32/10 Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review - Denmark

Human Rights Council Thirty-second session

Agenda item 6

Universal periodic review

Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review*

Denmark

*

The annex is being circulated in the language of submission only.

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 ................................................. 4

II. Conclusions and/or recommendations .............................................................................................. 14

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-fourth session from 18 to 29

January 2016. The review of Denmark was held at the 7th meeting on 21 January 2016. The

delegation of Denmark was headed by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Kristian Jensen. At

its 14th meeting, held on 26 January 2016, the Working Group adopted the report on

Denmark.

2. On 12 January 2016, the Human Rights Council selected the following group of

rapporteurs (troika) to facilitate the review of Denmark: Belgium, Côte d’Ivoire and

Panama.

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 Denmark:

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

paragraph 15 (a) (A/HRC/WG.6/24/DNK/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.6/24/DNK/2);

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

(A/HRC/WG.6/24/DNK/3).

4. A list of questions prepared in advance by Mexico, the Netherlands, Norway,

Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

was transmitted to Denmark through the troika. These questions are available on the

extranet of the universal periodic review.

I. Summary of the proceedings of the review process

A. Presentation by the State under review

5. The head of the delegation said that the Government looked forward to receiving the

recommendations from the current review, and thanked all national stakeholders engaged in

the national consultation process leading up to the review, not least the Danish Institute for

Human Rights. The high number of refugees and immigrants coming to Europe in 2015

was unprecedented. Within the European Union, Denmark had accepted a large number of

asylum seekers relative to its population size, and relative to geographical size, it was one

of the countries in the world providing the most humanitarian assistance to Syrian refugees.

Danish policies were in full accordance with the country’s international obligations.

6. Denmark had received 133 recommendations during the first universal periodic

review. Of them, a total of 102 had been accepted, while 5 had been partially accepted. The

head of delegation highlighted some of the actions that the recommendations from the first

review had generated.

7. Responding to some of the written questions, he stated that unaccompanied asylum-

seeking minors were appointed a personal representative who supported and cared for them

with regard to personal issues and attended asylum interviews and other meetings with the

authorities. Accommodation for all unaccompanied minors was provided at a special

children’s centre run by the Danish Red Cross.

8. The number of juvenile delinquents being incarcerated with adults was small; in

2015, an average of 1.3 inmates aged under 18 had been placed in a prison with adults. In

some cases, separating inmates aged under 18 from adults would mean placing them in a

prison far from their home, or in solitary confinement. There had been only one case of

court-ordered solitary confinement of a minor since 2011.

9. The delegate of the Faroe Islands said that new residential facilities had been

established in the Faroes for people with special needs, who had traditionally been offered

housing and care outside the Faroes. Measures had been taken to address the low

participation of women in public committees and politics and over the past three elections,

the share of women in the Faroes Parliament had gone from under 10 per cent to over 30

per cent. A proposal to allow same-sex marriage had been submitted to the Faroes

Parliament and legislation regarding sexual offences and protection of victims of stalking

would be presented in Parliament in autumn 2016.

10. The delegate of Greenland said that the Human Rights Council of Greenland had

been established and that the mandate of the Danish Institute for Human Rights had been

extended to Greenland. A children’s council and a children’s spokesperson had been

appointed as part of the Children’s Rights Institution in order to increase awareness of

children’s rights and living conditions. A strategy and action plan against violence had been

adopted, particularly targeting domestic violence. Combating violence and improving

conditions for children would be a major priority in the forthcoming years. A consultancy

unit had been established to assist social services to improve their performance in cases

involving children.

B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review

11. During the interactive dialogue, 86 delegations made statements. Recommendations

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

12. Bulgaria commended Denmark for its ratification of several instruments since the

first review, the establishment of the Office for Children and the Greenland Human Rights

Council. It appreciated the efforts to combat domestic violence, discrimination and

trafficking, which were reflected in several national action plans.

13. Burkina Faso noted that Denmark had made significant progress in improving the

normative and institutional framework on the rights of the child, vulnerable persons,

persons with disabilities, refugees and migrants, and on nationality rights. It urged Denmark

to continue focusing on protecting human rights, especially those of migrants and refugees,

and to strengthen human rights cooperation between the two countries.

14. Iceland applauded efforts to place human rights at the forefront of the national

agenda and urged the Government to live up to the high human rights and humanitarian

standards of Denmark and refrain from taking any measures that would undermine its

international obligations towards refugees.

15. Chile recognized the institutional and legal framework for protecting and promoting

human rights, through ratification of international instruments and the standing invitation to

the special procedures, and highlighted the action plans relating to gender equality and the

implementation of Security Council resolution 1235 (2000).

16. China noted the efforts to promote and protect the rights of children, persons with

disabilities, refugees and migrants and to advance gender equality. It also noted the

National Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking (2015-2018).

17. Colombia welcomed the extensive information that Denmark had provided for the

review and its achievements in the protection and promotion of the rights of children and in

guaranteeing the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons.

18. Costa Rica welcomed the role of Denmark as an advocate of the International

Criminal Court and hoped that it would continue those efforts. Costa Rica also welcomed

the creation of the expert committee on the incorporation of human rights instruments into

Danish law and other policy measures, but was concerned about cases of discrimination

against members of minorities.

19. Côte d’Ivoire commended Denmark for its cooperation with international human

rights institutions, its accession to legal instruments, its adoption of the third National

Action Plan for implementation of Security Council resolution 1235 (2000) and the entry

into force in 2012 of new rules on family reunification for the benefit of children.

20. Djibouti welcomed the adoption of the third National Action Plan for

implementation of Security Council resolution 1325 (2000) and the integration of a greater

number of children with disabilities in mainstream education. It expressed concerns about

discrimination against minorities, including Muslims.

21. Ecuador appreciated the efforts Denmark had made since the first review, including

its adoption of legislation to combat domestic violence and to facilitate voting for persons

with disabilities. Ecuador was deeply concerned about legislation requiring refugees to

relinquish their valuables.

22. Egypt welcomed developments since the first review, including enhanced human

rights education. It was concerned about the adoption of restrictive policies on migration

and asylum seekers, including the new law on confiscating valuables, and increasing

reports of hate crimes and racist discourse.

23. Spain welcomed the adoption of the third National Action Plan for implementation

of Security Council resolution 1235 (2000). It appreciated the efforts Denmark had made to

investigate hate crimes and to integrate children with disabilities in mainstream education.

24. Finland appreciated the involvement of civil society in the universal periodic review

process and encouraged Denmark to adopt a legislative framework to protect women from

psychological violence. It noted the concerns of the Committee on the Elimination of

Discrimination against Women about the adverse impact of the existing legislation on

citizenship on stateless women and girls.

25. Georgia appreciated the new laws adopted and the action taken since the first

review, including the strengthening of the advocacy role of the National Council for

Children and the establishment of the Office for Children. It encouraged the practice of

submitting midterm implementation reports.

26. Germany commended Denmark for its commitment to upholding human rights and

increased efforts to place human rights at the forefront of its national agenda.

27. Ghana noted the establishment of the Office for Children as part of the Danish

Parliamentary Ombudsman Institution and the reform of the Disability Pension since the

first review. It applauded Denmark for having implemented a significant number of the

recommendations from that review.

28. Greece highlighted progress made in the protection of children, especially

vulnerable children, efforts to reduce bullying in schools and progress achieved on the

rights of persons with disabilities. It welcomed the results of efforts to promote the rights of

lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons and to increase gender equality and

women’s participation in the labour market.

29. Guatemala noted that Denmark had made undeniable progress, particularly its

establishment of an expert committee to examine the incorporation of international human

rights instruments into law, but was concerned that the Supreme Court had stated that

treaties that were not incorporated into domestic law did not have a direct effect on the

domestic legal order.

30. Honduras thanked the delegation of Denmark for its report and made

recommendations.

31. Hungary noted that restrictions in the mandate and powers of the Office for Children

had resulted in the majority of complaints being refused. It encouraged Denmark to comply

with the recommendations of the relevant monitoring bodies of the Council of Europe,

particularly by reinforcing linguistic rights and taking additional measures to combat

manifestations of intolerance, racism and xenophobia.

32. Italy welcomed the ratification of the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the

Rights of the Child on a communications procedure and the Council of Europe Convention

on Preventing and Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence (the

Istanbul Convention), the legal amendment allowing dual citizenship, and increased

protection measures for children with special needs and persons with disabilities.

33. Indonesia commended Denmark for its achievements, particularly on the rights of

children and persons with disabilities, and its contribution to promoting universal

ratification of the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading

Treatment or Punishment through the Convention against Torture Initiative. Indonesia

noted challenges relating to hate crime and the need to take further measures to fully

implement migrants’ rights.

34. The Islamic Republic of Iran expressed concern at discrimination against minorities,

especially Muslims, and migrants in employment, education and housing, at the increase in

hate speech directed at refugees and Muslims on social media, and at the large number of

children living without their parents and cared for outside the home.

35. Iraq commended Denmark for its legislative achievements, especially on the rights

of children and persons with disabilities, its efforts to meet the needs of refugees and

integrate them in society, in line with regulatory frameworks and amendments to

integration law, and its adoption of laws prohibiting hate speech.

36. Canada noted the national action plans to stop violence against women and

encouraged Denmark to pursue its efforts to protect women and girls from intimate partner

violence.

37. Japan commended Denmark for its role in prohibiting torture and promoting gender

equality. Japan was concerned at reported discrimination against persons belonging to

minorities and non-citizens in relation to employment, education and housing and

xenophobic discourse in the media. It welcomed initiatives to help migrants and refugees to

integrate in society.

38. Kyrgyzstan praised Denmark for its continuous efforts to exercise its responsibility

to uphold human rights standards and for its commitment to enhancing the promotion and

protection of human rights.

39. Lebanon commended Denmark for its commitments to protecting and promoting

human rights, particularly those of children, and its efforts to combat discrimination and

xenophobia through various policies and rigorous standards, reflecting its commitments to

human rights in general.

40. Libya welcomed the delegation, thanked it for presenting the national report and

made recommendations.

41. Denmark emphasized that the Government regarded hate speech and hate crimes,

online or not, as a high priority area in crime prevention. A monitoring programme had

been launched, the results of which should facilitate better plans and national strategies on

hate crime prevention in the future.

42. Danish legislation ensured comprehensive protection against discrimination on the

grounds of race and ethnic origin. In an effort to promote tolerance and combat racism and

xenophobia, the authorities, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and civil society had

carried out several initiatives.

43. The delegation, responding to comments, noted that in 2015, temporary protection

status had been introduced for asylum seekers entitled to asylum on the basis of the general

situation in their home country. Only about 20 per cent of those who had been granted

asylum fell under the temporary protection status category. In general, the right to family

reunification was deferred for that group. Exceptions to the deferral were made based on an

individual assessment in each case, ensuring observance of the country’s international

obligations and ensuring that, where individual circumstances dictated it, family

reunification was granted within the initial one-year period. That could be extended to three

years pending a proposal that would be debated in Parliament.

44. Regarding seizure of valuables, the Danish welfare State was based on the principle

that the State would provide and pay for individuals who were unable to take care of

themselves. It would therefore provide for asylum seekers who were unable to take care of

themselves. The authorities would be given the power to seize valuables, such as cash, that

had a value of over approximately US$ 1,500 in order to cover expenses such as

subsistence and housing during the processing of the asylum application. It was a

misconception that that authorities would seize jewellery that was of sentimental value to

the owner.

45. Newly arrived asylum seekers could be detained only when it was necessary to

complete the registration and identification process and would be released immediately

after completion of that process. Rejected asylum seekers could be detained only if they did

not cooperate on their return and if deportation was possible. Both rules were in conformity

with the international obligations of Denmark. A rule had been introduced suspending

automatic access to judicial review of a detention within three days. The rule could be

applied only in a period when there was a significant increase in refugees and migrants. On

request, the lawfulness of a detention would be decided by a court as soon as possible.

46. Responding to a question, the delegation said that all newly arrived immigrants and

refugees were offered training in the Danish language and on the basic functions of society,

as well as activities to facilitate their access to the labour market or an education. Civil

society played an important role in the integration process. For example, the Danish Red

Cross ran a project offering a Danish friend to all newly arrived refugees to encourage and

support their understanding of how Danish society worked while building bridges between

cultures and fostering better cross-cultural understanding.

47. Denmark had made a commitment to ratify the International Convention for the

Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance. Denmark was currently examining

the need for legislative amendments for Greenland and the Faroes in order to meet the

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

sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography. Denmark was party to the

International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and committed to its full

implementation. However, many social and economic rights entailed important

macroeconomic choices better decided upon in a parliamentary setting. Therefore there was

no intention to ratify the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic,

Social and Cultural Rights. Denmark found that the International Convention on the

Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families did not

consistently distinguish between migrant workers legally residing in a host country and

migrant workers staying illegally. Granting social benefits to illegal migrant workers would

undermine the Danish welfare State and encourage illegal migration. Denmark had ratified

all the core conventions of the International Labour Organization (ILO) on workers’ rights,

which encompassed foreign nationals legally residing in Denmark.

48. The delegation stressed that an extensive evaluation had already been made, in the

wake of the terror attacks in Paris and Copenhagen, of the level of preparedness of

Denmark for acts of terror, which had led to initiatives to secure adequate safeguards

against terror.

49. Lithuania welcomed the ratification by Denmark of the Istanbul Convention and its

efforts to combat trafficking in children. Lithuania appreciated the cooperation of Denmark

with OHCHR and its regular financial support to it.

50. Malaysia acknowledged initiatives aimed at improving the rights of persons with

disabilities, at tackling child pornography and at raising awareness on human rights in

business. Malaysia expressed concern at the proposal to confiscate cash and valuables from

asylum seekers and urged Denmark to reconsider.

51. Maldives congratulated Denmark on its progress since the previous review and

welcomed the adoption by Greenland of the Gender Equality Act in 2013 and the 2014-

2017 Strategy and Action Plan against Violence.

52. Mexico acknowledged the progress made in the promotion and protection of human

rights since the first cycle.

53. Montenegro welcomed steps to improve the legislative framework on the protection

of children, persons with disabilities and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex

persons. It noted the new monitoring system for hate crimes and the revised guidance on

handling such cases. Montenegro shared the concern of the Committee on the Elimination

of Racial Discrimination about the increase in xenophobia and political propaganda

targeting non-citizens and racist publications in the media.

54. Morocco welcomed the focus of Denmark on protecting the rights of children,

vulnerable groups, asylum seekers and migrants as part of its efforts to implement the

normative, institutional and legislative framework. It congratulated Denmark on its

commitment and efforts to combat torture, especially through the international Convention

against Torture Initiative.

55. Mozambique noted the progress Denmark had made by following the Guiding

Principles on Business and Human Rights and adopting action plans for persons with

disabilities and to combat human trafficking. Mozambique referred to consultations on

accession to Protocol No. 12 of the Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and

Fundamental Freedoms (European Convention on Human Rights).

56. Namibia commended Denmark for its efforts to promote and protect children’s

rights, including through the amendment of nationality laws. Namibia remained concerned

about the solitary confinement of children. It noted that the amendments to the Integration

Act and the Aliens Act had improved the situation for refugees and migrants.

57. Nepal welcomed the entry into force of laws protecting children, vulnerable persons,

persons with disabilities, refugees and migrants and concerning nationality rights. It

appreciated the provision of development assistance to foster socioeconomic development,

the support of Denmark for capacity-building in national human rights institutions and its

financial contributions to OHCHR and other mechanisms.

58. The Netherlands encouraged Denmark to continue putting human rights at the

forefront of policy, including when confronted with external challenges, as Europe

currently faced. The Netherlands called for children’s and young people’s self-experienced

gender to be recognized as authentic and legitimate.

59. New Zealand commended Denmark for its progress on gender pay equity. New

Zealand referred to the challenges caused by the Syrian conflict, including the sudden

influx of people into Denmark. It acknowledged efforts to address hate crimes.

60. Nicaragua highlighted progress in implementing recommendations related to

children, persons with disabilities and gender equality. Nicaragua encouraged Denmark to

continue combating human trafficking and to take into consideration recommendations

made in other forums, including ILO.

61. Norway commended Denmark for establishing the Office for Children, while

identifying limitations in its mandate, and for strengthening the Criminal Code and

penalizing non-consensual sex with a victim in “helpless state” as rape. Norway noted that

the legislation of the Faroe Islands lagged behind, particularly as it included a reduced

penalty for rape and sexual violence within marriage.

62. Pakistan noted that little progress had been made in terms of giving consideration to

cultural and religious sensitivities when designing social integration policies and

programmes. Pakistan was concerned at the treatment of victims of trafficking and at the

increasingly negative political discourse on migrants, especially Muslims, which was

adversely affecting their socioeconomic situation.

63. Panama welcomed the ratification by Denmark of international human rights

instruments, including the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of Persons

with Disabilities.

64. The Philippines appreciated improved policies on migrants and asylum seekers,

particularly the shift in the selection criteria for refugees, and the increased assistance for

victims of trafficking. While the Philippines welcomed initiatives to protect and promote

women’s rights, it was concerned at the persistence of domestic violence.

65. Poland appreciated the adoption in Greenland of the Gender Equality Act, the

National Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking and the action plan against violence in

the family and in intimate relations. Poland welcomed the appointment in Greenland of the

Minister for Gender Equality.

66. Portugal welcomed the establishment of the Office for Children and the ratification

of the Istanbul Convention. It expressed concern about the progressive deterioration in

conditions for asylum seekers and immigrants, including the detention of migrant children

and the confiscation of refugees’ belongings.

67. The Republic of Korea observed the progress Denmark had made in ensuring the

rights of children and persons with disabilities in institutional and practical terms, and

appreciated its efforts to reduce solitary confinement, particularly for juveniles.

68. The Republic of Moldova recognized the establishment of the Office for Children

and the initiatives taken to safeguard the rights of vulnerable children and children at risk,

but was concerned about children in institutional care and action taken to combat domestic

violence, particularly as it affected children.

69. The Russian Federation was concerned that, despite the avowed commitment of

Denmark to observing human rights standards, the situation was far from being beyond

reproach. The Russian Federation expressed particular concern about the human rights

situation of migrants and refugees.

70. Saudi Arabia commended the efforts taken to guarantee a better future for Danish

citizens regardless of their origins. It was concerned, however, about reports of racism and

discrimination based on religious beliefs, and denounced Islamophobia.

71. Serbia welcomed school reforms to improve academic results, increase pupils’ well-

being and reduce bullying, and commended efforts to eliminate discrimination against

marginalized groups, particularly measures to combat sexism, stereotypes and harassment

based on gender expression.

72. Singapore welcomed efforts to strengthen integration and ensure educational

opportunities for ethnic minorities and recognized the challenges and opportunities posed

by ethnic and religious diversity and the importance of maintaining social cohesion.

73. Slovakia acknowledged progress on implementing recommendations, including

identifying law enforcement officials, and welcomed protection measures for vulnerable

groups, particularly the new hotline for domestic violence victims. It noted that protection

from bullying in schools was insufficient owing to the lack of clarity of the law and the

failure to comply with it.

74. Slovenia welcomed the establishment of the Office for Children and the inclusion of

the rights of the child in the teacher training curriculum, but noted problems with

discrimination and segregation in schools, the education of children in alternative care and

solitary confinement.

75. South Africa welcomed the adoption of a national strategy on gender mainstreaming

and efforts to combat poverty and encouraged Denmark to promote, protect and fulfil

human rights, including the right to development.

76. Estonia welcomed the efforts made by Denmark to protect children’s rights,

highlighting the establishment of the Office for Children and the helpline for children of

divorced parents. It also welcomed the role of Denmark in promoting gender equality and

women’s rights, notably the results achieved in terms of women’s participation in the

labour market and decision-making positions. Estonia underlined the importance of the

Greenland Human Rights Council and commended Denmark for its role in humanitarian

aid and helping torture victims.

77. Sri Lanka noted the continued efforts of Denmark to develop its legislative and

institutional frameworks to ensure human rights protection for its citizens, particularly

children’s rights through the establishment of the Special Office, and to increase the

number of women in management positions and protect women from domestic violence.

78. Denmark would continue to allocate 0.7 per cent of its gross national income to

development assistance and encouraged other countries to meet the recommended target for

development assistance. It urged all countries to ensure that their citizens benefited fully

from economic growth by combating bad governance and corruption.

79. Victims of human trafficking could apply for asylum or a residence permit like other

foreign nationals. However, a residence permit would not be granted solely on the grounds

that the person was a victim of trafficking. Circumstances relating to that fact might,

however, be of relevance in the asylum assessment. If a victim of trafficking applied for

asylum, a procedural stay would be granted while the case was processed.

80. The Children’s Office within the Ombudsman Institution constituted an additional

guarantee of legal protection of children in Denmark, when all other relevant means had

been exhausted. It did not replace the existing complaints system.

81. Responding to a question on mother tongue teaching to children from non-European

countries, the delegation said that an experimental programme designed to examine the

effects of different teaching modules had been launched; about 3,500 pupils from 210

schools would participate in it. Regarding bullying, the focus was on empowering

individual public primary and lower secondary schools to formulate an anti-bullying

strategy.

82. The Government placed great importance on reducing the use of coercion in

psychiatry. Funds had been allocated for trial runs with force-free units in psychiatric care.

A task force had been formed to monitor the trials, which aimed for a 50 per cent reduction

by 2020 in coercive measures and in the use of immobilization.

83. Responding to a question, the delegation said that the legal system already had a

number of provisions prohibiting discrimination within and outside the labour market.

Denmark was currently considering taking adequate measures to prohibit discrimination on

the ground of disability.

84. The State of Palestine commended the progress made, including the establishment of

an expert committee to examine the incorporation of international instruments. It noted the

positive initiatives taken in promoting children’s rights and welcomed the steps taken with

regard to business and human rights, including the institution for responsible business.

85. Sweden commended efforts to improve gender equality while noting the need for

continuous improvement to achieve equal opportunities for men and women. It expressed

concern about the tendency for public discourse to be prejudicial towards migrants,

sometimes even amounting to hate speech.

86. Thailand encouraged Denmark to expedite the revocation of territorial reservations

of the human rights instruments for Greenland and Faroe Islands. It welcomed the Action

Plan for Gender Equality and the limited use of solitary confinement as a disciplinary

measure for inmates.

87. Tunisia noted the adoption of policies and measures for the implementation of

recommendations from the first review and welcomed the excellent cooperation with treaty

bodies and the commitment to official development assistance.

88. Turkey noted that Denmark hosted a relatively high number of refugees and

welcomed humanitarian aid efforts and development programmes worldwide. It encouraged

Denmark to strengthen efforts to eliminate racism, xenophobia and discrimination in

society. It remained concerned about restrictions on family reunification.

89. Uganda noted the progress made since the last review, including the adoption in

Greenland of the Gender Equality Act and the improvement of living conditions for asylum

seekers and immigrants and their integration in society. It also noted that the amendment to

the Aliens Act placed more restrictions on obtaining residence permits and that decisions of

the Refugee Appeals Board could not be appealed before a court.

90. Ukraine commended efforts to improve the legislative framework on the protection

of children, vulnerable people, asylum seekers and migrants and noted that between 2013

and 2015, Denmark had ratified or signed four international conventions. Ukraine

encouraged Denmark to ratify the remaining conventions. Ukraine noted the steps taken

towards implementation of the universal periodic review recommendations.

91. The United Arab Emirates recognized the commitment of Denmark to human rights

and praised the measures it had taken to promote the rights of children and persons with

disabilities, while expressing concern at reports of discrimination against minorities, such

as Muslims.

92. The United Kingdom welcomed the action taken to limit the length of pretrial

custody and the support of Denmark for universal ratification and implementation of the

Convention against Torture and the Optional Protocol thereto. It urged continued efforts to

prevent sexual and gender-based violence and to ensure that perpetrators were brought to

justice and survivors given better support.

93. The United States of America encouraged continued efforts to address violence

against women and domestic violence and to promote religious freedom. It urged Denmark

to increase incentives for victims to secure their cooperation in the prosecution of

traffickers. It expressed concern about the pending bill that would permit asylum seekers to

be searched and their cash and valuables seized.

94. Uruguay commended Denmark for the high number of reports submitted to the

treaty bodies. It noted the initiatives taken in protecting the rights of children and persons

with disabilities and the advances made in relation to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender

persons.

95. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela welcomed the adoption in Greenland of the

Gender Equality Act, the establishment of the 24-hour hotline for victims of domestic

violence and the adoption of the Disability Pension and Flexi Job scheme. The reform of

State schools was an important step for increasing student welfare and reducing bullying.

96. Afghanistan appreciated the commitment of Denmark to a holistic and inclusive

approach to refugees and immigrants and noted incentives to promote gender equality. It

acknowledged the intention of Denmark to collaborate with national stakeholders in the

application of human rights.

97. Albania commended Denmark for its Disability Policy Action Plan of 2013 and

encouraged further endeavours to improve the protection of human rights, particularly

focusing on gender equality and women from ethnic minority groups.

98. Algeria welcomed measures to combat domestic violence, the amendments to the

law on nationality, initiatives to promote gender equality and the plan to combat trafficking

in persons.

99. Argentina congratulated Denmark on the progress made in protecting persons with

disabilities following the implementation of the Disability Policy Action Plan of 2013. It

noted the new rules concerning family reunification.

100. Armenia noted the positive developments since the first review, particularly those

relating to children and persons with disabilities. It welcomed the amendment to the

Nationality Act allowing for dual citizenship. It appreciated the fact that the Universal

Declaration of Human Rights continued to be taught in schools.

101. Australia commended Denmark for its accession to the Optional Protocol to the

Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. It welcomed the increased protection

for children who were vulnerable to human trafficking, as well as initiatives to address

gender inequality and violence against women and children. It noted the high level of

discrimination against indigenous people, migrants and minority groups.

102. Austria commended efforts to implement recommendations, including the

ratification of the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with

Disabilities. It expressed concern about amendments to the Aliens Act resulting from the

refugee situation in Europe, and about the low number of cases of sexual and physical

violence against women, stalking or harassment that went to trial or resulted in conviction,

given the high number of reported cases.

103. Azerbaijan shared the concerns of several treaty bodies regarding the existence of

problems related to discrimination, xenophobia, hate speech, Islamophobia, ethnic

profiling, domestic violence, and minorities’ and non-citizens’ access to housing, health

services, education and justice.

104. Bahrain expressed concern about racial discrimination and discrimination against

ethnic groups and nationalities in terms of access to work, education and housing, as well as

restrictions on family reunification and the negative political discourse on migration that

was still widespread in political debates.

105. Belarus noted the continuous work of Denmark to improve its legal norms to protect

human rights. It was concerned about reports in the mass media of racist speech from some

politicians.

106. Benin expressed appreciation for the progress made in implementing the

recommendations from the first review and noted measures to improve conditions for

persons with disabilities by reforming the Disability Pension and Flexi Job scheme, the

amendment to the Nationality Act and the situation of migrants and refugees.

107. The Plurinational State of Bolivia underscored the creation of the Office for

Children.

108. Botswana commended the reform of the Disability Pension and Flexi Job scheme,

the amendment to the Nationality Act and the establishment of the National Cyber Crime

Centre. It noted reports of racial profiling, and of persons from minority groups and non-

citizens facing structural discrimination with regard to access to employment, housing,

health services, quality education and justice. It also noted the pretrial detention of children

under 17.

109. Brazil noted the efforts to improve the general situation of human rights through the

adoption of laws regarding children, vulnerable persons and persons with disabilities,

lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons, refugees and migrants. Brazil was

concerned about the situation of the increasing number of migrants, many of whom faced

serious difficulties with the process of integration.

110. France welcomed the efforts of Denmark to combat torture and promote

international criminal justice, particularly the work of the International Criminal Court.

111. Ireland commended Denmark for publishing its National Action Plan on the

implementation of the Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. Ireland noted

with concern the amendments to the Aliens Act, which placed restrictions on family

reunification for persons possessing temporary protection status.

112. Denmark stated that children placed in alternative care in a municipality other than

their municipality of residence had to receive an educational offer within three weeks,

during which time one-on-one education had to be offered to the child. Exceptions were

made where the former municipality of residence could approve another educational offer

for the child.

113. Denmark had in practice made every ministry responsible for assessing the gender

impact of their new legislation. A strategy had been launched aiming at strengthening and

systematizing gender mainstreaming done by public authorities. At the local level, a

booklet had been published for municipalities with tools, best practices and

recommendations for working with gender equality assessment activities.

114. The Refugee Appeals Board was an independent, quasi-judicial body that could not

accept or seek direction from the Government. Its decisions were final. The Immigration

Service was the first instance responsible for assessing claims for asylum. If the

Immigration Service rejected an asylum application, the case would automatically be

appealed to the Refugee Appeals Board.

115. Responding to a question, the delegation clarified that only persons under the most

serious form of legal guardianship were precluded from voting in Danish Parliamentary

elections.

116. The Faroe Islands had begun to look into different national monitoring mechanisms

in the field of human rights that would be appropriate for Faroese society and that were in

accordance with the principles relating to the status of national institutions for the

promotion and protection of human rights (the Paris Principles).

117. In Greenland, a mobile task force had been set up to help adults cope with

psychological complications resulting from abuse in childhood. Corporal punishment of

children was expected to be fully abolished by legislation adopted in 2016. A shelter had

opened offering nationwide crisis and treatment services for battered women and their

children. Two surveys addressing the extent of sexual abuse in Greenland would strengthen

initiatives and actions in response to sexual abuse. Education was a priority in Greenland,

which was making substantial investments in it, including with financial support from the

European Union. Denmark had only one indigenous people according to the definition

contained in the ILO Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention, 1989 (No. 169) — the

Inuits. That did not mean, however, that the Inughuit of Uummannaq were not capable of

maintaining their identity and the use of their own language.

118. Denmark would remain vigilant in its work to promote and protect human rights and

to actively contribute to improving the rights of people around the world. Denmark would

formally launch its candidacy to the Human Rights Council for the period 2019-2021 at the

opening of the thirty-first session.

119. Denmark appreciated all the views, questions and recommendations. The many

recommendations would be subject to careful consideration and internal discussions and

consultations with Greenland, the Faroes, local authorities and civil society. Denmark

would respond to the recommendation at the June session of the Council.

II. Conclusions and/or recommendations

120. The following recommendations will be examined by Denmark which will

provide responses in due time, but no later than the thirty-second session of the

Human Rights Council in June 2016:

120.1 Consider signing and ratifying the Optional Protocol to the

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

Consider ratifying the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on

Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (Ghana);

120.2 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on

Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (Montenegro) (France) (Portugal)

(Tunisia);

120.3 Withdraw the territorial exclusion for Greenland and the Faroe

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

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

120.4 Work with the Greenland authorities to withdraw the territorial

reservation for Greenland to the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the

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

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

120.5 Advance the ratification of the pending international instruments,

including the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All

**

The conclusions and recommendations have not been edited.

Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families, in accordance with the

recommendations of the Committee on the Elimination of Racial

Discrimination (Chile);

120.6 Consider the ratification of the International Convention on the

Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their

Families (Indonesia) (Sri Lanka) (Ghana) (Philippines);

120.7 Accede to the International Convention on the Protection of the

Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (Ecuador);

120.8 Ratify the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of

All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (Algeria) (Azerbaijan)

(Benin) (Egypt) (Honduras) (Islamic Republic of Iran);

120.9 Sign and ratify the International Convention on the Protection of the

Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (Uruguay)

(Turkey);

120.10 Ratify and implement the International Convention on the Protection

of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families

(Kyrgyzstan);

120.11 Ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons

from Enforced Disappearance and fully recognize the competence of the

Committee on Enforced Disappearances, as provided for in articles 31 and 32

of the Convention (Germany) (France);

120.12 Consider ratifying the International Convention for the Protection of

All Persons from Enforced Disappearances (Ghana);

120.13 Ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons

from Enforced Disappearance (Panama) (Tunisia) (Uruguay) (Portugal)

(Montenegro);

120.14 Take necessary steps to ratify the International Convention for the

Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (Slovakia);

120.15 Internalise as soon as possible the following international human

rights treaties: the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the

International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the

Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading

Treatment or Punishment, the International Convention on the Elimination of

All Forms of Racial Discrimination, the Convention on the Rights of the Child

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

Women, as well as ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All

Persons from Enforced Disappearance (Brazil);

120.16 Ratify ILO Convention 189 of 2011 on domestic workers (Benin);

120.17 Consider ratifying ILO Convention 189 (Philippines);

120.18 Reconsider the constraints underneath the process of accession to

Protocol No. 12 to the European Convention on Human Rights (Mozambique);

120.19 Accede to Protocol No. 12 to the European Convention on Human

Rights and ensure implementation of concrete measures against all forms of

discrimination (Uruguay);

120.20 Incorporate core United Nations human rights treaties into domestic

legislation (Azerbaijan);

120.21 Incorporate the international instruments it acceded to into domestic

legislation (Egypt);

120.22 Incorporate the human rights conventions into national law

(Guatemala);

120.23 Bring legislation, including the Criminal Code, in line with the

provisions of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of

Racial Discrimination (Kyrgyzstan);

120.24 Modify the criminal code to harmonize its provisions with those of

the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial

Discrimination (Benin);

120.25 Adopt comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation (Maldives);

120.26 Explicitly prohibit discrimination against persons with disabilities

and discrimination based on religious belief (Djibouti);

120.27 Amend the relevant laws so that all persons with disabilities could

vote and stand for election (Albania);

120.28 Amend laws to ensure that all persons with disabilities could vote and

stand for election (Maldives);

120.29 Strengthen its legislation, in particular the Penal Code, in order to

harmonize its provisions with the International Convention on the Elimination

of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (Côte d’Ivoire);

120.30 Incorporate into the Criminal Code an outright ban on the activities

of organizations which promote racial discrimination (Russian Federation);

120.31 Amend the Penal Code in the Faroe Islands to ensure that the

definition of rape is brought in line with international standards and

criminalized in all circumstances, including within marriage (Norway);

120.32 Complete the amendments expected to be carried out on the crime of

rape in the Criminal Code of the Faroe Islands (Spain);

120.33 Ensure that the definition of rape in the Faroese legislation is brought

into line with international standards so that rape is criminalized in all

circumstances, including within marriage (Iceland);

120.34 Strengthen its regulatory and policy framework, in accordance with

international human rights standards, for the effective protection of asylum

seekers and refugees (Ecuador);

120.35 Decriminalize defamation and place it within a civil code in

accordance with international standards (Estonia);

120.36 Eliminate discrimination against migrants, and especially migrant

women (Maldives);

120.37 Refrain from passing discriminatory legislation that are based on

bias against foreigners and refugees (Lebanon);

120.38 Amend the new Aliens law on confiscating valuable belongings to

cover refugees’ expenses to ensure compatibility with human rights obligations

(Egypt);

120.39 Consider amending the Aliens Act in order to ensure that refugees

and other beneficiaries of international protection and their family members

can exercise their right to long term residence (Plurinational State of Bolivia);

120.40 Ensure that the review of counter-terrorism legislation take account

of, and that the relevant legislation be amended in full compliance with,

Denmark’s human rights obligations (Hungary);

120.41 To the Faroe Islands: Establish a National Human Rights Institution

covering the Faroe Islands according to recommendations made by the United

Nations General Assembly (1994) and the Committee on Economic, Social and

Cultural Rights (2013) (Poland);

120.42 Provide the Special Office for Children with a mandate and

additional powers to enable it to provide advisory and legal assistance in a

wider range of cases (Germany);

120.43 Increase the mandate and powers of the Special Office for Children

to provide advisory or legal assistance in a wider range of cases (Hungary);

120.44 Strengthen the mandate of the Special Office for Children and give

the Office additional powers to provide advisory and legal assistance in a wider

range of cases (Norway);

120.45 Strengthen the mandate of the Office for Children and guarantee

children direct access to a single complaints mechanism and to independent

advice and legal assistance for children in a wider range of cases (Ireland);

120.46 Consider the development of a national action plan for the promotion

and protection of human rights (Georgia);

120.47 Develop a National Action Plan for Human Rights in order to

framework a systematic and comprehensive approach to the promotion and

protection of human rights (Indonesia);

120.48 Establish a national action plan against racism, work for tolerance

and preserve freedom of belief (Djibouti);

120.49 Develop a national plan against racism and discrimination, in

accordance with its international obligations (Costa Rica);

120.50 Develop a plan of action to combat racism (Russian Federation);

120.51 Strengthen national action plans that promote tolerance and

intercultural understanding, in order to prevent and counter racist and

xenophobic acts, particularly those arising from political propaganda (Chile);

120.52 Develop a national plan for combating hate crimes in order to ensure

continuity and sustainability (Poland);

120.53 Develop a comprehensive strategy and action plan to combat

xenophobia and racial discrimination (Turkey);

120.54 Establish an independent mechanism to defend the rights of children

on Faroe Islands (Benin);

120.55 Ensure that its policies, legislation, regulations and enforcement

measures effectively serve to prevent and address the heightened risk of

business involvement in abuses in conflict situations, which includes situations

of foreign occupation (State of Palestine);

120.56 Build on existing inclusion strategies by implementing public

awareness campaigns and education programmes to promote diversity and

tolerance, while condemning racism and xenophobia (Canada);

120.57 Increase efforts to promote tolerance and intercultural

understanding with the aim of eliminating discrimination against minorities

and non-citizens (Japan);

120.58 Encourage highly placed State officials and politicians to take a clear

stance against racist and xenophobic political discourse (Tunisia);

120.59 Implement public awareness campaigns to promote tolerance and

respect for cultural diversity and to counter prejudice, stereotypes,

discrimination, racism, and Islamophobia (United Arab Emirates);

120.60 Build tolerance and intercultural understanding, and develop a

national action plan on racism (Albania);

120.61 When responding to hate crimes, ensure targeted training of law

enforcement to strengthen capacity to conduct special investigations, accurately

register complaints and reflect victims’ perspectives (Canada);

120.62 Provide basic human rights education to children in primary and

secondary schools (Slovenia);

120.63 Make teaching on genocide and crimes against humanity a part of

curriculum in public schools (Armenia);

120.64 Expressly prohibit discrimination against persons with disabilities as

well as religious belief, sexual orientation or age, outside the labour market

(Bulgaria);

120.65 Enhance and improve laws and legislation to combat all forms of

discrimination, racism and foreign hatred (Lebanon);

120.66 Review its body of legislation prohibiting discrimination on any

grounds, and in this regard, expressly prohibit discrimination due to disability,

age, religious belief, sexual orientation or gender identity (Canada);

120.67 Continue the strengthening of the comprehensive regulatory

framework that prohibits discrimination, including that based on gender, and

promote coordination between the competent bodies and facilitate the

reporting of such crimes by persons in situations of vulnerability (Mexico);

120.68 Consider enacting comprehensive equality legislation that will

provide effective remedies and address discrimination on all grounds (Serbia);

120.69 Adopt the necessary legislative measures to ensure the integration of

the gender perspective in all public policies at all levels of government, and

prohibit and punish discrimination based on gender (Honduras);

120.70 Take more effective measures to combat racial discrimination and

intolerance against migrants, and improve the legislative framework with the

aim of fostering social acceptance of migrants (Italy);

120.71 Continue its efforts to further mainstream gender equality in the

public sphere as well as to combat domestic violence to protect the rights of

women in the private sphere (Thailand);

120.72 Continue progress to increase gender equality and protections for

women and girls who encounter violence including enhanced implementation of

Denmark’s existing legal and policy frameworks (Australia);

120.73 Engage in dialogue and offer assistance to the autonomous authorities

of the Faroe Islands and Greenland to introduce legislative changes in favour of

women’s rights and equality (Costa Rica);

120.74 Counter discrimination and promote a more inclusive society

(Australia);

120.75 Develop and implement a national action plan to cultivate a culture of

respect and tolerance and promote intercultural understanding (Maldives);

120.76 Adopt legislation to prohibit all forms of discrimination on the basis

of race, colour, ethnicity, age, religion and disability and to ensure access to

effective remedy for victims of discrimination (Islamic Republic of Iran);

120.77 Enhance the promotion of dialogue among societies, including inter-

religious and inter-cultural dialogue in the country (Indonesia);

120.78 Continue its efforts to fight hate speech in different State institutions

through the establishment of tolerance and understanding between cultures

(Iraq);

120.79 Pay more attention to the problems of discrimination against non-

ethnic Danes and multicultural relations (Kyrgyzstan);

120.80 Step-up measures to effectively combat racism and xenophobia while

inculcating respect, tolerance and intercultural understanding, especially in

schools (Malaysia);

120.81 Continue efforts to prevent various forms of discrimination,

including discrimination based on ethnic origin (Morocco);

120.82 Take effective policy measures in order to combat racism,

intolerance, stereotypes and unlawful attitudes against ethnic and religious

minorities and take legislative measures that prohibit hate speech (Namibia);

120.83 Continue to implement measures to eliminate discrimination,

including on the basis of ethnic or religious background (New Zealand);

120.84 Continue working on programmes to combat discrimination,

particularly against persons belonging to minorities or vulnerable groups

(Nicaragua);

120.85 Take concrete measures to put an end to Islamophobia and hate

speech regarding Muslims, which continues to be widespread in public and

political debate (Islamic Republic of Iran);

120.86 Take effective measures to encourage tolerance and to combat illegal

stands and stereotypes against minorities, in particular Muslims (Saudi

Arabia);

120.87 Combat racism and xenophobia, and strengthen efforts at promoting

intercultural understanding and tolerance (South Africa);

120.88 Step up efforts to fight racial prejudice and violence, xenophobia and

intolerance (Argentina);

120.89 Take clear measures to combat Islamophobia, racism and

xenophobia and hatred (Bahrain);

120.90 Effectively combat all manifestations of Islamophobia and promote

tolerance, intercultural dialogue and respect for diversity in the society

(Azerbaijan);

120.91 Launch specific targeted initiatives and formulate policies to combat

intolerance, racism, xenophobia, in particular against Muslims (Saudi Arabia);

120.92 Intensify its efforts to eliminate discrimination based on ethnicity,

including by improving access to justice for victims of ethnic discrimination

(Sweden);

120.93 Re-enforce measures to combat racism and discrimination against

persons of foreign origin, in particular through the prohibition of ethnic

profiling and through awareness raising in the security services as to non-

discriminatory measures and methods (Algeria);

120.94 Step up efforts to combat racism and ensure elimination of all acts of

racial intolerance (Botswana);

120.95 Work towards enforcing Human Righst Council resolution 16/18

concerning combating intolerance, negative stereotyping and stigmatization of,

and discrimination, incitement to violence and violence against, persons based

on religion or belief (Bahrain);

120.96 Discourage discrimination against minorities in Denmark, especially

Muslims and take effective measures to promote tolerance and counter

attitudes which lead to stereotyping and hate crimes against ethnic and

religious minorities (Pakistan);

120.97 Raise awareness in public regarding the limits and responsibility of

freedom of expression, in accordance with international standards urging to

take concrete legal and practical measures to combat incitement to religious

hatred and intolerance (Pakistan);

120.98 Promote and protect the rights of indigenous peoples, peasants and

other rural workers (Plurinational State of Bolivia);

120.99 Take concrete steps to end ethnic segregation in schools, include

diversity and tolerance education in primary school curricula, and submit

outstanding reports to the implementation on the UNESCO Convention against

Discrimination in Education (Slovenia);

120.100 Implement support services and ensure non-discrimination against

the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex community (South Africa);

120.101 Ensure equal access to public health for lesbian, gay, bisexual and

transgender persons, removing existing legislative barriers for access to gender

reassignment-related treatments (Uruguay);

120.102 Explicitly prohibit organizations promoting racial and religious

hatred as well as racial profiling (Egypt);

120.103 Monitor and address rampant hate speech on the social media,

especially that is directed at Muslims and refugees in public and political

debates and manifested in Islamophobia (Pakistan);

120.104 Limit the use of prolonged periods of pre-trial detention for non-

nationals (Greece);

120.105 Continue to combat violence against women and girls and develop a

comprehensive action plan for the prevention of sexual violence and for

ensuring the legal rights of victims of sexual violence (Finland);

120.106 Allocate the human and technical resources necessary to strengthen

the fight against gender violence at all levels of government and the justice

system (Honduras);

120.107 Ensure that programmes and policies to curb domestic violence are

fully implemented (Philippines);

120.108 Review its approach to domestic violence to better prevent and

respond to cases of domestic violence against women and children (United

States of America);

120.109 Develop and adopt further measures to prevent and combat sexual

violence against women (Austria);

120.110 Step up efforts to prevent violence against women and domestic

violence (Azerbaijan);

120.111 Take necessary measures in order to prevent and combat sexual

exploitation and abuse of vulnerable people especially in Greenland (Islamic

Republic of Iran);

120.112 Continue moving in the direction of improving the standards and the

quality of care and treatment in foster homes (Georgia);

120.113 Accelerate the establishment of a police independent mechanism

which ensures that they do not resort to violence against women and girls

(Libya);

120.114 Ensure that all cases where children have been a victim of domestic

violence or witnessed such violence are properly documented and registered

and that social recovery and reintegration services of child victims are

reinforced (Republic of Moldova);

120.115 Continue its successful initiatives to fight the worst forms of child

labour, in particular child trafficking for the purposes of labour exploitation

and prostitution (Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);

120.116 Take necessary measures to ensure that sufficient up-to-date data on

the worst forms of child labour would be made available (Lithuania);

120.117 Step up efforts to prevent and address bullying in schools, inter alia,

by introducing a range of educational and socio-pedagogical methods, and

consider introducing appropriate monitoring of anti-bullying strategies in

schools (Slovakia);

120.118 That Greenland reform and upgrade municipal competences and

accountability in order to apply constructive measures and to promote

protection of the child against violence, and to assist families in rehabilitation

efforts on substance abuse and addiction (Iceland);

120.119 Further ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking (Sri Lanka);

120.120 Continue to pay special attention to the victims of human trafficking

and harmonize its national legislation with international instruments to which

it is a party and recommendations made on this matter by treaty bodies

(Nicaragua);

120.121 Strengthen the implementation of mechanisms for the assistance of

victims of trafficking, placing emphasis on child victims of this crime

(Colombia);

120.122 Further combat the worst forms of child labour, including trafficking

for the purpose of forced labour and prostitution (Lithuania);

120.123 Further ensure the identification and protection of victims of human

trafficking (Greece);

120.124 Adopt legislative and policy measures to eradicate re-victimization in

cases of trafficking and ensure adequate protection to victims, migrant workers

in particular, regardless of their immigration status (Honduras);

120.125 Strengthen protection for victims of human trafficking by providing

temporary residency in order to promote cooperation with law enforcement

and establish legal alternatives to their deportation to countries where they

may face retribution or hardship (United States of America);

120.126 Undertake a comprehensive investigation into the so-called prison

flights in which the Central Intelligence Agency of the United States of America

landed aircraft at Danish airports with arbitrarily detained persons on board

during its special operations (Russian Federation);

120.127 Investigate, prosecute and punish all hate crimes against minorities

(Azerbaijan);

120.128 Reform its criminal justice system and ensure the age of criminal

responsibility is in line with international standards (Botswana);

120.129 Review the detention in solitary confinement of persons under 18

years of age, to ensure that no child is held in ordinary prisons for adults

(Mexico);

120.130 Repeal the provisions that allow persons with disabilities to be

subject to medication and psychiatric treatment without their consent

(Mexico);

120.131 Introduce alternative measures to pre-trial detention for minors

wherever possible, and develop clear rules for the treatment of minors in police

custody and monitor their effective implementation in practice (United

Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland);

120.132 Take the measures necessary to prevent the detention of minors in

adult prisons (Honduras);

120.133 Limit the use of or abolish solitary confinement of children

(Namibia);

120.134 Adopt legislation to limit the use of solitary confinement and abolish

solitary confinement of children (Poland);

120.135 Prohibit the use of solitary confinement for children within the

criminal justice system (Slovenia);

120.136 Give special considerations to juvenile offenders, such as to prohibit

the use of solitary confinement against persons under 18 and separate juvenile

offenders from adult offenders (Thailand);

120.137 Provide protection for the family as the natural and fundamental unit

of the society (Egypt);

120.138 Ensure, through effective measures and consultations, that contested

children in a marital dispute have the possibility of maintaining consistent

contact with the foreign parent living abroad (Italy);

120.139 Adopt practical and legal measures to strengthen the foundation of

the family and avoid resorting to measures and legislation which endanger the

very foundation of the family in society (Islamic Republic of Iran);

120.140 Undertake all necessary efforts to allow for both parents to be able to

act responsibly for the upbringing and development of the child (Austria);

120.141 Allow minors to change their legal gender by allowing the person

exercising parental authority over the minor to file an application

(Netherlands);

120.142 Amend the Marriage Law in the Faroe Islands to allow for same sex

marriages (Iceland);

120.143 Refrain from banning or setting age limit on non-therapeutic

circumcision of boys (Egypt);

120.144 Enact legislation criminalizing defamation of religious symbols under

the pretext of freedom of expression (Libya);

120.145 Eliminate any legislation or measures that discriminate on the basis

of religion (United Arab Emirates);

120.146 Intensify its efforts in combatting hate crimes through the effective

implementation of the new monitoring system provided for this purpose (Côte

d’Ivoire);

120.147 Launch awareness campaigns and financially support NGOs working

in the area of crimes related to prejudice and hate (Spain);

120.148 Condemn all hate crimes, discrimination and racial profiling

(Malaysia);

120.149 Promote responsible freedom of expression in speeches and

publications to curb hate crimes (Malaysia);

120.150 Continue strengthening efforts to combat hate crime (Morocco);

120.151 Continue to strengthen efforts taken by the police to combat hate

crime based on ethnicity and ensure effective handling of such cases

(Singapore);

120.152 Enact legislation which makes a distinction between the freedom of

expression and hate speech and take measures to guarantee the representation

of minorities in social and political areas (Saudi Arabia);

120.153 Intensify its efforts to combat hate speech, racist and xenophobic

statements (Belarus);

120.154 Take further active steps to create equal opportunities for both men

and women in the labour market, and to bridge the gender wage gap (Sweden);

120.155 Continue strengthening social programmes for the most vulnerable

sectors of the population, in particular children, women, the elderly and those

with disabilities belonging to minorities (Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);

120.156 Ensure that all persons belonging to disadvantaged groups and

marginalized groups have access to basic health care (Uganda);

120.157 Ensure continuous schooling of children following the decision on

placement in alternative care (Slovenia);

120.158 Continue its efforts to ensure access to state education for all

children, without regard to their legal status (Belarus);

120.159 Consider further actions to promote better access to education for

children in Greenland and in the Faroe Islands (Estonia);

120.160 Pay special attention to accessibility and the physical environment of

educational establishments in line with the suggestions of the National Council

for Children (Spain);

120.161 Take effective measures to address the inequality in the status of

court interpretation of minority languages (Djibouti);

120.162 Ensure that Inuit children can retain their identity and use their own

language (Panama);

120.163 Strengthen policies and initiatives to promote tolerance towards and

integration of ethnic minorities in all spheres of society (Singapore);

120.164 Strengthen the employment and education rate among refugees and

migrants (South Africa);

120.165 Continue its experimental programme on access to mother tongue

education for children belonging to minority groups (State of Palestine);

120.166 Recognise the Thule tribe as a distinct indigenous community capable

of vindicating its traditional rights (Plurinational State of Bolivia);

120.167 Fulfil obligations and commitments under international law to

enhance efforts to combat hate crimes, especially those targeting refugees,

migrants and based on religious background (China);

120.168 Adopt comprehensive immigration legislation consistent with their

human rights obligations, to ensure non-discrimination and the effective

integration of immigrants (Honduras);

120.169 Continue working to improve its treatment of migrants and refugees

in a transparent manner, and with full respect for human rights, especially

those of women and children (Japan);

120.170 Increase the security in the shelters for unaccompanied migrant

children; investigate cases of disappearances of children from these centres

(Mexico);

120.171 Ensure that all relevant international conventions and protocols are

respected, and that migrants, particularly children, have access to basic

services and are housed in suitable conditions (New Zealand);

120.172 Step up efforts to tackle structural discrimination faced by minority

groups, non-citizens and refugees, especially with regard to employment,

education, housing, health services, and access to justice (Republic of Korea);

120.173 Take measures to prevent discrimination against migrants and

refugees in access to the labour market, as well as to health care and education

(Russian Federation);

120.174 Review the legal framework on asylum, migration and immigration

and repeal the provisions on denial of stay in the country and expulsion for

reasons of national security which contravene the international standards to

which Denmark is a party (Mexico);

120.175 Review and improve the practices related to the care of asylum

seekers (Costa Rica);

120.176 Step up efforts towards the prevention of discrimination against

refugees and asylum seekers by repealing recent laws and methods

perpetuating those practices (Greece);

120.177 Ensure that the best interests of the child are fully considered when

deciding on asylum applications (Namibia);

120.178 Ensure that changes in the asylum laws and regulations are

compliant with international human rights standards (Philippines);

120.179 Exempt all asylum-seeking and migrant children from detention and

grant them access to education through integration into mainstream public

schools (Portugal);

120.180 Ensure that asylum seekers and children of refugees receive the same

quality of education as other children in Danish schools (Afghanistan);

120.181 Ensure further protection to refugees and asylum seekers (Algeria);

120.182 Ensure that the treatment of asylum seekers remains in accordance

with the international conventions and protocols that Denmark has signed up

to (Austria);

120.183 Ensure that the best interests of the child are fully considered when

deciding on asylum cases (Austria);

120.184 Ensure that the best interests of the child are fully considered when

deciding on asylum cases and uphold international obligations under the 1951

Convention relating to the Status of Refugees (Iceland);

120.185 Take further steps in order to protect the right to family

reunifications for refugees, giving emphasis to child rights (Greece);

120.186 Grant the right to family reunification to all refugees (Guatemala);

120.187 Allow persons originating from countries in conflict and other

situations of violence and thus granted temporary subsidiary protection status

to initiate family reunification proceedings during their first year in Denmark

(Portugal);

120.188 Take further measures to facilitate family reunification (Turkey);

120.189 Take the necessary legal measures to ensure the right to family

reunification of children aged over 15 years (Argentina);

120.190 Give importance to guaranteeing that refugees who fall into the

category of “war refugees” are given the right to family reunification

(Bahrain);

120.191 Grant expedited family reunification to refugees who are entitled to

asylum due to the general situation in their home country, in particular “war

refugees” (Brazil);

120.192 Ensure that persons with temporary protection status have the right

to immediately initiate family reunification proceedings, and that the age limit

for family reunification for children be raised from 15 to 18 (Ireland);

120.193 Continue to implement the measures necessary to find solutions for

stateless persons (Colombia);

120.194 Take further measures to ensure that its national citizenship

legislation complies fully with the 1961 Convention on the Reduction of

Statelessness (Finland);

120.195 Strengthen measures to promote citizenship (South Africa);

120.196 Adopt a legal framework to facilitate the granting of residence

permits to child victims of trafficking and to grant citizenship to all children

born in Denmark that otherwise would be stateless and thus more vulnerable to

exploitation (Mexico);

120.197 Carry out an inclusive, evidence-based evaluation of the Danish anti-

terrorism legislation, as previously recommended (Netherlands);

120.198 Continue to honour its commitment to development aid to help

developing countries better achieve the right to development (China);

120.199 Continue its development assistance to the developing countries for

better realization of socio-economic rights as part of a globally inclusive and

sustainable development agenda (Nepal).

121. 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 Denmark was headed by Mr. Kristian JENSEN, Minister for

Foreign Affairs, and composed of the following members:

• Mr. Poul MICHELSEN, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of the Faroe Islands

• Mr. Carsten STAUR, Ambassador, Permanent Mission of Denmark to the UN

• Mr. Tobias Elling REHFELD, Under-Secretary for Legal Services, Ministry of

Foreign Affairs

• Ms. Pernille BENGTSEN, Special Advisor, Government of Greenland

• Ms. Mette Nørgaard DISSING-SPANDET, Head of Department, Ministry of

Foreign Affairs

• Ms. Hanne FINDSEN, Head of International Affairs, Ministry of Health

• Mr Jakob Dam GLYNSTUP, Head of Division, Danish Immigration Service

• Ms. Anita HØRBY, Head of Division, Ministry of Social Affairs and the Interior

• Ms. Lone ZEUNER, Head of Division, Danish Immigration Service

• Mr. Henrik THOMASSEN, Head of Department, Ministry for Immigration,

Integration and Housing

• Ms. Marie-Louise Koch WEGTER, Deputy Permanent Representative, Counsellor,

Permanent Mission of Denmark to the UN

• Ms. Tina Gade JENSEN, Special Advisor, Ministry of Social Affairs and the

Interior

• Mr. Gunvør BALLE, Special Adviser, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the

Faroe Islands

• Mr. Lars Peter LEVY, Special Advisor, Ministry of Foreign Affairs

• Ms. Margretha Nónklett, Special Advisor, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade,

the Faroe Islands

• Mr. Søren Feldbaek WINTHER, Special Advisor, Ministry for Children, Education

and Gender Equality

• Mr. Adam WORM, Senior Advisor, Government of Greenland

• Ms. Louise FALKENBERG, Legal Advisor, Ministry of Justice

• Mr. Ketilbjørn HERTZ, Legal Advisor, Ministry of Justice

• Ms. Caroline Cecilie Østergaard NIELSEN, Legal Advisor, Ministry of Justice

• Ms. Anne HOUGAARD, Private Secretary to the Minister for Foreign Affairs,

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

• Ms. Malene MORTENSEN, Head of Section, Ministry for Children, Education and

Gender Equality

• Ms. Christine PETHEÖ, Head of Section, Ministry of Foreign Affairs

• Ms. Camilla Brinch RASMUSSEN, Head of Section, Ministry of Justice

• Ms. Stine SVEJBORG, Attaché, Permanent Mission of Denmark to the UN

• Mr. Hasse HECKMANN, Intern, Permanent Mission of Denmark to the UN

• Ms. Eva Krogsgaard NIELSEN, Intern, Permanent Mission of Denmark to the UN

• Ms. Benedicte STORM, Intern, Permanent Mission of Denmark to the UN.