32/14 Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review - Solomon Islands

Human Rights Council Thirty-second session

Agenda item 6

Universal periodic review

Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review*

Solomon Islands

* 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 ......................................................................................................... 25

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 Solomon Islands was held at the 12th meeting on 25 January

2016. The delegation of Solomon Islands was headed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs

and External Trade, Milner TOZAKA. At its 17th meeting held on 28 January 2016, the

Working Group adopted the report on Solomon Islands.

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

rapporteurs (troika) to facilitate the review of Solomon Islands: Mongolia, Russian

Federation and Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of).

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 Solomon Islands:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Islands 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. Given the distance between Geneva and the South Pacific Islands, the delegation of

Solomon Islands emphasized that its presence showed the State’s commitment to the

universal periodic review.

6. The delegation explained that the National Development Strategy of Solomon

Islands was the national framework for government priorities. It indicated that the

implementation of the recommendations of the universal periodic review was aligned to the

key priority areas of the Strategy, such as building better lives for all by taking care of all

the people, improving livelihoods, creating and maintaining an enabling environment and

strengthening links for effective implementation. The Millennium Development Goals and

the Sustainable Development Goals have also been addressed under the Strategy.

7. The delegation reported that the integration of two important features of the National

Development Strategy, namely the Development Partnership Framework and the

Monitoring and Evaluation Framework, was currently under review. Those features were

reportedly vital to monitoring progress on the recommendations of the universal periodic

review and ensuring the support of development partners in that process.

8. Solomon Islands has a population of almost 600,000, with 80 per cent located in

rural areas. The delegation highlighted that it faced challenges as a small island developing

State, particularly in reaching the rural populace with service delivery, the frequency of

natural disasters, as well as transportation and communication difficulties. Other challenges

in implementing the first-cycle recommendations included the short timespan of successive

Solomon Islands Governments with shifting priorities and budgetary issues and a high staff

turnover. As a result, consistency and continuity in the implementation of human rights and

other development issues were affected. Resource, capacity and financial constraints for

stakeholders’ consultations with the rural populace remained a key challenge to addressing

human rights issues.

9. The delegation pointed to other equally important challenges, such as the lack of

understanding and sensitivity to human rights issues, which resulted in delays in making

progress in the implementation of the recommendations.

10. The delegation proceeded to highlight significant achievements made since the last

universal periodic review. Recognition was given to the achievements and contribution of

the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands in restoring law and order and the

delivery of basic economic and social services. The delegation reminded participants that

Solomon Islands had experienced civil unrest between 1998 and 2003, which affected the

rule of law, service delivery, development and economic activities, to name a few areas

affecting basic human rights. Normalcy of livelihoods, business ventures and investment

returned to the country following the deployment of the Regional Assistance Mission in

2003.

11. The delegation explained that the current Government had taken office about 18

months ago and had taken on extensive law reform. It had already achieved the enactment

of the Family Protection Act 2014, the Political Parties Integrity Act, the Police Act and the

Correctional Service Act. In addition, the Government planned to present eight bills to

Parliament at its first sessional sitting of 2016, including, in particular, the Child and

Family Welfare Bill; the Whistle-Blower Bill and an Anti-Corruption Bill that might lead to

the establishment of an independent commission against corruption.

12. The delegation provided information on action taken to strengthen the capacity of

courts and on access to justice in rural areas, including providing housing for lawyers in

four of the provinces furthest from the capital, new and refurbished courthouses and

magistrates helping out in regular court sittings. A new juvenile and family court in Honiara

was reportedly user friendly for young persons and family members during court hearings.

The delegation referred to the appointment in 2014 of a permanent chairperson to the Law

Reform Commission that assured Government to progress law review references on to the

next process of the drafting of legislation. The Government acknowledged support received

from Australia and the Commonwealth Secretariat for legal drafting that had contributed to

the development of many legislative bills in the past.

13. The delegation reported that the latest draft federal Constitution of 2014 might soon

be submitted to Parliament and that it covered a broader range of human rights and

proposed that a human rights commission be established.

14. On the issue of a national human rights institution, the delegation reported that the

Government was currently exploring an expansion of the mandate of the Office of the

Ombudsman so that human rights complaints or issues might be brought before it.

Discussions were continuing on the human resources capacity of the existing institution to

deal with human rights complaints, while also looking at the provision for a human rights

commission under the proposed federal Constitution.

15. The delegation referred to other mechanisms already in place to assist successive

Governments with reporting under human rights treaties, such as the Solomon Islands

National Advisory Committee on CEDAW, the National Advisory and Action Committee

on Children as well as the National UPR Working Committee which has oversight for the

universal periodic review cycles.

16. Regarding the independence of the judiciary, the delegation stated that Solomon

Islands strived to maintain a vibrant justice system by upholding the rule of law and

promoting and providing access to justice to those who sought it. The delegation referred to

training and in-service support to the judiciary and the magistracy offered through the Law

and Justice Sector programmes. Solomon Islands stated that it continued to maintain court

tours to the provinces to consider higher court cases for the convenience of the rural

populace. The Government acknowledged the assistance provided to the judiciary and

magistracy by the Commonwealth and bilateral partners and welcomed further assistance in

that regard.

17. The delegation referred to the strategic plan on rural water supply, sanitation and

hygiene (R-WASH) 2015-2020, with its vision for all, in both rural and urban areas, to have

easy access to sufficient quality and safe water and appropriate sanitation in a safe and

hygienic environment by 2024. At present, only 35 to 40 per cent of the needed R-WASH

infrastructure is available in rural areas and the plan is to roll out further to reach 100 per

cent R-WASH access by 2024. Solomon Islands expressed gratitude to both Japan and the

European Union for their continuous assistance in the areas of water, sanitation and

hygiene.

18. The delegation stated that fast population growth and urban drift had placed pressure

on resources such as land and housing for the working populace in urban Honiara.

Temporary Occupancy Licences had been reviewed to cater for the expanding urban

population.

19. Regarding the health sector, the delegation indicated that the Government was in the

process of completing its second Health Demographic Survey, which would form the basis

for improving the delivery of health services. The delegation stated that Solomon Islands

was committed to improving inclusive access to health for all. Infant mortality had

reportedly been reduced due to increased access to health facilities and with skilled

attendance at 95 per cent of births. There were 187 nurses’ aide posts, 102 rural health

clinics, 38 area health-care centres and 7 provincial hospitals. There was increased

immunization, although challenges remained to reduce child mortality. There was

reportedly improvement in access to sexual and reproductive health services, including pre-

and post-natal care, with more than 80 per cent of deliveries in health facilities with the

services of skilled personnel. The delegation stated that, malaria, the leading cause of death,

had been dramatically reduced as a result of scaled-up prevention and control interventions.

20. On education, the delegation referred to the Government’s aims to achieve universal

education for all and stated that an Education Bill had been developed. The Government

had also developed an Inclusive Education Policy to address equal opportunities for

children with disabilities to access education, provide opportunities for pregnant students to

return to the classroom after giving birth, abolish corporal punishment and promote the fee-

free policy for schools. There were currently four schools for children with special needs,

with both primary and secondary levels, that received grant assistance from the

Government and faith-based organizations.

21. The delegation stated that the Government, with the support of OHCHR, was

working on a concept framework to enable the Government to monitor, report and follow

up on international treaty obligations, which would help to fast-track its commitments to

meet its reporting obligations. A common core document was in draft form and needed

updating before it could be submitted to the treaty bodies sometime in 2016.

22. With regards to cooperation with special procedures, the Government had issued a

standing invitation to the special procedure mandate holders. To date, two special

procedure mandate holders have visited Solomon Islands, the Independent Expert on the

effects of foreign debt and other related international financial obligations of States on the

full enjoyment of all human rights, particularly economic, social and cultural rights and the

Special Rapporteur on violence against women, its causes and consequences. The

delegation stated that the Government wished to extend an invitation to visit Solomon

Islands to the special procedure dealing with water and sanitation.

23. The delegation stated that Solomon Islands did not have stand-alone non-

discrimination legislation. Rather, successive governments had taken piecemeal steps to

advocate for specific areas of rights, such as for women, children and persons with

disabilities. According to the delegation, the Bill of Rights provisions under the new

proposed federal Constitution was comparably more progressive in accordance with human

rights standards.

B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review

24. During the interactive dialogue, 47 delegations made statements. Recommendations

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

25. Portugal welcomed the ongoing efforts to ratify a number of international human

rights treaties. However, it noted that Solomon Islands had signed, but had still not ratified,

the Rome Statute, despite accepting to do so during the first cycle of the review. Portugal

noted that Solomon Islands was particularly vulnerable to climate change and encouraged

all efforts aimed at mitigating that threat.

26. The Republic of Korea appreciated the progress achieved by Solomon Islands,

despite the difficult challenges faced, particularly the ratification of a number of

fundamental International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions, the extension of a

standing invitation to all the Human Rights Council special procedure mandate holders as

well as the adoption of the Family Protection Act of 2014, which criminalizes domestic

violence in all of its forms and seeks to protect victims.

27. Sierra Leone commended the adoption of the Family Protection Act, the

establishment of a National UPR Working Committee and the implementation of policies

criminalizing trafficking in persons. Noting that many challenges faced by a small island

development State impeded its capacity to implement the needed change, Sierra Leone

encouraged Solomon Islands to continue working with regional and international partners

to bring laws and customs into line with international norms. It encouraged the

development of strategies and polices to promote gender equality, to address discrimination

against women and to expedite the enactment of the Child and Family Welfare Bill.

28. Slovenia appreciated the enactment of the Family Protection Act, the criminalization

of domestic violence and the adoption of the National Strategy for the Economic

Empowerment of Women and Girls as well as the Child and Family Welfare Bill. It

considered that its previous recommendation 80.8 (see A/HRC/18/8) had been implemented

and that its recommendation 80.14 (ibid.) had been mostly implemented. Slovenia remained

concerned at the prevalence and social acceptance of sexual violence and the discriminatory

customary practices such as the “bride price”. It hoped that the planned National Policy on

Disability Inclusive Development would be put into action.

29. Spain acknowledged the work undertaken by Solomon Islands to establish a national

policy aimed at fulfilling the human rights to safe drinking water and sanitation. It

congratulated Solomon Islands for incorporating provisions in its Family Protection Act on

combating gender violence. Spain also welcomed the efforts made to implement the

“Education for All” initiative.

30. Switzerland welcomed progress in combating violence against women, especially

the adoption of the Family Protection Act. It stressed the importance of dealing with the

past, rehabilitating the victims, combating impunity and re-establishing the rule of law to

achieve reconciliation and durable peace. Switzerland expressed concern at human rights

violations committed by some corporations active in the forest industry. It encouraged

Solomon Islands to continue to ratify international instruments to protect and respect

human rights.

31. Trinidad and Tobago noted the steps taken to increase awareness and implement

training in relation to incidences of domestic violence as well as the criminalization of

domestic violence through the Family Protection Act. It also noted the measures taken to

improve the participation of women in political and public life. It welcomed the creation of

gender focal points within ministries and focal points on disability at the provincial level to

assist with the mainstreaming of those issues. Trinidad and Tobago applauded the fact that,

despite external shocks, in particular natural disasters, Solomon Islands continued to engage

with special procedures and complete the ratification of key ILO conventions and the

development of policy and legislation to address such matters as immigration, education,

justice and climate change.

32. The delegation reported that, following the adoption of the Family Protection Act,

the next stage was to ensure its operationalization and implementation through the work of

the Ministry for Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs and the Ministry of Justice

and Legal Affairs. The delegation highlighted that Solomon Islands was a party to the

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

of the 50 Members of Parliament was a woman and that the Government was working with

the aforementioned ministries to achieve the goals of the Convention and the objective of

gender equality.

33. The delegation called attention to the information contained in the national report on

the Government’s position on climate change.

34. The delegation stated that the Government was still assessing information received

from different ministries on priority to be given to the ratification of various international

instruments. The delegation emphasized that the work of the Truth and Reconciliation

Commission had been completed. Members of Parliament had received a copy of the

report. The delegation stated that the report and its recommendations were being considered

by an appointed consultant within the Office of the Prime Minister and planned proposals

for follow-up action would be presented to the Government.

35. Responding to comments made by Slovenia, the delegation clarified that, while the

Police Act prohibited the use of corporal punishment by the police, the draft federal

Constitution permitted reasonable chastisement so long as it did not amount to torture or

inhuman treatment. The delegation stated that it was important to raise awareness in

communities and in the home that the use of corporal punishment was a violation of human

rights.

36. The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland commended the

consultative and inclusive process to take forward accepted recommendations. It welcomed

the recent Police, Immigration and Family Protection Acts and the criminalization of

smuggling and human trafficking. It urged Solomon Islands to take action to address the

continuing and disturbingly high instances of violence against women. It was concerned

that there had been no evident progress towards the decriminalization of same sex

relationships.

37. The United States of America commended the Solomon Islands for its commitment

to democracy and free and fair national elections in 2014. It applauded the recent initiatives

to reduce domestic violence and support survivors, including through the creation of the

SAFENET network, and the enactment of the Family Protection Act. However, it was

concerned at the persistence of government corruption and lengthy pretrial detentions, the

high levels of gender-based violence, particularly sexual abuse, and that local children and

foreign women were often subjected to trafficking, including forced prostitution and

domestic servitude. It regretted that women continued to face discrimination across all

sectors of society and that there was only one woman Member of Parliament.

38. Uruguay welcomed the adoption of the 2014 Family Protection Act which

criminalizes domestic violence and protects its victims. It noted that such measures needed

to be accompanied by education and awareness-raising campaigns. Uruguay encouraged

Solomon Islands to ensure that all the population benefitted from this Act, particularly in

ensuring access to justice. Uruguay encouraged Solomon Islands to interact with the

different stakeholders at the national and international levels to move forward with

accession to international human rights instruments and the presentation of reports, some of

which were overdue. Uruguay was concerned at the lack of legislation to protect persons

with disabilities from any form of discrimination, despite the recommendations accepted

during the first cycle, and encouraged the adoption of holistic legislation and the ratification

of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

39. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela noted the progress made to guarantee access

to basic services, in particular in the areas of health and education. It welcomed the

preparation of the National Development Strategy aimed at mitigating poverty, as well as,

inter alia, the gender policies, education action plan and measures to combat violence and

discrimination against women.

40. Algeria congratulated Solomon Islands for the progress made since its first review. It

noted in particular progress in the areas of immigration and combating human trafficking,

transparency in the management of public funding, gender equality and protection of the

family and children. It welcomed the adoption of national policies, in the areas of

development and the rights of persons with disabilities.

41. Argentina valued the efforts of Solomon Islands to implement recommendations

from the first review, in particular those aimed at guaranteeing access to education, through

the adoption of the National University Act. It noted the challenges and limitations

identified in the national report and mentioned some traditional practices that could still

affect the equal participation of members of the society, in particular women.

42. Armenia, while welcoming the measures taken to ratify international human rights

treaties and encouraged Solomon Islands to step up efforts regarding the core treaties that

have not yet been ratified. Armenia also welcomed the National Strategy for the Economic

Empowerment of Women and Girls and the steps to promote education for all. It noted that

there were still challenges to be addressed, such as the inadequate education infrastructure,

in particular, as it affected girls.

43. On the issue of trafficking, the delegation responded that Solomon Islands was

committed to strengthening its border security by reviewing the Immigration Act so that it

also covered transnational crimes.

44. The delegation explained that the Political Parties Integrity Act required 10 per cent

of political parties’ candidates to be women. Weaknesses in the Act were being reviewed

by the Electoral Commission and relevant government institutions. The delegation stated

that elections had been held successfully in 2014 under a new biometric system of voting,

following assistance from the United Kingdom, the United Nations and Australia.

45. The delegation stated that the Child and Family Welfare Bill would be presented at

the first sitting of Parliament in 2016 and that legislation against corruption was currently

being drafted. The delegation explained that the anti-corruption legislation and the

legislation to protect whistle-blowers were expected to be presented to Parliament within its

next two sittings.

46. The delegation was pleased to report that the overdue periodic reports under the

Convention on the Rights of the Child had received Cabinet approval and would soon be

submitted to the Committee. The process for ratifying the Optional Protocols relating to the

sale of children and armed conflict was gaining momentum.

47. Regarding the strengthening of the gender equality framework, a new economic

empowerment strategy was launched to increase women’s access to economic

opportunities. The policies on gender and elimination of violence against women were

currently under review. Solomon Islands committed to strengthening its border security by

reviewing the Immigration Act so that it covers transnational crimes.

48. Australia appreciated the efforts made since the previous universal periodic review,

including reforms to ensure voter confidence and participation in the 2014 election. It

welcomed the outreach efforts by the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force, which have

increased the reporting of sexual and gender-based violence to the police. Australia

remained concerned that Solomon Islands was a source and destination country for people

trafficking, while recognizing its long-standing abolition of the death penalty.

49. Benin appreciated the progress made by Solomon Islands in the implementation of

various recommendations from the previous review, including the use of the biometric

voter registration for the 2014 election, the constitutional reform process and the drafting of

legislation for the protection of children. It encouraged Solomon Islands to pursue efforts to

harmonize national legislation with international human rights instruments and in relation

to the sustainable management of natural resources.

50. Brazil appreciated the adoption of the Rural Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene

Policy. It encouraged the stepping up of efforts to further promote the full realization of

economic, social and cultural rights, particularly the rights to adequate housing, safe

drinking water and sanitation, including through international cooperation. Brazil

welcomed the adoption of the Family Protection Act, but remained concerned about the

high rate of violence, including sexual violence, against women and girls. Brazil

encouraged the promotion of women’s human rights, particularly through human rights

education and awareness-raising.

51. Canada acknowledged Solomon Islands’ renewed commitment to passing the Child

and Family Welfare Bill and encouraged consultations with all stakeholders for its prompt

adoption and implementation. Canada recognized the steps taken towards establishing an

independent national human rights institution, including through a provision in the 2014

draft federal Constitution and encouraged the establishment of such an institution.

52. Chile welcomed the delegation and valued the content of the national report which

sets out progress made in the area of human rights.

53. Cuba highlighted the adoption of legislation to combat domestic violence as an

important achievement for the protection of women and children. It recognized

improvements made in the norms and standards of the correctional services and the efforts

made to address climate change. It recognized progress made in the area of the right to

health, to which Cuba had contributed. Cuba urged the international community to continue

to support Solomon Islands.

54. Cyprus commended the measures taken by Solomon Islands to implement its

international human rights obligations. In particular, it welcomed the enactment of the

Immigration Act in 2012 and the Immigration Regulations in 2013, which criminalize

people smuggling and the trafficking of human beings.

55. The delegation stated that the draft federal Constitution contained provisions to

protect many human rights. The delegation reiterated that the electoral law needed serious

consideration as it was still weak in ensuring the participation of women.

56. The delegation agreed that new legislation was needed to address the issues of the

management and exploitation of forests in Solomon Islands. The Solomon Islands has 800

islands and 10 provinces, with 90 per cent of land owned by customary landowners and the

rest owned by Government through the Land Commissioner. The delegation explained that

the present Government would like to see the percentages reversed with 90 per cent of the

land registered and a modern land tenure system established, and thus, the Lands Title Act

1969 would need to be reviewed.

57. The delegation reported on the paucity of permanent housing in the villages and that

the Government had committed to budgeting for housing, especially in areas prone to

natural disasters, and for the supply of water, in particular to install water tanks in remote

areas.

58. Denmark was pleased that Solomon Islands had accepted recommendations during

the first review to ratify the Convention against Torture. It asked about the concrete steps

being taken in that regard. Denmark referred to the Convention against Torture Initiative,

which worked through government-to-government exchange and cooperation, and stood

ready to assist the Solomon Islands if deemed helpful.

59. Djibouti welcomed the progress made in terms of access to justice, health and

education services and gender equality. Djibouti highlighted the efforts to create an

independent national human rights institution and encouraged the continuation of those

efforts. Djibouti referred to the impact of climate change, in particular with regard to

population that might be forced to migrate from their ancestral territories to other areas,

which could result in tensions and conflicts with host communities. It encouraged the

promotion of understanding among decision-makers of the consequences of the exploitation

of forest resources and expressed concern about the rights of indigenous peoples.

60. Egypt commended the efforts of Solomon Islands in implementing 112 out of 115

recommendations from the first review. Egypt recognized the measures adopted for the

protection of women, children, older persons, persons with disabilities and minority groups.

It was encouraged by, inter alia, the development of a National Action Plan against Human

Trafficking and the establishment of the community-based rehabilitation unit to promote

the rights of persons with disabilities.

61. Estonia encouraged Solomon Islands to continue its efforts to become a party to all

core international human rights instruments and to cooperate fully with the United Nations

special procedures and treaty bodies. It encouraged Solomon Islands to take further steps

for the full implementation of the treaties it has already ratified and their incorporation into

domestic law. Estonia welcomed the new legislation, including the Child and Family

Welfare Bill and the Family Protection Act, and encouraged the implementation of such

policies as the National Strategy for the Economic Empowerment of Women and Girls.

Estonia hoped that stakeholders’ consultations would lead to a better reflection of

international human rights principles in the federal Constitution, including the principles of

equality and non-discrimination.

62. Fiji understood the difficulties faced by archipelagic States in ensuring the

implementation of legislation and policies across the country, particularly when they

affected long-held attitudes and behaviours regarded by some as culturally acceptable. Fiji

noted the significant steps taken to review legislation which currently did not prohibit

corporal punishment of children in school and the home. Fiji commended the passing of the

Family Protection Act in 2014 and the steps being taken to implement the provisions on

sexual abuse and domestic violence. Fiji noted the barriers to its effective implementation

due to traditional attitudes in the Police Force and the judiciary, which sometimes

encouraged reconciliation under pressure without putting in place measures to protect

against further violence.

63. France welcomed the efforts made by Solomon Islands since the last review in 2011,

notably the measures taken to prevent and combat domestic violence, in particular the

establishment of shelters for victims. It encouraged Solomon Islands to continue those

efforts.

64. Germany noted the positive developments in Solomon Islands in the fields of social

cohesion, governance and human trafficking and encouraged it to take further steps to

strengthen the national human rights situation. Germany welcomed the passing of the

Family Protection Act in 2014, which criminalizes domestic violence.

65. The delegation noted that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was the lead Ministry on

ratification of treaties for 2016-2017. The delegation stated that consideration might be

given to sharing the task of coordination in relation to ratification of human rights

instruments with the Ombudsman’s Office, as that office was open to receiving

representations from civil society.

66. The delegation explained that a review of the policy on the rights of persons with

disabilities had been prepared by the Ministry of Health and would be presented to Cabinet

for consideration and approval.

67. Ghana noted that Solomon Islands had enacted legislation aimed at upholding

human rights, including the Police Act and the Immigration Act. It was concerned about

ongoing land disputes between tribes and encouraged Solomon Islands to consider

publishing the findings of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and to implement the

recommendations addressing the root causes of land ownership.

68. Indonesia supported the efforts of Solomon Islands to enact specific legislation

which criminalizes all forms of violence against women, promotes greater participation and

representation of women in public life and promotes gender equality in the school

curriculum. Indonesia noted the situation of migrant workers, welcomed the efforts towards

establishing a national human rights institution and encouraged the involvement of civil

society as a partner of the Government.

69. Iraq welcomed the continued efforts made by Solomon Islands in the fields of public

health services, gender equality and education since the last review. It also welcomed the

enactment of the Immigration Act, which prohibits human trafficking, and of the Family

Protection Act, which criminalizes domestic violence.

70. Israel commended Solomon Islands for the creation of the National UPR Working

Committee and the National Risk Resilient Development Working Group and for the

endorsement of the National Strategy for the Economic Empowerment of Women and

Girls. It also commended Solomon Islands for the recent adoption of laws such as the

Immigration Act, the Immigration Regulations, the National University Act, the Police Act

and the Family Protection Act.

71. Italy welcomed the progress achieved by Solomon Islands since the first cycle of the

review and the priority assigned to poverty alleviation and climate change through the

National Development Strategy, 2011-2020 and the Climate Change Policy, 2012-2017. It

encouraged the authorities to continue prioritizing the issue of combating human trafficking

and welcomed the measures taken to combat human trafficking and took note of the steps

taken to combat violence and discrimination against women.

72. Jamaica commended Solomon Islands for the creation of the National UPR Working

Committee and urged continued collaboration with the United Nations to improve the

submission of human rights reports. It noted as positive the strides made to combat

domestic violence and the importance of young mothers returning to school in helping to

break the cycle of poverty, teenage pregnancy and domestic abuse. Jamaica commended

Solomon Islands for its fortitude in the wake of an economy beset by recent natural

disasters.

73. Maldives welcomed the adoption of a number of laws and the ratification of a

number of ILO fundamental conventions. It encouraged Solomon Islands to continue

reaching out to international partners, including OHCHR, for financial, technical and other

assistance towards the promotion and protection of human rights. Maldives commended

efforts to highlight the vulnerabilities of small island developing States and national action

taken to combat the effects of climate change and natural disasters.

74. The delegation indicated that the Government was taking concrete steps towards

ratifying the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and had established a

national and provincial coordinating committee with field offices and coordinators on

disability in nearly all major provinces. The delegation reported that a national disability

inclusive policy existed and that disability was a key priority issue under the National

Health Strategy.

75. The delegation referred to challenges in implementing the Convention on the Rights

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

Women due to capacity and budget constraints and a lack of understanding about the

Conventions.

76. Regarding the advancement of women’s rights, the delegation stated that greater

support from government sectors, civil society and development partners was needed to

ensure the effective implementation of the new Family Protection Act.

77. The delegation stated that the Immigration Act contained provisions relating to

trafficking in persons. A national action plan and an enforcement unit for human trafficking

were in place as well as a trafficking in persons advisory committee in the Department of

Immigration and Border Security. The delegation indicated that consideration was being

given to drafting a stand-alone law against human trafficking.

78. The delegation referred to the collective position of small island developing States

on the issue of climate change at the international conference held in Paris, France, in

December 2015 and to the implementation of the outcome document of that conference.

The delegation referred to the challenges faced by persons living in coastal areas and by

Solomon Islands in providing safer settlements inland with water supply and other services.

Solomon Islands would welcome international assistance in that regard.

79. The delegation stated that the delays in implementing the Family Protection Act

were due to the need to train police and raise public awareness about that Act.

80. Mexico welcomed the setting up by Solomon Islands of the Civil Registration and

Vital Statistics System and the legislative measures taken to criminalize domestic violence.

It also welcomed the adoption of the National Strategy for the Economic Empowerment of

Women and Girls and the Solomon Islands National Council of Women Elections

Campaign Strategy, 2014-2015. Mexico acknowledged efforts to guarantee universal

education and the development of a national plan on HIV and sexually transmitted diseases.

81. Montenegro recognized the efforts made by Solomon Islands to improve the

protection of human rights, despite a backdrop of limited capacities and resource

constraints. It welcomed the adoption of the Family Protection Act, which criminalizes

domestic violence, and efforts to establish an anti-corruption commission. Montenegro

encouraged Solomon Islands to seek and use technical assistance from OHCHR and

relevant United Nations agencies in the country to strengthen its national capacities and

fulfil its reporting obligations.

82. Morocco welcomed, in particular, the ratification of the ILO Conventions

concerning child labour and discrimination and the cooperation with United Nations human

rights mechanisms. Morocco noted particular laws and policies adopted by Solomon

Islands in relation to the right to an adequate standard of living, the status of women and

children, non-discrimination and gender equality, education, environment and climate

change.

83. Myanmar noted as positive the adoption of the National Development Strategy,

2011-2020, which reflects Solomon Islands’ commitment to reform in sectors such as

poverty alleviation, health, education and climate change. Myanmar also took note of the

Climate Change Policy, 2012-2017 to address climate change adaptation, mitigation and

disaster risk management.

84. Namibia acknowledged the challenges faced by Solomon Islands in fulfilling the

needs of its citizens as a consequence of its small economy, limited market opportunities

and topography. Namibia commended the Immigration Act and encouraged Solomon

Islands to continue its efforts to enhance the legislation to combat internal trafficking

activities. Namibia took note of the National Development Strategy, 2011-2020 and its core

objectives.

85. The Netherlands, while commending human rights progress made within the

legislative and policy frameworks, was particularly concerned about discrimination based

on sexual orientation or gender identity. The Netherlands echoed the concerns of the

Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women over the implementation

of legislation on violence against women. It noted that the Rome Statue had not yet been

ratified.

86. New Zealand recognized the commitment that small island developing States

demonstrated in engaging with the Human Rights Council and the universal periodic

review. It acknowledged the commitment to streamline human rights reporting and improve

inter-agency coordination. New Zealand noted that Solomon Islands continued to have one

of the world’s highest rates of violence against women and encouraged engagement with

communities, villages, families, churches and all levels of Government to ensure that

violence against women and children is considered culturally unacceptable.

87. Regarding the exploitation of migrant workers, the delegation indicated that current

legislation, including the Labour Act, provided sufficient protection. The delegation

reported that the Labour Act was under review and that consideration was being given to

the review of other legislation in relation to their conformity with ILO principles.

88. The delegation highlighted that a feasibility study was being carried out on the

establishment of a children’s commission to consider complaints relating to the rights of the

child.

89. The delegation stated that the Education Bill, which would be presented to

Parliament, provided for the abolition of the use of corporal punishment in schools.

90. The delegation reported on the Government’s plans regarding drafting reports for

treaties that have not yet been signed, such as the Convention against Torture, and to

undertake a holistic approach to stakeholders’ consultation on the matter, during the tenure

of the current Government.

91. The delegation indicated that discussions within Government were ongoing

regarding the ratification of the Rome Statute.

92. Nigeria noted with satisfaction the enactment of the Immigration Act and the

Immigration Regulations, aimed at tackling human trafficking. It also noted the

establishment of the National University Act in providing for quality education; the

enactment of the Public Finance Management Act to build transparency in the management

of public finance; and the proposal in the draft federal Constitution for the establishment of

a national human rights institution.

93. Pakistan commended the Family Protection Act, the Land Titles Act, the National

Strategy for the Economic Empowerment of Women and Girls, the National Education

Action Plan and the National Policy on Disability Inclusive Development. It also

appreciated the efforts made to alleviate poverty, support vulnerable members of society,

ensure protection from natural disasters and improve governance to achieve the Sustainable

Development Goals.

94. Panama welcomed the progress made by Solomon Islands in promoting the rights to

education and health, reducing youth unemployment and combating domestic violence and

human trafficking. It highlighted the adoption of the Immigration Act, the Family

Protection Act, the National Development Strategy and other measures aimed at eradicating

poverty and providing support to vulnerable groups. Panama expressed concern over

practices that discriminated against women and were socially acceptable.

95. Paraguay welcomed the ratification of several ILO fundamental conventions and

invited Solomon Islands to ratify the main international human rights conventions. It also

took note of the use of the Millennium Development Goals as indicators for the

implementation of the National Development Strategy, 2011-2020. Paraguay welcomed the

establishment of a committee to follow up on the universal periodic review

recommendations. Paraguay requested additional information, including on measures taken

to combat the practice of the bride price.

96. The Philippines acknowledged the progress made, including the ratification of ILO

fundamental conventions and the development of a 10-year National Development

Strategy. It recognized the improvements to strengthen the democratic system, enhance

correctional facilities and combat the negative impact of climate change. The Philippines

noted the remaining challenges regarding gender equality and violence against women and

children and encouraged endeavours to increase the participation of women in rural areas.

97. In its closing remarks, the delegation referred not only to the significant

achievements made so far, but also recognized that much still remained to be achieved,

which would take time, resources and commitment.

98. With respect to sexual orientation and gender identity, the delegation stated that the

Government maintained the same position. The delegation thanked all the speakers who

participated in the dialogue. It also acknowledged its development partners, national non-

governmental organizations and civil society for working together with Solomon Islands in

the universal periodic review process and looked forward to continuing such work in the

future.

II. Conclusions and/or recommendations**

99. The recommendations formulated during the interactive dialogue and listed

below have been examined by Solomon Islands and enjoy the support of Solomon

Islands:

99.1 Ratify and/or accede promptly to, as appropriate, the three Optional

Protocols to the Convention on the Rights of the Child (Uruguay); Ratify the

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

involvement of children in armed conflict (Switzerland); Ratify the Optional

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

child prostitution and child pornography (Panama);

99.2 Ensure that the rights of children are protected by codifying the

provisions of the Convention on the Rights of the Child in the national

legislation and ratifying the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights

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

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

child prostitution and child pornography (Germany);

99.3 Progress domestic child protection legislation and ratify the Optional

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

child prostitution and child pornography (Australia);

99.4 Carry out training activities and exchange of experiences on human

rights with other countries of the Pacific Islands (Cuba);

99.5 Seek the required technical assistance in order to meet its various

human rights obligations (Sierra Leone);

99.6 Implement those measures that the Government of Solomon Islands

committed to promoting, in line with paragraph 125 of your national report

(Panama);

99.7 Continue to work closely with international human rights institutions

(Pakistan);

99.8 Submit its overdue reports to the relevant treaty bodies (Sierra

Leone);

99.9 Present, before the next review, the combined report to the

Committee on the Rights of the Child (Uruguay);

99.10 Adopt a national plan of action against sexual exploitation of children

and against child labour. Raise the minimum age of criminal responsibility to

internationally accepted standards and ensure that juvenile justice protection is

accorded to all children up to the age of 18 years, as previously recommended

(Slovenia);

99.11 Take all necessary measures to ensure the protection of children’s

rights, in line with the international obligations of Solomon Islands,

particularly by putting in place a juvenile justice system (France);

99.12 Continue efforts to guarantee access to girls, boys, women and

persons with disabilities to health services, education services, drinking water

and sanitation (Mexico);

**

The conclusions and recommendations have not been edited.

99.13 Enhance the protection of children from abuse, including

prostitution, child pornography and forced marriages (United States of

America);

99.14 Provide constitutional and legal protection for children against all

forms of violence at home and at school (Fiji);

99.15 Legislative protection for children includes criminal sanctions for all

forms of violence against children (Fiji);

99.16 Combat stereotypes regarding the role of women, in particular by

sensitizing the population in rural areas (Argentina);

99.17 Promote a culture of equality through equal participation of all

members of society and particularly the participation of women in rural areas

(Morocco);

99.18 Do not discriminate against women in different political economic

and social areas (Iraq);

99.19 Continue to implement laws and regulations for the protection and

socioeconomic growth of women and the rights of children (Pakistan);

99.20 Increase gender equality (Cyprus);

99.21 Strengthen strategies that are aimed at increasing gender equality

and the economic empowerment of women (Nigeria);

99.22 Take steps towards the effective implementation of the National

Policy on Gender Equality and Women’s Development and the National Policy

on Ending Violence against Women, through coordination, advocacy,

awareness-raising and resource allocation (Canada);

99.23 Develop a concrete action plan to encourage and support women’s

active involvement in economic and political life, including effective measures

to increase women’s involvement in the economy and formal political

institutions by addressing existing legal, social, and cultural barriers (United

States of America);

99.24 Take measures to ensure non-discrimination against women within

all sectors of society, particularly with regard to access to education and

employment, and to amend and align all existing laws in this regard (Namibia);

99.25 Use the advantage of its matrilineal society to improve women’s

access to power, especially in relation to land issues; raise the social standing of

women and girls; increase access to safe sanitary facilities and encourage the

rearing of confident boys and men (Jamaica);

99.26 Take effective measures to increase women’s participation in public

and political life as well as in the labour market, in particular considering

temporary special measures such as statutory quotas or incentives (Republic of

Korea);

99.27 Intensify efforts to facilitate the participation of women in political

and public affairs (Argentina);

99.28 Continue its efforts to facilitate greater participation and

representation of women in public offices and in higher levels of decision-

making positions (Israel);

99.29 Take further steps to increase participation by women in Parliament,

and in government leadership positions, including through further

consideration of temporary special measures (New Zealand);

99.30 Conduct awareness raising and sensitization programmes to

empower women, advance women’s rights and ensure gender equality

(Maldives);

99.31 Consider taking all necessary measures to eliminate violence and

discrimination against women in all areas of public and private life (Mexico);

99.32 Strengthen, through adequate sanctions and awareness-raising

campaigns, the fight against gender violence. In this regard, consider the

adoption of measures, such as quotas, incentives and/or preferential treatment,

that promote the incorporation of women into education and the economy, both

in the public and private spheres (Chile);

99.33 Step up measures aimed at eliminating violence against women and

establish clear monitoring objectives for the implementation of policies against

violence against women (Slovenia);

99.34 Take stronger measures to combat domestic violence and protect its

victims (Maldives);

99.35 Ensure the effective implementation of the Family Protection Act of

2014 (Italy);

99.36 Establish appropriate policies to account for and remedy any

deficiencies in the application of the Family Protection Act of 2014 and adopt a

strategy involving civil society in combating and eliminating domestic violence,

sexual abuse and any other form violence against women (Uruguay);1

99.37 Take measures to ensure that the police respond to and investigate

complaints regarding violence against women and that the perpetrators are

prosecuted and punished, and collect data on the number of prosecutions and

convictions, including at the provincial level (Netherlands);

99.38 Strengthen the role of the Family Violence Support Unit of the Police

and provide all police forces with adequate training on how to treat cases of

violence against women and domestic violence and how to provide support to

victims (Italy);

99.39 Give more budgetary allocation to the training of police officers and

the judiciary to ensure that women have equal and substantive access to justice

under the Family Protection Act (Fiji);

99.40 Strengthen the SAFENET Referral Network system for women who

are victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse and consider establishing in

all provinces shelters accessible to all women, including those with disabilities

(Republic of Korea);

99.41 Strengthen the SAFENET referral system for women who are victims

of violence, establish shelters for women in all provinces of the Solomon

1 The recommendation was read as follows: Establish appropriate policies to account for and remedy

any deficiencies in the application of the Act of 2014, and adopt a strategy involving civil society in

combating and elimination of domestic violence, sexual abuse and any other form violence against

women.

Islands, and ensure that they are accessible without discrimination, including to

women with disabilities (Canada);

99.42 Take measures to combat violence against women and children and

to ensure effective complaint mechanisms for victims (Namibia);

99.43 Increase its efforts to address violence against women and children as

an urgent priority. This includes fully implementing the Family Protection Act

and providing necessary resourcing to ensure that vulnerable women and

children have access to both safe dwellings and mechanisms of justice (New

Zealand);

99.44 Create and strengthen, where appropriate, legislative and other

measures to address the sexual exploitation of women and girls (Trinidad and

Tobago);

99.45 Establish an independent body to monitor and promote human

rights, including progress made on the Truth and Reconciliation Committee’s

recommendations with regard to abuses committed during the Tensions

(Australia);

99.46 Increase the access of the rural population to the formal justice

system (Trinidad and Tobago);

99.47 Pursue efforts to guarantee the effective functioning of the Truth and

Reconciliation Commission (France);

99.48 Continue making progress in eradicating poverty, through the

application of their social policies aimed at increasing the living standards of its

people, in particular the most vulnerable sectors of the population (Bolivarian

Republic of Venezuela);

99.49 Allocate the same attention and resources to both the human rights to

water and to sanitation (Spain);

99.50 Improve access to health services (Trinidad and Tobago);

99.51 Strengthen the education system to reduce gender disparity and

improve the education standard throughout the country (Maldives);

99.52 Take the necessary steps to improve education infrastructure with

the aim of ensuring girls’ access to school (Armenia);

99.53 Permit and encourage female students to return to formal education

after giving birth, in keeping with the recommendation made during the review

of the Education Act (Jamaica);

99.54 Increase support for families to facilitate the pursuance by children

of primary and secondary education (Trinidad and Tobago);

99.55 Further strengthen the necessary measures to address climate

change, environmental degradation and disaster management (Myanmar).

100. The following recommendations will be examined by Solomon Islands which

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

Human Rights Council, in June 2016:

100.1 Continue efforts taken towards the ratification of international

human rights instruments and harmonization of national legislation (Morocco);

100.2 Consider signing and ratifying those international human rights

instruments to which it is not yet a party to (Argentina);

100.3 Ratify and implement all major international human rights treaties

(Slovenia);

100.4 Ratify and accede to the international treaties to which it is not yet a

party (Iraq);

100.5 Sign and ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political

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

Degrading Treatment or Punishment, in line with recommendation accepted in

the first cycle of the review (Brazil);

100.6 Consider ratifying the International Covenant on Civil and Political

Rights and its Optional Protocols (Ghana);

100.7 Consider ratifying the International Covenant on Civil and Political

Rights (Italy) (Republic of Korea) (Philippines);

100.8 Continue and step up its efforts towards the ratification of or

accession to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights

(Indonesia); Redouble its efforts for the ratification of the International

Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Chile);

100.9 Complete its international commitments by ratifying on a priority

basis the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (France);

100.10 Continue its efforts to complete the accession to the relevant

instruments such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights

(Mexico);

100.11 Ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights

(Portugal) (Algeria) (Montenegro);

100.12 Consider ratifying the Second Optional Protocol to the International

Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Italy);

100.13 Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on

Civil and Political Rights (Portugal) (Australia);

100.14 Consider ratifying the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel,

Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Republic of Korea) (Ghana)

(Philippines);

100.15 Continue and step up its efforts in the ratification of or accession to

the Convention against Torture (Indonesia);

100.16 Continue its efforts to complete the accession to the relevant

instruments such as the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman

or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Mexico);

100.17 Intensify its efforts to ratify the Convention against Torture and

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

Redouble its efforts for the ratification of the Convention against Torture and

Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Chile);

100.18 Ratify the Convention against Torture, and Other Cruel, Inhuman

and Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Portugal) (Montenegro);

100.19 Ratify the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or

Degrading Treatment or Punishment, that it has already signed (France);

Ratify the core human rights instruments, including the Convention against

Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment

(Sierra Leone);

100.20 Consider ratifying the International Convention on the Protection of

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

(Philippines);

100.21 Continue its efforts to improve measures to promote and protect the

rights of migrant workers in the country, including to consider accession of the

International Convention on the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members

of Their Families (Indonesia);

100.22 Continue its efforts to complete the accession to the relevant

instruments such as the International Convention on the Protection of the

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

Redouble its efforts for the ratification of the International Convention on the

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

Families (Chile);

100.23 Ratify the core human rights instruments, including the International

Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and

Members of Their Families (Sierra Leone);

100.24 Consider ratifying the Convention on the Rights of Persons with

Disabilities (Republic of Korea) (Philippines) and its Optional Protocol

(Ghana);

100.25 Continue its efforts to complete the accession to the relevant

instruments such as the International Convention on the Rights of Persons with

Disabilities and its Optional Protocol (Mexico);

100.26 Take further measures to ensure persons with disabilities enjoy their

rights, in particular by ratifying the Convention on the Rights of Persons with

Disabilities (Algeria);

100.27 Sign and ratify the Convention on the Rights of Persons with

Disabilities (France);

100.28 Ratify the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

(Slovenia) (Panama); Ratify more human rights instruments, especially the

Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (Israel);

100.29 Consider ratifying the International Convention for the Protection of

All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (Ghana);

100.30 Sign and ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All

Persons from Enforced Disappearance (France);

100.31 Ratify the core human rights instruments, including the International

Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance

(Sierra Leone); Redouble its efforts for the ratification of the International

Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance

(Chile);

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

Crime of Genocide (Armenia);

100.33 Consider ratifying the Rome Statute of the International Criminal

Court (Ghana); Take concrete steps towards acceding to/ratifying the Rome

Statute of the International Criminal Court (Cyprus);

100.34 Ratify the Rome Statute and fully align its national legislation with its

provisions (Portugal);

100.35 Ratify the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court

(Canada) (New Zealand);

100.36 Ratify the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court and

accede to the Agreement on Privileges and Immunities of the Court (Estonia);

100.37 Sign and ratify the Arms Trade Treaty (New Zealand);

100.38 Ratify the Palermo Protocol (Panama);

100.39 Ratify ILO Conventions No. 169 (indigenous and tribal peoples) and

No. 189 (domestic workers) (Benin);

100.40 Accelerate the process of adopting a new federal Constitution

(Philippines);

100.41 Include in the new federal Constitution provisions on equality and

non-discrimination between man and woman, in line with articles 1 and 2 of the

Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women

(Paraguay);

100.42 Repeal all legislation incompatible with the principle of equality and

non-discrimination, including provisions of customary law, as recommended by

the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (Slovenia);

100.43 Ensure that those laws related to acquisition, transmission,

conserving and loss of nationality are in line with the principle of non-

discrimination (Paraguay);

100.44 Ensure that national laws are in line with international human rights

standards (Philippines);

100.45 Continue to promote and protect the fundamental freedoms and

human rights of all its citizens (Nigeria);

100.46 Take steps to establish an independent national human rights

institution (New Zealand);

100.47 Hasten the process of establishing the national human rights

commission in line with the proposal of the 2014 draft Constitution (Nigeria);

100.48 Take all the necessary measures to establish an independent national

human rights institution with “A” status, in accordance with the Paris

Principles (Portugal);

100.49 Mandate the Office of the Ombudsman or another entity to receive

and address complaints by women about discrimination (Canada);

100.50 Establish and set up a national human rights institution in

conformity with the Paris Principles (Chile);

100.51 Increase the mandates of existing institutions such as the

Ombudsman’s Office and the Leadership Code Commission, to address human

rights issues (Jamaica);

100.52 Incorporate human rights and the needs for their implementation

and funding in its National Development Strategy (Cuba);

100.53 Further enhance its measures for the promotion and protection of

human rights through, among others, developing a comprehensive human

rights national action plan (Indonesia);

100.54 Strengthen the national follow-up systems for monitoring

international recommendations, taking necessary measures for coordinating

such systems and provide them with the necessary financial resources in order

to fulfil their objectives (Paraguay);

100.55 Consider developing a broad programme on human rights which

includes training and capacity-building for the public sector (Egypt);

100.56 Step up policies to protect children in order to eliminate violence

against girls and boys, as well as combating child labour (Mexico);

100.57 End all forms of corporal punishment of children in all settings,

including in the home and in schools, by enforcing its prohibition, as previously

recommended (Slovenia);

100.58 Prohibit corporal punishment of children in all settings, including in

the home (Estonia);

100.59 Abolish customary laws and practices that establish child marriage

and also the payment of a bride price (Panama);

100.60 Combat early marriage and the practice of bride price, in line with

what was said by the Special Rapporteur on violence against women, its causes

and consequences (Spain);

100.61 Reform the Penal Code with a provision encompassing the definition

and criminalization of all forms of sexual violence, including rape (Sierra

Leone);

100.62 Allocate the necessary human, technical and financial resources to

the police services, at both local and national levels, so that they can address all

complaints of violence against women (Switzerland);

100.63 Implement measures to punish traffickers and prevent child

prostitution and forced marriage (Australia);

100.64 Enforce fully recently introduced legislation to protect women and

girls from gender-based violence, including prosecutions for individuals

suspected of human trafficking (United Kingdom of Great Britain and

Northern Ireland);

100.65 Pass a law to criminalize all forms of human trafficking and ratify

the 2000 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);

100.66 Further strengthen its measures to combat all forms of trafficking in

persons and protect and rehabilitate its victims (Egypt);

100.67 Punish sex tourism and particularly prosecute the sexual exploitation

of girls through pornography, sexual abuse and rape (Spain);

100.68 Disseminate publically the report of its Truth and Reconciliation

Commission and implement the recommendations it proposed (Switzerland);

100.69 Introduce freedom of information legislation in compliance with

international standards (Estonia);

100.70 Step up efforts to ensure that primary education is compulsory as

well as free of charge, and improve the capacity of all educational institutions,

importantly through the increase of budget allocations towards education

(Republic of Korea);

100.71 Make primary education compulsory, ensuring particularly the

inclusion of girls and persons with disabilities in the educational system

(Spain);

100.72 Ratify the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous

Peoples (Djibouti);

100.73 Continue with its efforts to develop a national policy for the benefit of

persons with disabilities, including the ratification of the Convention on the

Rights of Persons with Disabilities (Germany);

100.74 Work on improving the physical access for persons with disabilities

(Trinidad and Tobago);

100.75 Implement measures to ensure the full enjoyment of rights by

persons with disabilities, especially regarding inclusive education and

development (Israel);

100.76 Ensure that corporations, particularly those active in the forest

industry, respect human and environmental rights, based on the Guiding

Principles on Business and Human Rights (Switzerland);

100.77 Create a permanent national protection group responsible for

addressing displacements caused by climate change or natural disasters

(Djibouti);

100.78 Approve the roadmap on the reduction of emissions resulting from

deforestation and forest degradation, on the role of conservation and

sustainable forest management and on the reinforcement of forest carbon

stocks (Benin).

101. The recommendations below did not enjoy the support of Solomon Islands and

would thus be noted:

101.1 Take measures to prevent and combat discrimination based on sexual

orientation and gender identity, including by decriminalizing sexual relations

between consenting adults of the same sex (Brazil);

101.2 Adopt measures to ensure full enjoyment of rights and equality to

lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex people, both in terms of

legislation as well as on policies and practices (Israel);

101.3 Extend the scope of the Penal Code (Sexual Offences) (Amendment)

Bill of 2015 to clarify existing, and create new, legislation to protect the human

rights of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex community

(United Kingdom);

101.4 Adopt comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation, including on

discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity, and repeal any

laws which result in, or are likely to result in, the discrimination, prosecution

and punishment of people solely for their sexual orientation or gender identity

(Netherlands);

101.5 Decriminalize sexual activities between consenting adults of the same

sex, as previously recommended (Slovenia);

101.6 Decriminalize sexual relations between consenting adults of the same

sex (Chile).

102. 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 Solomon Islands was headed by Mr. Milner TOZAKA,

Honourable Minister, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, and composed of the

following members:

• Mr. Joseph MA’AHANUA – Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and

External Trade;

• Ms. Ethel SIGIMANU – Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women, Youth, Children

and Family Affairs;

• Mr. Karl KUPER – Under-Secretary, Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs;

• Ms. Elsie TALOAFIRI – Coordinator, Community Based Rehabilitation

(Disabilities Division), Ministry of Health and Medical Services;

• Ms. Mirriam LIDIMANI – Legal Adviser, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External

Trade;

• Ms. Jolina TAUSINGA – Senior Desk Officer, United Nations and Americas Desk,

Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade;

• Mr. Barrett SALATO – Minister Counsellor, Permanent Mission of Solomon Islands

in Geneva.