33/4 Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review - Suriname

GE.16-11346 (E) 180716



Human Rights Council Thirty-third session

Agenda item 6

Universal periodic review

Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review*

Suriname

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

United Nations A/HRC/33/4

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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 .............................................. 7

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

Annex

Composition of the delegation ...................................................................................................... 25

GE.16-11346 3

Introduction

1. The Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review, established in accordance

with Human Rights Council resolution 5/1, held its twenty-fifth session from 2 to 13 May

2016. The review of Suriname was held at the 1st meeting on 2 May 2016. The delegation

of Suriname was headed by the Minister of Justice and Police, Jennifer van Dijk-Silos. At

its 8th meeting held on 6 May 2016, the Working Group adopted the report on Suriname.

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

rapporteurs (troika) to facilitate the review of Suriname: the former Yugoslav Republic of

Macedonia, Paraguay and the Philippines.

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 Suriname:

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

paragraph 15 (a) (A/HRC/WG.6/25/SUR/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.6/25/SUR/2);

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

(A/HRC/WG.6/25/SUR/3).

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

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

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

extranet of the universal periodic review.

I. Summary of the proceedings of the review process

A. Presentation by the State under review

5. The delegation stated that the reporting obligations under both the treaty body

system and the universal periodic review offered the opportunity to assess the achievements

in the promotion and protection of human rights, as well as to address remaining challenges

and constraints. Suriname would continue to cooperate with the treaty bodies, the universal

periodic review mechanism and other international and regional bodies in its endeavour to

ensure that the rights and freedoms of all within the territory of Suriname were observed.

6. The national report for the second cycle of review had been prepared in consultation

with various stakeholders, including civil society and non-governmental organizations.

7. Following the review of Suriname in 2011, Suriname had carefully reviewed the 91

recommendations it had received and, in particular, the 65 supported recommendations.

8. For the past five years, closing inequality gaps had become a high priority for the

President of Suriname. Against that backdrop, Suriname had placed emphasis on improving

education, health and socioeconomic conditions.

9. As from October 2012, primary education had become free of charge for all

children. In addition, a universal medical insurance programme had been established,

including the provision of health insurance to senior citizens and children below 16 years,

4 GE.16-11346

free of charge. Furthermore, legislation had been adopted establishing a national minimum

wage and a basic national pension for all workers.

10. The delegation then addressed some of the advance questions posed by Belgium,

Liechtenstein, Mexico, the Netherlands, Slovenia and the United Kingdom of Great Britain

and Northern Ireland.

11. Concerning gender equality and women’s rights, the Draft Civil Code had already

been submitted for approval to the National Assembly.

12. As for paid maternity leave for the private sector, a provision thereon had been

added to the draft Civil Code. The period of the leave was between 12 and 14 weeks, while

the minimum payment of remuneration was 12 weeks. In the public sector, maternity leave

was regulated in every collective agreement. The option of paternity leave would be

discussed with the relevant stakeholders.

13. The job stability of pregnant women was guaranteed. Dismissal because of

pregnancy was prohibited by law. With regard to salaries, no distinction was made between

men and women.

14. The Women and Child Policy Office within the Ministry of Justice and Police was

making progress on raising public awareness about equal rights of women in relation to

nationality.

15. With respect to implementation of the 2009 Act on Combating Domestic Violence,

the text had been formatted and distributed amongst relevant stakeholders and an

information brochure had been developed. Social workers from the “Stop Violence against

Women” Foundation had been trained to be able to provide counselling to perpetrators of

such violence.

16. Furthermore, in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund, a delegation

from Caribbean countries had paid a visit to Suriname to share their experiences on

Partnership for Peace, a programme on counselling perpetrators of domestic violence.

17. Awareness-raising activities were held annually with regard to the legislation on

combating domestic violence.

18. The Education Bill for Primary and Secondary Education at Lower Level had been

drafted by the Ministry of Education, Science and Culture and would be submitted to the

Council of Ministers in May 2016. In accordance with the constitutional procedure, the Bill

would be sent to the State Council for comments. After preliminary approval by the State

Council, the Bill can be submitted by the Presidency to the National Assembly.

19. All forms of corporal punishments were punishable by law in conformity with

articles 360 to 363 of the Penal Code. The Legal Aid Bureau of the Ministry of Justice and

Police had an active role in creating awareness of all forms of corporal punishment,

including that it was forbidden and punishable by law.

20. At the beginning of each school year, the Ministry of Education, Science and

Culture gave specific instructions to schools and other educational institutions, in respect of

the prohibition on applying corporal punishment at school. In case of a violation of those

rules, the party at fault could be dismissed or punished pursuant to article 61 of the Act on

the regulation of the legal status of civil servants.

21. The Integral Plan for Children and Adolescents (2012-2016) included aspects

specifically focused on combating all forms of violence against children. The Presidential

Task Force for Child and Youth Policy was working on updating the priorities for the new

plan of action.

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22. Most of the worst forms of child labour had a punitive character and the Ministry of

Justice and Police was the competent authority responsible for handling that issue.

23. The worst forms of child labour included: slavery, trafficking, debt bondage and

other forms of forced labour; forced recruitment for use in armed conflict; child

pornography and child prostitution, sale of children and illicit activities such as drug-related

activities (sale and production of drugs by children); and hazardous work.

24. Legislative actions that had been undertaken included: the Decree on Hazardous

Work of Young Persons, which regulated labour by juveniles and contained a list of

hazardous labour; and the revised moral offences under the Penal Code, which included

some of the worst forms of child labour with a punitive character, namely articles 293

(child pornography), 303a (youth prostitution) and 311 (giving up children for activities

such as begging, hazardous work or hazardous artistic performances).

25. Suriname had also ratified the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of

the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography in 2012.

26. The Ministry of Social Affairs and Housing had also undertaken preparatory

activities for setting up shelters, including shelters for child victims of trafficking.

27. The ratification instruments for the Convention on the Rights of Persons with

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

involvement of children in armed conflict would be deposited in 2016.

28. The removal of the death penalty from the Penal Code was a first step towards

arriving at the ratification of the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on

Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty. The timeline for

removal of the death penalty from the Military Penal Code was set for the end of December

2016.

29. Concerning the issuance of a standing invitation to the special procedure mandate

holders, the former Special Rapporteur on the rights of indigenous peoples had visited the

country to provide technical assistance upon request of the Government of Suriname.

Suriname acknowledged the contribution of special procedure mandate holders to the

promotion and protection of human rights. In consultation with the Government, they had

the opportunity to send missions to Suriname.

30. Suriname remained committed to promoting and defending all human rights for all.

Based on the principle of equality, by which all who were on the territory of Suriname had

an equal claim to protection of person and property, Suriname did not discriminate on the

grounds of birth, sex, race, language, religious origin, education, political beliefs, economic

position or any other status (article 8 sub 2 of the Constitution of Suriname).

31. As a multicultural society, the subject of sexual orientation and gender identity and

expression required a broad-based consultation process at the national level, involving all

sectors of society, including the civil society. In that respect, the Ministry of Justice and

Police would commence such a consultation process in July 2016, starting with faith-based

organizations.

32. With the amendment to the Penal Code, which had come into force on 13 April

2015, Suriname made a further step in the direction of protection of lesbian, gay, bisexual

and transgender persons.

33. The definition of discrimination enshrined in article 126a of the Penal Code applied

to everyone, taking into account the principle of equality.

34. In articles 175 and 176 of the Penal Code, defamation of persons because of their

sexual preference was criminalized. Instigation to hate, discrimination or violence (article

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175a), defamation by publication (article 176) and support for discriminatory actions were

criminalized.

35. Article 500a of the Penal Code criminalized occupational discrimination, including

discrimination based on sexual orientation.

36. There were no differences in regulations and legislation regarding opportunities to

carry out activities in Suriname by different organizations.

37. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons could submit requests for permission

to carry out activities under the same legal conditions as all other organizations and legal

entities in Suriname. The principle of equality remained applicable when it came to

fundamental rights, such as the right to freedom of thought and expression and the right to

freedom of association and peaceful assembly. It had been a regular occurrence that police

protection and surveillance had been provided to organizations of lesbian, gay, bisexual,

transgender and intersex persons when they carried out public activities.

38. Suriname fully subscribed to the principles of democracy and respect for the rule of

law. Taking into account the separation of power, the Government was convinced that the

judiciary was capable of holding those who had committed crimes accountable.

39. The amendment of the Amnesty Act of 19 August 1992 was done on the initiative of

a number of legislators, in accordance with the principle of equality enshrined in article 8 of

the Constitution.

40. Discussions had been held in parliament on their initiative when that draft piece of

legislation had been introduced, and parliament had adopted the amendment according to

its rules of procedures. Because of the separation of powers, the Government (the

executive) could not dictate to parliament (the legislature).

41. Prior to the Amnesty Act of 5 April 2012, two similar laws were passed by the

legislator. The adoption of the 2012 Amnesty Act was taken in order to remove the

discriminatory aspects of the 1992 Amnesty Act. The 1992 Amnesty Act solely and

explicitly covered all criminal offences committed in the period from 1 January 1985 to 19

August 1992.

42. It should also be pointed out that the amendment was simply a qualitative expansion

of the previous Amnesty Act of 19 August 1992.

43. The introduction of the explicit call for the establishment of a truth and

reconciliation commission implied a qualitative improvement of the 1992 Act, since its

precursor had not called for the creation of a procedure to seek truth and reconciliation

regarding the violations and crimes it covered.

44. Concerning ratification of the Amendments to the Rome Statute of the International

Criminal Court on the crime of aggression (the Kampala Amendments), draft legislation

related to the Kampala Amendments had already been approved by the Council of

Ministers and submitted to the State Council. After approval by the State Council, the draft

laws would be submitted to the National Assembly.

45. Suriname had taken many steps with regard to the problem of mercury

contamination within the country. The most recent of those steps had been the

establishment of the Gold Sector Planning Programme within the Ministry of Natural

Resources. The National Institute for Environment and Development in Suriname, as the

technical institute within the Ministry of Home Affairs, had taken the initiative in 2013 to

conduct a legal and institutional assessment of the Minamata Convention on Mercury. That

assessment had led to the formulation of a national action plan for the implementation of

the Convention and the Government was working on its ratification.

GE.16-11346 7

46. The above-mentioned was the first concrete step to ensure prevention and remedy of

the effects of mercury contamination, among others, on indigenous lands.

47. Artisanal and small-scale gold mining was the sector in which mercury was used and

was also the biggest source of mercury contamination in the country.

48. Another initiative was that of cooperation between Government, through some of its

institutions, non-governmental organizations and the country’s university as part of the

Mercury-Free Partnership, whose goal was to encourage the phasing out of mercury use

within artisanal and small-scale gold mining by promoting the use of mercury-free

technologies and awareness building.

49. With respect to the implementation of the judgments of the Inter-American Court of

Human Rights in the cases of Saramaka People v. Suriname and Kaliña and Lokono

Peoples v. Suriname, the political will was present to undertake the necessary steps in that

regard.

50. However, the extent and the nature of the judgments obliged the State to adopt a

certain degree of cautiousness. The State wished to execute the judgments in the most

responsible manner possible, while ensuring that there was overall ownership of the process

that it had embarked upon as a nation.

51. The State was bound to such cautiousness since it was evident that, to date, there

was no common agreement among the indigenous and tribal communities on certain major

aspects of the judgments.

52. Divergent positions were certainly evident with respect to agreeing on an applicable

map of land use for those communities. It was therefore complex for the State to embark

upon specific actions for delimitation and demarcation.

53. The judgment by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights in Moiwana

Community v. Suriname was almost fully implemented. Parts of the judgment that still

needed to be implemented related to demarcation of the land and would be executed

together with the implementation of the Saramaka judgment.

54. In the case of Moiwana, it should be noted that the Court had wrongfully assigned

Moiwana as property belonging to Maroons (tribal communities), whereas those lands were

indigenous lands. The indigenous peoples had objections in that regard.

55. In addition, the principle of free, prior, and informed consent was already

implemented in practice by multinationals and large local companies who had to consult

with local indigenous and tribal communities.

56. For instance in Sarakreek, the Government had mediated an agreement between the

Saramaka people and the owners of the scalians.

57. The Government also had mediated an agreement between the IAMGOLD

Corporation and the inhabitants of Koffiekamp village.

B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review

58. During the interactive dialogue, 55 delegations made statements. Recommendations

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

59. Indonesia appreciated the accession to the Optional Protocol to the Convention on

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

establishment of a road map for combating trafficking (2014-2018), the development of a

gender work plan and amendments to the Penal Code to increase the protection of children.

8 GE.16-11346

It also commended the efforts of Suriname in establishing the national human rights

institution.

60. Ireland commended the effective abolition of the death penalty through its

elimination from the Penal Code. It noted references to the death penalty in the Military

Penal Code and encouraged Suriname to amend it. It was also concerned that Suriname’s

legislative environment could interfere with the enjoyment of the right to freedom of

expression. It was also concerned that the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex

community faced discrimination.

61. Italy commended that the removal of the death penalty from the Penal Code and

welcomed the attention devoted by Suriname to the rights of the child, especially the steps

taken in order to combat child labour.

62. The Minister of Justice and Police responded to some of the issues raised in the

interactive dialogue. Concerning the national human rights institution, the Minister stated

that it would definitely be launched on 10 December 2016.

63. On trafficking in persons and protection of children, Suriname was already

combating with those issues.

64. As for the accession to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or

Degrading Treatment or Punishment raised by Indonesia, the Minister indicated that the

delegation would take that recommendation to the Government to study the possibility of

accession. The same would be done for the International Convention on the Protection of

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

65. As to the discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex

persons, to which Ireland referred, the Minister stressed that they were not discriminated

against either in law or in general. In a few years, Suriname would hopefully be able to

report about specific legislation guaranteeing that they had equal rights. Suriname had 20

different ethnic groups with different religions and needed some kind of consensus to pass

legislation on the issue. Nevertheless, it was important to note that the Ministry of Justice

and Police defined the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons as

human rights.

66. Concerning the question from Italy about the death penalty, it would be eliminated

from the Military Penal Code by the end of 2016.

67. Jamaica commended the amendments to the Nationality and Residency Act and the

Election Act; the drafting of legislation on sexual harassment in the workplace and the

amendment to the Civil Code to introduce maternity leave for women in the private sector;

the formulation and implementation of the Domestic Violence Plan 2014-2017; and the

signature of the Optional Protocols to the Convention on the Rights of the Child. It also

applauded the innovative conditional cash transfer programme.

68. Malaysia noted the efforts to eliminate discrimination against women through the

adoption of new legislation, amendments to existing laws and the implementation of

relevant policies and programmes. It also acknowledged the comprehensive approach to

child protection. It stated, however, that further attention could be given to the

socioeconomic situation and access to justice for persons with disabilities, indigenous

peoples and other vulnerable groups.

69. Maldives commended the accession of Suriname to the Convention on the Rights of

Persons with Disabilities and efforts made within anti-discrimination initiatives in the

country. It appreciated the measures to support mental health, including the most recent

National Mental Health Plan (2015-2017). It also took note of the implementation of a

housing plan for the period of 2012-2017.

GE.16-11346 9

70. Mexico appreciated the establishment of a national human rights institution and the

accession to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. It encouraged

Suriname to remove the death penalty from the Military Penal Code. It commended the

implementation of the law to reduce poverty, creation of a sustainable social security

system and a legislative amendment to guarantee gender equality in transmitting nationality

to avoid statelessness of children.

71. Montenegro commended the commitment of Suriname to combat domestic violence.

It underlined the amendments to the Nationality and Residency Act and equal rights for

men and women to confer nationality to their spouse and children. Noting the concerns of

the International Labour Organization (ILO) Committee of Experts regarding the child

victims of trafficking and prostitution, it asked Suriname to provide additional information

regarding efforts to ensure appropriate services for them.

72. Morocco welcomed the changes to the Nationality and Residency Act to guarantee

gender equality in transmitting nationality to prevent statelessness. It also commended the

decision to abolish fees for primary and secondary schools to allow better access to

education, as well as the efforts to fight against racial discrimination, and the adoption of

the national strategy to combat trafficking in persons.

73. Namibia commended Suriname for setting up a commission to coordinate the

process for implementation of recommendations from the universal periodic review and the

initiatives to combat domestic violence, especially under the “Intervention Domestic

Violence” religious leaders’ training project for religious leaders. It also welcomed the

2014 amendment to the Nationality and Residency Act and the adoption of the law to

remove the death penalty from its Penal Code.

74. The Netherlands welcomed the removal of the death penalty from the Penal Code

and the importance attached to women’s rights, but noted that the Domestic Violence Plan

2014-2017 had not been approved. Echoing the comments of the Human Rights

Committee, it urged Suriname to repeal the Amnesty Act and comply with international

human rights law requiring accountability for those responsible for serious human rights

violations.

75. Nicaragua welcomed the legislative reforms and the steps taken to improve the

human rights situation of women and children. It congratulated Suriname on the removal of

the death penalty from the Penal Code. Nicaragua encouraged Suriname to continue the

efforts, particularly in the areas of the right to health and education, poverty reduction and

the rights of the most vulnerable, such as women, children and indigenous peoples.

76. Pakistan appreciated the legislation and policies introduced for the advancement of

human rights, for example, the Nationality and Residency Act, the Act on National Basic

Health Insurance, the Stalking Act, the Comprehensive Plan for Children and Adolescents

(2012-2016) and the national action plan for the eradication of child labour.

77. Panama welcomed the establishment of a national human rights institution and

removal of the death penalty from the Penal Code, and the initiatives undertaken to prevent

domestic violence, including against women.

78. Paraguay welcomed the amendment to the Nationality and Residency Act in order to

guarantee gender equality in transmitting nationality and encouraged Suriname to ensure

that children who would not benefit from that amendment had access to health and

education services. It urged Suriname to adopt measures to combat gender-based violence

and abuse against women and trafficking in persons.

79. The Philippines appreciated the programme aimed at raising women’s awareness of

domestic violence and the efforts to revise the Civil Code to improve women’s labour

rights. It was, however, concerned about the allegations that there was a lack of recognition

10 GE.16-11346

of the rights of indigenous peoples and a need to improve access to educational services for

children.

80. Portugal welcomed the ratification of the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the

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

abolition of school fees, which had resulted in improved access to education, especially for

families living in the interior of the country and poor family households. It also welcomed

the legislation establishing a national human rights institution.

81. The Republic of Korea appreciated initiatives and policies taken by the Bureau of

Gender Affairs to promote gender equality and protect women from violence. It noted a

“Intervention Domestic Violence” training session as a good example to raise awareness on

gender-based violence. It also noted the legislation establishing the National Human Rights

Institution and hoped that the human rights infrastructure would be independent and

effective.

82. Regarding the question on the National Human Rights Institution, the delegation of

Suriname assured that it would be independent and in accordance with the principles

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

rights (Paris Principles).

83. In relation to the Amnesty Act mentioned by the Netherlands, and by referring to the

first Amnesty Act, Suriname could not give amnesty to some violators of human rights, but

not others. The second Amnesty Act was not the initiative of the Government but that of

parliament. Suriname wanted to end that situation positively and start the process of

mediations and truth-finding through the Organization of the American States. The case

that had been brought before the courts must also come to an end.

84. On domestic violence and child abuse, the Ministry of Justice and Police had

recently launched a pilot project on child abuse and exploitation in an indigenous village in

the western part of the country to see what kind of methodologies should be developed.

Suriname also planned to establish an institution whose primary purpose was to protect

children. But more experts and social workers were needed to reach the goal in 2018.

85. Senegal welcomed measures taken by Suriname as part of the follow-up to

recommendations accepted during the first universal periodic review cycle, which included

the abolition of the death penalty, the revision of the Nationality and Residency Act, the

provision of free health care for children up to the age of 16 and initiatives prioritizing

women’s rights.

86. Sierra Leone applauded the efforts undertaken to combat gender inequality and

encouraged the accelerated adoption of the legislation conferring mothers’ nationality on

their children. It also encouraged Suriname to ensure that the national human rights

institution was in accordance with the Paris Principles. It urged Suriname to implement the

recommendations from the first cycle.

87. Slovenia welcomed the efforts undertaken in the areas of women’s rights and gender

equality and the removal of the death penalty from the Penal Code, but remained concerned

that the death penalty was preserved in the Military Penal Code. It noted with concern that

Suriname had not ratified the Convention against Torture and that criminal legislation did

not define torture in conformity with international norms.

88. South Africa commended Suriname for the establishment of a commission to

implement universal periodic review recommendations. It also commended Suriname for

the efforts undertaken to abolish the death penalty and eradicate poverty. It encouraged

Suriname to ensure full and effective participation of the tribal and indigenous peoples in

public and political life.

GE.16-11346 11

89. Spain congratulated Suriname for the transparent and democratic elections held in

2015 and the recent adoption of the new Penal Code, which included the abolition of the

death penalty. It also congratulated Suriname for ratifying the Optional Protocol to the

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

pornography.

90. The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia welcomed the adoption of a national

strategy to combat trafficking in persons. It encouraged Suriname to broaden the mandate

of the national human rights institution in accordance with the Paris Principles. It requested

additional information on the adoption of comprehensive anti-trafficking legislation and on

whether measures were being taken to decriminalize defamation.

91. Trinidad and Tobago commended Suriname for efforts in promoting gender equality

and the empowerment of women. It also noted the creation of a social system to address

poverty and social protection through the adoption and implementation of legislation

relating to the minimum wage, pension benefits and basic health insurance.

92. The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland welcomed the progress

made since the last review, including the areas of women’s rights, discrimination and

gender equality. It welcomed the removal of the death penalty from the Penal Code, and its

forthcoming abolition from the Military Penal Code. It encouraged Suriname to continue its

efforts to legally recognize the land rights of indigenous communities and to ensure that

indigenous communities benefit from public services.

93. The United States of America applauded the reform of the nationality law, removing

provisions that discriminated against women. It expressed concern at the unwillingness of

prosecutors to recognize the guidance of the November 2015 Court of Justice ruling that

found the Amnesty Act to be unconstitutional, at insufficient resources to combat

trafficking in persons, at the use of child labour in the informal sector and at the fact that

the age when compulsory education ended remained below the minimum age for

employment.

94. Uruguay thanked Suriname for its efforts to participate in the review. It welcomed

the signatures of two Optional Protocols to the Convention on the Rights of the Child and

the ratification of the Optional Protocol on the sale of children, child prostitution and child

pornography, as well as the efforts to enforce women’s rights. It took note of the training of

personnel for the national human rights institution.

95. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela noted the ratification of the Convention on

the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the

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

noted that all children up to 16 years of age received free health care and free primary and

first-level secondary education.

96. Algeria welcomed measures to implement recommendations from the first universal

periodic review. Suriname had made major efforts in the area of women’s rights, combating

domestic violence and ensuring equality between men and women, inter alia, concerning

the acquisition of nationality. It noted the adoption of a national strategy to combat

trafficking in persons and the commitment to settle the land rights of the indigenous

peoples.

97. Argentina congratulated Suriname for the legislative reform that had removed the

death penalty from the Penal Code.

98. Armenia appreciated the strategy to combat trafficking in persons and the abolition

of school tuition fees, which improved access to education. It welcomed the efforts to

recognize the land rights of the indigenous peoples. It noted that there remained a number

of core international human rights instruments yet to be ratified.

12 GE.16-11346

99. Australia noted the abolition of the death penalty in the Penal Code, following

commitments made in the 2011 universal periodic review. It remained concerned about the

unresolved trial of President Bouterse and the 22 co-defendants for the 1982 extrajudicial

killings of 15 political opponents. It also expressed concern about the national human rights

institution falling under the direction of the Ministry of Home Affairs.

100. Azerbaijan welcomed the elimination of the death penalty from the Penal Code, the

national strategy to combat trafficking in persons and the ratification of the Optional

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

prostitution and child pornography. It welcomed the decision to amend the Nationality and

Residency Act to ensure gender equality in the transference of nationality.

101. The Bahamas commended Suriname on the efforts undertaken to promote human

rights, including in the area of gender equality, trafficking in persons, protection of children

and support to civil society, which were undertaken against a challenging fiscal landscape.

It requested to hear about ongoing strategies to increase participation of women in politics

and decision-making.

102. Barbados applauded the establishment of a commission to implement the universal

periodic review recommendations. It also encouraged the establishment of an independent

national human rights institution in accordance with the Paris Principles. It urged Suriname

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

involvement of children in armed conflict. It encouraged continued collaboration with

United Nations bodies and efforts to combat trafficking in persons.

103. Belgium welcomed the abolition of the death penalty, in accordance with a

recommendation it had made in the last universal periodic review. It also noted the

undertaking by Suriname to remove the death penalty from the Military Penal Code. It

welcomed the legal prohibition of corporal punishment, and called for awareness-raising

campaigns on corporal punishment. It was concerned by the persistence of child labour in

rural areas.

104. Brazil praised Suriname for: amending the Penal Code so as to abolish the death

penalty; ratifying the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities; measures taken

regarding gender equality and violence against women and on the rights of persons with

HIV/AIDS; and the adoption of the 2012-2016 development plan and legal measures to

establish a national social protection system.

105. Canada encouraged the extension of the abolition of the death penalty to the Military

Penal Code. It welcomed the adoption by Suriname of the road map for combating

trafficking in persons (2014-2018) and encouraged concrete protection measures that target

persons who are marginalized and most vulnerable to be rapidly and effectively put in

place.

106. Chile appreciated progress noted in past years in the institutional, legal and political

spheres, aimed at empowering women and promoting their participation in political and

economic life. It noted increased participation of women in parliament.

107. China appreciated actions taken by Suriname to promote sustainable economic and

social development and inter-ethnic harmony. It welcomed the accession to the Convention

on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities; campaigns to combat domestic violence and to

promote gender equality and participation of women in the political life; the national action

plan to eliminate child labour; and the provision of free medical care.

108. Colombia highlighted the commitment of Suriname to abolish death penalty.

Colombia offered Suriname its experience in the areas of indigenous peoples, education,

health and non-discrimination.

GE.16-11346 13

109. Responding to the question posed by Armenia on the accession to the Convention on

the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide and the Convention against

Torture, the delegation of Suriname indicated that they would be studied by the national

human rights institution to be established.

110. On increasing the minimum age for marriage to 18, the age of consent in the Civil

Code had been revised in 2003 from 13 to 15 years for girls and from 15 to 17 years for

boys. In current draft legislation, it was proposed that the age be increased to 18 for both

boys and girls in accordance with the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

111. As to the question from Australia regarding the situation of lesbian, gay, bisexual,

transgender and intersex individuals, Suriname was trying to increase awareness, despite

difficulties in creating acceptance among more than 20 ethnic groups.

112. Responding to the statement from the United States, the delegation reported that

Suriname had created the Trafficking in Persons Unit in the police and conducted

awareness-raising programmes for them so that they would not treat victims as criminals.

Suriname also had shelters for female and child trafficking victims and was establishing

shelters for male victims.

113. As for child labour in informal economy, including in small-scale gold mining, it

was important to know that, in Suriname, during school holidays, children worked for their

parents. That was Surinamese culture. However, the Government was enforcing the law on

the age of mandatory schooling.

114. Concerning the comments made by the United States about the justice system, the

Minister stressed that she could not accept the statement that suggested that the justice

system in Suriname was not independent, as that was not true.

115. The age of compulsory education would be increased to 16 years of age and it was

hoped that the law would be in force next year.

116. In relation to the recommendation from Trinidad and Tobago to separate juveniles

from adults in detention, the juvenile correctional institution did not yet have a separate

building; however, juveniles were separated from adults.

117. As for access of persons with disabilities to education, Suriname had improved

access to education, including in rural areas, but mainly at primary level.

118. Costa Rica congratulated Suriname for progress made regarding gender equality and

decision-making, such as the 2015 campaign. It noted that, further to that initiative,

participation of women had increased. It acknowledged the importance paid by Suriname to

human rights education and training on gender equality. It also noted with concern the

observations of the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination regarding the

situation of indigenous peoples in Suriname.

119. Cuba acknowledged challenges faced by a multi-ethnic and multireligious society

such as Suriname. It noted efforts to combat gender inequalities at home and society, such

as training provided to public servants and awareness-raising campaigns. It highlighted

progress regarding children rights, trafficking in persons and poverty reduction. It noted

persistent challenges regarding indigenous peoples’ rights.

120. Denmark commended Suriname for having ratified almost all the core human rights

instruments and submitted reports to treaty bodies. It regretted, however, that Suriname had

not ratified the Convention against Torture and hoped that Suriname would be a party

thereto. It highlighted that the Convention against Torture Initiative stood ready to explore

avenues to assist Suriname in advancing on that issue.

14 GE.16-11346

121. Ecuador acknowledged legislative progress regarding the elimination of corporal

punishment, child labour and other forms of violence against children. It drew particular

attention to the office established to deal with gender issues; training provided on national

legislation related to domestic violence and gender issues; and cooperation with civil

society to promote projects aimed at empowering women in the social, political and

economic spheres.

122. Egypt welcomed efforts made by Suriname regarding gender equality, including

amendment to the Nationality and Residency Act and measures taken to combat trafficking

in persons. It also welcomed the fact that Suriname recognized the existence of inequalities

in the labour market between men and women and hoped that Suriname would tackle

challenges.

123. France welcomed the abolition of death penalty in Suriname and invited Suriname to

continue its reforms aimed to fully respect human rights.

124. Georgia welcomed the removal of the death penalty from the Penal Code and

acknowledged the intention to repeal the death penalty in the Military Penal Code. Georgia

welcomed the revision of the Nationality and Residency Act in order to ensure gender

equality and noted that further steps should be taken to repeal discriminatory provisions

against women in domestic legislation.

125. Germany commended Suriname for abolishing the death penalty in the Penal Code

and looked forward to its complete abolition through a reform of the Military Penal Code. It

remained concerned that the implementation of two judgements of the Inter-American

Court of Human Rights, pretrial detention and children’s rights required further attention.

126. Ghana welcomed steps taken regarding promotion of gender equality and

empowerment of women, trafficking in persons, poverty reduction and promotion of

economic, social and cultural rights of vulnerable groups, and the establishment of an

independent national human rights institution in accordance with the Paris Principles. It

expressed concern, however, that human rights and training education had not been

incorporated into school curricula.

127. Guatemala noted steps taken by Suriname to promote, protect and respect the

fundamental human rights of all persons.

128. Haiti congratulated Suriname for its wide and inclusive national report and noted

progress in the areas of the rights of women and children.

129. Honduras congratulated Suriname for its decision to abolish the death penalty in its

Penal Code. It encouraged Suriname to reflect its position regarding the right to life in its

Military Penal Code too. It welcomed progress made by Suriname at institutional

infrastructure level, through the establishment of a national human rights institution. It

reiterated its support to Suriname.

130. India noted positive measures regarding gender inequality, the rights of persons with

disabilities and actions to combat child abuse and sexual exploitation. It requested more

information about the multifaceted approach to counter gender-based discrimination

mentioned in the national report. It encouraged Suriname to continue effective

implementation of the Act on Combating Domestic Violence and efforts towards improved

access to education for tribal children.

131. Concerning the situation of the Saramaka people, the delegation of Suriname

reiterated that the implementation of the Moiwana judgment was nearly completed, but that

the Court had made a mistake in the judgment to say that the Moiwana was the land of

Maroons, when it was in fact the land of indigenous peoples. That was causing a problem.

The Saramaka judgment was a different situation. The Government had been holding

GE.16-11346 15

discussions with Saramaka tribes, as the demarcation of the land as the Court would prefer

might lead to riots and conflict between ethnic groups. Therefore, the fulfilment of the

Saramaka judgment needed to wait until an agreement would be reached with the 12 tribes

of Saramaka people.

132. In conclusion, the delegation thanked all the delegations for their support and

recommendations that they had given.

II. Conclusions and/or recommendations

133. The recommendations formulated during the interactive dialogue/listed below have

been examined by Suriname and enjoy the support of Suriname:

133.1 Sign and ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International

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

penalty (Belgium);

133.2 Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on

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

(Australia) (Costa Rica) (France) (Montenegro) (Panama) (Portugal);

133.3 Consider the accession to the Second Optional Protocol to the

International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of

the death penalty (Argentina); consider acceding to the Second Optional

Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at

the abolition of the death penalty (Uruguay);

133.4 Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on

Civil and Political Rights, and take all necessary steps to abolish the death

penalty in the military code (Italy);

133.5 Sign and ratify the core international instruments, including the

Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading

Treatment or Punishment (Sierra Leone);

133.6 Sign and ratify the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel,

Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Italy);

133.7 Accede to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman

or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Armenia) (Canada) (Ghana); ratify

the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading

Treatment or Punishment (Denmark) (the former Yugoslav Republic of

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

133.8 Ratify promptly the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel,

Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Guatemala);

133.9 Move forward the ratification of the Convention against Torture and

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

133.10 Consider ratifying the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel,

Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Philippines); consider

acceding to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or

Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Uruguay);

** The conclusions and recommendations have not been edited.

16 GE.16-11346

133.11 Accede to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman

or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and align its legislation accordingly

(Slovenia);

133.12 Accede to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman

or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and the Optional Protocol to the

Convention on the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed

conflict (France);

133.13 Sign and ratify those international human rights instruments to which

it was not yet a party, particularly the Optional Protocol to the Convention on

the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict, which

had been previously recommended (Spain);

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

Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict (Italy);

133.15 Ratify promptly the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights

of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict (Guatemala);

133.16 Consider ratification of the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the

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

(Bahamas);

133.17 Ratify the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

(Honduras);

133.18 Ratify promptly the Convention on the Rights of Persons with

Disabilities (Guatemala);

133.19 Consider ratifying the Convention on the Rights of Persons with

Disabilities (Ecuador);

133.20 Continue and accelerate efforts towards ratification of the Convention

on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (Bahamas);

133.21 Take the opportunity of ratifying the Convention on the Rights of

Persons with Disabilities to improve social security and public services for

persons with disabilities (China);

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

Crime of Genocide (Armenia); ratify the Convention on the Prevention and

Punishment of the Crime of Genocide (Ghana);

133.23 Accelerate the passage of the law establishing the Constitutional Court

in accordance with the Constitution of Suriname (Egypt);

133.24 Establish promptly, as provided in the Constitution, a constitutional

court with competency, inter alia, to review the compatibility of the national

law with the international human rights instruments (Guatemala);

133.25 Continue to consolidate the positive societal policies in favour of

vulnerable sectors, particularly children and adolescents (Bolivarian Republic

of Venezuela);

133.26 Continue to improve the engagement, empowerment, education,

entrepreneurship and social enterprise of youth (Malaysia);

133.27 Create a national human rights institution in conformity with the Paris

Principles (Costa Rica); establish a national human rights institution in

accordance with the Paris Principles (Georgia) (Pakistan);

GE.16-11346 17

133.28 Establish an independent national human rights institution that

conforms to the Paris Principles (Australia);

133.29 Consider establishing a national human rights institution in conformity

with the Paris Principles (India);

133.30 Strengthen the independence of the national human rights institution

(Egypt);

133.31 Ensure that the establishment of its national human rights institutions

complies with the Paris Principles (Malaysia);

133.32 Take all necessary measures to put in place a national human rights

institution in conformity with the Paris Principles (France);

133.33 Take all the necessary steps to ensure that the national human rights

institution complies fully with the Paris Principles (Portugal);

133.34 Establish an independent human rights institution with a broad

mandate for the promotion and protection of human rights in accordance with

the Paris Principles (South Africa);

133.35 Give the National Human Rights Institution to be established a broad

mandate to promote and protect human rights in accordance with the Paris

Principles (Republic of Korea);

133.36 Continue the efforts to reinforce the human rights institutions and the

harmonization of the national legislation with the human rights conventions, to

which the country is s a party (Morocco);

133.37 Take all necessary measures to incorporate human rights and gender

education in school curricula to help promote human rights awareness in

Suriname (Ghana);

133.38 Implement programmes in the area of human rights education for

State officers, including law enforcement officers, in order to avoid violence

and discrimination on any basis, especially regarding vulnerable groups

(Colombia);

133.39 Continue its cooperation with international human rights bodies and

instruments (Morocco);

133.40 Continue its cooperation with the human rights mechanisms of the

United Nations (Azerbaijan);

133.41 Submit its overdue reports to the International Covenant on Economic,

Social and Cultural Rights (Sierra Leone);

133.42 Continue to promote women empowerment (Pakistan);

133.43 Continue to address legislative gaps related to the rights of women

(Namibia);

133.44 Continue efforts to promote and protect the rights of women and

address legislative gaps related to the issue (Georgia);

133.45 Continue deploying concrete actions aimed at eliminating

discrimination against women and improve the rights of women and gender

equality (Cuba);

18 GE.16-11346

133.46 Promote efficiently equality between men and women, and take all

necessary measures to combat violence against women and trafficking in

persons (France);

133.47 Adopt concrete measures to increase the participation of women in the

political and public sphere (Slovenia);

133.48 Continue adopting public policies including affirmative measures, on

provisional basis if needed, in order to increase participation of women in the

political and public spheres (Chile);

133.49 Design and implement effective policies to promote gender equality

based on indicators and statistics to measure their impact (Mexico);

133.50 Promote gender equality in law and in practice in order to increase the

participation of women in the political and economic life of the country

(Paraguay);

133.51 Implement outcome-oriented programmes to empower women’s

participation in the work force and in political sphere (Maldives);

133.52 Undertake awareness-raising campaigns to foster equal opportunities

and responsibilities for women and men both in private and public spheres

(Panama);

133.53 Conduct awareness-raising campaigns regarding equal opportunities

and responsibilities for men and women, in order to abolish discrimination on

the basis of gender and lead to greater representation of women in positions of

responsibility (Spain);

133.54 Take appropriate measures to ensure gender equality and non-

discrimination of women in all spheres, particularly the presence of women in

the democratic process and the eradication of gender discrimination in the

labour market (Honduras);

133.55 Enact comprehensive legislation that fully guarantees the application

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

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

133.56 Take all necessary steps to adopt legislative and other measures to

explicitly prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender

identity (Netherlands);

133.57 Enact legislation that specifically addresses discrimination against

lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex individuals (Australia);

133.58 Adopt specific legislation to prevent discrimination based on sexual

orientation or gender identity (Chile);

133.59 Take effective steps for the country’s legal framework to protect the

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

133.60 Intensify measures to prevent and sanction violence against lesbian,

gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons (Chile);

133.61 Develop and implement training programmes for current and trainee

police officers to address stigmatisation and discrimination of lesbian, gay,

bisexual, transgender and intersex persons (Ireland);

133.62 Expedite its efforts to fully abolish the death penalty (Slovenia);

GE.16-11346 19

133.63 Expand the abolition of the death penalty to the military justice code

(Spain);

133.64 Strengthen the national legal framework to combat torture by

considering the accession of the Convention against Torture (Indonesia);

133.65 Improve prison conditions (Senegal);

133.66 Improve the conditions in pretrial detention facilities (Germany);

133.67 Continue its efforts to enhance the rights of women in particular to

eliminate all forms of violence against women (the former Yugoslav Republic of

Macedonia);

133.68 Continue to take active measures to ensure the effective

implementation of the 2009 Law Combating Domestic Violence (Namibia);

133.69 Consider providing regular training on the importance of ensuring

both accountability for gender-based violence and victim’s access to justice,

especially for law enforcement and judicial officers, including prosecutors

(Republic of Korea);

133.70 Strengthen and expands protections and programmes addressing

gender-based violence and sexual exploitation of children, including victims of

trafficking, by ensuring that survivors have access to shelter, as well as to

justice, health-care services, and support services (Canada);

133.71 Improve the protection of children; strengthen early detection and

counsel for victims of child sexual abuse; raise public awareness about the

harmful effects of corporal punishment (Germany);

133.72 Adopt legal reforms and policy measures to guarantee the prohibition

of all forms of violence against children, including corporal punishment both in

the private and the public sphere (Mexico);

133.73 Continue to intensify the efforts undertaken in order to promote and

protect children’s rights, particularly in reference to the implementation of

effective measures for eradicating child labour (Argentina);

133.74 Continue to bolster its legal arsenal with regard to child labour

(Spain);

133.75 Reinforce efforts at legislative level and political measures to combat

trafficking in persons for sexual and labour exploitation (Honduras);

133.76 Open the proposed shelter for female and child trafficking victims and

allocate sufficient resources to support long-term services for victims of

trafficking (United States of America);

133.77 Focus further on training for magistrates and law-enforcement officers

regarding trafficking in persons (Haiti);

133.78 Continue providing training and implementing measures to tackle

trafficking in persons, paying particular attention to the promotion and

protection of the rights of the child (Cuba);

133.79 Increase efforts to identify and provide assistance to victims of human

trafficking and implement and provide adequate financing for the national

strategy to combat human trafficking (Belgium);

133.80 Take steps to implement its road map for combating human trafficking

in order to ensure compliance with minimum standards for the elimination of

20 GE.16-11346

trafficking, including by establishing an interagency anti-trafficking structure;

take steps to reduce the demand for sex trafficking and forced labour,

including through public education and advocacy campaigns (Canada);

133.81 Take concrete steps to improve access to legal representation and

justice for vulnerable groups, through affordable legal aid schemes (Malaysia);

133.82 Ensure that the justice system has the necessary resources to carry out

an independent, impartial and expeditious trial of the December 1982 murders

(United States of America);

133.83 Implement the recommendations of the Human Rights Committee, by

prosecuting and sentencing, as appropriate, the perpetrators of the

extrajudicial executions of December 1982 and the Moiwana massacre in 1986

(Netherlands);

133.84 Ensure that juveniles in detention are housed in separate facilities from

adults (Trinidad and Tobago);

133.85 Pursue measures to eliminate poverty, through implementation of

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

133.86 Adopt legislative and political measures, including allocation of

financial resources to improve coverage of health services in rural areas

(Honduras);

133.87 Draw up a national health policy in order to reduce the high rate of

maternal mortality (Senegal);

133.88 Continue to implement the National Mental Health Plan and the HIV

National Strategic Plan and improve the level of health care in the country

(China);

133.89 Consider adopting a more targeted programme to address the reported

high suicide rate, especially among the youth, through, inter alia, the revitalised

National Mental Health Plan (Jamaica);

133.90 Raise the age when compulsory education ends to at least 16 (United

States of America);

133.91 Increase efforts to improve access to education in rural areas (Trinidad

and Tobago);

133.92 Further improve access to all levels of education, including in the rural

interior (Indonesia);

133.93 Improve access to education by all people, particularly children in the

interior of the country (Algeria);

133.94 Improve access to primary and secondary education for all children,

including those with disabilities. (Maldives);

133.95 Take steps to ensure that the access of persons with disabilities to

education is not limited to vocational fields but covers wider educational areas

(Trinidad and Tobago);

133.96 Improve the situation of indigenous peoples and guarantee their rights

(Egypt);

133.97 Adopt measures and establish a formal platform to guarantee and

protect the rights of indigenous peoples (Guatemala);

GE.16-11346 21

133.98 Strengthen measures to ensure equality of rights for indigenous

peoples, including the right to health, education and adequate housing

(Colombia);

133.99 Promote education for all, especially for indigenous and tribal children,

as well as step up efforts to preserve languages of the indigenous communities

(Philippines);

133.100 Respect and ensure the rights of indigenous people related to the

preservation of their land, culture and resources (Canada);

133.101 Ensure that the judgements of the Inter-American Court of Human

Rights regarding the Moiwana Community and Saramaka people are swiftly

and completely implemented (Germany);

133.102 Adopt measures to reduce the negative impact of mining on the

environment and the rights of indigenous peoples and their lands, in conformity

with international standards (Costa Rica).

134. The following enjoy the support of Suriname, which considers that they are

already implemented:

134.1 Sign and ratify the core international instruments, including

International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial

Discrimination (Sierra Leone);

134.2 Continue the efforts of reforming the justice sector, in order to enhance

the independence of the judiciary and facilitate access to justice to everyone

(Egypt);

134.3 Adequately resource its judicial system, and take steps to ensure the

independence of the judiciary (Australia).

135. The following recommendations will be examined by Suriname which will

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

Rights Council in September 2016:

135.1 Ratify international human rights instruments, particularly the

Convention against Torture and other Cruel Inhuman or Degrading Treatment

or Punishment and its Optional Protocol; the International Convention for the

Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance; the Optional Protocol

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

Women as well as the ILO Convention 169 concerning Indigenous and Tribal

Peoples in Independent Countries (Brazil);

135.2 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on

Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (Costa Rica) (Portugal);

135.3 Sign and ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the

Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (Italy);

135.4 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of

All Forms of Discrimination against Women (Chile) (Paraguay) (Uruguay);

135.5 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and

other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment (Costa Rica) (Honduras);

135.6 Ratify promptly the Optional Protocol to the Convention against

Torture and other Cruel, inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment

(Guatemala);

22 GE.16-11346

135.7 Move forward the ratification of the Optional Protocol the Convention

against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or

Punishment (Chile);

135.8 Consider acceding to the Optional Protocol the Convention against

Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment

(Uruguay);

135.9 Sign and ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights

of the Child on a communications procedure (Belgium);

135.10 Sign and ratify those international human rights instruments to which

it was not yet a party, particularly International Convention for the Protection

of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance, which had been previously

recommended (Spain);

135.11 Consider acceding to the International Convention for Protection of All

Persons from Enforced Disappearance (Uruguay);

135.12 Ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons

from Enforced Disappearance and recognize the competence of the Committee

on Enforced Disappearances to receive and examine communications

(Panama);

135.13 Ratify the International Convention on the Protection of All Persons

from Enforced Disappearance, and accept the competence of the Committee on

Enforced Disappearances pursuant to articles 31 and 32 of the Convention

(France);

135.14 Sign and ratify the core international instruments, including the

International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant

Workers and Members of Their Families (Sierra Leone);

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

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

135.16 Ratify promptly the International Convention on the Protection of the

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

135.17 Consider the accession of the International Convention on the

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

Families (Indonesia); consider ratifying the International Convention on the

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

Families (Philippines);

135.18 Ratify ILO Convention 169 concerning Indigenous and Tribal Peoples

in Independent Countries (Ghana) (Honduras);

135.19 Ratify ILO Convention No. 169 concerning Indigenous and Tribal

Peoples in Independent Countries and establish formal protocols to obtain their

free, prior and informed consent (Paraguay);

135.20 Sign and ratify the 1954 Convention relating to the Status of Stateless

Persons and the 1961 Convention on the Reduction of Statelessness (Portugal);

135.21 Ratify the UNESCO Convention against Discrimination in Education

(Honduras);

135.22 Fully align its national legislation with the Rome Statute (Slovenia);

GE.16-11346 23

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

International Criminal Court, including incorporating provisions to cooperate

promptly and fully with the International Criminal Court, and investigate and

prosecute genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes effectively, and

also accede to the Agreement on Privileges and Immunities of the International

Criminal Court (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland);

135.24 Continue its efforts to create a national human rights institution as

provided for the 1991 Decree, as modified in March 2015 (Haiti);

135.25 Establish a national human rights institute in accordance with the

Paris Principles, in accordance with the Order of Application relating to the

human resources of the national human rights institution created in 2015

(Uruguay);

135.26 Extend a standing invitation to the Council’s special procedures

(Portugal);

135.27 Extend a standing invitation to all special procedures of the Human

Rights Council (Uruguay);

135.28 Extend standing invitation to all special procedure mandate holders

(Montenegro);

135.29 Extend an open standing invitation to the special procedures of the

Human Rights Council (Chile);

135.30 Extend an open standing invitation to all special procedures, as

previously recommended (Spain);

135.31 Consider the possibility of extending an open standing invitation for all

human rights mechanisms (Paraguay);

135.32 Ensure implementation of the principle of non-discrimination based on

any ground, as provided by the national law in force, in the area of civil and

political rights (Colombia);

135.33 Adopt legislation and promote measures to prevent discrimination

based on race, disability, sexual orientation and gender identity (Mexico);

135.34 Adopt effective measures to ensure conditions of detention that

respected the dignity of prisoners in particular the revised United Nations

Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (the Nelson Mandela

Rules) (South Africa);

135.35 Adopt a new national action plan for the eradication of child labour

and ensure its effective implementation (Italy);

135.36 Take concrete measures to eliminate the worst forms of child labour

and revise the decree on labour inspections in order to take into account the

possibility of allowing labour inspectors to inspect working conditions for

children in the informal sector (Belgium);

135.37 Address urgently the constraints affecting the functioning of the

Conditional Cash Transfer programme, including, if appropriate, through

technical and/or financial assistance from regional and international partners

(Jamaica);

135.38 Increase the minimum age of criminal responsibility and marriage to

18 (Sierra Leone);

24 GE.16-11346

135.39 Amend its legislation in order to increase the minimum age of marriage

in line with the international standards (Slovenia);

135.40 Decriminalize defamation and place it within the civil code in

accordance with international standards, and adopt a freedom of information

law in line with international standards (Ireland);

135.41 Design and implement measures to ensure access to education and

medical services in the area of sexual and reproductive health that are

appropriate for each age group (Colombia);

135.42 Finalise the draft law on persons with disabilities with a view to its

implementation (Haiti);

135.43 Take the necessary measures to combat land and water pollution

caused by dangerous industrial waste (Algeria).

136. 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.

GE.16-11346 25

Annex

Composition of the delegation

The delegation of Suriname was headed by Ms. Jennifer van Dijk-Silos, Minister of Justice

and Police, and composed of the following members:

• Ms. Jennifer Kamta, Official at the Bureau for Human Rights, Ministry of Justice

and Police;

• Ms. Meryll Malone, Senior Desk Officer, Multilateral Affairs Department, Ministry

for Foreign Affairs.