nasser Al Hamidi, Chief of Minister’s Office, Ministry of Legal Affairs;
• Mr. Saleh Ali Al Mahrouqi, First Assistant Advisor, Ministry of Legal Affairs;
• Mr. Jamal Salem Al Nabhani, First Assistant Advisor, Ministry of Legal Affairs;
• Mr. Dawood Suleiman Al Busaidi, Ministry of Interior;
• Mr. Abdullah Murad Al Mullahi, Director of the Directorate of International
Organizations and External Relations, Ministry of Manpower;
• Ms. Faiza Masoud Al Nabhani, Second Secretary, Minister’s Office Department,
Ministry of Foreign Affairs.