31/16 Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review - Saint Kitts and Nevis

Human Rights Council

Thirty-first session

Agenda item 6

Universal periodic review

Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review*

Saint Kitts and Nevis

*

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 .............................................................................................. 14

Annex

Composition of the delegation ......................................................................................................... 23

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 Saint Kitts and Nevis was held at the 15th meeting on 11

November 2015. The delegation of Saint Kitts and Nevis was headed by the Permanent

Secretary (Ag) Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kaye Bass. At its 18th meeting, held on 13

November 2015, the Working Group adopted the report on Saint Kitts and Nevis.

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

rapporteurs (troika) to facilitate the review of Saint Kitts and Nevis: Gabon, Mexico and

Saudi Arabia.

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 Saint Kitts and Nevis:

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

paragraph 15 (a) (A/HRC/WG.6/23/KNA/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/KNA/2);

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

(A/HRC/WG.6/23/KNA/3).

4. A list of questions prepared in advance by Kenya, Liechtenstein, Mexico, Spain and

the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland was transmitted to Saint Kitts

and Nevis 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 Saint Kitts and Nevis reiterated its Government’s commitment to

the universal periodic review. It emphasized that, although Saint Kitts and Nevis had made

deliberate attempts to implement the recommendations shared by the Working Group and

accepted during its first review, it was necessary to heighten awareness of the challenges

with which it was confronted. These largely attributed to its inability to give wholesale

effect to the recommendations, despite its acknowledgement of their value.

6. The small and highly open, middle-income economy of Saint Kitts and Nevis

continued to face significant vulnerabilities to the world financial crisis and recession that

had led to a reduction in income from remittances to the State and had contributed to the

lacklustre conditions for foreign direct investment. Moreover, the economy was

experiencing an additional challenge, namely, an exceptionally high public sector debt-to-

gross domestic product ratio of almost 200 per cent by 2013.

7. The delegation asserted that the Government had designed a credible

macroeconomic framework and had implemented stringent fiscal measures aimed at

reducing debt and creating conditions for sustained economic growth, higher standards of

living and poverty alleviation. Nevertheless, the allocations for social protection had not

been reduced. The fundamental aim was to lift more people above the poverty threshold

and give them the opportunity to make a greater contribution to the national development

effort.

8. The delegation expressed hope that the delay in implementation of recommendations

not be construed as a lack of interest or volition, but rather as a severe paucity of essential

resources. Since the previous review, domestic developments aimed at enhancing the

standard of living of citizens had been incremental.

9. It stated that, since the previous review, general elections had been held in Saint

Kitts and Nevis on 16 February 2015, which ushered in a new administration. During the

Throne Speech of the new Governor General, Sir Tapley Seaton outlined the focus of the

newly installed Government. He reiterated the continuing commitment of the State to

human rights, in spite of the transmission of leadership.

10. The delegation subsequently provided information on multiple initiatives, projects

and programmes that had been successfully implemented.

11. The delegation indicated that, a few months after the first review of Saint Kitts and

Nevis, the Ministry of Health, Social Services, Community Development, Culture and

Gender Affairs had partnered with the World Bank, the United Nations Children’s fund

(UNICEF) and the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of

Women (UN-Women) to launch national consultations on the National Social Protection

Strategy, Plan of Action and Monitoring and Evaluation Framework.

12. The delegation underscored that, in the long term, it was envisaged that the Strategy

would, inter alia, create a sustainable system for universal social protection coverage for the

population, develop citizens who would become more self-sufficient over time and prevent

chronic poverty. This Strategy, approved by the Cabinet in March 2012, is now being

implemented.

13. On the situation of children, the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis was pleased to

report that, with the assistance of UNICEF, a consultant had been contracted by the

Ministry of Health, Social Services, Community Development, Culture and Gender Affairs

to review the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the

involvement of children in armed conflict and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on

the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography and

to make recommendations with respect to acceding to those instruments. The delay in the

country’s accession to both Optional Protocols was largely owing to the findings of the

consultant, who discovered that some existing domestic legislation conflicted with them. It

was determined that, until some articles of the Defence Force Act, in particular, were

amended or some sections repealed, the Government could not proceed with acceding to

the Optional Protocols. The consultant’s report would be presented to the Federal Cabinet

of Ministers for review and approval to support accession to the Optional Protocols. It was

proposed that the process be completed within the first quarter of 2016.

14. The delegation reported on the formulation of the National Child Protection Protocol

and Action Plan, which served as a practical instrument to assist in the prevention,

reporting and management of child abuse, while the Action Plan would aid the

development of a training and stakeholder outreach programme for the Protocol’s

implementation. It also highlighted the adoption of new child protection legislation through

public consultation. The delegation also indicated that progress had been made through the

child-friendly schools policy and the positive behaviour management policy, drafted by the

Ministry of Education.

15. It reported that the Domestic Violence Act of 2014 had classified sexual violence,

rape and incest as serious offences, provided greater protection for victims of domestic

violence and established appropriate penalties for the perpetrators, including relatives of the

victim. With technical assistance from the Pan American Health Organization, the

Department of Gender Affairs had been able to draft a domestic violence protocol that

sought to outline the roles, responsibilities and functions of each State and non-

governmental partner in the identification, reporting and treatment of domestic violence

situations.

16. The delegation expressed that, although discrimination against people on the basis of

sexual orientation or gender identity was not specifically prohibited in the Constitution, and

although no domestic law had yet been drafted regarding the same, there was no formal or

positive legal discrimination against persons in Saint Kitts and Nevis on that basis. It

asserted that no laws existed that prohibited discrimination against a person on the basis of

sexual orientation or gender identity and that the Government had asserted that it had

received no reports of violence or discrimination on that basis.

17. It indicated that the country’s gender assessment had highlighted the women in the

construction trades programme, which was mainly aimed at equipping women with the

resources to gain more lucrative occupations and at combating gender stereotypes.

18. Regarding the death penalty, the delegation stated that, according to section 4 (1) of

the Saint Kitts and Nevis Constitution, a person should not be deprived of his life

intentionally, except in the implementation of a sentence by a court in respect of a

conviction for the criminal offences of treason or murder, and that, in that connection, there

was no relevant law in relation to giving effect to the death penalty in the case of treason.

19. The delegation asserted that the relevant law in relation to murder cases was the

Offences Against the Person Act and that the provision that would give effect to the death

sentence was found to be unconstitutional. The mandatory nature of the death sentence was

challenged and found to be inconsistent with the Constitution. Since 1993, with the seminal

decision of the Privy Council in the case of Pratt and Morgan v. Attorney General of

Jamaica (1993) 43 WIR 340: (1994) A.C. 1, which definitively established that the delay in

the execution of a convicted prisoner under sentence of death could well offend the

constitutional provision prohibiting degrading or inhumane treatment, the death penalty had

not been implemented for any such convict who had spent a period of five years in prison

after being sentenced.

20. The delegation underscored that Saint Kitts and Nevis had not imposed the death

penalty for several years and that it was in fact very rare, with only three persons having

been executed within the previous 30 years and none in almost 7 years.

21. Saint Kitts and Nevis had not imposed the death penalty since its first universal

periodic review, reserving such sentences for only the “worst of the worst” cases. Four

individuals had, in fact, through the appeal process, had their sentences commuted to life

imprisonment or vacated. Recent statistics proved that crime in the State was on the

decline, and it was clear that, although heinous crime continued to be a concern, the number

of persons sentenced to death in recent years was also on a downward trend and, to date,

only one person remained on death row.

22. The delegation of Saint Kitts and Nevis requested once again that it be granted

technical and other resources to amend any prison policies and to maintain consistent and

regular capacity-building programmes for prison officers. Subsequent to the first universal

periodic review, parliament passed the Police Complaints Act in 2014, which provided for

the receipt, investigation and determination of complaints by the public against the National

Police and for related matters, and authorized the establishment of an independent body —

the Police Complaints Commission — and a complaints unit within the police force.

23. The delegation underscored that, in July 2015, the police unveiled its Crime Action

Plan to enhance public safety. It mentioned a number of achievements and stated the Plan

had been working.

24. Regarding the country’s reporting to United Nations treaty bodies, Saint Kitts and

Nevis was pleased to report that it had submitted its 2012 report on the Convention on the

Rights of the Child.

25. The delegation indicated that the criminal justice system as a whole was under

review and a number of proposals to reduce the backlog had already been approved. It was

the Government’s intention to establish an additional criminal court in the short term and to

provide judges with better legal support staff.

26. The delegation also asserted that the country was consolidating an educational

system that was increasingly in line with the needs of the population. It affirmed that, with

technical assistance from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural

Organization (UNESCO), the Ministry of Education had been engaged in consultations to

create an education sector strategy document.

27. Saint Kitts and Nevis had continued to adopt measures to put an end to corporal

punishment, as the Ministry of Education had adopted the effective UNICEF framework on

child-friendly schools and was incorporating that framework in its sector strategy

document. In addition, a behavioural policy had been drafted and would be forwarded to

the Cabinet for adoption. That policy prohibited the use of corporal punishment as a tool to

discipline children enrolled in public institutions of learning.

28. In consultation with civil society, the new political administration had made a pledge

to institutionalize a process of consultation between the Government and all citizens,

including civil society, on matters of national importance. In the previous month,

representatives of civil society had been invited to and participated in the annual National

Consultation on the economy.

29. With respect to previously noted recommendations, Saint Kitts and Nevis made a

number of comments. Regarding the replacement of the Basseterre facility with a new

prison that met international standards, the Government was very concerned about

appropriate housing for incarcerated inmates and the delegation commented that funding

had been the greatest challenge.

30. Regarding the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with

Disabilities, with the assistance of UNESCO, a situational analysis had been undertaken to

determine the readiness of the State for its adoption, which would be used to chart a plan of

action to accompany the recommendation for Parliament to ratify the Convention.

B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review

31. During the interactive dialogue, 48 delegations made statements. Recommendations

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

32. Barbados noted the emphasis placed on poverty reduction, the close collaboration

with United Nations agencies to strengthen social assistance, improve education and health

care and encouraged continued strengthening of domestic legislation to create sustainable

social protection reform. It also noted the creation of a Special Victims Unit within the

police force to address violence against women and girls and the legislation aimed at

bringing about equality in the work place for men and women. It encouraged continued

collaboration with the International Labour Organization in developing codes to protect

workers.

33. Brazil noted the establishment of the Special Victims Unit and the adoption of the

Domestic Violence Act 2014, pursuant to recommendations it had made at the first review.

It encouraged the development of a national gender policy. It recognized efforts to

strengthen child protection systems and encouraged the banning of corporal punishment. It

noted initiatives to improve education and encouraged additional measures to promote

gender equality and inclusive education. It encouraged the country to raise public

awareness aimed at promoting non-discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual,

transgender and intersex persons.

34. Canada commended Saint Kitts and Nevis for continued efforts to reduce domestic

violence, including through the adoption of the 2014 Domestic Violence Act, which, among

other provisions, includes economic relief for victims. It welcomed efforts to expand the

protection and rights of children in Saint Kitts and Nevis through the adoption of several

pieces of legislation in this area.

35. Chile praised efforts undertaken to make advances in the field of human rights,

including the adoption of a number of laws, such as those related to domestic violence and

the Law on Justice for Minors. It highlighted the development of the Social Protection

Strategy and its Plan of Action, intended to train, empower and guide the most

disadvantaged families. It encouraged Saint Kitts and Nevis to pursue such efforts,

recognizing its limited resource availability and the need to count on the support of

international organizations and the international community.

36. Colombia underscored the commitment of Saint Kitts and Nevis to advance on the

recommendation received during its first universal periodic review cycle.

37. Costa Rica highlighted the constitutional provisions that guarantee the protection of

fundamental rights and freedoms, and the significant efforts on the training of police and

nurses and counselling for the empowerment of women. Attention should be given

nevertheless to the delays in delivering criminal justice and delays in the presentation of

reports to the Committee on the Rights of the Child, the Committee on the Elimination of

Discrimination against Women and the Committee on the Elimination of Racial

Discrimination. It highlighted that a national policy on gender equality seemed to be urgent.

38. Cuba stated that, even in a period of economic and financial deceleration, the

Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis had maintained steady efforts to improve the quality

of life of its citizens, strengthening the implementation of social projects and programmes.

It underscored the adoption of new legislation on child protection, the building materials

incentive programme, the national plan on health care and the increase in social security

pensions.

39. The United Kingdom remained concerned at the high levels of reported gang

activity and associated problems, including gun crime and murder, and encouraged the

Government to continue to provide viable employment opportunities and alternatives for

young people. The United Kingdom also encouraged the Government to review criminal

justice procedures; ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights by persons with

disabilities; sign the first two Optional Protocols to the Convention on the Rights of the

Child; and promote a culture of tolerance and take concrete domestic actions to end all

discrimination, including gender-based discrimination and discrimination against lesbian,

gay, bisexual and transgender people.

40. Djibouti noted with satisfaction the measures taken to promote and strengthen

human rights, in particular the adoption of a strategy for the reduction of poverty.

41. Ecuador expressed appreciation for social development and poverty eradication

programmes and the Social Protection Strategy 2013-2017. It highlighted the modification

of the definition of “minor” in the Minor Justice Law, following international human rights

standards, in order to provide adequate protection to persons under 18. It also underscored

the creation of an education network that permitted access to the Internet.

42. Estonia encouraged the country to continue to strengthen cooperation with civil

society. It regretted that the country was still not a party to the most human rights

instruments and that progress in implementing the recommendations from the previous

review had been modest. Estonia called on the Government to decriminalize defamation

and to introduce provisions for defamation in the civil codes. It invited the Government to

develop a national gender policy. It noted positively the efforts to strengthen child

protection systems.

43. France thanked Saint Kitts and Nevis for the presentation of its national report.

44. Georgia commended Saint Kitts and Nevis for its poverty-reduction efforts and

welcomed the establishment of the National Education Foundation, designed to help

disadvantaged students through scholarships and grants.

45. Germany commended Saint Kitts and Nevis for efforts to improve the human rights

situation, including efforts to reduce poverty and to support children and young people in

areas of education and rehabilitation. It expressed concern about the high rate of homicide

and welcomed steps taken to tackle that issue.

46. Ghana commended Saint Kitts and Nevis for ratifying the Rome Statute of the

International Criminal Court and encouraged the ratification of the Kampala amendments to

the Statute. Saint Kitts and Nevis had yet to ratify a significant number of international

human rights treaties, despite recommendations in that regard from the previous review.

47. Guatemala welcomed the adoption of the National Social Protection Strategy 2013-

2017. It shared the opinion of the OHCHR Subregional Office about the importance that the

country should introduce a national human rights institution in conformity with the

principles relating to the status of national institutions for the promotion and protection of

human rights (the Paris Principles). It shared the concern of UNESCO that laws on freedom

of information had not been adopted and that defamation and slander were considered

crimes. It highlighted the importance of establishing a national legal framework to provide

protection for refugees.

48. Haiti thanked Saint Kitts and Nevis for its comprehensive and voluminous national

report.

49. Indonesia appreciated the continued engagement in the universal periodic review

process. It noted that Saint Kitts and Nevis had focused on the overall quality of life of its

people and had supported policies to address poverty reduction, while expressing the view

that all countries should review their human rights policies with a view to establishing

strong national human rights mechanisms. It also noted the adoption of the White Paper on

Education and Policy.

50. Ireland commended Saint Kitts and Nevis for the positive steps to deal with

domestic violence, but remained concerned that the law did not cover marital rape. It urged

Saint Kitts and Nevis to criminalize marital rape and establish and maintain shelters for

victims of domestic violence; decriminalize libel and defamation and provide for freedom

of information; and take concrete steps to abolish the death penalty and institute a

moratorium on its use. Ireland remained concerned about reports of violence and

discrimination of persons because of their sexual orientation.

51. Jamaica noted the initiatives taken to increase social protection and in relation to

poverty reduction, the protection of children and the empowerment of women, young

people and the elderly. It also noted the construction of a mixed-gender juvenile

rehabilitation facility and the introduction of single-sex education at the primary school

level, and looked forward to the hearing about the lessons learned in that regard. It

applauded the inclusion of breast cancer treatment in the national health-care scheme and

the establishment of the Special Victims Unit within the police force.

52. Maldives commended the progress made in ameliorating the standard of living. It

noted the adoption of the White Paper on Education and Policy, which provided a blueprint

for the education sector. It appreciated the continued work on providing reliable and

affordable health services and noted the success in addressing the health-related

Millennium Development Goals. It encouraged the formalization of health-related issues by

enacting, reviewing and updating laws. It expressed appreciation for the progress in

attaining gender equality.

53. Mexico valued the launching of the Plan for Education and Technical and

Professional Training. It welcomed the collaboration of the country with UNICEF to make

advances regarding development and the provision of education, and encouraged it to

continue that cooperation and extend the practice to human rights bodies and mechanisms.

It welcomed the initiation of the human rights awareness project aimed at young persons,

with the support of UNESCO. It also welcomed the approval of the Law on Domestic

Violence.

54. Montenegro welcomed the initiatives taken, particularly with regard to poverty

eradication, social protection and services and juvenile justice. It noted the efforts to

combat domestic violence, including through the adoption of the Domestic Violence Act in

2014. It commended the adoption of legislation to improve the protection of the rights of

the child. It encouraged full implementation of the Social Protection Strategy 2013-2017. It

requested to know the reasons for not ratifying core human rights instruments, although

Saint Kitts and Nevis had accepted recommendations in that regard.

55. Morocco noted with satisfaction the initiatives taken in Saint Kitts and Nevis on

improving the quality of life of its people through a strategy for the reduction of poverty

and a national strategy for social protection; approaching the gender issue and the

implementation of relevant judicial and administrative provisions; and the protection of

young people, especially through the building of a centre for the reinsertion of young

people in conflict with the law. Morocco stated that it considered the implementation of the

National Child Protection Protocol to represent remarkable progress.

56. Namibia congratulated Saint Kitts and Nevis for the adoption of the National Social

Protection Strategy and Plan of Action for 2013-2017 and the adoption of a best practice

model for holistic poverty alleviation. It requested to know about the steps taken to

implement the National Child Protection Protocol and Action Plan. It noted that the death

penalty remained in the law books but that no executions had been carried out in the

previous six years.

57. The Netherlands stated that, at the 2011 universal periodic review, Saint Kitts and

Nevis had accepted recommendations to ratify two of the Optional Protocols to the

Convention of the Rights of the Child and to review national legislation to ensure

compliance with the Convention. However, it was yet to ratify those protocols. The

Government was yet to establish an official moratorium on the death penalty.

58. Nicaragua underscored the positive impact on human rights of the social and

economic programmes to alleviate poverty, including the National Plan for Social

Protection. Overcoming poverty continues to be a fundamental objective for small-

economy countries, which have not followed the international trend. It recognized the

country’s performance in the promotion of a green economy as an alternative to facilitate

growth and sustainable development.

59. Paraguay welcomed the efforts and advances achieved with the programme for the

reduction of poverty and the success obtained in meeting the Millennium Development

Goals regarding health. It appreciated the adoption of the law on equal pay among men and

women. It also highlighted the creation of a national registry system that permits the

registry of births and deaths. It noted the change in the Law on Criminal Responsibility,

which increases the minimum age from 8 to 12 years.

60. The Philippines commended Saint Kitts and Nevis for addressing its debt situation

and trusted that it would continue to respect the rights of its people in the implementation of

its fiscal reforms. It encouraged Saint Kitts and Nevis to consider the need for inclusive

consultations, especially with those living in extreme poverty, in line with the guiding

principles on extreme poverty and human rights. The Philippines recognized the steps that

had been taken to improve education and health, establish legal mechanisms for addressing

domestic violence and enhance youth awareness on human rights issues. Finally, the

Philippines regretted that some of the recommendations accepted during the first cycle had

yet to be implemented, including ratification of core human rights instruments.

61. Portugal welcomed the current debate on the amendment of the Domestic Violence

Bill 2014, in line with the recommendations accepted during the first cycle of the universal

periodic review, as a means to tackle domestic violence, which remains a serious and

pervasive problem in the country.

62. Rwanda commended Saint Kitts and Nevis for remaining steadfast in its

commitment to the improvement of the quality of life of all citizens, in a period of

economic and financial slowdown. It noted with appreciation that, under the National

Social Protection Strategy and Plan of Action, initiatives to alleviate poverty had been

structured to ensure that public resources were directed in order to more efficiently and

effectively incorporate the poor into the mainstream of economic development.

63. Saint Lucia commended Saint Kitts and Nevis for its commitment to the Beijing

Platform for Action in addition to all efforts made in implementing the Convention on the

Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, such as the creation of a

Special Victims Unit within the police force to deal with issues of domestic violence and

abuse. Saint Lucia acknowledged efforts to incorporate into domestic legislation the

Convention on the Rights of the Child, such as the National Child Protection Protocol and

Plan of Action and the reestablishment of the Probation and Child Welfare Board. Saint

Lucia noted that, despite efforts by the Government, the issue of domestic and sexual

violence against women and children remained in the society.

64. Sierra Leone commended Saint Kitts and Nevis for having reached many of the

Millennium Development Goals, particularly high life expectancy and low maternal and

infant mortality rates. Sierra Leone applauded the efforts that were being made in the

education sector, especially on the empowerment of young boys. Sierra Leone was

concerned that Saint Kitts and Nevis had failed to implement the recommendations it had

accepted in the first cycle of the universal periodic review relating to ratification of the core

human rights treaties, and finally encouraged Saint Kitts and Nevis to develop national

legal frameworks to provide refugees with international protection and to speedily enact the

Domestic Violence Bill.

65. Slovenia noted a number of positive developments since the first review of Saint

Kitts and Nevis, such as the adoption of various policies and plans to further improve the

quality of education and its accessibility, such as the White Paper on Education

Development and Policy 2009-2019. Slovenia encouraged the Government to take

additional measures to further promote comprehensive and inclusive education and

awareness-raising on health training.

66. South Africa was encouraged by the commitment demonstrated by Saint Kitts and

Nevis to improve the quality of life of all citizens through the strengthening of the delivery

of social programmes and projects focused towards family wellness, gender mainstreaming

and the promotion of child rights. The Constitution of Saint Kitts and Nevis entitled every

persons to the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms without discrimination on the

basis of race, place of origin, birth, political opinions, colour, creed or sex, but subject to

the respect of other people’s rights and freedoms and the public interest.

67. Spain highlighted the challenge that had derived from the realization of reforms in a

context of economic difficulties and fiscal adjustments.

68. Switzerland took note of the commitment of Saint Kitts and Nevis to ratify and

respect additional international human rights instruments. Nevertheless, Switzerland

remained concerned by the lack of implementation of the recommendations received by

Saint Kitts and Nevis during its first review.

69. Timor-Leste noted with appreciation the adoption of the national poverty-reduction

strategy, which outlined key development pillars, such as reducing risk and enhancing

social protection; enhancing technical and vocational education; and strengthening social

safety nets. Timor-Leste appreciated the commitment made in passing a law on the

maintenance of the Children Act, and progress in the area of health, in particular the raising

of life expectancy, and lowering of infant and maternal mortality rates. Timor-Leste echoed

concerns on fair representation of women in top political positions.

70. Trinidad and Tobago acknowledged fiscal constraints and lack of technical and

human resources. Since its first universal periodic review in 2011, Saint Kitts and Nevis

had accepted the recommendation of Trinidad and Tobago to develop a closer policy focus

on the special needs and care of persons with disabilities. In that regard, Trinidad and

Tobago was pleased to see that the Government had begun consultations and engagement

of persons with disabilities and commended the Government for adopting the 2013-2017

Social Protection Strategy.

71. Denmark noted that, during the first review, Saint Kitts and Nevis had noted the

recommendation to ratify the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or

Degrading Treatment or Punishment. Denmark held strong hope that Saint Kitts and Nevis

would join the 158 State parties to the Convention. It welcomed the engagement of Saint

Kitts and Nevis in the seminar in Costa Rica organized by the Convention against Torture

Initiative, and hoped that this could be useful to Saint Kitts and Nevis in advancing on the

issue.

72. The United States of America commended Saint Kitts and Nevis for its efforts in

combatting HIV/AIDS, expanding health programming in that area and the work done by

the Department of Gender Affairs. It encouraged the Government to ensure that women

could safely and reasonably file complaints or pursue them in courts. It expressed concern

about the continued criminalization of same-sex sexual conduct between consenting adults,

exacerbating societal discrimination. It remained concerned about poor prison conditions,

lengthy detention times before trials and the high homicide rate.

73. Uruguay underscored efforts to sign and implement the Inter-American Convention

on the Prevention, Punishment and Eradication of Violence against Women, the Inter-

American Convention on the Granting of Civil Rights to Women and the Inter-American

Convention on the Granting of Political Rights to Women. It encouraged Saint Kitts and

Nevis to redouble its efforts regarding gender equality, particularly through the adoption of

a national gender policy.

74. Algeria welcomed the social programmes of Saint Kitts and Nevis with a view to

ensuring family wellness, gender equality, full and active participation in national

development, the promotion of child rights and the improvement of the quality of life.

Algeria encouraged the initiatives for green economy as a means for facilitating growth and

durable development, and the National Social Protection Strategy and Plan of Action 2013-

2017 for the reduction of poverty.

75. Argentina welcomed the human rights advances that had been reached since its first

universal periodic review, particularly the launching of the programme of One Portable

Computer per Child in 2013, that had given 7,000 students access to a computer. It stated

that, nevertheless, there remained challenges to overcome.

76. Armenia appreciated the measures of Saint Kitts and Nevis to further improve

education quality and accessibility, and the progress made in the promotion of the right to

health, as well as the Social Protection Strategy 2013-2017, which prioritizing a number of

vulnerable groups for social protection initiatives, including persons with disabilities.

Armenia noted that Saint Kitts and Nevis had not ratified core international human rights

instruments and treaties since its first review.

77. Australia welcomed the support of Saint Kitts and Nevis for the Organization of

American States resolutions on sexual orientation and gender equality. Australia remained

concerned by the criminalization of consensual same-sex activity between men, which

carried a penalty of up to 10 years’ imprisonment, and the lack of legislation that prohibits

discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender. Australia was also concerned

that at least one individual remained on death row, though the death penalty had not been

imposed since 2008.

78. The Bahamas congratulated Saint Kitts and Nevis on conducting general elections in

2015 and in particular on the voting process. The Bahamas were encouraged by the

approach of Saint Kitts and Nevis to overcoming financial challenges, particularly through

the implementation of fiscal policies designed to promote sustained growth, poverty

reduction and improved standards of living. The Bahamas also welcomed the establishment

of a juvenile care facility for youth offenders.

79. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela stated that the world economic and financial

crisis had impacted on countries under development and that, even then, the Government of

Saint Kitts and Nevis had made efforts to bring into compliance the accepted

recommendations from its first universal periodic review cycle. It underscored the

promotion of important human rights initiatives, implementing social plans, programmes

and projects centred on the well-being of the family. Gender perspective had been

incorporated into public policies. It was pleased with the improvements reached on

education, health and work.

80. In its final remarks, the delegation of Saint Kitts and Nevis expressed appreciation

for all recommendations and comments delivered in the interactive dialogue. It expressed

that Saint Kitts and Nevis was not able to comment at that moment on all of the

recommendations and comments addressed in the interactive dialogue but wanted to

highlight some areas.

81. On the establishment of a national gender policy, the delegation was pleased to

report that consultations had begun with the Gender Affairs department in the Ministry of

Health, Social Services, Community Development, Culture and Gender Affairs, and that a

complete policy would be completed by 2016.

82. In the area of gang violence, a strategy was intended to be developed and the

delegation was pleased to report that, on the prevention of violent crime, the Ministry of

Health, Social Services, Community Development, Culture and Gender Affairs had officers

trained in aggression-replacement therapy. It was also pleased to report that the

Government had implemented two major programmes aimed at persons involved in gang-

related activities, namely, the People Employment Programme and the Skills Training and

Entrepreneurial Programme. The delegation stated it was open to further assistance from

any international body that would assist the Government in this area.

83. Saint Kitts and Nevis acknowledged its delinquency in reporting to treaty bodies and

explained that this was due in large measure to the existence of technical and legal

challenges in obtaining timely and accurate data from national entities and the lack of

capacity in producing such reports. Saint Kitts and Nevis expressed its readiness to

collaborate with OHCHR and any other international or regional entity that could assist the

country in this endeavour.

84. The delegation stated that it took on board the recommendation to invite special

procedure mandate holders ,and that Saint Kitts and Nevis would positively consider it.

85. Saint Kitts and Nevis deemed it vital to emphasize that the recommendations for the

creation of national human rights institutions had not gone unheeded and it considered the

importance of establishing such a national mechanism that would involve stakeholder

groups, including civil society. The delegation expressed that Saint Kitts and Nevis had

remained steadfast in its commitment immediately after its second cycle review to request

technical assistance from OHCHR to ascertain which national mechanism would be best

suited to its peculiar and unique circumstances in order to more effectively and efficiently

address human rights concerns, follow-up and implementation of the recommendations as

well as reporting.

86. At a regional capacity-building exercise organized by OHCHR, the representatives

of Saint Kitts and Nevis extended an invitation to the United Nations regional office for an

in-country engagement and consultation with all necessary parties, immediately after its

second cycle review, to consider the available options for the establishment of such an

institution.

87. On teenage pregnancy, the Ministry of Education had adopted the Health and Family

Life Education core curriculum in schools, supported by UNICEF. A theme unit of that

document addressed sexuality and sexual health, whereby students learned about sexuality

in terms of the total expression of who they are as human beings. It was envisaged that

gaining an understanding about this critically important topic would prevent any

discrimination against persons on the basis of their sexual orientation or sexual identity.

88. The delegation also referred to the programme that sought to address the

development needs of the very young in disadvantaged conditions where children benefit

from quality care, the development of basic skills, better health and nutrition and at the next

level better performance in preschool and future education.

89. Regarding the ratification of human rights instruments the delegation reiterated that

it did not object to ratifying them, but it hoped that all would understand the challenges the

country was confronted by in doing so. In some cases, it would be necessary to adopt

conventions into domestic law and some constitutional changes and reforms would be

needed. It expressed that one of the commitments of the Government was to address areas

requiring constitutional reform. It stated, however, that entrenched in the Constitution of

Saint Kitts and Nevis were multiple provisions, including those related to fundamental

rights and freedoms, and that amendments and alterations would require special procedures,

parliamentary majorities and referendums.

90. The delegation thanked the Working Group for its recommendations.

II. Conclusions and/or recommendations**

91. The recommendations formulated during the interactive dialogue/listed below

enjoy the support of Saint Kitts and Nevis:

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

Child on children in armed conflict and the Optional Protocol to the

Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution

and child pornography (Estonia);

91.2 Follow through with a recommendation accepted by Saint Kitts and

Nevis during its previous universal periodic review to ratify the Optional

Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on children in armed

conflict and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child

on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography (Germany);

91.3 Consider ratifying the Optional Protocols to the Convention on the

Rights of the Child (Ghana);

91.4 Ratify treaties and other international human rights instruments to

which Saint Kitts and Nevis is not party yet, particularly the Optional Protocol

to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child

prostitution and child pornography (Morocco);

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

Child on children in armed conflict and the Optional Protocol to the

Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution

and child pornography, at the earliest possible time (Netherlands);

91.6 Ratify without delay the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the

Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict and the

Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of

children, child prostitution and child pornography (Switzerland);

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

Child on the participation of children in armed conflict and the Optional

Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children,

child prostitution and child pornography (Uruguay);

91.8 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of Child

on the involvement of children in armed conflict (Algeria);

91.9 Sign the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and

revise building codes to improve disabled access to public buildings (United

Kingdom);

91.10 Consider ratifying the Convention on the Rights of Persons with

Disabilities (Ghana);

91.11 Ensure full incorporation of the provisions of the Convention on the

Rights of the Child into its national legal framework (Portugal);

91.12 Work closely with OHCHR in order to seek its assistance in meetings

the obligations to the United Nations treaty bodies and implementing the

recommendations received under the universal periodic review (Georgia);

**

The conclusions and recommendations have not been edited.

91.13 Request technical assistance from the relevant United Nations

agencies in order to meet its human rights obligations (Trinidad and Tobago);

91.14 Engage closely with civil society in the follow-up on the

recommendations of the Human Rights Council (Trinidad and Tobago);

91.15 Establish follow-up mechanisms on the implementation of

recommendations made in the framework of the universal periodic review and

by treaty bodies (Colombia);

91.16 Analyse the possibility of creating a national follow-up system to

international recommendations (Paraguay);

91.17 Strengthen cooperation with treaty bodies and submit overdue

reports (Paraguay);

91.18 Prepare and submit, with the assistance of OHCHR, if required, all

overdue reports to the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against

Women, the Committee on the Rights of the Child and Committee on the

Elimination of Racial Discrimination (Sierra Leone);

91.19 Adopt legislative measures on gender equality (Costa Rica);

91.20 Continue to fully implement the Equal Pay Act in order to ensure

equal remuneration for men and women (Cuba);

91.21 Strengthen its efforts to ensure formal and substantive equality for

women, in addition to combating gender violence in all its forms (Ecuador);

91.22 Enact a national gender policy and augment the capacity for gender

analysis within government ministries, departments and agencies that

coordinate policy development (Maldives);

91.23 Promote gender equality in law and in practice, particularly through

education and public awareness (Mexico);

91.24 Consolidate its national gender policy that promotes women rights

and their participation in the development of their society (Nicaragua);

91.25 Adopt a national gender policy and enhance the capacity for gender

analysis with government ministries, departments and agencies that coordinate

policy development (Rwanda);

91.26 Amend the Protection of Employment Act to include a prohibition

against sexual harassment in the workplace (Canada);

91.27 Increase resources to prisons to improve conditions, to the police to

develop specialties in forensics and evidence collection, and the Department of

Public Prosecutions to hasten the speed of trial procedures (United States);

91.28 Continue to deepen measures and plans to eradicate sexual and

domestic violence, including strengthening awareness programmes to prevent

this scourge (Chile);

91.29 Strengthen measures to combat family and domestic violence,

particularly on access to justice and the necessary support to victims

(Colombia);

91.30 Adopt measures aiming to combat domestic violence (France);

91.31 Enact the law that enables the prosecution of suspected perpetrators

of domestic and sexual violence (Haiti);

91.32 That the Department of Gender Affairs ensure that its programmes

to combat domestic and sexual violence include measures that target violence

perpetrated against men and boys (Jamaica);

91.33 Continue the efforts to eradicate domestic violence and provide

protection guarantees for women and children (Mexico);

91.34 Strengthen provisions related to the protection of women in the

domestic life, particularly pursuing awareness raising campaigns on sexual

violence and violence within the family, and allow the victims to be cared in an

optimum manner (Morocco);

91.35 Address the issue of marital rape by including the necessary

provisions in domestic law (Portugal);

91.36 Continue its commitment to working within the Organisation of

Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) on initiatives such as the OECS Family Law

and Domestic Violence Legal and Judicial Reform Project (Saint Lucia);

91.37 Continue to work within the broader membership of the Caribbean

Community (CARICOM) to establish the creation of regional strategies to

combat domestic and sexual violence against women and children (Saint

Lucia);

91.38 Strengthen efforts to raise awareness about violence against women

and children (United States);

91.39 Further work on the protection and rights of the child by ensuring

that the necessary capacity and infrastructure are in place so that legislation

related to the obligations of Saint Kitts and Nevis under the Convention on the

Rights of the Child, which has been already been passed by parliament, can be

proclaimed and implemented as soon as possible (Canada);

91.40 Review criminal justice procedures to reduce the length of detention

without trial and replace preliminary inquiries with sufficient hearings in the

High Court (United Kingdom);

91.41 Continue strengthening plans to facilitate access to employment for

persons who are heads of households (Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);

91.42 Implement the National Strategy for the Social Safety Net in order to

achieve an effective delivery of social services to citizens so they can live with

dignity (Cuba);

91.43 Continue with initiatives envisaged to the implementation of plans

and social development programmes, including those intended for early

childhood care in the fields of health and education as tools to overcome

poverty and extreme poverty (Ecuador);

91.44 Continue strengthening its successful policies developed to increase

access to education and health, particularly for women and children as well as

consolidating housing for families in need (Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);

91.45 Continue to reduce poverty and extreme poverty (Djibouti);

91.46 Continue to engage its multilateral, regional and bilateral partners to

strengthen its capacity and resources for the effective implementation of its

poverty-alleviation programmes and for meeting its international human rights

obligations (Philippines);

91.47 Continue strengthening its successful social programmes in the fight

against poverty (Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);

91.48 Create a formal health policy (Maldives);

91.49 Continue efforts and take measures to prevent the incidence of

teenage pregnancy (Colombia);

91.50 Intensify its efforts to improve access to education for all, including

by allocating adequate resources (Indonesia);

91.51 Take supplementary actions to advance comprehensive education, to

further promote inclusive education in all its aspects (Maldives);

91.52 Enhance education training programmes, which should include

technical and vocational education and training designed to facilitate the

movement of workers into new areas of economic activity (Slovenia);

91.53 Intensify efforts to promote and protect the rights of persons with

disabilities (Colombia);

91.54 Continue consultations and dialogue with the public and various

stakeholders in order to promote awareness of the situation of persons with

disabilities and their rights, and ratify and implement the Convention on the

Rights of Persons with Disabilities (Germany);

91.55 Build on its wide-ranging consultations, sensitization and confidence-

building activities concerning persons with disabilities, to implement

appropriate policies, legislation and practical measures to address the concerns

and needs of this vulnerable group (Jamaica);

91.56 Give continuity to the process to ratify the Convention on the Rights

of Persons with Disabilities (Mexico);

91.57 Encourage the growth and sustainable development through stressing

the green economy (Haiti);

91.58 Emphasize prevention with regards to face up to climate change

(Haiti).

92. The recommendations below did not enjoy the support of Saint Kitts and Nevis

and would thus be noted:

92.1 Accede to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights,

the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the

Convention against Torture and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with

Disabilities (Costa Rica);

92.2 Accede to the fundamental international instruments on human

rights, in particular the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights,

the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and the

Convention against Torture (France);

92.3 Ratify core international human rights instruments, including the

International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and its Optional Protocols,

the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and the

Convention against Torture and its Optional Protocol (Germany);

92.4 Consider ratifying major human rights instruments, in particular the

International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International

Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, with a view to strengthen

its commitment in promoting and protecting human rights of its citizen

(Indonesia);

92.5 Take immediate steps, including if necessary requesting relevant

technical assistance in that regard, to ratify the International Covenant on Civil

and Political Rights, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and

Cultural Rights and the Convention against Torture (Ireland);

92.6 Consider ratification of the International Covenant on Economic,

Social and Cultural Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political

Rights, as well as the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant

on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty

(Namibia);

92.7 Consider the ratification of the core human rights instruments to

which it is not yet a State party (Nicaragua);

92.8 Accede and ratify the main human rights instruments, including the

International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the Optional Protocol

to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child

prostitution and child pornography (Paraguay);

92.9 Accede to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights

and its two Optional Protocols; to the International Covenant on Economic,

Social and Cultural Rights and its Optional Protocol and the three Optional

Protocols to the Convention on the Rights of the Child (Portugal);

92.10 Consider ratifying the International Covenant on Economic, Social

and Cultural Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights

and its Second Optional Protocol, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty,

and the Convention Against Torture and its Optional Protocol (Rwanda);

92.11 Ratify or accede to the remaining existing international human rights

treaties, especially the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the

Child on the participation of children in armed conflict, the Optional Protocol

to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child

prostitution and child pornography, the International Covenant on Civil and

Political Rights and its second Optional Protocol, aiming at the abolition of the

death penalty, as well as the Convention against Torture (Slovenia);

92.12 Consider ratifying the International Covenant on Economic, Social

and Cultural Rights and the Convention against Torture (South Africa);

92.13 Proceed to the signature and ratification of the main international

human rights instruments that has not already signed and ratified, including

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

participation of children in armed conflict and the Optional Protocol to the

Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution

and child pornography, whose signature and ratification was itself accepted in

the previous review (Spain);

92.14 Ratify the fundamental international human rights law instruments,

particularly the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural

Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the

Convention against Torture (Switzerland);

92.15 Ratify the international human rights instruments to which it is not a

party and bring its internal legal framework into line with international

obligations (Trinidad and Tobago);

92.16 Study the possibility of ratifying the following international

instruments: the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the

International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the

Convention against Torture and the International Convention for the

Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance, as previously

recommended (Argentina);

92.17 Undertake the necessary processes, by availing itself of any available

technical assistance, to identify and overcome any obstacles which may exist to

the country becoming a State party to additional core human rights treaties,

such as the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights

and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Bahamas);

92.18 Ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights

(Estonia);

92.19 Consider ratifying the International Covenant on Civil and Political

Rights and its Second Optional Protocol, aiming at the abolition of the death

penalty (Ghana);

92.20 Ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and

its Second Optional Protocol, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty

(Montenegro);

92.21 Ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and

its Optional Protocols (Uruguay);

92.22 Ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights

(Armenia);

92.23 Consider ratifying the International Covenant on Economic, Social

and Cultural Rights (Ghana);

92.24 Ratify the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural

Rights (Montenegro);

92.25 Ratify the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural

Rights (Armenia);

92.26 Evaluate the accession and ratification of the main international

conventions on human rights, including the Convention against Torture and its

Optional Protocol (Chile);

92.27 Consider ratifying the Convention against Torture and its Optional

Protocol (Ghana);

92.28 Ratify the Convention against Torture and its Optional Protocol

(Guatemala);

92.29 Ratify the Convention against Torture (Denmark);

92.30 Ratify the Convention against Torture and its Optional Protocol

(Uruguay);

92.31 Ratify the Convention against Torture (Algeria);

92.32 Consider ratifying the International Convention for the Protection of

All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (Ghana);

92.33 Ratify the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the

Crime of Genocide (Armenia);

92.34 Fully align its national legislation with the Rome Statute of the

International Criminal Court (Portugal);

92.35 Ensure that its legal and institutional frameworks are in line with

international human rights standards (Philippines);

92.36 Move towards the establishment of a national human rights

institution in accordance with the Paris Principles (Chile);

92.37 Bring the national human rights body in line with the Paris

Principles, as recommended in the first universal periodic review cycle in 2011

(Costa Rica);

92.38 Establish a human rights commission in compliance with the Paris

Principles (Djibouti);

92.39 Continue working to create a national human rights institution in

accordance with the Paris Principles (Guatemala);

92.40 Establish a national human rights public body in accordance with the

Paris Principles, as previously recommended (Mexico);

92.41 Establish a national human rights institution in accordance with the

Paris Principles (Rwanda);

92.42 Give a mandate to the office of the Ombudsman to bring it in

compliance with the Paris Principles (Sierra Leone);

92.43 Establishing a national human rights institution for the promotion

and protection of human rights in accordance with the Paris Principles (South

Africa);

92.44 Issue an open invitation to the human rights special procedures of the

United Nations (Guatemala);

92.45 Extend an open and standing invitation to the special procedures of

the Human Rights Council of the United Nations so that they can assist Saint

Kitts and Nevis in complying with its human rights obligations, especially those

regarding the implementation of the recommendations expressly accepted by

Saint Kitts and Nevis, both in its first universal periodic review cycle as well as

in the current one (Spain);

92.46 Enact comprehensive legislation that fully guarantees the application

of the principle of non-discrimination and to ensure the full enjoyment of all

human rights by every member of society (South Africa);

92.47 Take all necessary measures to end all forms of discrimination still

existing in Saint Kitts and Nevis and analyse the possibility of creating a

specific law on discrimination based on disability, language, sexual orientation,

gender identity or social status (Argentina);

92.48 Ensure an equal participation between men and women in politics

(Timor-Leste);

92.49 Take the necessary measures to decriminalize same-sex consensual

relations (Brazil);

92.50 Meet Saint Kitts and Nevis’ commitments to equality and non-

discrimination by prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation

(Canada);

92.51 Remove any rule criminalizing sexual relations between consenting

adults of the same sex, and include sexual orientation and gender identity as

unlawful grounds of discrimination in all areas (Chile);

92.52 Adopt legislation to decriminalize homosexuality and to recognize the

rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people (France);

92.53 Decriminalize consensual adult same-sex relations by amending

sections 56 and 57 of the Offences against the Person Act and take all necessary

steps to ensure the enjoyment of their rights by all persons without

discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation or gender identity (Ireland);

92.54 Carry out awareness campaigns for the population in relation to non-

discrimination based on sexual orientation (Spain);

92.55 Decriminalize same-sex sexual conduct between consenting adults in

the Offenses Against the Person Act and enact legislation to prevent

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

(United States);

92.56 Repeal all legislation which may discriminate against lesbian, gay,

bisexual, transgender and intersex persons (Australia);

92.57 Establish a moratorium on the use of the death penalty, with a view

to its abolition (Brazil);

92.58 Declare a moratorium on the application of the death penalty with a

view to its definitive abolition (France);

92.59 Establish a moratorium on the death penalty and take measures

towards its definitive abolition (Mexico);

92.60 Consider removal of the death penalty from its statute books

(Namibia);

92.61 Establish an official moratorium to abolish the death penalty, as

called for in five General Assembly resolutions, including most recently

resolution 69/186 of 18 December 2014 (Netherlands);

92.62 Initiate a process of abolition of the death penalty and establish an

immediate moratorium in relation to its application (Paraguay);

92.63 Establish a moratorium on the death penalty with a view to formally

abolishing capital punishment in all cases and circumstances (Portugal);

92.64 Repeal the legal provisions that allow the death penalty and declare a

moratorium on executions, as previously recommended (Slovenia);

92.65 Establish a legal moratorium on the application of death penalty with

a view to its definitive abolishment and meanwhile carry out awareness

campaigns in order for society to be aware of the ineffectiveness of capital

punishment and of its lack of connection with the increase or reduction of

crime (Spain);

92.66 Immediately establish a de jure moratorium on the death penalty

with a view of abolishing it (Switzerland);

92.67 Repeal national provisions establishing the death penalty and

establish an official moratorium on executions with a view to its abolition

(Uruguay);

92.68 Establish a formal moratorium on executions with a view to ratifying

the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and

Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty (Australia);

92.69 Take legal and practical steps to protect women and children from

domestic violence, for example by prohibiting corporal punishment of children

and marital rape (Germany);

92.70 Take the necessary measures to combat domestic violence, including

the creation of shelters for victims (Paraguay);

92.71 Explicitly prohibit corporal punishment of children in all settings,

including the home (Estonia);

92.72 Take active measures to abolish corporal punishment of children in

all settings (Namibia);

92.73 Raise the minimum age of criminal responsibility to 18, as provided

by the Convention on the Rights of the Child (Sierra Leone);

92.74 Guarantee the protection of refugees in conformity with the

obligations of the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees (Djibouti);

92.75 Accede the 1967 Protocol relating to the Status of Refugees (Timor-

Leste).

93. 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 Saint Kitts and Nevis was headed by Ms. Kaye Bass, Permanent

Secretary (Ag), Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and composed of the following members:

• Ms. Janelle Lewis, Permanent Secretary, Community and Social Services;

• Mr. Steven Goldstein, Honorary Consul of Saint Kitts and Nevis.