32/9 Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review - Paraguay

Human Rights Council Thirty-second session

Agenda item 6

Universal periodic review

Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review*

Paraguay

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

Contents

Page

Introduction ...................................................................................................................................... 3

I. Summary of the proceedings of the review process ......................................................................... 3

A. Presentation by the State under review .................................................................................... 3

B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review ................................................. 4

II. Conclusions and/or recommendations .............................................................................................. 12

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 Paraguay was held at the 5th meeting on 20 January 2016. The

delegation of Paraguay was headed by the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador

Óscar Cabello. At its 10th meeting, held on 22 January 2016, the Working Group adopted

the report on Paraguay.

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

rapporteurs (troika) to facilitate the review of Paraguay: Algeria, Cuba and Saudi Arabia.

3. In accordance with paragraph 15 of the annex to Human Rights Council resolution

5/1 and paragraph 5 of the annex to Council resolution 16/21, the following documents

were issued for the review of Paraguay:

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

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

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

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

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

Mexico, the Netherlands, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom of Great

Britain and Northern Ireland was transmitted to Paraguay through the troika. These

questions are available on the extranet of the universal periodic review. Additional

questions raised during the dialogue by India, Montenegro and the United Kingdom are

summarized in section I.B below.

I. Summary of the proceedings of the review process

A. Presentation by the State under review

5. The head of the delegation noted that Paraguay had come to the second review

convinced that dialogue and cooperation at the international level could contribute to

improving the promotion and protection of human rights. Paraguay aimed to share its

achievements and challenges regarding the implementation of the recommendations from

the first review cycle in an open and transparent manner.

6. Paraguay had always sought to cooperate with the United Nations human rights

mechanisms and had issued a standing, open invitation to the special procedures of the

Council. During the past four years, the Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or

belief, the Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights, the Special Rapporteur

on the rights of indigenous peoples, the Special Rapporteur on the right of everyone to the

enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health and the Special

Rapporteur on the rights of persons with disabilities, as well as the Deputy High

Commissioner for Human Rights, had visited the country. Paraguay was up-to-date with all

its reports to the treaty bodies and had recently updated its common core document.

7. Paraguay was currently a member of the Human Rights Council and sought to work

in a responsible manner together with other countries. It had supported declarations and

resolutions that reflected human rights priorities and cooperation, especially through the

exchange of good practices among countries, the United Nations system and civil society.

8. Paraguay had focused on making good use of its experience to strengthen the

international human rights mechanisms, in particular in the area of follow-up to universal

periodic review recommendations, through the development of the innovative and

participative Recommendations Monitoring System. The system, which was the result of

the experience of national institutions, had been developed with technical support and

guidance from the Human Rights Adviser of OHCHR in the country. The system was built

around thematic areas of work and facilitated the preparation of reports and the

implementation of recommendations through national plans of action, and now formed the

basis for the development of human rights indicators. In order to share that experience,

Paraguay, together with Brazil, had sponsored a Council resolution on promoting

international cooperation to support national human rights follow-up systems and

processes. Paraguay had also created a bilateral cooperation programme to share its

experience with other interested States.

9. The delegation reported on the progress it had made and the challenges it had faced

in the implementation of recommendations since the previous review. Paraguay had been

consolidating a culture of democracy and the integration of a human rights-based approach

in public policies with some significant results in the areas of poverty reduction and

improvement in social conditions favouring inclusion and addressing inequalities. Paraguay

had also begun combating corruption.

10. With regard to the prevention of torture, Paraguay was the first country in the region

to have created a national mechanism for the prevention of torture, in line with the Optional

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

Treatment or Punishment. On the basis of the methodology developed by OHCHR, the

judicial branch had also formulated indicators on the right to a fair trial. Other initiatives

had included the development of a guide to harmonize State justice with indigenous justice,

guidelines on access to justice by older persons and persons with disabilities, and principles

on juvenile restorative justice. The Minister of Public Defence and the Public Prosecution

Service had also been strengthened.

11. Paraguay reiterated the importance of the international human rights system, in

particular the universal periodic review mechanism, and highlighted the valuable work of

OHCHR in that regard. Paraguay remained open to receiving comments and suggestions

that could enable it to continue improving the protection of human rights at the national

level.

B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review

12. During the interactive dialogue, 76 delegations made statements. Recommendations

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

statements of the delegations, to be checked against delivery on the United Nations

Webcast archives,1 are posted on the extranet of the Human Rights Council when

available.2

13. Argentina noted with satisfaction the implementation of the National Human Rights

Action Plan, the designation of the national mechanism for the prevention of torture, the

1 http://webtv.un.org/meetings-events/human-rights-council/universal-periodic-review/24th-

upr/watch/paraguay-upr-adoption-24th-session-of-universal-periodic-review/4716532396001.

2 www.ohchr.org/EN/HRBodies/UPR/Pages/PYSession24.aspx.

development of the Recommendations Monitoring System and efforts to promote the rights

of persons with disabilities.

14. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela highlighted progress made to combat

poverty, address domestic violence, and improve access to basic and secondary education

and health services.

15. Australia noted that further measures were required to protect land reform advocates

from intimidation and violence, to investigate gender-based violence and to guarantee

protection from all forms of discrimination.

16. Austria expressed concern at the high number of journalists, human rights defenders

and lawyers who had been attacked or killed, and the high rates of child pregnancy and

maternal mortality.

17. Azerbaijan commended Paraguay for its efforts to strengthen the human rights

framework, protect children and persons with disabilities, reduce poverty and raise people’s

standard of living.

18. Belgium welcomed the designation of the national mechanism for the prevention of

torture. It noted that in certain areas, such as the rights of the child and those of women and

girls, there was room for progress.

19. Benin welcomed the adoption of laws and policies on forced disappearances, the

upgrading the Secretariat for Women to a Ministry, and the National Health Policy.

20. The Plurinational State of Bolivia recognized the progress that had been made to

improve human rights since the first review, specifically the narrowing of the

socioeconomic gap and the implementation of the Recommendations Monitoring System.

21. Greece commended Paraguay for its acceptance of all the recommendations from the

first review, the National Development Plan to 2030, the National Policy on Children and

Adolescents and the abolition of the death penalty.

22. Regarding indigenous rights and land settlement, Canada was concerned that the

process of expropriation approved by Congress in 2014 had not yet been implemented to

comply with the rulings of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights.

23. Chad encouraged Paraguay to reinforce its normative and institutional framework

with a view to improving enjoyment of economic, social and cultural rights.

24. Chile highlighted the creation of the national mechanism for the prevention of

torture and the adoption of several national laws and plans promoting the rights of women,

children and people with disabilities.

25. Colombia highlighted the establishment of the Recommendations Monitoring

System and reaffirmed its commitment to continue working with Paraguay to address

trafficking in persons.

26. Costa Rica welcomed the establishment of the national mechanism for the

prevention of torture and the Recommendations Monitoring System. However, it was

concerned about cases of violence against and murders of journalists and human rights

defenders.

27. Cuba recognized the efforts of Paraguay to eradicate poverty and uphold the

economic, political, social and cultural rights of women living in rural areas with a view to

their development and empowerment.

28. Djibouti acknowledged the progress made by Paraguay since the first review cycle

to strengthen the legislative and institutional framework for the protection and promotion of

human rights.

29. Ecuador highlighted the initiatives Paraguay had taken to promote social

development, a human rights-based approach to poverty eradication and the National

Development Plan to 2030.

30. Egypt noted with satisfaction the establishment of the national mechanism for the

prevention of torture and the implementation of the Recommendations Monitoring System.

Egypt urged Paraguay to increase its efforts to reduce poverty.

31. Ethiopia noted the domestication of international human rights instruments, and the

introduction of human rights training in schools. It commended Paraguay for its

commitment to poverty reduction.

32. France made a statement and recommendations.

33. Georgia encouraged Paraguay to allocate sufficient resources to the national

mechanism for the prevention of torture. It expressed concern about the situation of human

rights defenders and judicial and administrative proceedings against journalists, and urged

the Government to conduct investigations into such cases.

34. Germany commended Paraguay for its engagement in the Human Rights Council. It

appreciated the introduction of mechanisms to monitor the implementation of the country’s

international obligations.

35. Ghana was concerned about allegations of harassment and killings of journalists and

human rights defenders. It encouraged Paraguay to investigate the allegations and bring the

perpetrators to justice.

36. Brazil welcomed the improvements that had been made to the legal and institutional

framework and the establishment of the Recommendations Monitoring System, which had

inspired it.

37. Guatemala commended Paraguay for the reforms undertaken to prohibit the sale of

children, child pornography, commercial sexual exploitation of children and trafficking in

persons.

38. Haiti noted that Paraguay had accepted all the recommendations from the first

review cycle and congratulated it on its efforts to combat the sexual exploitation of children

and adolescents.

39. The Holy See recognized the efforts to improve communication between civil

authorities and indigenous communities, reduce extreme poverty and address corruption

and trafficking in persons.

40. Honduras commended Paraguay on its efforts to reduce poverty and recognized its

contribution to promoting good practices with the creation and implementation of the

Recommendations Monitoring System.

41. India noted that Paraguay was up-to-date with its submission of reports to the treaty

bodies. India requested information on the operational aspects of the National Development

Plan to 2030.

42. Indonesia commended Paraguay for strengthening the legislative framework and

providing inclusive education. It noted the efforts that had been made to formulate the

National Human Rights Action Plan.

43. The Islamic Republic of Iran was concerned about the absence of a policy on

protecting the rights of indigenous peoples, and about the level of trafficking in persons.

44. Iraq commended Paraguay for its efforts to implement the recommendations from

the first review cycle.

45. Israel commended Paraguay for having taken several measures, including the

adoption of the National Human Rights Action Plan and of a protocol applicable to

transgender persons who had been deprived of their liberty.

46. Italy appreciated the prioritization of measures to tackle extreme poverty and to

uphold women’s rights, as indicated by the creation of the Ministry for Women.

47. Kazakhstan welcomed the establishment of the national mechanism for the

prevention of torture and of the Recommendations Monitoring System, which would

facilitate efforts to follow up on recommendations made during the first review and

recommendations made by treaty bodies and special procedures.

48. Kuwait welcomed measures to reduce poverty and combat human trafficking, the

creation of the National Secretariat to Combat Corruption, and efforts to strengthen the

rights of persons with disabilities.

49. Kyrgyzstan noted that Paraguay had made unprecedented steps to strengthen the

legislative, institutional and policy mechanisms concerning human rights, and had issued a

standing invitation to all the special procedure mandate holders.

50. The Lao People’s Democratic Republic noted the commitment of Paraguay to

international cooperation and the work of the Human Rights Council, and welcomed the

measures it had taken on gender equality and poverty reduction.

51. Lebanon welcomed the efforts Paraguay had made to fight poverty and to recognize

the rights of indigenous communities.

52. Libya commended Paraguay for its establishment of a national institution and a

national commission on the rights of persons with disabilities. It welcomed the cooperation

that had taken place on the development of the National Human Rights Action Plan.

53. Liechtenstein welcomed the ratification by Paraguay of the Agreement on the

Privileges and Immunities of the International Criminal Court and the fact that it had begun

the process of ratifying the Amendments to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal

Court on the crime of aggression.

54. Malaysia commended Paraguay for its overall progress in the promotion and

protection of human rights and encouraged it to implement the commitments it had outlined

in its national report.

55. Mexico welcomed the project to combat bullying in schools and the initiatives being

taken on transparency and the abolition of the death penalty.

56. Montenegro asked about progress towards better interministerial coordination and

cooperation with civil society and measures to improve national legislation in line with

recommendations to prevent violence against women, sexual and gender-based violence

and to punish the perpetrators of such violence.

57. Morocco welcomed efforts to reduce poverty, the policy of institutional transparency

in the judiciary and the designation of the national mechanism for the prevention of torture.

58. Namibia, taking note of the efforts of Paraguay to reduce poverty, enquired whether

it had been able to reach its target of reducing extreme poverty to 9.4 per cent by 2015.

Namibia asked Paraguay about any best practices it could share in that regard.

59. The Netherlands commended Paraguay for being an example in the field of

international human rights mechanisms. It noted, however, that no specific steps seemed to

have been taken to protect the safety and rights of human rights defenders.

60. Nicaragua underscored the efforts of Paraguay to care for children, the National Plan

for the Prevention and Elimination of the Sexual Exploitation of Children and Adolescents,

positive developments in education and access to education.

61. Norway was concerned about the high number of reports of threats, attacks,

harassment and killings of human rights defenders. It commended Paraguay for establishing

a national mechanism for the prevention of torture.

62. Pakistan commended Paraguay for its adoption of a number of laws and

administrative reforms aiming at the promotion and protection of human rights.

63. Panama noted the strengthening by Paraguay of its normative and institutional

framework to prevent torture, eradicate poverty and guarantee the rights to education and

health.

64. Peru underscored the implementation by Paraguay of the Recommendations

Monitoring System to monitor follow-up to the recommendations from the first review

cycle and its commitment to recover citizens’ historical memory.

65. The Philippines welcomed the abolition of the death penalty in Paraguay and

commended its efforts to promote and protect the rights of indigenous peoples.

66. Poland noted with appreciation the changes made by Paraguay to its constitutional

and legislative framework and the establishment of a universal, accessible health-care

service.

67. Portugal noted with concern that no Ombudsman had been appointed in Paraguay

since 2008 and that the A status accreditation of the Ombudsman’s Office had been

suspended.

68. The Republic of Korea welcomed the National Action Plan for the Rights of Persons

with Disabilities and the National Strategy for the Prevention and Elimination of Child

Labour and for the Protection of Adolescent Workers.

69. The Republic of Moldova shared the concerns of the treaty bodies about widespread

pretrial detention in Paraguay, especially for children between the ages of 16 and 18.

70. Singapore welcomed the commitment of Paraguay to prioritizing poverty eradication

and its policy to promote equal rights and opportunities for men and women.

71. Slovakia encouraged Paraguay to recognize the competence of the Committee on

Enforced Disappearances to consider individual communications under the International

Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance. While

welcoming the establishment of the national mechanism for the prevention of torture,

Slovakia noted that there was insufficient investigation into allegations of torture and that

perpetrators of torture where not held sufficiently accountable.

72. Slovenia shared concerns about the high rate of teenage pregnancy and the high

maternal mortality rate. It echoed the call that had been made by the United Nations

Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to investigate all attacks on

journalists and media workers.

73. South Africa was concerned that, despite the commitments Paraguay had made to do

so, it had yet to adopt an anti-discrimination law that was in line with international human

rights standards.

74. Spain recognized the efforts Paraguay had made in the implementation of

recommendations, as demonstrated by the recent visits of special procedure mandate

holders and the creation of the Recommendations Monitoring System.

75. Sweden expressed concern about gender-based and sexual violence. It noted recent

reports indicating that discrimination was widespread and that little effort was made to

address human rights violations against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex

persons.

76. Switzerland noted the constructive cooperation of Paraguay with OHCHR, special

procedures and other international organizations. It remained concerned at the

criminalization of abortion in the case of rape or incest.

77. Tajikistan noted the consistent approach of Paraguay to the promotion and

protection of human rights and its willingness to cooperate with international mechanisms

and procedures.

78. The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia was concerned about the safety of

journalists, persistent stereotypes of the role of women in society, and domestic violence. It

requested additional information on the steps Paraguay planned to take in order to adopt the

anti-discrimination law.

79. Turkey took note of the commitment to complete the process of appointing an

Ombudsman. It called on Paraguay to prioritize the adoption of a law to combat all forms of

discrimination.

80. Ukraine acknowledged the involvement of civil society organizations in the

implementation of recommendations and encouraged Paraguay to provide resources for the

participation of indigenous communities.

81. While welcoming efforts by the legislature to address discrimination, the United

Kingdom urged Paraguay to adopt an anti-discrimination law. The United Kingdom

requested additional information on human rights training provided to police and military

personnel.

82. The United States of America remained concerned by corruption in the public and

judicial sectors, and the persistence of gender-based violence and violence against

journalists and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons.

83. Uruguay highlighted the establishment of the national mechanism for the prevention

of torture and the online platform to monitor the implementation of the recommendations. It

noted progress in terms of poverty reduction and increased transparency in governance.

84. Uzbekistan welcomed progress made in the implementation of recommendations,

the adoption of the National Human Rights Action Plan, the establishment of the national

mechanism for the prevention of torture, the ratification of human rights instruments and

cooperation with international human rights mechanisms.

85. Armenia commended Paraguay for its commitment to promoting truth, justice,

reparation and guarantees of non-repetition, including through the recognition of past

crimes and their condemnation. It noted progress in reducing poverty.

86. Algeria appreciated efforts to address trafficking in persons, eliminate bullying in

public and private schools, combat acts of torture and forced disappearances, and reinforce

the rights of indigenous peoples.

87. Angola appreciated the setting up of a system to monitor the implementation of

recommendations. It encouraged Paraguay to further promote the civil and political rights

of women.

88. The Dominican Republic underlined the implementation of various national action

plans and urged Paraguay to continue working on the bill for the establishment of a

ministry of justice and human rights.

89. Paraguay thanked the delegations for the interest they had shown, their participation

in the dialogue and their support for the progress Paraguay had achieved since the previous

review, as reflected in the comments and recommendations they had made.

90. In response to comments and questions raised regarding efforts to combat poverty

and social investment, the Chief of Cabinet of the Technical Planning Secretariat

highlighted Paraguay’s commitment to ensuring equal opportunities. He provided

information on programmes on land use planning and sustainable environment. The main

aim of the national poverty reduction programme was to increase the income of vulnerable

persons and families and improve their access to social services. The level of extreme

poverty had been reduced from 8 per cent in 2006 to 2 per cent in 2013. The proportion of

the population with access to safe drinking water had risen from 43 per cent in 1997 to 81

per cent in 2014.

91. The Minister for Social Action referred to previous recommendations concerning

families, persons with disabilities, cash transfer programmes and consultations with and

prior and informed consent of indigenous people. The Tekoporã Programme, a broad social

protection programme that had obtained the ISO 9001 quality management systems

standard in 2014, covered 17 departments and 80 per cent of municipalities. One specific

component of the programme, which had been developed with the support of OHCHR in

Paraguay, aimed to promote the involvement of indigenous people through a protocol for

free, prior and informed consent.

92. The Minister of Labour, Employment and Social Security noted that the Ministry

had been created in 2013 to focus on the protection of workers, work and labour. It had

conducted activities that sought to ensure the right to decent work and working conditions.

Responding to comments made by Colombia, he noted that Paraguay had recently

promulgated the law on domestic workers, which had raised the minimum wage and sought

to ensure social protection. Regarding the issue of child labour, raised by Belgium, Chile

and Cuba, he noted that the Code on Children and Adolescents prohibited work for children

under 14 years of age. The Ministry had made the fight against child labour a priority and

was working to eradicate the worst forms of child labour in the forthcoming years. The

National Commission for the Prevention and Eradication of Child Labour was also being

strengthened. Paraguay had been successful in eradicating child labour in the cotton

production sector and had adopted legislation on the protection of working mothers, in

particular while they were breastfeeding.

93. The Minister for the Human Rights of Persons with Disabilities reported on efforts

to ensure that protection of the human rights of persons with disabilities was a cross-cutting

issue in all public policies and services. In 2015, the National Secretariat for the Human

Rights of Persons with Disabilities (SENADIS) had been upgraded to the level of Ministry.

The National Commission on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CONADIS), in which

persons with disabilities and civil society participated fully in decision-making, had also

been set up. Paraguay had developed a National Action Plan for the Rights of Persons with

Disabilities, with the support of OHCHR. Paraguay was currently developing indicators to

monitor implementation of the Plan and assess its impact. The Action Plan had given

visibility to persons with disabilities. Through the Plan, Paraguay would also ensure

inclusive education and differentiated basic provision for persons with disabilities. A

handbook on accessibility for persons with disabilities was being developed for all schools.

In addition, Paraguay had established a network of State communication officials to

promote the use of inclusive language and a rights-based approach in their work. The

progress achieved was the result of partnership between the State and civil society, with

support from international cooperation.

94. The Minister for Children and Adolescents, referring to comments concerning

violence against children and adolescents, noted that the national commission to prevent

and comprehensively address violence affecting children and adolescents had been

established in 2013 in follow-up to the United Nations Study on Violence against Children.

It was composed of State institutions and civil society organizations that worked together to

prevent violence against children and to protect and care for children who were victims of

violence. A bill was being drafted to protect children from all forms of cruel, inhuman and

degrading treatment, including corporal punishment, and to foster good practices when it

came to bringing up children. There was a toll-free 24-hour helpline available to children

through which they could make complaints and receive guidance. Legislative proposals had

been made to amend the criminal framework concerning cases of sexual abuse. Paraguay

had legislation in place on sex tourism, which aimed to prevent all forms of trafficking in

persons, whether they took place within or outside the country, and to punish the

perpetrators. Awareness-raising campaigns had been rolled out targeting State officials and

citizens, particularly in boarder and touristic areas. Comprehensive programmes to provide

care for victims of trafficking, including shelters, had also been established. In 2015, the

legal age at which children could engage in domestic work had been raised to 18 years and

legislation had codified domestic child labour as dangerous. The sale of children was

criminalized and discussions were currently being held in Congress to amend legislation

concerning adoption.

95. The Director General of Educational Planning at the Ministry of Education and

Culture reported on the increase in funding for quality education and research since 2012. A

priority area for action had been early childhood education and quality support services for

children from the age of 3, a new modality of informal education, particularly in rural areas.

In 2014, the rate of enrolment in primary education had reached 98 per cent. The enrolment

rate for children aged between 15 and 17, however, remained a challenge. Education

strategies contributed to improving children’s access to schools through investment in

textbooks and the provision of educational tools for students. Paraguay was investing in

technical training and diversifying educational and vocational training programmes and

support. In addition, a national programme that was being implemented recognized the

progressive autonomy of boys and girls, especially in the area of sexual and reproductive

health education.

96. The head of the Human Rights Unit in the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare

welcomed the recommendations concerning the right to health, particularly those from

Belgium, Colombia, Kazakhstan, Mexico, the Netherlands, Turkey and the United

Kingdom. Addressing inequalities required a strong and systematic response; the plans and

programmes that had been prepared during recent years focused on a common vision and a

strategic approach based on the national reality. Paraguay was implementing the National

Sexual and Reproductive Health Plan for 2014 to 2018, which met the basic needs of the

population. It took a human rights-based approach and focused on seven key areas that

were part of the health-care policy, emphasizing access, quality and equitable health.

Information was also provided on other areas, such as neonatal health-care plans,

prevention and monitoring of sexually transmitted diseases, prevention, detection and

treatment of breast cancer, prevention of domestic and gender-based violence and care for

persons affected by such violence and efforts to reduce the number of early pregnancies and

the prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases among young people.

97. The Adviser to the Human Rights Commission of the Chamber of Deputies reported

on the process for the selection of a new Ombudsman and a Deputy Ombudsman, which

would take place in 2016. The Chamber was currently reviewing two proposals that both

aimed to ensure the full exercise of all rights by the population on an equal basis without

discrimination, in line with the international human rights standards that Paraguay had

ratified. In 2016, the Chamber would also consider draft legislation to ensure

comprehensive protection of women from all forms of violence. A bill was currently being

examined concerning the legal framework regulating the use of the Internet. Efforts were

currently under way to draft legislation on freedom of expression and protection of

journalists. Paraguay had requested cooperation in that regard from the Special Rapporteur

for Freedom of Expression of the Organization of American States.

98. In response to comments made by several delegations on the issue of an institutional

framework for the promotion and protection of human rights, the Director General for

Human Rights of the Ministry of Justice reported on several initiatives, such as the National

Human Rights Action Plan and the drafting of a bill on the creation of the ministry of

justice and human rights. The definition of torture and the definition of enforced

disappearance in domestic legislation had both been brought into line with international

human rights standards. A national team had been set up to search for and identify persons

who had disappeared between 1954 and 1989. Since May 2013, research and investigations

had been carried out into possible individual and mass graves. To date, a total of 34 remains

of disappeared persons had been exhumed and a database of blood samples of family

members had been created. Paraguay had been working on drafting a prison reform plan

with a focus on social reintegration.

99. The Human Rights Director of the Supreme Court of Justice provided a brief update

on the Marina Cue case. Paraguay had organized a symposium on corruption, and the

judiciary had developed quantitative and qualitative indicators on access to justice within

the framework of the implementation of the Brasilia Regulations Regarding Access to

Justice for Vulnerable People. Turning to the issue of preventive detention, Paraguay

reported on current initiatives for a reform of the penal system. In 2015, the Supreme Court

had adopted principles on restorative justice in accordance with the Lima Declaration on

Restorative Juvenile Justice. In addition, consultations were currently under way in an

effort to harmonize the indigenous justice system with the ordinary justice system.

100. A representative of the National Institute of Indigenous Affairs thanked participants

for the concern expressed by several delegations regarding the situation of the indigenous

communities and the development of public policies for indigenous peoples in Paraguay. A

bill was currently under consideration to upgrade the Institute to the level of Ministry.

Efforts were also being made to address concerns about the health of indigenous peoples

and to ensure that they had access to more participatory and inclusive education. Regarding

land issues and in follow-up to recommendations from the previous universal periodic

review, a system had been created for the registration of land titles that facilitated the

identification of potential duplicity. In 2015, the National Council for Indigenous Education

had been created. Information was also provided on the availability of community radios,

prior consultations and the involvement of indigenous peoples in decision-making.

101. In conclusion, the head of the delegation thanked all the participating States for their

interest in Paraguay.

II. Conclusions and/or recommendations

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

have been examined by Paraguay and enjoy the support of Paraguay:

102.1 Consider ratifying the Optional Protocol to the International

Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (Uruguay); Ratify the

Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and

Cultural Rights (Djibouti) (France) (Ghana) (Montenegro) (Portugal);

**

The conclusions and recommendations have not been edited.

102.2 Take steps to ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the

Rights of the Child on a communications procedure (Slovakia); Ratify the

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

communications procedure (Portugal) (Montenegro);

102.3 Encourage ratification of the Convention against Discrimination in

Education (Iraq); Consider the recommendation of UNESCO to ratify the

Convention against Discrimination in Education (Nicaragua); Ratify the

Convention against Discrimination in Education (South Africa) (Uzbekistan)

(Portugal) (Ghana) (Honduras);

102.4 Make the declaration provided for in article 14 of the International

Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (South

Africa);

102.5 Conclude the process of ratifying the Kampala amendments to the

Rome Statute swiftly with a view to contributing to the activation of the

jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court over the crime of aggression in

2017 (Liechtenstein);

102.6 Pass legislation implementing the Rome Statute of the International

Criminal Court into domestic law (Djibouti);

102.7 Encourage the adoption in the short term of a bill on the

implementation of the Rome Statute (Guatemala);

102.8 Deepen its commitment with the International Criminal Court

through the adaptation of its national legislation to the Rome Statute (Peru);

102.9 Review its criminal legislation in order to incorporate a definition of

torture in accordance with the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel,

Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Honduras);

102.10 Continue working on harmonizing its national policies and laws

related to children in line with the Convention on the Rights of the Child and

the Protocols thereto to which it is a party (Nicaragua);

102.11 Promote laws on the rights of children and adolescents especially in

the area of health (Egypt);

102.12 Implement the National System for Comprehensive Protection and

Advancement of Children and Adolescents, with attention to human trafficking

and sexual and reproductive health. Pass legislation to protect the rights of

unregistered children and remove obstacles to child registration (Canada);

102.13 Improve the domestic legislation regarding working conditions,

especially for women and young people (Holy See);

102.14 Strengthen its efforts in establishing the National Human Rights

Institution, in line with the Paris Principles and with full participation of the

civil society (Indonesia); Expedite staffing of the Ombudsman office and

strengthen it by allocating the necessary budget (Ethiopia);

102.15 Take all necessary measures to ensure the full realization of the

mandate of the Ombudsman’s Office (France);

102.16 Strengthen the capacities of the Ombudsman’s Office while making it

accessible to the citizens (Haiti);

102.17 Allocate sufficient financial and human resources to national human

rights institutions (Kyrgyzstan);

102.18 Take all necessary measures in order to strengthen the role and

operation of the Ombudsman’s Office (Namibia);

102.19 Speed up the process to appoint a new Ombudsman (Israel);

102.20 Appoint a new Ombudsman without further delay, after the mandate

of the present incumbent expired in 2008, while ensuring that the institution

complies fully with the Paris Principles (Germany);

102.21 Finalize at its earliest the process of appointment of the Ombudsman

and ensure that the institution fully complies with the Paris Principles

(Kazakhstan);

102.22 Appoint an Ombudsman and ensure that the institution complies

fully with the Paris Principles (Portugal) (South Africa);

102.23 Complete as soon as possible the necessary internal process to

appoint the new Ombudsman (Spain);

102.24 Continue the selection process for a new Ombudsman, with a view to

its appointment at the earliest possible, in line with the constitutional

requirements and the Paris Principles (Uruguay);

102.25 Expedite a process related to the establishment of the national

secretariat for indigenous peoples (Georgia);

102.26 Strengthen the National Institute for Indigenous Affairs (El Instituto

Paraguayo del Indígena, INDI) at the legislative, structural and functional

levels (Haiti);

102.27 Conclude the process to create the National Secretariat for

Indigenous Peoples (Peru);

102.28 Redouble its efforts in formulating the National Human Rights

Action Plan (Indonesia);

102.29 Continue further improvement of the protection and promotion of

human rights in the country (Azerbaijan);

102.30 While recognizing the adoption of the National Human Rights Action

Plan, and within the context of its implementation, implement awareness-

raising campaigns and promote respect of human rights (Spain);

102.31 Implement public policies permitting gender equality in the political

and economic life of the country (Chile);

102.32 Further promote the rights of women, children and indigenous

peoples (Greece);

102.33 Further develop policies to ensure full enjoyment of rights and

equality to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons (Israel);

102.34 Maintain efforts to implement the information system for the follow

up of international human rights recommendations (Ecuador);

102.35 Engage a civil society in the follow-up implementation process of the

universal periodic review recommendations (Poland);

102.36 Accord priority to passing draft anti-discrimination legislation,

tabled in Congress in November 2015, and reviews existing laws to ensure

consistency with the draft legislation’s objectives (Australia);

102.37 Ensure the adoption and implementation of an anti-discrimination

law, cohering to international human rights standards (Greece);

102.38 Move towards the adoption of a comprehensive law against all forms

of discrimination, including discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation

and gender identity, that punishes and prohibits all forms of discrimination in

public and private settings (Chile);

102.39 Foster the presentation of a new bill against all forms of

discrimination (Cuba);

102.40 Adopt and implement comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation

in line with international human rights standards (Slovenia);

102.41 Encourage the adoption and implementation of legislation to combat

all forms of discrimination, in compliance with international human rights

standards and in line with Paraguay’s commitments (Guatemala);

102.42 Present to the Parliament and support the approval, as soon as

possible, of a new comprehensive draft bill against racism, racial

discrimination, xenophobia and all related forms of intolerance (Brazil);

102.43 Adopt the necessary legislative and policy measures to combat any

form of discrimination, including by guaranteeing access to justice and

recognizing the right to due reparation for victims (Honduras);

102.44 Adopt a law prohibiting all forms of discrimination against

indigenous communities and guarantee access to comprehensive quality

education for Guarani speakers (Islamic Republic of Iran);

102.45 Consider taking up an anti-discrimination bill in dialogue with State

and non-State actors, which would guarantee basic safeguards of non-

discrimination, prevention and punishment of all forms of discrimination

against all human beings, in line with the main standards of the international

human rights instruments to which Paraguay is a party (Uruguay);

102.46 Introduce a law explicitly prohibiting corporal punishment of

children in all settings (Poland);

102.47 Adopt legislation clearly prohibiting all corporal punishment of

children in all settings (Islamic Republic of Iran);

102.48 Continue to promote women empowerment (Pakistan);

102.49 Eliminate all forms of inequality between men and women (Egypt);

102.50 Continue to design and implement policies that incorporate gender

perspectives into public policies and promote the empowerment and

advancement of women living in rural areas (Singapore);

102.51 Approve a comprehensive law for the promotion of gender equality

which would include, among other issues, awareness on issues such as gender

violence, and the freedom of sexual orientation (Spain);

102.52 Adopt a law prohibiting all forms of discrimination, including

discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity (South Africa);

102.53 Adopt a law against all forms of discrimination, including

discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity (Sweden);

102.54 Enact legislation to prohibit discrimination, including based on

sexual orientation and gender identity (Canada);

102.55 Adopt a law to fight against discrimination, to prevent and punish

discrimination in all its forms including discrimination on sexual orientation

and gender identity (Argentina);

102.56 Pass legislation prohibiting discrimination, including comprehensive

prohibitions against discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and

gender identity (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland);

102.57 Review all type of provisions that could lead to the discrimination of

lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons, as well as review

labour provisions which may affect domestic workers (Colombia);

102.58 Strengthen the fight against all forms of discrimination including

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

102.59 Ensure the issuance of birth certificates to all children born on its

territory, regardless of the status of their parents (Poland);

102.60 Further improve its birth registration system and ensure the issuance

of birth certificates to all children born on its territory (Turkey);

102.61 Increase efforts to ensure that all children born in Paraguay can have

their birth registered (Mexico);

102.62 Ensure that all State surveillance activities are in line with

international human rights law and do not infringe on citizen’s fundamental

rights and freedoms (Liechtenstein);

102.63 Take the necessary measures to ensure that the operations of

intelligence agencies are monitored by an independent oversight mechanism to

ensure transparency and accountability (Liechtenstein);

102.64 Continue working in the improvement of prison conditions (Spain);

102.65 Continue to adopt measures to improve the situation in the

penitentiary system of the country in line with international standards

(Uzbekistan);

102.66 Increase resources to address gender-based violence (Australia);

102.67 Prevent all forms of violence against women and girls, particularly

sexual abuse and domestic violence, including by adopting a law to prevent,

punish and eradicate violence against women (Austria);

102.68 Ensure that legislation to prevent and eradicate violence against

women is passed (Belgium);

102.69 Ensure the adoption of a comprehensive law on violence against

women (Plurinational State of Bolivia);

102.70 Pass legislation to prevent and criminalize all forms of violence

against women, and provide law enforcement with training and education to

ensure its effective implementation (Canada);

102.71 Implement legislation against violence and the discrimination against

women in a comprehensive way and with a gender perspective (Costa Rica);

102.72 Promote the approval of the comprehensive law on violence against

women (Cuba);

102.73 Strengthen and accelerate legislative and educational actions to

prevent violence against women and girls, especially domestic violence

(Djibouti);

102.74 Take all necessary measures to promote women’s rights and fight

against domestic violence (France);

102.75 Promote legislation eradicating violence against women and against

discrimination based on religious beliefs (Israel);

102.76 Strengthen efforts to prevent and combat all forms of violence

against women, including domestic violence and sexual abuse, and effectively

implement the legislation recently adopted in this field (Italy);

102.77 Review existing legislation and programs to prevent and eradicate

violence and sexual exploitation against children and adolescents, to ensure

they meet international best practices (Italy);

102.78 Further increase its efforts to effectively combat all forms of violence

against women (Kazakhstan);

102.79 Strengthen the provisions for the protection of women, notably

through the adoption of the draft law aiming at preventing violence against

women (Morocco);

102.80 Take the necessary steps, including legislative measures, to prevent

and eradicate violence against women (Namibia);

102.81 Take additional measures, including providing resources and

assistance, access to courts and appropriate punishment for violations, to tackle

sexual and intimate partner violence and exploitation of women and girls

(Netherlands);

102.82 Prevent discrimination and violence against vulnerable and

marginalized groups (Panama);

102.83 Make further efforts to prevent all forms of violence against women

and girls, in particular sexual abuse and domestic violence, by adopting a

comprehensive law to prevent violence against women as well as provide

assistance and recovery for victims (Republic of Korea);

102.84 Consider adopting new specific legislation to strengthen measures

aimed at prosecuting offenders and increasing support to victims of sexual

violence and abuse and promote awareness raising-campaigns and educational

programs, notably in schools (Italy);

102.85 Adopt a national action plan to combat gender-based and sexual

violence, which includes raising general awareness through education and

training, developing official and credible statistics and ensuring access to

justice for victims (Sweden);

102.86 Consider adopting a law to prevent, punish and eradicate the violence

against women (The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia);

102.87 Take further measures and strengthen its legislation to prevent and

punish all violence against women and girls, particularly sexual abuse and

domestic violence (Turkey);

102.88 Continue implementing specific measures to prevent all forms of

violence against women, including domestic violence, ill-treatment and sexual

abuse, ensuring that there are complaints channels, facilitating access to justice

and guaranteeing the prosecution and punishment of perpetrators (Uruguay);

102.89 Continue the work on inter-family violence and the implementation

of public policies for rural women (Dominican Republic);

102.90 Consider specific measures for the protection of the rights of children

and adolescents, notably through the objectives defined within the national

strategy for the prevention and elimination of child labour (Angola);

102.91 Incorporate child sex tourism explicitly as a criminal offence in order

to bring national legislation in conformity with the Optional Protocol to the

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

and child pornography (Belgium);

102.92 Strengthen the prevention, detection and response to cases of

exploitation, sexual abuses and other forms of violence against children

(Panama);

102.93 Move towards the adoption of a law that prohibits the work of

children below the age of 14, as well as the worst forms of child labour and

domestic child labour (Chile);

102.94 Continue conducting actions with a view to eradicating child labour

in the country (Cuba);

102.95 Raise the minimum age for domestic work to 18 years of age, and

strongly reconsider increasing the minimum wage in this sector (Haiti);

102.96 Eradicate the practice of criadazgo and other forms of child labor

(Panama);

102.97 Adopt a comprehensive care policy to protect children living on the

streets (Mexico);

102.98 Pursue measures for the protection of children, in particular children

living in the streets and domestic worker children (Algeria);

102.99 Adopt the National Plan to Prevent, Combat and Care for the victims

of trafficking (Greece);

102.100 Continue its efforts to combat trafficking in human beings

(Tajikistan);

102.101 Put an end to trafficking in persons, particularly for purposes of

sexual exploitation or child labour (Islamic Republic of Iran);

102.102 Effectively combat human trafficking, in particular sexual

exploitation and forced labour (Malaysia);

102.103 Provide assistance, reintegration programs and skills training for

victims of human trafficking to allow their reintegration into society

(Malaysia);

102.104 Provide adequate human resources and budget to implement its

national anti-trafficking in persons policies and programs (Philippines);

102.105 Continue working towards the modernization of justice so as to

guarantee its independence and impartiality, in particular with regard to

vulnerable groups, such as indigenous people and persons with disabilities

(Spain);

102.106 Enhance public accountability for the judiciary by limiting political

interference, increasing transparency in judicial processes, and ensuring all

judicial staff hiring is merit-based (United States of America );

102.107 Facilitate access to the Judiciary, especially for indigenous persons

ensuring that they are represented in public affairs (Egypt);

102.108 Develop initiatives aimed at ensuring access to the judiciary by

indigenous persons (Mexico);

102.109 Adopt the necessary measures to increase the judicial control over

the duration of pre-trial detention (Slovakia);

102.110 Investigate allegations of torture and ill-treatment against persons in

places of detention and bring those responsible to justice (Uzbekistan);

102.111 Establish an effective investigation mechanism concerning allegations

of torture and ill-treatment that would ensure the conviction of perpetrators

(Turkey);

102.112 In the context of detention, strengthen existing police oversight

mechanisms and provide victims of torture and ill-treatment with

compensation (Germany);

102.113 Double efforts in combatting corruption through improving the

capacity of the National Secretariat to Combat Corruption (Malaysia);

102.114 Step up efforts to eliminate corruption by police officers and

prosecutors, and to adopt specific legal provisions establishing a judicial

procedure for ensuring investigation of the cases related to enforced

disappearance and arbitrary detention, as well as to punish perpetrators and

provide assistance and recovery for victims (Republic of Korea);

102.115 Combat impunity, prosecute perpetrators and ensure victims’ access

to effective remedies in case of journalists, human rights defenders and lawyers

who become victims of human rights violations and abuses (Austria);

102.116 Combat impunity of all attacks against human rights defenders,

including by investigating the murders of 17 journalists since 1991. Establish a

special commission in the Public Prosecutor’s Office to bring those responsible

to justice (Canada);

102.117 Combat impunity by ensuring prompt, thorough and transparent

investigation of all violations against, and killing of Human Rights Defenders,

the prosecution of perpetrators and access to effective remedies for victims

(Norway);

102.118 Investigate and prosecute allegations of abusive practices by security

and law enforcement forces targeted at indigenous people (Australia);

102.119 Take effective measures to thoroughly investigate all allegations of ill-

treatment of detainees, of abuse of force by police and military forces and of

attacks against journalists and human rights defenders, so to ensure that all

those responsible are brought to justice (Italy);

102.120 Ensure implementation of impartial and independent investigations

and criminal proceedings in accordance with existing law, including for cases as

the Marina Cué events in Curuguaty of June 2012 in order to clarify allegations

and bring perpetrators to justice (Germany);

102.121 Strengthen its specialized Juvenile Justice system, to promote

alternative measures to deprivation of liberty, and continue improving the

social services available to adolescents deprived of their liberty (Republic of

Moldova);

102.122 Continue efforts for the promotion of truth, justice and reparation

and guaranties of non-repetition related to crimes of the past (Armenia);

102.123 Abolish discrimination based on religion or beliefs (Lebanon);

102.124 Enhance laws that encourage freedom of expression (Lebanon);

102.125 Further protect the freedom of expression and prosecute crimes

against journalists as a matter of priority (Greece);

102.126 Create a mechanism to give visibility and value the work of human

rights defenders and, develop and implement measures to protect human rights

defenders should they be exposed to any risk or threat associated with the free

exercise of their activities (Brazil);

102.127 Adopt appropriate measures to disseminate widely and ensure full

observance of the Declaration on Human Rights Defenders (Norway);

102.128 Adopt legal and policy measures for the protection of human rights

defenders (Honduras);

102.129 Acknowledge the legitimate role of human rights defenders and

create and maintain a safe and enabling environment for human rights

defenders and journalists to carry out their legitimate work without threat of

violence or reprisals (Norway);

102.130 Ensure the protection of human rights defenders in accordance with

the United Nations Declaration on Human Rights Defenders (Sweden);

102.131 Implement measures to protect journalists and human rights

defenders, as well as effective policies to guarantee freedom of expression in

Paraguay (Costa Rica);

102.132 Take steps to reduce the harassment, intimidation and death threats

against defenders of human rights, and to publicly recognize the legitimacy and

importance of the role of these defenders (Netherlands);

102.133 Adopt measures to guarantee the right to life, safety of human rights

defenders and journalists, including for those defending indigenous

communities from land grabbing (Norway);

102.134 Take the necessary measures to guarantee the human rights of

human rights defenders and to promote and protect the space of the civil

society (Switzerland);

102.135 Establish greater protections for journalists under threat and ensure

prompt investigations of threats, harassment, and crimes against journalists

(United States of America);

102.136 Continue its efforts to facilitate a greater participation and

representation of women and indigenous people in public offices (Israel);

102.137 Further promote gender equality and involvement of women in

politics and public services (Lao People’s Democratic Republic);

102.138 Give special attention to families as the foundation of the well-being

of the country (Egypt);

102.139 Increase investment in social welfare programs (Haiti);

102.140 Take further steps to strengthen its social protection programs, in

favour of the most vulnerable sectors of the population (Bolivarian Republic of

Venezuela);

102.141 Support the implementation of domestic measures to ensure the

protection of socially vulnerable groups of the population, including children

(Tajikistan);

102.142 Continue strengthening all human rights, particularly in the areas of

eradicating poverty, promoting and protecting the rights of children and

adolescents, and fighting against human trafficking (Kuwait);

102.143 Persevere in including the needs of vulnerable groups in efforts to

reduce poverty, particularly of persons with disabilities (Colombia);

102.144 Elaborate and implement an effective strategy to fight child poverty

(Kyrgyzstan);

102.145 Continue efforts to combat poverty and provide assistance to families

with limited income (Libya);

102.146 Pursue measures to eradicate poverty through the implementation of

comprehensive public policies with a human rights-based approach (Ecuador);

102.147 Continue efforts towards improving literacy and reducing poverty

through education and skills enhancement programs under the National

Development Plan to 2030 (Malaysia);

102.148 Continue to implement National Health Policy 2015 (Pakistan);

102.149 Make every possible effort to guarantee universal access to

healthcare through the National Health Policy (Holy See);

102.150 Continue the work on policies for the universal access to health,

including the Health System for Indigenous Peoples (Dominican Republic);

102.151 Take effective measures to reduce the high maternal mortality rate

(Kazakhstan);

102.152 Reduce the high rate of maternal mortality (Panama);

102.153 Deepen measures which are considered as necessary to reduce

maternal mortality rates and to prevent teenage pregnancy (Colombia);

102.154 Ensure adequate access to information on sexual and reproductive

rights for women and girls (Belgium);

102.155 Continue the promotion of sexual and reproductive rights of women

and eliminate discriminatory practices, in conformity with the provisions of the

Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women

(Mexico);

102.156 Address deficiencies of the legal and policy system regarding the issue

of pregnant children for better protecting young girls, as some of them had

been forced to continue high-risk pregnancies with long-lasting impact on their

physical and mental health (Germany);

102.157 Undertake measures to prevent high incidences of early pregnancy,

including comprehensive sexuality education in schools and access to services in

support of sexual health and reproductive rights (United Kingdom of Great

Britain and Northern Ireland);

102.158 Consider introducing civic and human rights education in primary

and secondary school curricula (Ethiopia);

102.159 Continue efforts aimed at ensuring the availability and accessibility

of the education system to all children and improvement of school’s

infrastructure (Georgia);

102.160 Continue its efforts to improve the quality of the education system

and to expand access to education for all children and adolescents, in particular

for those belonging to indigenous peoples (Holy See);

102.161 Take additional measures for the full enjoyment of the right to

education by children (Kyrgyzstan);

102.162 Ensure that vulnerable children and adolescents in rural

communities have access to quality education and health care services (Lao

People’s Democratic Republic);

102.163 Further develop measures to ensure that an inclusive education

system be available and accessible to all children, including those with

disabilities and improve the quality and infrastructure of schools (Republic of

Korea);

102.164 Strengthen measures with a view to guaranteeing full access to

education for persons with disabilities (Argentina);

102.165 Strengthen access to the national education system for all children

and adolescents with disabilities, ensuring an inclusive education (Chile);

102.166 Reinforce the schooling of persons with disabilities (Algeria);

102.167 Create an independent mechanism to protect persons with disabilities

(Egypt);

102.168 Encourage the efforts taken for the creation of an independent

mechanism for the monitoring of the application of the Convention on the

Rights of Persons with Disabilities (Morocco);

102.169 Establish an independent mechanism for the monitoring of the

situation of persons with disabilities (Turkey);

102.170 Review the provisions restricting the voting rights of persons with

disabilities (India);

102.171 Continue working for the promotion and protection of the rights of

indigenous peoples, peasants and other persons working in rural areas

(Plurinational State of Bolivia);

102.172 Formulate a comprehensive policy protecting the rights of indigenous

peoples (India);

102.173 Encourage enacting legislation that protects and promotes the rights

of the indigenous peoples (Iraq);

102.174 Continue to take effective measures for the protection of indigenous

peoples’ rights (Armenia);

102.175 Pass legislation that recognizes the rights of indigenous communities

to express their opinion and to consultations (Lebanon);

102.176 Step up efforts in formulating protocols to implement the indigenous

peoples’ right to free, prior and informed consent (Philippines);

102.177 Put in place a legal mechanism that enables indigenous communities

from protecting and claiming their lands (Lebanon);

102.178 Address extant indigenous land claims, and ensure an end to

discrimination against rural and indigenous communities (Australia);

102.179 Implement the rulings of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights

regarding indigenous land claims by the Yakye Axa and Sawhoyamaxa

Indigenous communities promptly and effectively (Canada);

102.180 Take measures to enforce the Inter-American Court sentences on the

rights of indigenous peoples (Costa Rica);

102.181 Develop a comprehensive and forgery-proof land registry to enable

indigenous communities to hold legal titles to their ancestral land, as previously

recommended (Germany);

102.182 Protect the rights of the indigenous communities in terms of

exploiting and using their lands (Lebanon);

102.183 Implement legislation that codifies the protection guaranteed in the

1954 Convention relating to the Status of Stateless Persons in national

legislation (Portugal);

102.184 Implement a statelessness status determination procedure to ensure

the protection of stateless persons who are not refugees (Portugal);

102.185 Continue to take steps to ensure the full and effective implementation

of its National Development Plan to 2030 to combat poverty, particularly in

rural areas (Singapore);

102.186 Ensure the implementation of environmental standards to protect the

environment (Egypt).

103. Paraguay considers that the recommendations 102.2, 102.5-102.9, 102.11,

102.12, 102.14-102.18, 102.20-102.27, 102.30-102.33, 102.35-102.47, 102.49, 102.51-

102.61, 102.66-102.75, 102.77-102.87, 102.90-102.93, 102.95-102.101, 102.103, 102.104,

102.1106-102.111, 102.113-102.115, 102.118-102.121, 102.123-102.125, 102.129,

102.131, 102.133, 102.135, 102.137-102.141, 102.143, 102.144, 102.146, 102.149,

102.151-102.153, 102.155-102.158, 102.161-102.164, 102.166-102.170, 102.172, 102.173,

102.175, 102.176, 102.178-102.184 and 102.186 above are already implemented or in

the process of implementation.

104. The following recommendation will be examined by Paraguay, which will

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

Human Rights Council, in June 2016:

104.1 Convene an independent commission to investigate all credible

allegations of human rights violations related to the 2012 law enforcement

action at Marina Cue (United States of America).

105. The recommendations below did not enjoy the support of Paraguay and would

thus be noted:

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

Child (Ghana);

105.2 Consider withdrawing its reservation to articles 76 and 77 of the

International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant

Workers and Members of Their Families (Philippines);

105.3 Reform its punitive anti-abortion laws (Australia);

105.4 Repeal legislation criminalizing women and girls for having an

abortion, as well as healthcare providers performing such services, and take

measures to allow legal and safe abortions at least in cases of rape or incest, in

cases where the life or health of the mother is at risk, or where the foetus is

diagnosed with grave health deficiencies (Austria);

105.5 Repeal legislation criminalizing abortion and ensure access to legal

and safe abortion for victims of rape and incest, in cases where the life or health

of a woman is at risk or when the foetus is not viable (Slovenia);

105.6 Establish and effectively apply the legal provisions authorizing

abortion, in cases when pregnancies are due to rape or incest, or when it is

established that the foetus is not viable, or when the life or the health of the

mothers is at risk (Switzerland).

106. Concerning recommendation 105.1 put forward by Ghana, Paraguay informs

that it is a State party to 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. It has also signed the Optional Protocol to the Convention on

the Rights of the Child on a communications procedure.

107. Concerning recommendation 105.2 put forward by the Philippines, Paraguay

informs that it has not made any reservations to articles 76 and 77 of the International

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

Their Families.

108. Concerning recommendations 105.3, 105.4, 105.5 and 105.6 put forward by

Australia, Austria, Slovenia and Switzerland, Paraguay considers that these are not in

accordance with the National Constitution (art. 4), the commitments made by

Paraguay when ratifying the American Convention on Human Rights (art. 4) and the

national legislation.

109. 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 Paraguay was headed by H.E. Ambassador Óscar Cabello

Sarubbi, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, and composed of the following members:

• S.E. Guillermo Sosa, Ministro de Trabajo, Empleo y Seguridad Social

• S.E. Héctor Cárdenas, Ministro Secretario Ejecutivo – Secretaría de Acción Social

• S.E. Rocío Florentín, Ministra Secretaria Ejecutiva – Secretaría Nacional por los

Derechos Humanos de las Personas con Discapacidad

• S.E. Carlos Zárate, Ministro Secretario Ejecutivo – Secretaría Nacional de la Niñez

y la Adolescencia

• S.E Embajador Juan Esteban Aguirre, Representante Permanente del Paraguay ante

las Naciones Unidas y Organismos Especializados

• Ministro Juan Miguel González Bibolini, Director General de Derechos Humanos

del Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores

• Embajador Carlos Fleitas, Jefe de Gabinete de la Secretaría Técnica de Planificación

• Sr. Ricardo González, Director General de Gabinete de la Secretaría Nacional de la

Niñez y la Adolescencia

• Sra. María José Méndez, Directora General de Derechos Humanos del Ministerio de

Justicia

• Sra. Dalila Zarza, Directora General de Planificación del Ministerio de Educación y

Culto

• Sr. Víctor Thomas, Director General de Asesoría Jurídica del Ministerio de Trabajo,

Empleo y Seguridad Social

• Sra. Nury Montiel, Directora de Derechos Humanos de la Corte Suprema de Justicia

• Sra. Tania Abdo, Asesora de la Comisión de la Cámara de Diputados

• Sra. Belén Morra Alvarenga, Jefa del Departamento de Informes a Órganos de

Tratados y Asuntos Políticos del Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores

• Sr. Andrés Ramírez, Jefe de Departamento de Derechos Humanos de la Corte

Suprema de Justicia

• Sra. Laura Bordón, Jefa de la Unidad de Derechos Humanos del Ministerio de Salud

y Bienestar Social

• Sra. Verónica López, Jefa del Departamento de Normas Internacionales del

Ministerio de Trabajo, Empleo y Seguridad Social

• Sra. Carmen Orlandini, Técnica del Instituto Paraguayo del Indígena

• Sr. Jorge Brizuela, Misión Permanente del Paraguay ante las Naciones Unidas y

Organismos Especializados

• Sr. Miguel Candia, Misión Permanente del Paraguay ante las Naciones Unidas y

Organismos Especializados

• Oficial Raquel Pereira, Misión Permanente del Paraguay ante las Naciones Unidas y

Organismos Especializados

• Sr. Juan Alberto Guzmán, Técnico de la Unidad General de Derechos Humanos del

Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores

• Srta. Ximena Abente, Misión Permanente del Paraguay ante las Naciones Unidas y

Organismos Especializados.