34/12 Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review - Republic of Moldova

GE.16-22512(E)



Human Rights Council Thirty-fourth session

27 February-24 March 2017

Agenda item 6

Universal periodic review

Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review*

Republic of Moldova

*

The annex is being circulated without formal editing, in the language of submission only.

United Nations A/HRC/34/12

Contents

Page

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

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

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

B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review .............................................. 6

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

Annex

Composition of the delegation ...................................................................................................... 28

Introduction

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

with Human Rights Council resolution 5/1, held its twenty-sixth session from 31 October to

11 November 2016. The review of the Republic of Moldova was held at the 9th meeting, on

4 November 2016. The delegation of the Republic of Moldova was headed by the Minister

of Justice of the Republic of Moldova, Vladimir Cebotari. At its 13th meeting, held on 8

November 2016, the Working Group adopted the report on the Republic of Moldova.

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

rapporteurs (troika) to facilitate the review of the Republic of Moldova: Côte d’Ivoire,

Slovenia and Viet Nam.

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 the Republic of Moldova:

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

paragraph 15 (a) (A/HRC/WG.6/26/MDA/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.6/26/MDA/2);

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

(A/HRC/WG.6/26/MDA/3).

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

Norway, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom of Great Britain

and Northern Ireland was transmitted to the Republic of Moldova 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 Republic of Moldova was firmly dedicated to the

promotion of human rights and welcomed the universal periodic review as a way to

scrutinize the progress of the country with regard to the protection and promotion of human

rights by relevant stakeholders.

6. The delegation presented updates on the ratification by the Republic of Moldova of

several international treaties and identified the major development in the national human

rights legal framework as being the completion of the second National Human Rights

Action Plan for 2011-2014. The delegation underlined the Government’s intention to

promote a new general human rights policy document that would include recommendations

from international structures as well as the recommendations from the present evaluation

exercise.

7. Key legal developments included the adoption of the Law on Ensuring Equality,

which covered all grounds for discrimination and had created the Council on the Prevention

and Elimination of Discrimination and Ensuring Equality. That council adopted decisions

on immediate reinstatement of the rights of victims of discrimination and formulated

recommendations. In 2014, the council had been provided with investigatory powers for

certain categories of administrative offences.

8. The 2014 Law on the People’s Advocate (Ombudsman) had consolidated the

capacity of the former Centre for Human Rights. It had reduced the number of people’s

advocates, modified the appointment procedure (now by Parliament, on the basis of public

competition) to guarantee transparency and the involvement of civil society and had

established compliance criteria for candidates.

9. The new Law on the Governmental Agent to the European Court of Human Rights

had been adopted and provided for a revised mechanism for observation of the Court in the

Republic of Moldova. It regulated representation before the Court and enforcement of the

Court’s decisions and judgments.

10. The draft law regulating the legal capacity of persons with disabilities would ensure

compliance with the provisions of article 12 of the Convention on the Rights of Persons

with Disabilities, as it modified the concept of the legal capacity of persons with disabilities

by providing the adult person and the emancipated person with the possibility to obtain

protection in case of decreased personal, physical or mental abilities, to institute a family

council, to have a temporary guardian appointed and to be able to represent himself or

herself in civil proceedings.

11. The new National Mechanism on Prevention of Torture had became functional,

following the completion of the selection procedure for the members of the council of the

National Mechanism on Prevention of Torture.

12. The Republic of Moldova had taken measures to improve detention conditions,

especially by providing regular budgetary allocations, constructing a new penitentiary to

solve the problem of overcrowding in penitentiary facilities and promoting the new

Strategy for the Development of the Penitentiary System for 2016-2020.

13. The delegation presented the measures taken to ensure the right to education for all.

National priorities, particularly education for children and young people with disabilities,

were enshrined in the 2011-2020 development programme for inclusive education in the

Republic of Moldova.

14. Regarding inter-ethnic relations and protection of the rights of persons belonging to

national minorities, the legislation of the Republic of Moldova corresponded to the highest

recognized international standards. A new strategy on inclusive diversity in the Republic of

Moldova, for 2016-2026, was being promoted. The Government was taking measures to

promote the official language and ensure training for adults belonging to national

minorities.

15. One of the Government’s prerogatives was to provide the rights to freedom of

expression and equal assembly to everyone. A new draft law on non-commercial

organizations, aimed at facilitating registration of non-governmental organizations and

improving their functioning, was expected to be submitted to Parliament by the end of

2016.

16. A new initiative to amend the Criminal Code in order to regulate hate crimes was

pending examination in Parliament.

17. The justice sector had undergone comprehensive reforms, which had included new

measures improving access to justice for all social categories. The reforms were embodied

in the action plan for implementation of the Justice Sector Reform Strategy for 2011-2016.

18. Selection and performance evaluation systems had been established for judges, and

an integrated electronic system for the management of court files and the audio recording of

hearings was being used by courts. Law No. 79 on reorganization of the judicial system

would ensure accessibility through optimization of the court system, which would enhance

courts’ capacities, improve the quality of the administration of justice and create the basis

for judges to specialize in particular areas.

19. Since 2013, a number of acts aimed at reforming the immunity of judges had been

passed, especially in regard to preventing corruption. Law No. 325, on professional

integrity testing, passed in 2013, had created a new instrument to prevent corruption among

public servants.

20. The Law on the Prosecution Service, of 2016, had brought reforms to the system and

created specialized prosecution services.

21. Significant progress had been made in promoting and ensuring gender equality, both

in terms of adapting the legal and institutional framework and in terms of incorporating a

gender perspective into national sector policies. The national programme on gender

equality for 2010-2015 had been implemented, and the new strategy on gender equality, for

2017-2021, was at the consultation stage.

22. In April 2016, the Parliament of the Republic of Moldova had adopted amendments

to several legislative acts, obliging political parties to ensure equal rights and opportunities

for both the women and men among their membership and to respect the minimum rate of

representation of 40 per cent for each sex, and requiring media and publicity agencies to

use non-sexist language and to present images of women and men in terms of equal rights

in the public and private spheres of life. The amendments made to the Labour Code

included 14 days of paternity leave.

23. The Republic of Moldova had taken measures in order to harmonize the national

legal framework for preventing and combating domestic violence with international

standards. The delegation stated that the Government had drafted the presidential decree for

signing of the Council of Europe Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence

against Women and Domestic Violence (Istanbul Convention).

24. The delegation presented updates regarding the protection of the rights of the child.

A new legal framework for protecting and monitoring children in difficulty had been

established in 2013; standards of social support services for families with children had also

been established.

25. Specialized entities for minors and human rights had been created within

prosecution offices. Specialized hearing rooms for minors had been created in eight

prosecution offices.

26. The legislative framework for combating trafficking in human beings had been

significantly improved in the past four years. The Law on Rehabilitation of Victims of

Crimes, of 2016, created a proper governmental mechanism for the rehabilitation of

victims, including for victims of trafficking in human beings and of trafficking in children.

It would provide for social and medical assistance and financial compensation for the

victims of crimes. Specialized services for victims and potential victims of trafficking in

human beings were currently being provided by centres for assistance and protection.

27. The delegation reiterated the importance of United Nations mechanisms, particularly

the universal periodic review and the special procedure mandate holders, recalling that the

country had been visited by four special rapporteurs and five other senior United Nations

human rights officials. The delegation reiterated that the Republic of Moldova extended a

standing invitation to all mandate holders.

28. The Republic of Moldova had decided to present its candidacy for the Human Rights

Council for the 2020-2022 term.

29. The Republic of Moldova was fully committed to the idea of European integration,

guided by its Association Agreement with the European Union. The European Union-

Republic of Moldova Human Rights Dialogue held its meetings in an enlarged format, with

the participation of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe and the

Council of Europe, and served also as a platform for active and transparent participation by

civil society in tackling issues pertaining to human rights and freedoms.

30. The delegation stated that there were difficulties in engaging in a constructive

dialogue with the Transnistrian region on different human rights matters, due to reasons

beyond the control of the Moldovan authorities. It stated that the central Government was

committed to identifying the possibilities for implementation of the recommendations of the

Hammarberg Report.

31. The delegation stated that the Republic of Moldova was fully engaged with

continuing its efforts to promote human rights policies in the social sectors, where policies

still needed further development, and noted that this would require dedication. The

Government highly appreciated the engagement of civil society and considered it as an

active partner and evaluator where the implementation of human rights policies was

concerned.

B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review

32. During the interactive dialogue, 75 delegations made statements. Recommendations

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

33. Norway was concerned about prison conditions and reports of police mistreatment

and torture. It noted that judicial independence remained a challenge and that increased

transparency was essential in order to reduce corruption. Norway noted reports of journalist

self-censorship out of fear of reprisals.

34. Pakistan welcomed the ratification of human rights instruments, the enactment of

domestic laws, the adoption of the strategy on inclusive diversity and the action plan for

Roma. It appreciated the work of the national councils for persons with disabilities and for

children.

35. Panama praised the efforts made by the Republic of Moldova to strengthen its

regulatory and institutional human rights framework, and its measures to tackle

statelessness, trafficking in persons and violence against women. It was concerned about

the deep ethnic, religious, linguistic and gender divisions in the country.

36. Paraguay referred to the legislation on the Office of the Ombudsman and on

equality, and noted that discrimination had been criminalized. It welcomed efforts to

address minority rights and the issues of statelessness and national languages.

37. Peru welcomed the adoption of the national plan of action on the inclusion of Roma

and the adoption of the strategy on inclusive diversity.

38. The Philippines was concerned about the suspension of ratification of the

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

Members of Their Families and of other human rights treaties. It urged the Government to

promote effective access to education and to combat absenteeism and dropping out of

school by Roma children, especially girls.

39. Poland acknowledged the efforts to comply with the recommendations accepted

during the first review cycle.

40. Portugal praised the fight against corruption, particularly in the justice sector. It

welcomed the strengthening by the Republic of Moldova of the legislative framework and

practice for combating torture.

41. Qatar acknowledged the fight against trafficking and child exploitation through the

adoption of national strategies. It welcomed efforts to promote the rights of persons with

disabilities, while asking that support be given to their families.

42. The Republic of Korea commended the establishment of the Council on the

Prevention and Elimination of Discrimination and Ensuring Equality and the adoption of

the Law on Ensuring Equality. It noted progress in combating judicial corruption, through

the Justice Sector Reform Strategy for 2011-2016.

43. Romania appreciated the good organization of the first round of the presidential

elections, as assessed by the international observation mission.

44. The Russian Federation noted the inadequate representation of ethnic minorities in

government bodies and was concerned by the trend away from using Russian as a language

of inter-ethnic communication.

45. Serbia welcomed the National Human Rights Action Plan as well as the mechanism

to monitor its implementation. It welcomed the adoption of child protection legislation and

of an implementation strategy.

46. Sierra Leone commended the National Human Rights Action Plan for 2017-2020

and the government strategy on child protection for 2014-2020. It indicated that further

efforts could be undertaken to ensure the participation of Roma in decision-making

processes and encouraged the Government to implement the national action plan for Roma

for 2016-2020.

47. Slovenia commended progress achieved since the last review, while at the same time

stressing that recommendations that had been accepted were still to be fully implemented. It

noted that root causes of domestic violence, such as gender inequalities and economic

issues, had not been fully addressed.

48. Slovakia welcomed the legal recognition of the competence of the Committee on the

Elimination of Racial Discrimination to receive complaints about alleged victims of human

rights violations. It encouraged the Government to fully implement laws aimed at

eliminating discrimination against women and noted shortcomings in the Law on Ensuring

Equality.

49. Spain congratulated the Republic of Moldova on the progress achieved in promoting

and protecting human rights. It expressed concern at the lack of political will in combating

violence against women and domestic violence.

50. The Sudan commended achievements since the first review, namely the reform of

the legal and institutional framework. Sudan noted with appreciation the comprehensive

diversity strategy, established with support from the High Commissioner on National

Minorities, of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, and with technical

assistance from the Council of Europe.

51. Sweden noted with concern that domestic and sexual violence was still widespread

and was closely linked to gender inequalities and gender stereotypes. It noted a very low

rate of reporting of cases of abuse.

52. Switzerland noted with appreciation the recent establishment of emergency

protection orders, which could be quickly issued by police officers.

53. Tajikistan welcomed the steps taken for effective implementation of the legal

framework for promoting and protecting human rights, through the ratification of

international treaties and improvements to national legislation. It commended measures

taken to enhance anti-discrimination policies and equality.

54. Thailand welcomed the progress made in strengthening the human rights

infrastructure, particularly the passage in 2014 of the Law on the People’s Advocate

(Ombudsman) and the development of the new national human rights action plan.

55. Timor-Leste welcomed the creation of the Council on the Prevention and

Elimination of Discrimination and Ensuring Equality and the development of the manual on

anti-discrimination for judges. Timor-Leste noted with appreciation the adoption of several

anti-corruption laws.

56. Tunisia noted with appreciation the revised National Action Plan on Human Rights.

It welcomed the development of a national strategy for the protection of children, for 2014-

2020. Tunisia asked for information on the mechanisms created to deal with hate crimes,

harassment and racially motivated discrimination.

57. Turkey commended the achievements in the areas of education, the rights of the

child, gender equality and justice reform. Turkey encouraged a similarly comprehensive

approach in the development of the new National Human Rights Action Plan.

58. In its response, the delegation of the Republic of Moldova reiterated its commitment

to implementing the new human rights action plan that was being drafted and that would

include all the recommendations received in the universal periodic review.

59. Regarding the selection, appointment and promotion of judges, the delegation

advised that a new mechanism had been put in place and that only 4 per cent of the

appointments raised concerns. The criterion that was the cause of the concerns would be

revised. Amendments to the Constitution that had had a positive endorsement by the

Constitutional Court were pending the approval of Parliament. The composition of the

Superior Council of Magistrates would now include the Prosecutor-General, and the term of

the appointment of judges to the Supreme Court would be extended.

60. On minority-related questions, the delegation provided information about the 2011-

2015 action plan on supporting the Roma population and about the action plan for 2016-

2020. As a result of the implementation of the first plan, the institution of community

mediator had been created. For the first time, and with the support of the United Nations

Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN-Women), two Roma

women had been elected to local councils and seven women were on party lists for

elections. Education was an important element, so schools were functioning under special

supervision in all densely populated areas. The priorities were to continue to take measures

for the integration of Roma, to incentivize cooperation with State authorities and to combat

discrimination.

61. The Government, together with organizations of ethnocultural national minorities

and international experts, had drafted the “Concept on integrating ethnic minorities”, which

was scheduled to be approved by the end of 2016.

62. On the issue on violence against women, Parliament had approved amendments to a

set of laws that covered the expansion of the spectrum of rights of the victims of domestic

violence and improvements to the victim protection mechanism, expansion of the circle of

subjects referred to as family members, and the setting up of a free 24/7 telephone

counselling service.

63. The delegation also provided information about a first draft of the Strategy on

Preventing and Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence.

64. The Government of the Republic of Moldova had approved the national strategy on

child protection for 2014-2020 and the action plan for 2016-2020, which were focused on

ensuring the necessary conditions for growth and education in the family environment,

preventing and combating violence, neglect and exploitation, and promoting non-violent

practices in growth and education. The deinstitutionalization of children remained a

priority.

65. Turkmenistan welcomed the efforts to strengthen the legislative, institutional and

policy mechanisms for the protection of human rights. It commended the country for its

adoption of the Law on Youth and for aligning its national laws with its international treaty

obligations.

66. Ukraine commended the Republic of Moldova on the strengthening of its legislative

framework and practice for combating torture and on its implementation of the National

Human Rights Plan 2011-2014. It noted that an improved, fully independent judicial system

was crucial to protecting and promoting human rights in all areas.

67. The United Kingdom urged the Government to undertake reforms for the protection

of vulnerable groups, to make further progress in addressing violence against women and to

strengthen unity between all ethnic and cultural groups. It encouraged the alignment of

national legislation with the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court.

68. The United States of America noted recent law reforms, including prosecutorial

reforms and reforms relating to judicial independence, but was concerned about

deficiencies in the justice sector, which harmed efforts to combat human trafficking,

domestic violence and hate crimes. It urged continued efforts to protect the rights of

individuals, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons.

69. Uruguay welcomed the establishment of a national human rights action plan. It was

concerned about complaints of torture and ill-treatment and urged the Government to fully

comply with the provisions of the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or

Degrading Treatment or Punishment.

70. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela welcomed the enactment of the law to

guarantee equality, which covered all forms of discrimination. It noted that the action plan

for supporting the Roma population maintained the commitment to promoting the social

inclusion of Roma.

71. Afghanistan valued the endeavours to implement the recommendations received

during the first review cycle and commended the Republic of Moldova for ratifying

international human rights instruments.

72. Albania commended the revision of the National Human Rights Action Plan 2011-

2014, and the ratification of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms

of Racial Discrimination and the Convention against Torture.

73. Algeria commended the appointment of an Ombudsman, and the National Human

Rights Action Plan and the Plan for Justice Sector Reform. It encouraged the Government

to ratify the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant

Workers and Members of Their Families.

74. Argentina highlighted the approval of a strategy for child protection for 2014-2020,

which included measures to prevent and combat violence against children. It regretted the

lack of progress on ratifying international human rights conventions, since the first review.

75. Armenia welcomed the adoption of policies and legislative measures to promote the

rights of national minorities and the universal right to education. It noted the law on the

rehabilitation of victims of crimes, aimed at protecting victims of trafficking, and the

opening of an emergency placement centre for victims and potential victims of child

trafficking.

76. Australia commended the expansion of community-based services, and the training

to normalize the inclusion of persons with disabilities. It welcomed strong anti-corruption

laws and the monitoring of psychiatric and detention facilities. It was concerned that Roma

still faced discrimination and that advances in lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and

intersex rights were fragile.

77. Austria commended efforts to improve conditions in detention but was concerned

about insufficient resources for the national preventive mechanism and the lack of

rehabilitation programmes for torture victims. It was also concerned about domestic

violence and violence against women, and about lack of access to information and political

influence on the media through ownership concentration.

78. Azerbaijan noted the ratification of the Convention relating to the Status of Stateless

Persons and the Convention on the Reduction of Statelessness. It commended the Republic

of Moldova on the establishment of the Council on the Prevention and Elimination of

Discrimination and Ensuring Equality to protect all those who considered themselves

victims of discrimination.

79. Belarus welcomed the strategy to ensure gender equality. Belarus asked whether the

mandate of the Council on the Prevention and Elimination of Discrimination and Ensuring

Equality covered issues of gender equality and how many complaints of that nature the

Council had received.

80. Belgium welcomed the national child protection strategy for 2014-2020. It was

nevertheless concerned that violence against children, including sexual violence, continued.

81. Bosnia and Herzegovina welcomed the establishment of the Council on the

Prevention and Elimination of Discrimination and Ensuring Equality and the adoption of

the Law on Rehabilitation of Victims of Crimes of Trafficking in Human Beings. It asked

for more information on rehabilitation programmes for victims of trafficking.

82. Brazil welcomed legislative reforms to strengthen criminal sanctions for torture. It

appreciated the adoption of Law No. 71 that provided for initiatives on gender equality. It

encouraged the Government to work on its strategy for preventing, investigating and

punishing violence against women and domestic violence.

83. Bulgaria supported the call by the Special Rapporteur on minority issues to promote

the linguistic rights of minorities and to strengthen unity between population groups. It

commended the establishment of the Council on the Prevention and Elimination of

Discrimination and Ensuring Equality and the strategy on gender equality.

84. Canada welcomed legislative steps to support implementation of the Justice Sector

Reform Strategy and of the national programme on gender equality. It commended the

development of legislative approaches to promote equality, the creation of rehabilitation

centres for victims of violence, and the development of legislation and supporting

infrastructure to combat trafficking in persons.

85. Chile noted the adoption of the Law on the Office of the Ombudsman, which sought

to guarantee transparency and civil society participation. It also welcomed the adoption of

the Law on Ensuring Equality, and further action on legislation to combat domestic

violence.

86. China commended measures taken to protect the rights of minority groups, and the

adoption of national strategies on gender equality and on child protection, and for the social

inclusion of persons with disabilities. It welcomed the new National Human Rights Action

Plan, as well as the efforts to effect judicial reform and to combat corruption and trafficking

in persons.

87. Costa Rica raised concerns about the effectiveness of protection measures for

victims of domestic and gender-based violence and about relevant regulations not being

aligned with the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

88. Côte d’Ivoire appreciated the adoption of laws on equality, in 2012, and on the

Office of the Ombudsman, in 2014. It also welcomed the draft law criminalizing offences

motivated by prejudice, contempt or hatred, and the plan of action for the Roma population

for 2016-2020. It noted that challenges remained with regard to legislation being

implemented in practice.

89. Croatia welcomed the commitment to putting in place a new national human rights

action plan with an accompanying coordination body. It encouraged the Government to

involve civil society organizations further in promoting and defending the rights of

vulnerable groups, including the rights of persons with disabilities.

90. The delegation stated that the new Broadcasting Code, awaiting its final reading and

approval in Parliament, was a neutral document that would ensure respect for human rights

and citizens’ freedom of choice, and would tackle the issues of the concentration of the

mass media, eliminating and preventing monopolies in the media market, self-censorship,

the fight against piracy, manipulation, protection of the information space, countering

propaganda that targeted social divisions, inter-ethnic tension and racial hatred.

91. The delegation underlined the progress that had been achieved in setting the legal

framework for combating torture and ill-treatment. For the first time, the Criminal Code,

the Criminal Procedure Code and the Enforcement Code had been amended to criminalize

inhuman or degrading treatment, as had the existing regulations on torture as well as on

aggravating circumstances. Criminal punishment was now prescribed in cases of torture,

inhuman or degrading treatment, and it was no longer possible to apply either amnesties or

lighter punishments than those stipulated by the law. Criminal sanctions for torture had

been made significantly harsher and it now came under the exclusive competence of the

prosecutor to prosecute cases of torture, inhuman or degrading treatment, or cases or crimes

attributed to police officers, and to special investigating bodies.

92. Regarding trafficking in human beings, the delegation advised that the Criminal

Code listed distinct offences for the notions of trafficking in human beings and trafficking

in children. The sanctions had been tightened starting from 2013, including for perpetrators

who were public and international officials and for the final beneficiaries of these illegal

deeds. New offences had been added to the Criminal Code, such as trafficking in human

organs and tissue, and publicity for the selling and purchasing of human organs and tissue,

in order to comply with the relevant European convention. A specialized unit had been

created within the Office of the Prosecutor General, and legal professionals were being

trained in how to deal with such cases. A new strategy on preventing and combating

trafficking in persons was under consideration.

93. Regarding lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender rights, the delegation advised that

implementation of the Law on Ensuring Equality included extensive information campaigns

on anti-discrimination policy.

94. Cyprus noted the commitment to draw up a new national human rights action plan.

It encouraged the Government to enhance efforts aimed at improving legal protections for

vulnerable groups of the population, addressing in particular the phenomenon of domestic

violence and gender-based assaults in rural areas.

95. Czechia welcomed the delegation and expressed appreciation for its replies to the

questions that were sent in advance.

96. The Dominican Republic welcomed the adoption of the Law on the People’s

Advocate (Ombudsman), the implementation of the recommendations from the first cycle,

and the National Human Rights Action Plan and the development of a new plan.

97. El Salvador welcomed the progress achieved on human rights, particularly the

adoption of a new law on the prosecution service and the law providing for a 40 per cent

share for each sex in the political and public decision-making process, as well as other

measures to strengthen the rights of women.

98. Estonia noted the efforts to fulfil treaty body reporting obligations, and the adoption

of positive steps for the protection of the rights of national minorities, which included the

strategy on inclusive diversity. It regretted the increase in cases of domestic violence and

appreciated the efforts to counter it.

99. Finland stated that the Law on Ensuring Equality, adopted in 2012, was an important

step forward. Finland encouraged the Government to continue its efforts to implement the

Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the associated national strategy.

100. France welcomed efforts by the authorities to fight against discrimination based on

sexual identity and against domestic violence, and encouraged the country to continue with

reforms aimed at fully protecting human rights.

101. Georgia highlighted the adoption of a number of laws, including the Law on the

People’s Advocate (Ombudsman), and the strategy on inclusive diversity for 2016-2020. It

noted the commitment shown by the Government in developing a new national human

rights action plan. Georgia remained concerned about human rights protection in the

Transnistrian region.

102. Germany appreciated progress made in preventing torture and in bringing

perpetrators to justice. It noted that shortcomings still remained and that the justice sector

had not yet been fully aligned with international standards.

103. Greece highlighted progress in different areas, including the implementation of the

2011-2015 action plan to support the Roma population and of the 2011-2016 justice reform

strategy, and the efforts to combat domestic violence in accordance with the 2010-2015

national programme on gender equality.

104. Guatemala noted progress in human rights but expressed concerns about remaining

divisions in the country based on grounds such as ethnicity, religion, gender, politics,

language and income.

105. Hungary appreciated the adoption in 2012 of the Law on Ensuring Equality, in line

with recommendations received during the first cycle. It supported recommendations by the

Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment

or Punishment that the national preventive mechanism strengthen the protection of persons

who had provided information to the Subcommittee.

106. Indonesia commended the reform of the justice sector through the adoption of

several laws, and the commitment to develop a new strategy on gender equality for 2016-

2020 as well to develop a new comprehensive national action plan.

107. Iraq commended the legal framework for combating trafficking in persons and the

adoption of the law concerning the rehabilitation of victims. It welcomed the accession to

three international instruments in the area of migration. It commended the guarantees given

regarding the right to education for all, including for children and young people with

disabilities.

108. Ireland welcomed the engagement by the Government with European and

international institutions in pursuit of its reform agenda, of which developing the strategy

on inclusive diversity was an example. It also welcomed the adoption of legislation on

trafficking in human beings, although it was concerned about the persistence of trafficking

in and out of the country.

109. Italy welcomed efforts to implement measures aimed at preventing and combating

domestic violence, as part of the national family care and support policy. It also welcomed

the commitment of the authorities to reforming the legislative framework in that area.

110. Japan welcomed the National Programme for the Social Inclusion of Persons with

Disabilities, for 2017-2022. It was concerned by the widespread corruption and by the

failure to ensure the independence of the judiciary.

111. Kyrgyzstan supported steps taken to protect human rights, particularly the adoption

of Law No. 71 and the new strategy on gender equality for 2016-2020.

112. Latvia commended legislative amendments adopted in 2016 to combat violence

against women and domestic violence. It encouraged the authorities to expedite the

finalization and adoption of a new human rights action plan.

113. Libya commended the efforts to implement recommendations accepted during the

first cycle.

114. Maldives supported the efforts by the Republic of Moldova to strengthen its

legislative framework to combat torture. It noted the commitment to create a new national

human rights action plan that would strengthen the role of stakeholders in implementing

human rights policies.

115. Mexico acknowledged progress made in combating discrimination, noting the

adoption of the Law on Ensuring Equality and the action plan to support the Roma

population. It also welcomed efforts to prevent torture, including the amendments to the

Criminal Code and the Criminal Procedure Code, and to develop an inclusive and

multicultural education system.

116. Montenegro noted efforts to establish a new human rights action plan and

coordinating body. It asked for information on activities undertaken to implement

legislation to reduce gender inequalities. It encouraged the Government to strengthen

efforts to promote and defend the rights of stigmatized groups, such as lesbian, gay,

bisexual, transgender and intersex persons, Roma, persons living with HIV/AIDS and

persons with disabilities.

117. Namibia commended the adoption in 2014 of the Law on the People’s Advocate

(Ombudsman) and in 2016 of the new action plan to support the Roma population, which

was a continuation of the commitment of the Republic of Moldova to enhancing the social

inclusion of the Roma. It also welcomed initiatives to reform the justice sector.

118. The Netherlands encouraged broad consultation in the follow-up to the universal

periodic review session, including in the development and implementation of its revised

National Human Rights Action Plan. It appreciated the reforms in the field of non-

discrimination and the judicial system, and the new law on the Prosecution Service.

119. The delegation of the Republic of Moldova advised that after the ratification of the

Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, Parliament had approved the Law on

the Social Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities and amendments to about 50 documents in

order to bring the legal framework into line with the Convention and the Law.

120. The delegation of the Republic of Moldova concluded by reiterating the

commitment to continue efforts to make human rights better understood and accessible to

everyone and to reduce the number of further issues that may occur. The Government

would draft a new plan on human rights, based on the recommendations contained in the

present document, and working closely with civil society.

II. Conclusions and/or recommendations

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

have been examined by the Republic of Moldova and enjoy the support of the

Republic of Moldova:

121.1 Continue its accession to the core international human rights

instruments (Azerbaijan);

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

Child on a communications procedure (Slovakia) (Portugal);

121.3 Accede to the Agreement on the Privileges and Immunities of the

International Criminal Court (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern

Ireland);

121.4 Ratify the Convention on the Non-Applicability of Statutory Limitations

to War Crimes and Crimes against Humanity (Armenia);

121.5 Fully align national legislation with the Rome Statute of the

International Criminal Court and accede to the Agreement on the Privileges

and Immunities of the International Criminal Court (Cyprus);

121.6 Ratify the Agreement on the Privileges and Immunities of the

International Criminal Court (Estonia);

121.7 Align its national legislation with the Rome Statute of the International

Criminal Court, including by adopting provisions to cooperate with the

International Criminal Court (Guatemala);

121.8 Ratify the Council of Europe Convention on Preventing and Combating

Violence against Women and Domestic Violence (Montenegro);

121.9 Ratify the Council of Europe Convention on Preventing and Combating

Violence against Women and Domestic Violence and take necessary measures

to implement this on the ground (Belgium);

121.10 Implement “emergency protection orders” and ratify the Council of

Europe Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence against Women

and Domestic Violence (Istanbul Convention) (Spain);

121.11 Ratify the Council of Europe Convention on Preventing and Combating

Violence against Women and Domestic Violence (Istanbul Convention)

(Sweden);

121.12 Sign and ratify the Council of Europe Convention on Preventing and

Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence (Slovenia)

(Turkey) (Bosnia and Herzegovina);

121.13 Sign and ratify the Council of Europe Convention on Preventing and

Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence (Istanbul

Convention) (Italy);

121.14 Improve the internal mechanism of the State to implement

international human rights obligations (Tajikistan);

** The conclusions and recommendations have not been edited.

121.15 Ensure proper implementation of the legislation on the promotion and

protection of the rights, including linguistic rights, of individuals belonging to

national minorities (Ukraine);

121.16 Strengthen the provisions of the Criminal Code on gender-based

violence (El Salvador);

121.17 Consolidate the normative framework that regulates the activity and

competences of the (Equality) Council (Azerbaijan);

121.18 Establish an independent national human rights institution in

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

the promotion and protection of human rights (Paris Principles) (Timor-Leste);

121.19 Establish a national human rights institution in line with the Paris

Principles (Maldives);

121.20 Strengthen the independence of the ombuds institution, including

through the revision of the relevant ombudsman-related legislation (Slovakia);

121.21 Take concrete steps for strengthening the independence of the ombuds

institution (Afghanistan);

121.22 Accelerate its efforts to strengthen the independence of the ombudsman

institution (Croatia);

121.23 Ensure compliance of the People’s Advocate (Ombudsman’s) Office

with the Paris Principles (“A” status) (Portugal);

121.24 Make available to the Office of the Ombudsman appropriate means

and sufficient financial resources to accomplish its missions (Algeria);

121.25 Reinforce the regulatory and institutional measures of the

Ombudsman, in conformity with the Paris Principles (Chile);

121.26 Continue its efforts aimed at strengthening the institutional capacities

of the People’s Advocate institution (Georgia);

121.27 Strengthen the existing national human rights institution to be in

compliance with the Paris Principles (Indonesia);

121.28 Strengthen the legal standing as well as the human and financial

resources of the national preventive mechanism according to the Optional

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

Degrading Treatment or Punishment so that it operates effectively (Czechia);

121.29 Ensure that the national preventive mechanism against torture becomes

operational at the earliest possible time, in particular by completing the process

of recruitment of members of the Council for the Prevention of Torture

(Switzerland);

121.30 Expedite the process of establishing a mechanism to coordinate and

monitor the implementation of a new national human rights action plan 2017-

2020 (Indonesia);

121.31 Complete the process of establishment of a new national human rights

action plan (Kyrgyzstan);

121.32 Adopt a national human rights action plan (Georgia);

121.33 Continue to implement the National Human Rights Action Plan

(Pakistan);

121.34 Continue strengthening the application of the National Human Rights

Action Plan (Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);

121.35 Fully fund its national human rights action plan (Philippines);

121.36 Establish a monitoring and coordination mechanism to implement the

national humans rights action plan (Sudan);

121.37 Adopt the next New National Action Plan on Human Rights, which will

serve to further strengthen the human rights policy of the country

(Turkmenistan);

121.38 Continue to take active measures to combat discrimination, to ensure

equality and to strengthen the independence of the Ombudsman in order to

bring it into compliance with the Paris Principles (Namibia);

121.39 Enhance its work to achieve the objectives enshrined in the Action

Programme of the Government for 2016-2018 (Dominican Republic);

121.40 Continue to implement the Strategy on Gender Equality 2016-2020

(Pakistan);

121.41 Ensure effective implementation of its National Strategy on Child

Protection for 2014-2020 (Serbia);

121.42 Take concrete actions in implementing the Law and the 2020 National

Strategy on Youth, especially by matching the planned measures with

appropriate funding (Turkmenistan);

121.43 Continue to cooperate closely with human rights mechanisms and the

special procedures (El Salvador);

121.44 Implement the comprehensive diversity strategy for 2016-2026 (Sudan);

121.45 Continue efforts aimed at combating all forms and manifestations of

hatred and discrimination, including hate crimes and hate speech on a religious

basis, and strengthen mechanisms for accountability in this regard (Libya);

121.46 Continue efforts to combat discrimination and promote the right to

education and the rights of women (Dominican Republic);

121.47 Continue to take effective measures to promote gender equality

(China);

121.48 Strengthen its national policy for gender equity and equality (Côte

d’Ivoire);

121.49 Strengthen efforts to effectively implement laws aimed at the

elimination of discrimination against women (Cyprus);

121.50 Guarantee the implementation and effective application of legislation to

eliminate discrimination against women, in order to mitigate the structural

disadvantages which stand in the way of gender equality (Guatemala);

121.51 Take additional measures to achieve gender equality, including specific

measures to eliminate gender discrimination and gender-based violence

(Kyrgyzstan);

121.52 Take measures to ensure the effective implementation and enforcement

of existing legislation, with a view to reducing structural disadvantages that

hamper the effective realization of substantive gender equality, in line with the

recommendation by the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination

against Women (Namibia);

121.53 Ensure the effective implementation and enforcement of existing

legislation with a view to reducing structural disadvantages that hamper the

effective realization of substantive gender equality (Slovakia);

121.54 Strengthen ongoing efforts related to all forms of discrimination against

women and girls, including by effectively implementing and enforcing existing

legislation in order to address stereotypes (Turkey);

121.55 Ensure the effective implementation and enforcement of the legislation

on reducing and eliminating discrimination against women (Afghanistan);

121.56 Elaborate campaigns and trainings which promote the economic and

political empowerment of women, as well as educational programmes that

combat stereotypes and gender discrimination from an early age (Costa Rica);

121.57 Encourage young women to choose non-traditional fields of study and

professions (Hungary);

121.58 Continue its efforts to eliminate all forms of sex and gender-based

discrimination throughout the educational system (Timor-Leste);

121.59 Redouble its efforts to put an end to stereotypes and to gender-based

discrimination in the educational system (Panama);

121.60 Develop policies that allow the Republic of Moldova to combat

incitement to hatred and racial discrimination (Panama);

121.61 Ensure the collection of statistical data on incidents of anti-Semitism,

xenophobia and racial discrimination (Russian Federation);

121.62 Establish efficient mechanisms to investigate and punish hate crimes,

racial harassment and racial discrimination against minorities and vulnerable

groups (Albania);

121.63 Increase professional training and adopt guidelines for improving the

conduct of police, prosecution, and courts in investigating bias-motivated

crimes and cases of domestic violence (United States of America);

121.64 Establish clear legislation criminalizing hate crimes and ensure all

incidents of religious hate speech are investigated (Sierra Leone);

121.65 To swiftly adopt and implement the Strategy on Inclusive Diversity in

the Republic of Moldova (2016-2020), which was developed with the support of

the High Commissioner on National Minorities of the Organization for Security

and Cooperation in Europe (Netherlands);

121.66 Establish mechanisms to ensure that stigmatization and discrimination

against ethnic minorities are eradicated from the public and private sectors,

including through training and awareness-raising of public officials, their

accountability, and mechanisms providing reparations for persons affected

(Mexico);

121.67 Further strengthen measures aimed at combating discriminatory

practices towards minorities, in particular the Roma community (Brazil);

121.68 Ensure that no acts of violence, intimidation, torture or discrimination

are carried out against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or intersex persons

(Mexico);

121.69 Further effective action by public authorities to protect the lesbian, gay,

bisexual and transgender community from discrimination (Spain);

121.70 Strengthen support for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex

rights and address the barriers to full participation in daily life (Australia);

121.71 Continue reinforcing the normative framework in order to combat all

forms of discrimination, including those on the grounds of sexual orientation

and gender identity (Chile);

121.72 Duly investigate the crimes of hate and discrimination, among them, the

most recent acts committed against the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and

intersex community (Uruguay);

121.73 Step up efforts to investigate and act upon instances of hate speech and

hate crime and to ensure effective access to justice for victims, including

lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons and members of

religious or ethnic minority communities (Netherlands);

121.74 Continue efforts to strengthen the legal framework to combat torture,

which had proved to be successful in reducing the number of complaints (Iraq);

121.75 Strengthen its measures to prevent torture and address the impunity of

such acts (Japan);

121.76 Improve the conditions of detention in police stations and prisons and

effectively investigate credible allegations of abuse, consistent with the

Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading

Treatment or Punishment (United States of America);

121.77 Take additional measures to strengthen the fight against torture and

other ill-treatment, and the fight against impunity, by ensuring that all

complaints of torture are subject to an impartial and effective investigation

(France);

121.78 Ensure that all complaints regarding acts of torture and ill-treatment

receive a prompt, impartial and effective investigation in accordance with the

Istanbul Protocol and ensure that, in conformity with the Convention against

Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment,

any statement made as a result of torture shall not be invoked as evidence in

any proceedings (Germany);

121.79 Take further measures to improve the treatment of persons arrested,

detained or imprisoned, including by strengthening the National Preventive

Mechanism (Norway);

121.80 Provide torture-prevention training for the police, prosecutors and

judges and ensure that statements obtained through torture cannot be invoked

in criminal proceedings (Czechia);

121.81 Improve the situation of prisoners in the country, implementing the

recommendations made by the European Committee for the Prevention of

Torture after its visit in September 2015, such as to reduce the levels of violence

and to decrease rates of overcrowding in multiple cells (Spain);

121.82 Continue efforts to improve conditions in prisons and pretrial facilities

(Australia);

121.83 Ensure that policies and services relating to mental health treatment

and psychiatric institutions comply with international human rights law

(Brazil);

121.84 Improve access to medical, psychosocial and mental health services for

all persons in detention, especially for those belonging to vulnerable groups

(Austria);

121.85 Enhance measures for the prevention, punishment and eradication of

all forms of violence against women, including measures to promote their rights

and to eliminate patriarchal and discriminatory stereotypes (Mexico);

121.86 Continue public awareness campaigns on domestic violence and the

introduction of specific rape prevention programmes (Australia);

121.87 Create a comprehensive policy about violence against women, and

especially domestic violence, that prevents, punishes and eradicates these issues,

especially in rural areas (Slovenia);

121.88 Establish measures to strengthen the fight against domestic violence

(Paraguay);

121.89 Continue harmonization of its legislation with norms of the Council of

Europe in the area of preventing and combating violence against women,

including domestic violence, and ensure the effective implementation of

legislation (Switzerland);

121.90 Take advantage of measures to prevent and combat domestic violence

(Algeria);

121.91 Improve and expand the capacity and coverage of domestic violence

shelters as well as rehabilitation centres for domestic violence victims,

especially in rural areas (Austria);

121.92 Speed up preparation of the strategy on the prevention and suppression

of violence against women and violence in the family (Belarus);

121.93 Continue to develop a policy framework and implement a

comprehensive strategy to combat domestic violence that includes education

and public awareness for rural areas, strengthened mechanisms to hold

offenders to account, and enhanced training for law enforcement officials

(Canada);

121.94 Accelerate the adoption of the norms related to preventing and

combating domestic violence and elaborate coordinated policies in order to

prevent and combat domestic and sexual violence, including support

mechanisms and norms for the protection of victims (Chile);

121.95 Implement effective mechanisms to prevent and sanction domestic and

gender-based violence, including legal and psychological assistance for victims

(Costa Rica);

121.96 Evaluate the effectiveness of implementation of laws safeguarding

women’s rights and providing protection against domestic and gender-based

violence and ensure that measures such as protection orders and the

punishment for their breach or swift access of victims to justice are

systematically applied and that shelters for victims of domestic violence,

including in rural areas, are readily available (Czechia);

121.97 Take steps to more effectively prevent and prosecute cases of

violence against women, including domestic violence, and to ensure the effective

implementation and enforcement of existing legislation in this regard (Estonia);

121.98 Plan concrete actions which could be taken to improve protection

of and support to victims of domestic violence as well as to ensure that legal aid

is available to all victims of violence in order to ensure a comprehensive

approach to domestic violence (Slovenia);

121.99 Train law enforcement, judiciary, prosecutors, health-care and

social workers on responding to domestic violence (Slovenia);

121.100 Ensure adequate legal and social protection for women and girls

subjected to gender-based violence (Poland);

121.101 Fully implement the recommendations from the first universal

periodic review cycle still pending, namely those regarding the strengthening of

the Criminal Code provisions against gender-based violence and hate crimes

(Portugal);

121.102 Pursue the ongoing work of revision and improvement of the

Criminal Code to be amended regarding provisions against gender-based

violence and hate crimes (Portugal);

121.103 Take concrete measures to eliminate violence against children,

and to protect and support victims, including by implementing measures to

ensure that such abuse is more frequently denounced and reported by different

stakeholders in contact with children (Belgium);

121.104 Create mechanisms for preventing and fighting against all forms

of exploitation, abuse and violence against children (Bulgaria);

121.105 Redouble its efforts to eradicate child labour and all forms of

exploitation, abuse and violence against children (Panama);

121.106 Further address the elimination of violence against children,

including sexual violence (Kyrgyzstan);

121.107 Undertake efforts to prevent violence against children, including

sexual violence (Poland);

121.108 Develop far-reaching and coordinated policies in order to protect

minors against potential offenders and continue existing efforts to prevent and

combat human trafficking and new forms of online trafficking (Qatar);

121.109 Promote the national plan to end human trafficking namely new

forms of online human trafficking (Sudan);

121.110 Continue to intensify efforts to stop human trafficking

(Tajikistan);

121.111 Continue and further enhance the measures to combat human

trafficking (Armenia);

121.112 Continue its efforts to combat trafficking in human beings (Bosnia

and Herzegovina);

121.113 Reinforce efforts for women and girls subjected to trafficking

(Greece);

121.114 Further strengthen public institutions to combat trafficking in

persons, through dedicated resources, enhanced cooperation with civil society,

and incorporating best practices (Canada);

121.115 Implement further measures to improve its investigation and

prosecution of human trafficking cases and enhance the legal and social

protection of victims of human trafficking (Ireland);

121.116 Continue to ensure legal protection for women and girls subjected

to gender-based violence and trafficking (Maldives);

121.117 Enhance the adoption and implementation of measures to fight

domestic violence against women and to protect the victims of domestic

violence (Italy);

121.118 Implement reforms in the rule of law sphere to ensure fairness

and due process, combat corruption, and improve transparency throughout the

legal process (United States of America);

121.119 Take measures to improve the procedure of appointment, transfer

and promotion of judges in order to provide transparency in the judicial system

and that the selection of judges is based on merit and not on the discretion of

the Supreme Council of Magistracy (Norway);

121.120 Continue to implement the Justice Sector Reform Strategy with a

view to further strengthening the independence, accountability and

transparency of the judiciary (Republic of Korea);

121.121 Continue the efforts to implement the judicial sector reform

(Sudan);

121.122 Continue the justice reform process by working out a Justice

Sector Reform Strategy for the period after 2016 (Ukraine);

121.123 Enhance the independence of the judiciary and strengthen rule of

law through anti-corruption initiatives, increased transparency in the justice

sector, and the elimination of external influence in judicial proceedings

(Canada);

121.124 Continue developing the strategy and normative complementary

measures, which ensure continuity in the reform of the judicial sector (Chile);

121.125 Ensure the independence and impartiality of the judiciary, in

particular by fighting corruption, and enable victims to defend their rights in

court, by taking measures to strengthen respect for the rights of the defence

and transparency of judicial proceedings (France);

121.126 Fully implement the Justice Sector Reform Strategy to increase

judicial independence and effectiveness (Germany);

121.127 Carry out necessary reforms to strengthen the rule of law to

prevent political interference in the justice system and to tackle corruption at

all levels (Japan);

121.128 Strengthen the judiciary and law enforcement for a more effective

investigation and prosecution of trafficking cases (Thailand);

121.129 Continue the efforts to eliminate corruption through access to

public information (Peru);

121.130 Continue efforts to guarantee freedom of religion and freedom of

belief without discrimination and without legal preferences (Paraguay);

121.131 Continue efforts to ensure an enabling environment for

journalists (Latvia);

121.132 Continue to support the work of civil society, especially the work

of the human rights and journalists’ organizations (Peru);

121.133 Continue the dialogue and substantive cooperation with human

rights non-governmental organizations, in particular those involved in

protecting human rights defenders (Romania);

121.134 Secure a safe environment for human rights defenders who

support torture victims and ensure that there is sufficient support for civil

society organizations working in the field of rehabilitation of torture victims

(Austria);

121.135 Support the work of human rights defenders and other

representatives of civil society, acknowledge their contribution to the

advancement of human rights in the country, thoroughly and promptly

investigate threats, attacks, harassment and intimidation against human rights

defenders or independent journalists, and bring their perpetrators to justice in

fair trials and ensure effective remedies to the victims (Poland);

121.136 Recognize explicitly the legitimacy of the job done by human

rights defenders and ensure that their work is carried out in a safe and

enabling environment, without fear of reprisals, intimidations or acts of

violence, which should be sanctioned, and those responsible be taken before

justice (Uruguay);

121.137 Create a safe, favourable environment for human rights

defenders: a framework where human rights can be defended without fearing

reprisals or intimidation in line with the international obligations of the

Republic of Moldova, in particular as a State party to the International

Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Belgium);

121.138 Ensure strengthening of freedom of expression online and offline,

as well as personal data protection (Bulgaria);

121.139 Take necessary measures to reduce excessive concentration of

media ownership, and develop a new regulatory framework for the creation of

new media and the operation of existing ones, in order to ensure genuine

freedom of expression (Spain);

121.140 Ensure media plurality and independence, and take into account

the opinions received from the Organization for Security and Cooperation in

Europe and the Council of Europe, as well as from civil society, when adopting

a new audiovisual code (Sweden);

121.141 Adopt comprehensive national legislation in order to facilitate

access to information, foster media pluralism and protect independent media

(Austria);

121.142 Guarantee fully freedom of expression and information by

combating the formation of monopolies and ensuring respect for media

pluralism (France);

121.143 Adopt comprehensive national legislation such as the new

Broadcasting Code in order to ensure media pluralism and protect independent

media (Germany);

121.144 Take all necessary measures to ensure the full enjoyment of the

right to freedom of expression for all, including the repeal or amendment of all

laws restricting the activities, ownership and independence of the media

(Ireland);

121.145 Strengthen women’s representation in the Parliament and

Government (Greece);

121.146 Take further measures to advance the participation of women in

decision-making bodies (Latvia);

121.147 Foster policies that make it possible to reduce the youth

unemployment rate, through providing opportunities for youth to have work,

as well as avoiding stigmatization of people with disabilities and those coming

to the world of work from national minorities (Paraguay);

121.148 Continue strengthening its social policies in favour of the most

vulnerable sectors of its people, with emphasis on national minorities

(Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);

121.149 Promote steady economic development to further improve living

standards of its people (China);

121.150 Continue to make efforts to combat extreme poverty (El

Salvador);

121.151 Expand programmes of targeted social assistance to provide the

population with education and medical services (Belarus);

121.152 Improve the operational and financial performance of water

supply enterprises to increase water safety and quality (Germany);

121.153 Strengthen the fundamental principles of equality and non-

discrimination within the education system (Hungary);

121.154 Boost the approval of the legislation oriented to guarantee the

autonomy of people with disabilities to improve their social inclusion (Costa

Rica);

121.155 Continue to strengthen policies on ensuring the opportunity to

enrol in education for children and young people with disabilities (Libya);

121.156 Eliminate barriers preventing access of children with disabilities

to the education system (Hungary);

121.157 Adopt positive measures to enable people with disabilities and

national minorities to have access to education, health services and an adequate

standard of living (Panama);

121.158 Support the role of the family in protecting and promoting the

rights of persons with disabilities, and accelerate implementation of the

necessary legal conditions for the realization of their rights in services and

public places (Qatar);

121.159 Protect the human rights of persons with disabilities to ensure full

access to those rights for all, in compliance with the Convention on the Rights

of Persons with Disabilities (Maldives);

121.160 Enhance the legal framework on the social inclusion and

participation of persons with disabilities while promoting relevant awareness-

raising activities (Turkey);

121.161 Continue adopting measures that contribute to the protection and

social inclusion of persons with disabilities, particularly as regards the

provision of social services (Argentina);

121.162 Ensure the right of persons with disabilities to live independently

through the development of a national action plan for deinstitutionalization and

for the inclusion of persons with disabilities into their communities (Finland);

121.163 Adopt an Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe

High Commissioner on National Minorities-compliant strategy on national

minorities as soon as possible, in order to clearly affirm the commitment of the

Republic of Moldova to national minorities’ rights (Germany);

121.164 Further promote the rights of minorities, such as by introducing

multilingual education, and maintain social harmony and unity among various

groups in the society (Thailand);

121.165 Further develop the policy in the field of preservation and

development of the cultural identity of persons belonging to national minorities

and ethnic groups (Bulgaria);

121.166 Guarantee to persons belonging to minorities their rights to use

their language and practise their religion (Peru);

121.167 Implement the recommendations of the Special Rapporteur on

minority issues to promote linguistic rights of minorities and to take the

necessary measures to guarantee quality education in both the mother tongue

and the State language (Hungary);

121.168 Continue to establish mechanisms to end discrimination towards

the Roma community (Timor-Leste);

121.169 Promote greater public appreciation for the importance of

according equal rights for Roma (Australia);

121.170 Prop up efforts for social inclusion of the Roma population

(Greece);

121.171 Guarantee access to public and political life on an equal basis to

Roma, and this through their participation in the decision-making processes

(Peru);

121.172 Continue undertaking measures aimed at ensuring the inclusion

of Roma representatives in public and political life, as well as implementing the

National Action Plan for Roma (2016-2020) (Serbia);

121.173 Continue to work on the promotion of human rights in the region

of Transnistria, integral part of the territory of the Republic of Moldova

(Romania);

121.174 Provide systematic support and assistance to victims of human

rights abuses in Transnistria (Czechia);

121.175 Take appropriate steps to initiate the elaboration of a monitoring

mechanism of the human rights situation in the Transnistrian region of the

Republic of Moldova, with the involvement of civil society representatives from

both banks of the river Nistru (Georgia).

122. The following recommendations will be examined by the Republic of Moldova,

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

the Human Rights Council:

122.1 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic,

Social and Cultural Rights and accept its investigation procedure and its

communications procedure between States (Uruguay);

122.2 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic,

Social and Cultural Rights (Portugal);

122.3 Continue the process towards the ratification of the International

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

Members of Their Families and the ILO Domestic Workers Convention, 2011

(No. 189) (Philippines);

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

All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (Uruguay)

(Afghanistan);

122.5 Ratify, as soon as possible, the International Convention on the

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

Families (Guatemala);

122.6 Resume the ratification process of the International Convention on the

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

Families (Turkey);

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

All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families, the Optional Protocol to

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

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

(El Salvador);

122.8 Consider ratifying the International Convention on the Protection of the

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

122.9 Consider ratifying the International Convention on the Protection of the

Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families, Protocol No.

12 to the Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental

Freedoms (European Convention on Human Rights), and the Council of

Europe Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence against Women

and Domestic Violence (Albania);

122.10 Ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons

from Enforced Disappearance, as no country is free from cases of enforced

disappearance (Slovakia);

122.11 Ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons

from Enforced Disappearance (Uruguay) (Montenegro);

122.12 Ratify as soon as possible the International Convention for the

Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance, a major instrument in

the fight against impunity, and recognize the competence of the Committee on

Enforced Disappearances (France);

122.13 Ratify and accede to the International Convention for the Protection of

All Persons from Enforced Disappearance and the International Convention on

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

Families (Sierra Leone);

122.14 Ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons

from Enforced Disappearance as well as the remaining human rights treaties to

which it is still not party (Argentina);

122.15 Finalize the ratification of the International Convention for the

Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (Iraq);

122.16 Ratify the Kampala Amendments to the Rome Statute of the

International Criminal Court (Estonia);

122.17 Amend the Law on Equality in order to widen the list of possible

discrimination criteria (Slovakia);

122.18 Amend article 1 of the Law on Ensuring Equality by including criteria

such as social origin, marital situation, health status, sexual orientation, gender

identity, and gender expression in the main list of criteria for categories to be

protected from discrimination (Sweden);

122.19 Include in the Law on Equality four protected criteria — namely social

origin, material situation, sexual orientation and health status (Croatia);

122.20 Review and amend relevant legislation, such as the Criminal Code and

the Code of Administrative Offences, to enhance the protection and promotion

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

individuals belonging to vulnerable, minority populations, including religious

communities and ethnic minorities, as well as amend article 1 of the Law on

Ensuring Equality to include sexual orientation and gender identity (Canada);

122.21 Adopt the draft law on amending and completing the Criminal Code

and the Code of Administrative Offences with regard to bias-motivated crimes

and incidents to also include sexual orientation, gender identity and gender

expression as grounds for hate crimes (Sweden);

122.22 Adopt a legislative framework that ensures protection against all

offences motivated by hatred and prejudice (Côte d’Ivoire);

122.23 Complete the process of establishing a coordinating body under the

auspices of the Prime Minister’s Office to monitor and report progress on

human rights (Kyrgyzstan);

122.24 Enhance the implementation of the Law on Ensuring Equality by

strengthening the mandate of the Equality Council, including by allowing it to

issue binding recommendations and to sanction discrimination, as well as by

increasing awareness-raising through education (Finland);

122.25 Fully implement recommendations made by the Council for Preventing

and Eliminating Discrimination to better ensure protection against

discrimination and the equality of all persons (Republic of Korea);

122.26 Adopt measures to ensure protection from torture and forced

hospitalization and medication in psychiatric institutions (Portugal);

122.27 Implement legislation to abolish and effectively combat early and child

marriage (Sierra Leone);

122.28 Take concrete measures to address the issue of self-censorship among

Moldovan journalists, limit media ownership concentration and ensure media

pluralism (Norway);

122.29 Step up efforts to improve free medical facilities, reduce high infant

mortality rates and high teenage pregnancy rates (Greece);

122.30 End discrimination against people with intellectual and psychological

disabilities and implement tools to encourage their employment (Croatia);

122.31 Effectively guarantee the rights of migrants (China).

123. The Republic of Moldova considers that the recommendations below cannot be

accepted and would thus be noted:

123.1 Ratify the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages

(United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland);

123.2 Develop a global strategy to address existing divisions covering all

sectors, to overcome all discriminatory practices (Guatemala);

123.3 Carry out a careful investigation into incidents of unwarranted use of

force by law enforcement bodies in response to protests by the opposition

during the celebration on 27 August 2016 of Independence Day in Chișinău

(Russian Federation).

124. 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 the Republic of Moldova was headed by Mr. Vladimir Cebotari,

Minister of Justice of the Republic of Moldova, and was composed of the following

members:

• Mr. Lilian Darii, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration;

• Mr. Tudor Ulianovschi, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of the Republic of

Moldova to the UN Office and other international organizations in Geneva;

• Mr. Sergiu Mihov, Head of the Human Rights and Global Affairs Division, Ministry

of Foreign Affairs and European Integration;

• Mrs. Stela Braniște, Head of the Department for International Relations and

European Integration, Ministry of Justice;

• Mr. Alexandru Cladco, Head of the Department for International Cooperation and

European Integration, General Prosecutor’s Office;

• Mrs. Lilia Pascal, Head of the Department for Gender Policies, Ministry of Labour,

Social Protection and Family;

• Mr. Oleg Babenco, Director General of the Bureau for Interethnic Relations;

• Mr. Alin Gvidiani, Deputy Head of the Bureau for Reintegration;

• Mr. Adrei Șvet, Head of the Legal Department, Ministry of Health;

• Mr. Dragoș Vicol, Member of the Audiovisual Council;

• Mr. Marin Cebotari, Deputy Permanent Representative of the Republic of Moldova

to the United Nations Office in Geneva;

• Ms. Cristina Cerevate, Second Secretary in the Permanent Mission of the Republic

of Moldova to the United Nations Office in Geneva.