32/11 Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review - Palau

Human Rights Council Thirty-second session

Agenda Item 6

Universal periodic review

Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review*

Palau

*

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 ................................................. 6

II. Conclusions and/or recommendations .............................................................................................. 15

Annex

Composition of the delegation ......................................................................................................... 24

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 Palau was held at the 8th meeting on 21 January 2016. The

delegation of Palau was headed by the Minister of Community and Cultural Affairs, J.

Baklai Temengil. At its 14th meeting, held on 26 January 2016, the Working Group

adopted the report on Palau.

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

rapporteurs (troika) to facilitate the review of Palau: Congo, France and United Arab

Emirates.

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 Palau:

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

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

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

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

4. A list of questions prepared in advance by Belgium, Germany, Liechtenstein,

Mexico, Spain and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland was

transmitted to Palau 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 delegation of Palau welcomed the opportunity to respond to the

recommendations made during the first cycle of the review process and to receive

recommendations from the second cycle of the review. It valued the universal periodic

review process as it had supported awareness-raising and mainstreaming human rights into

their policies and programmes over the last four years.

6. As a young nation that gained Independence in 1994 and with a population of less

than 20,000 people, Palau crafted its own Constitution, which reflects the values and beliefs

of the people and guarantees human rights for all. In Palau culture, the strongest and most

powerful relationship is between a brother and a sister. This is exemplified in extended

family interactions and customary practices; this relationship historically formed the basis

of Palau’s social organization, governance and system of justice.

7. Regarding achievements since the last review, the delegation stated that four and a

half years ago (May 2011), the delegation of Palau had accepted 83 recommendations in

total and had a time frame within which to implement them. The national report for the

present review captures the implementation journey over that period. While recognizing

from the outset the many challenges and difficulties to implement many of those key

recommendations, Palau was also confronted with the reality that it would not be possible

to fully implement some of the recommendations within the given time frame.

8. The Government strengthened its efforts to implement the recommendations and

deal with emerging issues, such as the effects of climate change and natural disasters on

human rights. The delegation reiterated that some issues were complex and required

extensive resources and nationwide consultations, such as the ratification of core treaties,

human trafficking, migrants, displacement and loss of land, property and homes due to

climate change. As a small island developing State, Palau has limited resources to address

these multidimensional issues. It urged the members of the Human Rights Council to take

these circumstances into account when proposing further recommendations.

9. Despite the challenges, the Government had worked hard and was proud to report on

a number of significant achievements, including the creation of the Reporting Committee

on United Nations Human Rights Treaties, new legislation to address gender-based

violence, the revision and approval of the new Penal Code, the ratification of the

Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the establishment of a gender and

disability office within the Ministry of Community and Cultural Affairs, the hiring of a

Human Rights Officer under the Ministry of Community and Cultural Affairs, the

development of policies for persons with disabilities, the completion and submission of the

overdue periodic report on the Convention on the Rights of the Child and giant steps in

signing the remaining core treaties to which Palau was not a party.

10. On advice from the members of the 9th Olbiil Era Kelulau (Palau National

Congress), Palau will work towards establishing a national human rights mechanism to

handle matters related to human rights.

11. On gender equality and women’s rights, the delegation asserted that, while Palau

had yet to ratify the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against

Women, many positive steps had been taken. A Bureau of Aging and Gender had been

established within the Ministry of Community and Cultural Affairs and further to

recommendations from the first review, Palau enacted the Family Protection Act in 2012 to

address domestic violence. Palau was also taking steps to implement this new legislation

and welcomed the support of international partners in this endeavour.

12. In line with the Pacific Leaders Gender Equality Declaration of 2012, Palau was

exploring ways to improve services for victims of gender-based violence, such as safe

houses, counselling, immediate health responses and protection orders for victims and

children. In line with the Family Protection Act, the Family Protection Committee was

established and has been active in promoting awareness of the new law, affording people

comfort and safety in reporting sexual assault and domestic violence.

13. Support for women in leadership positions has increased with a number of advocacy

programmes and the establishment of the Centre for Women-Empowered Belau.

14. Responding to the recommendations from its first review, the delegation reported

that marital rape was now criminalized under the Family Protection Act. The President of

Palau, Tommy Remengesau Jr., and the current (9th) Olbiil Era Kelulau, Palau’s National

Congress, showed tremendous support in ensuring the safety and protection of the people of

Palau, especially children, through the revision and approval of the new Penal Code, 2014.

The new Penal Code includes regulations on the use of force against children and other

persons under the care or control of another. The new Penal Code also covers labour

trafficking, anti-smuggling and anti-trafficking crimes and offences, as well as child

exploitation.

15. Palau began the process of domesticating the Convention on the Rights of the Child

through various legislative initiatives, including the adoption of the new Penal Code, which

addresses sexual assault of children and provides for the registration of sex offenders.

Higher penalties were introduced to deter human trafficking and sexual exploitation of

children. The Family Protection Act, 2012 provides protection for children in violent

domestic settings. Pursuant to a recommendation from the first review, the delegation

announced that there was pending legislation before Congress to equalize the legal

minimum age for marriage to 18 years.

16. Palau’s Constitution provides for free and compulsory education for all children

living in Palau (art. VI). It further highlights the promotion of the health and social welfare

of citizens through free or subsidized health care. The Government has declared 2016 the

Year of the Youth, during which, attention will be fully focused on youth development and

programmes.

17. At the time of its first review, Palau was a party to only the Convention on the

Rights of the Child. It has since implemented recommendations 62.1 to 62.5 of the first

review (see A/HRC/18/5) by signing the core human rights treaties, namely, the

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

Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of

Discrimination against Women, the International Convention on the Elimination of All

Forms of Racial Discrimination, the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman

or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, the Convention on the Rights of Persons with

Disabilities, the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant

Workers and Members of Their Families and the International Convention for the

Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance in the margins of the 66th session

of the General Assembly in 2011. Palau was pleased to announce that it had ratified the

Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in 2013 and is currently in the

process of formulating a policy on disability. In addition, the President had issued a

Presidential Proclamation declaring 3 December 2015 the International Day of Persons with

Disabilities and had called on the people of Palau to observe the day with appropriate

programmes, ceremonies and activities.

18. The delegation stated that Palau supported the fundamental principles of the Rome

Statute of the International Criminal Court. The Constitution of Palau provides for the

prohibition of torture, cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, as well as

excessive fines. While noting the importance of acceding to the Rome Statute, Palau still

needs to consider the technical and resource implications of such accession. However,

Palau has sufficient legislative safeguards to address grave human rights violations.

19. The Government recognized the value of each of the core human rights treaties,

however, it needed a broader ratification timeline to allow for more rigorous oversight into

the realities of ratification and implementation of the core treaties against the backdrop of

immediate challenges. Nonetheless, Palau was taking considerable steps, including visiting

each treaty with an open mind towards ratification.

20. Palau noted the importance of ratifying the International Convention on the

Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families. Despite

the challenges, much progress has been made with regard to migrant workers, such as the

increase in minimum wage and its universal application.

21. The Reporting Committee on United Nations Human Rights Treaties was created on

29 May 2014 by Presidential Executive Order No. 368. That was Palau’s first attempt

towards national coordination of its human rights reporting obligations. The Committee is

comprised of Cabinet ministers supported by a working group from government agencies

and relevant stakeholders.

22. Palau announced that the Reporting Committee, with the support of the working

group, had just submitted its combined second and third report on the implementation of the

Convention on the Rights of the Child.

23. The delegation stated that Palau, a peaceful and stable island nation, faced many

challenges, prominent among which was climate change, which affected people’s

livelihood, access to food, water and property. International cooperation and support is

critical to addressing and ensuring the basic human rights of the people. Palau was also

seeking the support of the international community for tackling other human rights

priorities, including human trafficking, migrant workers, gender-based violence and

vulnerable groups. The Government’s intention to establish a national human rights

institution required specialized resources and Palau would be seeking the assistance from

its partners to realize this.

24. Palau has its own wealth of experience and ideas, particularly in the area of

preserving the oceans and the marine environment. The President of Palau had successfully

secured a protection measure for the oceans through the Marine Sanctuary Act, which is

intended to ensure food security for future generations of children. Palau called on the

international community to commit to promoting these environments in the Sustainable

Development Goals. Like other small island developing States, it depends on those

resources and their protection is inextricably linked to its ability to protect and promote

human rights. Palau emphasized the importance of development financing aligned with the

Sustainable Development Goals, including Goal 5 on gender equality and the goals relating

to marginalized groups and human rights. The Human Rights Council has a real

opportunity to strengthen its monitoring of the human rights captured in the Sustainable

Development Goals through the universal periodic review process. This is the proposal that

Palau submits to the Council at this review for further consideration.

25. The delegation stated that Palau continued to face many challenges and limitations

in its efforts to fulfil its human rights obligations at the national, regional and international

levels. Due to limited capacity, human resources and expertise, Palau continues to seek

external technical and funding assistance. As it is committed to fulfilling its human rights

obligations, Palau also sought assistance from the members of the Human Rights Council.

26. Palau called on the Council to assume decisive leadership with regard to the issue of

climate change and human rights.

27. Palau supported the universal periodic review process as it provided the opportunity

to engage constructively on issues that affected its people. Palau placed a lot of value in this

process as demonstrated in its national report. The delegation underscored that Palau had

taken great strides to better protect, promote and fulfil its human rights obligations. It

assured the Council that Palau would continue to work towards the realization of the human

rights of its people.

B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review

28. During the interactive dialogue, 46 delegations made statements. Recommendations

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

29. Montenegro recognized Palau’s efforts to improve its institutional and legislative

human rights framework. However, it was concerned about the insufficient capacities for

the promotion and protection of human rights. Montenegro welcomed the fact that Palau

had signed all the core human rights instruments since the first cycle of the review.

However, it is only party to two treaties. Montenegro encouraged Palau to seek technical

assistance from OHCHR to strengthen its capacities, implement the core human rights

instruments and ratify the conventions to which it was a signatory.

30. Morocco noted with satisfaction the legislative and institutional reforms undertaken

by Palau, as well as the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with

Disabilities and the Convention on the Rights of the Child. It appreciated the attention paid

to protect children, women and the family, and the measures taken with regard to domestic

violence and violence against children. Morocco also welcomed the progress made to

implement Millennium Development Goal 3 on the promotion of gender equality and

empowerment of women, as well as its national gender policy.

31. Namibia noted that Palau had signed the core human rights instruments, such as the

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

Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, and asked about the efforts undertaken to ratify

those instruments. It commended Palau on the enactment of the Family Protection Act and

the revision of the Penal Code to protect children. Namibia encouraged Palau to work in

coordination with the international community to enforce international law related to water

protection and security, including the impacts of global sea level rise.

32. The Netherlands commended Palau for decriminalizing homosexuality through a

revision of the Penal Code in 2014. It noted that work remained to be done to bring Palau’s

national legislation into conformity with its international human rights obligations.

33. New Zealand highlighted the encouraging developments, such as Palau’s accession

to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in 2013, however, there were

still some areas for further progress. It noted that Palau had signed the International

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

and Cultural Rights but has yet to ratify them. New Zealand noted that Palau had legislation

prohibiting and punishing violent behaviour, but had no legislation that specifically

addressed domestic violence.

34. Pakistan noted with appreciation Palau’s efforts to implement the recommendations

of the first cycle of the universal periodic review. It commended the establishment of the

Ombudsman’s Office, the measures taken to strengthen the legal and justice systems, the

human rights awareness programmes on gender equality, education, health and disabilities.

Pakistan appreciated the ongoing development of national legislation and Palau’s accession

to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. It also appreciated the fact that

the Government encouraged the participation of girls and women in all social and economic

spheres of Palau, and their increased participation in leadership roles.

35. Panama welcomed Palau’s reiteration of its invitation to Special Representatives and

Special Rapporteurs, which could further compliance with the human rights commitments

entered into with regard to children, persons with disabilities, violence against women,

climate change, trafficking in persons and migrant workers. With regard to the Family

Protection Act, Panama was concerned that the protection measures taken by Palau against

domestic violence and abuse of children had not yet been clearly established.

36. The Philippines welcomed the signature of eight core international human rights

treaties during the period under review and encouraged Palau to remain steadfast in

pursuing the work towards their ratification. While appreciating Palau’s openness to receive

migrant workers, Philippines was concerned about their reported increased vulnerability to

involuntary servitude and debt bondage as a result of strict labour regulations. It requested

the delegation to inform it of the measures taken to protect and promote the rights of

migrant workers.

37. Portugal welcomed the signature of seven core human rights instruments since the

last cycle of the review and congratulated Palau for the ratification of the Convention on the

Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Portugal regretted that the provisions of the Convention

on the Rights of the Child, which Palau had ratified in 1995, have not yet been incorporated

into the National Code.

38. The Russian Federation noted the progress made by Palau since its first review.

However, it also noted with regret that exhaustive legislative measures had not been

adopted to ensure the protection of children’s rights.

39. Slovenia commended the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons

with Disabilities and noted that Palau had signed the International Covenant on Civil and

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

the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. It

encouraged Palau to proceed to become a party to these instruments.

40. Spain especially valued Palau’s commitment to implement its policy on climate

change respecting human rights, including key aspects for a dignified life, such as the

human right to safe drinking water. Spain appreciated the efforts to provide assistance to

migrant workers. Spain recognized the progress made regarding gender equality in the

framework of the Millennium Development Goals. It congratulated Palau for

decriminalizing consensual homosexual activity.

41. Trinidad and Tobago commended Palau for the progress made since the last review

with the signature of various international human rights conventions and the measures

taken to address domestic violence and to safeguard children. It highlighted Palau’s

determination to overcome its challenges despite the vulnerabilities faced by small island

developing States. It stated that a similar commitment will serve to bear more fruit in the

human rights sphere in the coming years and noted the invitation extended in its national

report to the special procedures in areas of, inter alia, children, violence against women and

climate change.

42. The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland welcomed Palau’s

acknowledgment of the growing problem of human trafficking, including forced

prostitution and labour, and its efforts to tackle the issue. It called on Palau to focus in

particular on safeguarding Palauan children from being forced into prostitution. The United

Kingdom expressed concern at the continued reports of abuses committed against foreign

nationals working and residing in the country and called on Palau to review its policies on

foreign nationals.

43. The United States of America commended Palau for the steps taken to deter acts of

domestic violence and to protect survivors, including by passing the Family Protection Act

in 2012. It encouraged Palau to establish shelters to help domestic violence survivors to

move forward with their lives. The United States also urged Palau to enforce the 2005 anti-

trafficking law by prosecuting those responsible for the crime of trafficking, rather than for

lesser labour-related violations or prostitution-related offences.

44. The delegation welcomed all the recommendations and noted all the concerns raised

by the speakers. About the ratification of the core human rights treaties, the delegation

indicated that the country was signatory to the treaties and that the Government was

working towards ensuring its obligations and considering the core treaties individually so as

to undertake a legislative review and compliance.

45. With the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities,

the country had the opportunity to reach out to its partners internationally, but in particular

those at the regional level, through the programmes of the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat

and Secretariat of the Pacific Community. The delegation was also pleased with the

national disability policy which was now in its final draft and would be presented to the

Cabinet and Congress during 2016.

46. Regarding the recommendation by New Zealand to combat domestic violence, Palau

indicated it had implemented a Family Protection Act in 2012. It also explained that

training had been provided by the Pacific Islands programme on preventing domestic

violence, with the support of New Zealand, and added that the Police Force was leading a

campaign to tackle violence against women.

47. The delegation indicated that the Family Protection Act was a very strong piece of

legislation, which has helped many women and families so far, and stated that

reconciliation under the customary process was not a bar to prosecution, therefore, even if

there may be reconciliation between family members, domestic violence was considered a

crime and prosecution would continue.

48. The delegation stated that the most important protection provided for under the

Family Protection Act was that any person who was threatened or harmed could obtain a

protective order from the court 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

49. The delegation asserted that it needed shelters and safe houses. It explained that this

was its biggest challenge and it requested support and technical and financial assistance to

build shelters and safe houses not only for victims of family violence but also for children

who were living under difficult conditions in homes where there was violence.

50. Palau noted that the Penal Code protected children against child exploitation, which

was criminalized. It pointed out that there was existing legislation that criminalized

endangering a minor or his or her welfare, even when it was a parent who allowed a third

person to endanger or hurt his or her child.

51. In response to questions on the situation of migrant workers formulated by the

Philippines and the United States of America, the delegation of Palau stated that they were

working on it and that legislation was pending before the National Congress to ensure safe

working conditions and fair salaries. The Minimum Wage Act contains a provision that

enables workers who are not being paid the minimum wage or who work under unsafe

conditions to file a case against their employer with the Attorney General’s Office.

52. Uruguay welcomed Palau’s membership in the International Labour Organization

and its ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. While

welcoming the fact that Palau had signed a large number of international human rights

instruments, Uruguay noted with concern that none of them had yet been ratified. It also

welcomed the progress made in ensuring gender equality, but noted that Palau did not have

a law explicitly prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

53. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela noted that Palau had signed various

international human rights instruments and ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons

with Disabilities, thus strengthening its domestic legislation in this area. It welcomed the

steps taken to establish a national human rights institution and the adoption of a gender

policy to be mainstreamed in government programmes. It also noted the measures taken to

combat discrimination against women. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela highlighted

the establishment of the National Health Insurance, in 2011, that covers everybody,

including those who have not made contributions to the system and those who are no longer

employed.

54. Algeria welcomed the efforts to promote the human rights of children and of persons

with disabilities, as well as to combat violence against women, trafficking in persons and

climate change. It noted with satisfaction the signature of the core human rights

instruments. It welcomed the results in the area of education, following the adoption of the

Education Master Plan, 2006-2016.

55. Argentina welcomed the efforts made since the last review and congratulated Palau

on the decriminalization of consensual same-sex relations in the Penal Code. It considered

that Palau still needed to overcome some challenges and noted that particular attention

should be given to vulnerable groups, particularly persons with disabilities.

56. Armenia recognized the challenges that Palau faced as a small island State and

appreciated the steps taken to promote human rights in the country since its first review

review. It welcomed Palau’s awareness-raising programmes on certain areas of human

rights and hoped that they would be further expanded. Armenia welcomed the ratification

of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and encouraged the timely

ratification of those international human rights instruments that Palau has already signed.

57. Australia congratulated Palau on strengthening its laws to protect family members

against violence with the passing of the Family Protection Act in 2012, which criminalizes

domestic violence. It also commended the steps taken to decriminalize homosexuality with

the introduction in 2014 of legislation to remove offences relating to consensual same-sex

relations. Australia welcomed Palau’s signing of several international human rights treaties

and commended its ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with

Disabilities. It was also pleased to be working with Palau in the Pacific Women Shaping

Pacific Development programme.

58. Belgium encouraged Palau’s commitment regarding the 2015 declaration of the

Pacific States on human rights and the rule of law. While welcoming the ratification of the

Convention on the Rights of the Child, Belgium encouraged the ratification of all the core

human rights instruments and stressed the need to submit reports to treaty bodies in due

time. Belgium noted that Palau did not have a national body to coordinate policies to

protect children. It welcomed the measures taken to combat domestic violence and violence

against children, while noting that further measures should be taken.

59. Brazil praised the efforts carried out since the first cycle of the universal periodic

review to improve the situation of human rights in Palau. It noted with appreciation the

amendments to the Penal Code in 2014, which decriminalizes sexual relations between

consenting adults of the same sex, a positive step towards the realization of the rights of

lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons in the country. It also congratulated

Palau for ratifying the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in 2012,

followed by consultations, in partnership with the Pacific Disability Forum and the Pacific

Islands Forum Secretariat, aimed at drafting a national disability policy.

60. Canada acknowledged the steps taken to develop a national gender policy and

encouraged Palau to use the process to promote national dialogue and awareness-raising on

the issue of gender equality in decision-making at the highest levels of Government and

Congress. It encouraged Palau to develop policies to promote women’s participation in

national decision-making structures and processes. Canada commended Palau for enacting

the Family Protection Act and encouraged it to raise awareness through public education to

ensure greater understanding of its provisions.

61. China urged the international community to follow the fundamental principles

established in Human Rights Council resolution 5/1 and to carry out constructive dialogue

and cooperation. It stated that it was most regretful that, in its national report, Palau had

treated the Taiwan Province of China as a country partner and had refused to correct the

mistake although China had repeatedly drawn its attention to the issue. Palau’s behaviour

constituted a violation of General Assembly resolution 2758 and departed from the

purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations. It considered it a serious

violation of China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and against the principle of non-

politicization of the universal periodic review process. China was resolutely against this

practice and reserved the right to take further measures in this regard.

62. On the statement made by China, the Vice-President of the Human Rights Council

reiterated that in the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review, as a subsidiary

body of the Human Rights Council and the General Assembly, United Nations terminology

applied.

63. The Congo noted as positive Palau’s cooperation with the human rights mechanisms

and the adoption of laws to implement the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the

Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and Convention on the Elimination

of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. It appreciated the efforts taken to ratify the

human rights instruments and to award equal education grants for girls and boys at the

superior educational level, which contributed to increasing the number of women in high-

level posts in the public and private sectors. It regretted, however, that a national human

rights institution had not been yet established and that there was insufficient human rights

training for the police and the judiciary.

64. Costa Rica noted that Palau had signed the core human rights instruments and it

urged Palau to ratify those instruments. It welcomed the Family Protection Act to prevent

domestic violence and acknowledged Palau’s efforts to create an independent national

human rights institution and to conduct training and awareness-raising in the areas of

domestic violence, migrant workers’ rights and climate change. It considered it pertinent

that Palau should strengthen and promote education and training on human rights,

particularly for the police and law enforcement personnel.

65. Cuba highlighted the signature of eight human rights instruments, which

demonstrated Palau’s commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights. It

noted the laws adopted to combat domestic violence, sexual exploitation, trafficking in

persons and on the establishment of a registry on sex offenders, the minimum wage and the

criminalization of marital rape. Cuba noted the challenges in implementing human rights in

Palau given its limited resources and it called on the international community to support

Palau’s efforts to improve the living conditions of its population.

66. Cyprus commended the measures taken by the Government to fulfil its international

human rights obligations and welcomed the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of

Persons with Disabilities in 2013.

67. Denmark was pleased to note that, following its first universal periodic review,

Palau signed the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading

Treatment of Punishment, in 2011. It highlighted that, as the implementation of the

Convention against Torture Initiative required government-to-government exchange and

cooperation, it stood ready to explore new ways of assisting the Government of Palau to

advance in this regard if deemed helpful.

68. The delegation was humbled by the support given by the members of the Human

Rights Council and the comments regarding the Family Protection Act. The Ministry of

Community and Cultural Affairs, together with the Bureau of Aging and Gender, the

judiciary, the Ministry of Health, the police department and the Attorney General, had

signed a memorandum of understanding on raising awareness about domestic violence and

working with schools, parent networks and traditional and non-traditional organizations on

this issue.

69. As a small island State, Palau faced many challenges like domestic violence but it

has made advances in the protection of women, children and in particular, the family. The

Family Protection Act is aimed at providing protection for the whole family. The delegation

recognized that the importance of the support provided by Australia, as a country in the

Pacific region, particularly with regard to a gender policy. The delegation stated that the

gender policy was in its final stages and thanked the various regional offices and the

Secretariat of the Pacific Community for their support.

70. The delegation welcomed the support from Denmark and Cuba’s recognition of its

needs and stated that the Government would continue to seek assistance for the process to

ratify the core treaties. The Government was working with regard to the national human

rights institution and appreciated all the comments and support. The delegation stated that

the Committee that prepared this review included the President, members of the Cabinet

and Parliament and that civil society and disability groups had also contributed to the

national report.

71. The Constitution of Palau guarantees equal protection for women and men and no

discrimination based on sex, race, place of origin, language, religion or belief, a

fundamental right under the Constitution

72. The delegation stated that corporal punishment was strictly prohibited and the laws

criminalized this act. There had been lawsuits against teachers for using corporal

punishment against children.

73. The delegation indicated that Palau continued to work with relevant government

agencies and different organizations on the issue of migrant workers. It affirmed that it was

a challenging issue, as out of the 20,000 people in Palau, about 6,000 were foreign workers

and there were seven labour officers to oversee the foreign workers. Despite the challenges,

Palau continued to improve its work through regulations and legislation, such as the

recently adopted Minimum Wage Act, which is applicable universally.

74. About women in politics, the delegation asserted that, of the 29 members of the

Palau National Congress, three were women. During the last term, there were also three

women members, so the number has been maintained. Palau hopes to increase the number

of women in the National Congress in the upcoming general elections in November 2016.

The delegation stated that, with the assistance of the Ministry of the Community and

Cultural Affairs, the Government had conducted programmes to encourage more women to

stand for election.

75. Djibouti welcomed the delegation of Palau and congratulated it for presenting the

national report. It also welcomed the efforts made towards promoting and protecting human

rights.

76. Egypt noted with satisfaction the measures taken to promote human rights in Palau

as well as those taken by the relevant ministries in the areas of education, improving gender

equality, promoting the rights of persons with disabilities and countering trafficking in

human beings. It noted the adoption of laws to protect human rights, in particular the

Family Protection Act and encouraged Palau to continue its efforts to counter trafficking in

persons. Egypt invited Palau to ratify the Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish

Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children, supplementing the United Nations

Convention against Transnational Organized Crime.

77. Estonia noted that Palau had ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with

Disabilities and the Convention on the Rights of the Child and encouraged it to incorporate

the provisions of both treaties into its domestic legislation. It also commended Palau for

initiating the development of a national gender policy, but expressed its concern about the

definition of rape, which was limited to sexual intercourse and spousal rape was still

exempt from prosecution. Estonia encouraged Palau to establish protection services for

survivors of domestic violence and child abuse.

78. Fiji noted the efforts made by Palau to keep abreast of its human rights obligations.

It also noted that Palau had adopted the Family Protection Act, in 2012, which was

designed to protect and empower the victims of domestic violence. Fiji congratulated Palau

for ratifying the United Nations Convention Against Corruption and for its constructive

participation in the peer review process under the Convention, in April 2015.

79. France noted the human rights commitments made by Palau since its first universal

periodic review in 2011, in particular the signature of numerous international instruments.

France invited Palau to continue its commitment.

80. Georgia highlighted Palau’s commitment to fully implement its human rights

obligations and recognized the efforts made by the Government in signing and ratifying

human rights instruments and undertaking legislative reform. It noted with appreciation that

Palau had ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and had signed

several international human rights conventions. It welcomed the steps taken by the

Government to improve the health-care system and the establishment of National Health

Insurance.

81. Germany thanked the delegation for the national report it submitted to the Working

Group.

82. Ghana lauded Palau’s continuous engagement with the universal periodic review

mechanism since its first cycle. It noted with appreciation the signing of some core

international human rights treaties in 2011, which reflected Palau’s commitment to the

promotion and protection of the human rights of its people.

83. Indonesia commended the efforts made to strengthen the promotion and protection

of human rights through the establishment of the Ombudsman’s Office as well as the

signing of the core human rights treaties in 2011 and the ratification of the Convention on

the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Indonesia also recognized the efforts taken by the

Ministry of State and the Ministry of Community and Cultural Affairs to establish a

national human rights institution.

84. Iraq welcomed the delegation of Palau and their role in the preparation of the

national report. Iraq expressed its appreciation and congratulated Palau for complying with

international human rights instruments.

85. Israel recognized that Palau’s report was the result of extensive consultations,

including with the recently created Reporting Committee on United Nations Human Rights

Conventions and the working group formed to support the Reporting Committee. It

congratulated Palau for the progress achieved since its first review and the significant

efforts made by the Government to implement many of the recommendations accepted

during the first review. It highlighted a number of measures taken, including the

establishment of the Office of the Ombudsman, the ratification of the Convention on the

Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the enactment of the Family Protection Act and the

reform of the Penal Code.

86. Italy noted the steps taken to promote gender equality and further the protection of

women rights, in particular the measures aimed at combating domestic violence and

protecting women and children from sexual abuse. It commended the Government for

supporting community-awareness programmes that are crucial to avoiding discrimination

and fostering integration.

87. Japan commended Palau for conducting human rights-awareness programmes in

areas such as gender equality. It welcomed the signature of the core human rights treaties in

2011 and the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in

2013. Japan also expressed concern at the reports of prisoners being held under appalling

conditions due to the deterioration of prisons and lack of space therein.

88. Malaysia noted the efforts made by the Government to conducting awareness-raising

programmes on HIV/AIDS prevention, improving the rights of persons with disabilities,

combating violence against women and environmental protection. It also noted the

measures taken by the Government to protect children, in particular the enactment of the

Family Protection Act and the revision of the Penal Code.

89. Maldives commended the progress made by Palau, including the enactment of the

Family Protection Act, the Non-Communicable Disease Strategic Plan, the revision of the

Penal Code and the efforts made to combat human trafficking and foster gender equality.

Maldives welcomed the adoption of policies on climate change and sustainable economic

development through renewable energy applications and encouraged the Government to

reach out to its partners and seek support for the implementation of the recommendations

made during the present review. Maldives thanked Palau for its efforts to raise the voice of

small island developing States.

90. Mexico welcomed the ratification of Convention on the Rights of Persons with

Disabilities, the development of the national disability policy and the adoption of the

Family Protection Act. It urged Palau to adopt a specific law to protect the rights of

children. Mexico acknowledged the increase in the participation of women in high-level

government posts and urged Palau to continue promoting the involvement of women in

public life. It noted with satisfaction the amendments to the Penal Code to decriminalize

consensual sexual relations between same-sex adults. Mexico also welcomed the National

Disaster Risk Management Framework.

91. The delegation thanked Estonia and Fiji for their comments regarding spousal rape

and stated that marital rape was now a crime in Palau and sexual abuse in the first degree

was a felony. It stated that the definition of sexual penetration had been expanded and there

was “no-drop policy” in place so that although there might be reconciliation under

customary practice, cases were still moved forward and perpetrators were prosecuted.

92. The delegation indicated that there were anti-smuggling and anti-trafficking penal

laws in Palau and that they were enforced.

93. The delegation stated that the Open Government Act was adopted in 2014 with a

view to making government actions transparent and accountable, allowing people to see

government records and to sit in government proceedings and allowing people to

participate in government hearings and meetings.

94. Palau thanked Japan for its concerns and stated that the conditions in jails had

considerably improved for inmates.

95. The delegation stated that Palau has considered the value of ratifying the core human

rights treaties, however, it needed more time and it continued to seek international

assistance in this matter.

96. About Ghana’s recommendation, the delegation stated that education in Palau was

inclusive for all children. Regarding health insurance, it indicated that legislation existed

for those who had not been in the programme but were now in the health-care system. The

delegation thanked Maldives for their support in recommending that Palau develop a

disability policy for the period 2015 to 2020 and welcomed its recommendation.

97. The delegation stated that it continued to learn from best practices and strived to

shape and develop its policies, while also trying to keep abreast with international

standards. It was no surprise that a small country with limited resources faced challenges in

ensuring that human rights were afforded to every single person, however, it was also

making some mighty strides and was proud to have shared an open and honest report with

the international community.

98. With the financial and technical support from our international partners, Palau

would continue to analyse its laws through legislative compliance reviews and make further

amendments to its legislation in order to ensure human rights are enjoyed by every person

in the country.

99. The delegation stated that the Government would continue to educate the public on

human rights and raise awareness in the community so that the “duty bearers” understand

their rights and responsibilities towards rights holders.

100. In closing, the delegation congratulated OHCHR for its efforts in overseeing the

review process. It considered the review process a catalyst for Palau to look within, assess

its situation and open its eyes to the gaps in its system when ensuring the rights of its

people. The Government thanked the Secretariat of the Pacific Community and the Pacific

Islands Forum Secretariat for their guidance and support.

101. The delegation thanked the Government of Israel and the Government of Sweden in

particular for their gracious donation to support its participation in the present session. It

expressed its appreciation to the Netherlands for providing funding support to the

Secretariat of the Pacific Community so that it, in turn, could provide the necessary support

to all Pacific countries, including training support in Palau in 2015 for the mock session in

preparation for the present review and for the participation of representatives of the

Secretariat of the Pacific Community in the present session.

102. Palau welcomed and was seeking any assistance and support available from

development partners and donors to pursue its human rights endeavours, not only with

regard to fulfilling its international human rights obligations, but also for aligning itself to

these principles.

103. The delegation thanked the Permanent Mission of Fiji in Geneva for its assistance

with the preparations for this session, for opening its offices to it and for all the guidance

provided with regard to chairing its meeting. It also thanked all the member States present

for their input and recommendations which will indeed assist Palau in all of its work on the

human rights conventions. Lastly, it thanked the Working Group and OHCHR staff,

especially OHCHR Asia-Pacific office for its support, assistance and guidance in preparing

for this second review.

II. Conclusions and/or recommendations**

104. The following recommendations will be examined by Palau, which will provide

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

Council, in June 2016:

104.1 Speed efforts to ratify the International Covenant on Civil and

Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and

Cultural Rights (Namibia);

104.2 Ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and

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

Zealand);

104.3 Ratify the international human rights treaties and their optional

protocols, in order to strengthen the implementation and observance of

international human rights law, particularly the International Covenant on

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

and Cultural Rights (Panama);

104.4 Ratify, as a matter of priority, the International Covenant on Civil

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

Cultural Rights (Portugal);

104.5 Consider continuing on to the ratification of the core human rights

instruments (Trinidad and Tobago);

** The conclusions and recommendations have not been edited.

104.6 Start the ratification process of the international instruments already

signed (Uruguay);

104.7 Ratify the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of

Discrimination against Women, the International Covenant on Civil and

Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and

Cultural Rights (Canada);

104.8 Complete its international commitment by ratifying as a priority the

International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International

Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (France);

104.9 Ratify all the instruments that have already been signed, in particular

the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial

Discrimination, the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of

Discrimination against Women, the Convention against Torture and Other

Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and the International

Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance

(France);

104.10 Continue taking steps towards the ratification of the international

human rights conventions to which Palau is a signatory, in particular the

International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the International

Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, the

International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the

Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women

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

Treatment or Punishment (Georgia);

104.11 Ratify those conventions which Palau has not ratified, as previously

recommended (Iraq);

104.12 Continue its efforts to accede to or ratify more human rights treaties

and their Optional Protocols (Israel);

104.13 Continue its efforts to ratify the main human rights treaties without

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

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

104.14 Ratify the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms

of Racial Discrimination (Algeria);

104.15 Consider ratifying the International Convention on the Elimination

of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (Ghana);

104.16 Ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and

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

(Montenegro);

104.17 Consider ratifying the International Covenant on Civil and Political

Rights (Ghana);

104.18 Ratify Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on

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

(Belgium);

104.19 Consider ratifying the International Covenant on Economic, Social

and Cultural Rights (Ghana);

104.20 Ratify the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of

Discrimination against Women (New Zealand);

104.21 Ratify and implement the Convention on the Elimination of All

Forms of Discrimination against Women and other international human rights

treaties and their Optional Protocols, as previously recommended (Slovenia);

104.22 Ratify the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of

Discrimination against Women (Spain);

104.23 Ratify the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of

Discrimination against Women at the earliest opportunity (Australia);

104.24 Ratify the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of

Discrimination against Women (Costa Rica);

104.25 Consider ratifying the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of

Discrimination against Women (Ghana);

104.26 Consider ratifying the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of

Discrimination against Women and to ensure women equal inheritance rights

(Italy);

104.27 Intensify its efforts to ratify the Convention against Torture and

other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Denmark);

104.28 Consider ratifying the Convention against Torture and other Cruel,

Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Ghana);

104.29 Incorporate the provisions of the Convention on the Rights of the

Child into the domestic legal system (Montenegro);

104.30 Incorporate the provisions of the Convention on the Rights on the

Child in the national legal order (Panama);

104.31 Step up efforts to enact legislation to implement the Convention on

the Rights of the Child (Philippines);

104.32 Swiftly adopt measures aimed at incorporating the provisions of the

Convention on the Rights of the Child into the Palau National Code (Portugal);

104.33 Incorporate the provisions of the Convention on the Rights on the

Child, which has been ratified by Palau, into its domestic legislation (Russian

Federation);

104.34 Consider acceding to the three Optional Protocols to the Convention

on the Rights of the Child (Uruguay);

104.35 Establish a national body to develop and coordinate services to

address the rights of children and child protection issues and ensure full

implementation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (Canada);

104.36 Incorporate in the national legislation the provisions of the

Convention on the Rights of the Child (Djibouti);

104.37 Take the necessary constitutional measures to bring the Convention

on the Rights of the Child into force (Egypt);

104.38 Ratify the Optional Protocols to the Convention on the Rights of the

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

children, child prostitution and child pornography (Germany);

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

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

104.40 Consider ratifying the International Convention on the Protection of

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

104.41 Consider ratifying the International Convention on the Protection of

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

Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading

Treatment or Punishment (Indonesia);

104.42 Ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons

from Enforced Disappearance (Argentina);

104.43 Consider ratifying the International Convention for the Protection of

All Persons from Enforced Disappearances (Ghana);

104.44 Continue to implement the Convention on the Rights of Persons with

Disabilities (Pakistan);

104.45 Incorporate the provisions of the Convention on the Rights of

Persons with Disabilities into the domestic legal system (Portugal);

104.46 Ratify the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International

Child Abduction (Belgium);

104.47 Consider ratifying the fundamental International Labour

Organization conventions (Trinidad and Tobago);

104.48 Consider ratifying fundamental International Labour Organization

conventions, and adopt policies to avoid discrimination against foreign workers

(Brazil);

104.49 Accede to the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the

Crime of Genocide (Armenia);

104.50 Consider ratifying the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment

of the Crime of Genocide (Ghana);

104.51 Accede to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, the

Agreement on the Privileges and Immunities of the International Criminal

Court and the 1968 Convention on the Non-Applicability of Statutory

Limitations to War Crimes and Crimes against Humanity, and implement

them in national law (Netherlands);

104.52 Take all necessary measures towards acceding to the Rome Statute of

the International Criminal Court (Cyprus);

104.53 Accede to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court and

fully align its national legislation with the Statute and accede to the Agreement

on the Privileges and Immunities of the International Criminal Court

(Estonia);

104.54 Consider ratifying the Rome Statute of the International Criminal

Court (Ghana);

104.55 Ratify the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees and its

1967 Protocol (Costa Rica);

104.56 Consider ratifying the United Nations Educational, Scientific and

Cultural Organization Convention against Discrimination in Education

(Ghana);

104.57 Continue to implement laws for further protection of human rights of

the people (Pakistan);

104.58 Redouble efforts through legislative measures and public policies to

ensure that its legislation is aligned with international human rights obligations

(Panama);

104.59 Implement the recommendations under the United Nations

Convention against Corruption peer review process conducted in April 2015

and in particular review its legal framework to criminalize the bribery of

foreign officials and officials of international organizations and pass legislation

that allows for the forfeiture of unexplained wealth by public officials (Fiji);

104.60 Establish a national human rights institution that fully complies with

the Paris Principles (Portugal);

104.61 Continue taking the necessary steps to set up a national human rights

institution in line with the Paris Principles (Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);

104.62 Establish an independent national human rights institution to lead,

coordinate, develop capacity and assist with human rights implementation

(Canada);

104.63 Set up a national human rights institution in conformity with the

Paris Principles (Congo);

104.64 In line with the recommendations from the first universal periodic

review accepted by Palau, establish an independent national human rights

institution to lead, coordinate, develop capacities and help strengthen

implementation of human rights throughout the country, and provide the

Ombudsman Office with sufficient financial and human resources to

strengthen its independence and capabilities (Costa Rica);

104.65 Set up an independent human rights institution in charge of

coordinating the implementation of human rights in the whole country

(Djibouti);

104.66 Establish a national human rights institution (Egypt);

104.67 Set up a national human rights institution in accordance with the

Paris Principles, as the authorities committed to during the first review

(France);

104.68 Continue efforts aiming at the protection of human rights, including

through the establishment of a national human rights institution (Georgia);

104.69 Continue its efforts to establish a national human rights institution in

line with the Paris Principles and with full participation of the civil society

(Indonesia);

104.70 Continue its efforts to establish a national human rights institution,

as this was an accepted recommendation from the first review (Iraq);

104.71 Establish a national human rights institution, in accordance with the

Paris Principles (Malaysia);

104.72 Establish an independent national human rights institution to

coordinate, develop capacities and strengthen respect for human rights in the

country, in line with the Paris Principles (Mexico);

104.73 Enact national legislation to protect the rights of the child (Maldives);

104.74 Continue to engage international and regional partners to seek

technical and other assistance towards its full compliance with its human rights

treaties obligations (Philippines);

104.75 Take active measures in order to ensure the protection of vulnerable

groups in the society, such as children, women and the elderly, and to enact

legislation on anti-discrimination (Namibia);

104.76 Continue deploying efforts for a strategy in favour of gender equality,

in particular regarding policies and programmes of the national Government

and local authorities (Morocco);

104.77 Continue to promote gender equality through its policies and

programmes (Australia);

104.78 Eliminate all laws and practices that discriminate against women and

promote equal treatment of girls and boys (Cyprus);

104.79 Take measures to facilitate greater participation and representation

of women in public offices (Israel);

104.80 Introduce comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation, including

discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity (Netherlands);

104.81 Legislate in order to permit marriage between persons of the same

sex (Spain);

104.82 Extend existing legislation to protect the rights of the lesbian, gay,

bisexual, transgender and intersex community, including the recognition of

same sex couples and anti-discrimination employment laws (United Kingdom of

Great Britain and Northern Ireland);

104.83 Adopt measures to ensure that lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender

and intersex persons are no longer victims of discriminatory provisions

(France);

104.84 Consider establishing explicit legislation or policies that prohibit

discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity (Israel);

104.85 Take all the necessary measures to eliminate discrimination based on

sexual orientation and gender identity (Mexico);

104.86 Establish shelters and other support services for victims and

implement programmes in order to provide human rights education, in

particular to the police, lawyers and judges (Panama);

104.87 Establish shelters for domestic violence survivors (United States of

America);

104.88 Strengthen legislation on the prevention and combat of sexual

harassment, trafficking in persons and sexual tourism (Mexico);

104.89 Enact legislation to directly address the prevention of and protection

against domestic violence (New Zealand);

104.90 Take concrete measures to raise public awareness and further

develop legislation to combat domestic violence, especially against women and

children, including through the adoption of legislation that prohibits all

corporal punishment of children in any setting (Brazil);

104.91 Align the legal definition of rape and related prosecution procedures

with international norms, notably regarding marital rape and the burden of

proof (Belgium);

104.92 Consider amending its Penal Code and Family Protection Act to

ensure that spousal rape is criminalized, and that the definition of rape includes

any form of non-consensual penetration of or by a sexual organ and that the

definition be gender neutral so that men and boys are also protected by the

rape laws (Fiji);

104.93 Take all necessary measures to promote the rights of women and to

counter domestic violence, in particular by preventing and punishing, more

effectively, violence within the family (France);

104.94 Carry out further awareness-raising campaigns to combat trafficking

in persons, and include this issue in the school programmes, for a greater

prevention of the phenomenon (Morocco);

104.95 Enact further measures in order to address violence in the

educational system, particularly by implementing programmes to prohibit and

eliminate all forms of corporal punishment (Slovenia);

104.96 Provide further training and legal assistance on the application of the

Family Protection Act (Cuba);

104.97 Prohibit all corporal punishment in all settings, including in the home

(Estonia);

104.98 Take all necessary measures to ensure the protection of the rights of

the child (France);

104.99 Strengthen laws and regulations to prevent and address human

trafficking, including providing effective assistance to trafficked victims and

prosecuting traffickers (Philippines);

104.100 Enforce the 2005 anti-trafficking law and ratify the Protocol to

Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, especially Women and

Children, supplementing the United Nations Convention against Transnational

Organized Crime (United States of America);

104.101 Setup a national strategy to combat trafficking in persons as defined

by the existing Penal Code (Egypt);

104.102 Strengthen the efforts to prevent and combat trafficking in human

beings for sexual purposes, with particular attention to children (France);

104.103 Continue efforts to address human trafficking, including the

development of stricter legislation and assistance for victims’ reintegration and

recovery (Malaysia);

104.104 Improve its prison environment as part of a wider effort to protect

and promote the human rights of prisoners (Japan);

104.104 Introduce a law on freedom of information in compliance with

international standards (Estonia);

104.106 Intensify its fight against all discrimination that hinders trade union

freedom of all workers, both national and foreign (Spain);

104.107 Enforce regulations to protect foreign workers, particularly

regarding work conditions and occupational and safety standards, and

prosecute violations (United States of America);

104.108 Improve the situation of workers, in particular migrant workers, by

providing them with the necessary protection (Congo);

104.109 Enact a labour law that applies to nationals and enhance efforts to

spread awareness among workers (Egypt);

104.110 Continue taking efforts aimed at combating the unemployment

phenomenon (Egypt);

104.111 Adopt concrete measures to better integrate migrant workers, with

special attention to combating human trafficking and discrimination

(Germany);

104.112 Continue implementing additional measures to fight discrimination

against foreign workers, addressing in particular work conditions and the

respect for occupational and safety standards (Italy);

104.113 Continue efforts to promote the rights and working conditions in

employment, including through appropriate legislative and administrative

measures (Malaysia);

104.114 Continue to strengthen the social protection programmes that are

currently being implemented in order to provide the greatest possible welfare

and standard of living to its people (Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);

104.115 Expand human rights training and awareness-raising programmes so

that they include all aspects of human rights (Armenia);

104.116 Continue promoting education for all, in particular for persons with

special needs (Djibouti);

104.117 Adopt specific measures to promote the development of inclusive

education for persons with disabilities (Argentina);

104.118 Consider endorsing and implementing the national disability policy

as a tool to ensure better rights for persons with disabilities (Malaysia);

104.119 Implement the national disability inclusive policy (Maldives);

104.120 Increase efforts to guarantee access to education for children with

disabilities (Mexico);

104.121 Step up efforts to improve the situation of socially vulnerable groups

of the population, in particular migrant workers, including their protection

from discrimination (Russian Federation);

104.122 Become party to the 1954 and 1961 statelessness conventions and take

all steps necessary to implement their content (United Kingdom of Great

Britain and Northern Ireland);

104.123 Strengthen efforts deployed to prevent natural disasters (Morocco);

104.124 Continue to implement policies for development of its people under

the Sustainable Development Goals (Pakistan);

104.125 Continue to pay particular attention to the consequences of climate

change on the human rights of the population (Cuba).

105. 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 Palau was headed by Honorable J. Baklai Temengil, Minister,

Ministry of Community and Cultural Affairs and composed of the following members:

• Honorable J. Uduch Sengebau Senior, Senator, Palau National Congress (9th Olbiil

Era Kelulau);

• Ms. Hila Asanuna, Senior Foreign Service Officer, Bureau of Foreign Affairs and

Trade, Ministry of State;

• Ms. Holly Yamada, Small Island States Officer, Ministry of State/Pacific Islands

Forum Secretariat;

• Mr. Kyonori Tellames, Senior Planning Analyst, Bureau of Budget and Planning,

Ministry of Finance;

• Mr. Romulo Nayacalevu, Human Rights Adviser, Regional Rights Resource Team,

Secretariat of the Pacific Community.