34/14 Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review - Haiti

GE.16-22488 (E) 170117 180117



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*

Haiti

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

United Nations A/HRC/34/14

General Assembly Distr.: General 20 December 2016

English

Original: English/French

2 GE.16-22488

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 .............................................. 5

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

Annex

Composition of the delegation ...................................................................................................... 26

GE.16-22488 3

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 Haiti was held at the 11th meeting, on 7 November

2016. The delegation of Haiti was headed by the Minister of Justice and Public Security,

Camille Edouard Junior. At its 14th meeting, held on 9 November 2016, the Working

Group adopted the report on Haiti.

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

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

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

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

were issued for the review of Haiti:

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

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

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

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

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

Netherlands, Norway, Slovenia, Spain, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern

Ireland and the United States of America was transmitted to Haiti through the troika. These

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

I. Summary of the proceedings of the review process

A. Presentation by the State under review

5. The delegation of Haiti expressed the willingness of the State to cooperate with the

bodies and mechanisms of the United Nations system for the promotion and protection of

human rights.

6. Following the universal periodic review of October 2011 and the acceptance of 122

of the 136 recommendations received, various measures had been adopted by the

Government. Those measures were described in the national report for the second review,

which had been prepared on the basis of consultations between key members of public

institutions and representatives of civil society. The delegation reported on the main areas

of progress set out in the national report.

7. The National Police had been strengthened. The total number of police officers had

been increased, and efforts were being made to professionalize the service by training

officers in human rights and child protection. The Office of the Inspectorate-General of the

National Police had been strengthened in order to reduce the number of cases of impunity

in the police force, and a telephone line had been set up so that violations could be reported.

8. Justice reforms had been carried out, taking into account a number of different

objectives: to ensure the proper functioning of the Court of Cassation; to reform Haitian

criminal law; to take action against prolonged pretrial detention; and to improve access to

4 GE.16-22488

justice. With regard to the reform of Haitian criminal law, a commission had been set up to

revise the Criminal Code and the Code of Criminal Investigation. The work of the

commission had been submitted to the Ministry of Justice and Public Security for further

legal processing. In order to obtain a clearer picture of the problem of prolonged pretrial

detention, a study had been carried out at the civilian prison of Port-au-Prince in July and

August 2013. The recommendations made on the basis of that study had been implemented

by the presiding judge of the Port-au-Prince Court of First Instance and had led to

significant reductions in the number of detainees. A new commission on tackling prolonged

pretrial detention had been established by presidential decree with the aim of identifying

persons held in prolonged pretrial detention and making recommendations to the judicial

authorities. The commission was due to submit a report to the Ministry of Justice.

9. New prisons and juvenile detention centres had been opened across the country.

New penal establishments were also being built.

10. Haiti had ratified the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural

Rights, the Hague Convention on the Protection of Children and Cooperation in respect of

Intercountry Adoption and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the

Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography. Parliament was

working towards the ratification of the Convention relating to the Status of Stateless

Persons and the Convention on the Reduction of Statelessness.

11. The Government had made tackling corruption one of its priorities. The Act on the

Prevention and Punishment of Corruption and the Act on Penalizing Money-Laundering

and the Financing of Terrorism had been published in the Official Gazette.

12. The Office of the Ombudsman, an independent institution established in 1987, had

recently been strengthened by the appointment of a director general, an increase in its

budget and the creation of the post of deputy ombudsman.

13. The national human rights plan, which had been drawn up in 2014, aimed to educate

and inform the public about their rights and duties. It would be implemented once it had

been approved by civil society.

14. The Strategic Development Plan for Haiti, which addressed the areas of education,

health and housing and provided for measures for responding to natural disasters, had been

drawn up in accordance with a rights-based approach. In particular, it aimed to provide the

population with safe drinking water and sanitation services and to improve the management

of solid waste.

15. In 2012, a programme to tackle food insecurity had been established. Before

Hurricane Matthew struck, measures had been adopted to improve agricultural production.

A new plan was being drawn up that took into account the damage caused by that natural

disaster.

16. Haiti had taken various measures to ensure the provision of free schooling,

benefiting one million children. Likewise, a literacy programme had been implemented by

the Secretariat of State for Literacy. A campaign had been carried out to raise awareness

among the parents of children with disabilities who were not yet enrolled in school. Head

teachers were encouraged to accept such children.

17. With regard to the right to housing, the Government had implemented a national

housing policy which had led to the construction of 1,682 housing units between 2013 and

2015. The Government had also sought to reduce the number of people living in camps by

establishing grant schemes and return/resettlement programmes.

18. Various measures had been taken to tackle trafficking in persons: the Trafficking in

Persons Act had been published in 2014; the 1974 Adoption Act had been revised in 2013;

GE.16-22488 5

the Committee against Trafficking in Persons had been established in 2015; the Brigade for

the Protection of Minors had been strengthened; and officers had been posted at border

crossings to ensure that the movements of minors could be monitored more effectively.

19. As part of its efforts to tackle violence against women and girls, the Government had

established a directorate-general of legal affairs within the Ministry for the Status of

Women that was responsible for raising awareness of violence against women and for

supporting the victims of such violence. A second national plan to combat violence against

women and girls (2012-2016) had been drawn up and an office to combat violence against

women and girls had been established in 2013.

20. In 2013, in order to reduce the number of street children, the Government had

opened a transit centre and a free emergency call centre to enable the public to report cases

of child abuse, neglect and trafficking.

21. Haiti attached particular importance to the rights of persons with disabilities.

Accordingly, it had adopted an act on the integration of persons with disabilities in 2012.

22. Measures had been taken to improve the process of issuing national identity cards at

birth. Clerks had been appointed to visit sections communales and public hospitals in order

to register births. Furthermore, a mechanism had been implemented by the National

Archives in 2013 to make it easier for Haitians living abroad to obtain civil status records.

23. The delegation concluded its introductory statement by recalling the series of natural

disasters, from the earthquake of 2010 to the recent passage of Hurricane Matthew, which

had significantly undermined the Government’s efforts to implement the recommendations.

However, the Government was determined to continue working for the promotion and

respect of human rights.

B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review

24. During the interactive dialogue, 81 delegations made statements. Recommendations

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

25. The United Republic of Tanzania welcomed the implementation of the

comprehensive strategy on social assistance, the National Housing Policy, the

Humanitarian Response Plan and the Universal, Free and Compulsory Education

Programme. It also welcomed the strengthening of the National Police, action to combat

police impunity, reform of the justice system, action against prolonged detention and

improvement of conditions in detention centres.

26. The United States of America looked forward to transparent and fair elections. It

commended Haiti for its efforts to improve documentation for Haitian citizens in the

Dominican Republic. It expressed concern at the large number of pretrial detainees, the lack

of reliable anti-corruption enforcement mechanisms and the lack of investigations into

trafficking cases and protection for trafficking victims.

27. Uruguay encouraged Haiti to implement the recommendations of the Independent

Expert appointed by the Secretary-General on the situation of human rights in Haiti.

28. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela welcomed the ratification of the International

Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the Optional Protocol to the

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

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

child prostitution and child pornography; the signing of the Convention against Torture and

Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and the International

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

6 GE.16-22488

Families; and the implementation of the Universal, Free and Compulsory Education

Programme.

29. Algeria welcomed the establishment of the Office of the Deputy Minister for Human

Rights and the Fight against Extreme Poverty and of the Interministerial Human Rights

Committee. It welcomed the ratification of the International Covenant on Economic, Social

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

on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography.

30. Angola welcomed the launch of the Humanitarian Response Plan but noted

persistent challenges in the areas of nutrition, access to education, prison overcrowding,

gender equality and displacement.

31. Argentina commended Haiti for the establishment of the Interministerial Human

Rights Committee and the vigorous action taken to improve the situation of displaced

persons who returned to the country.

32. Armenia applauded the steps taken to combat human trafficking, violence against

women and child domestic labour and to reduce the large number of street children. It

welcomed the ratification of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural

Rights and the Convention against Torture.

33. Australia expressed concern about widespread gender discrimination and

mistreatment. It regretted electoral and institutional uncertainties and the lack of

independence of the judiciary. It acknowledged the abolition of the death penalty.

34. Austria regretted that commendable policies to improve public education had not yet

been implemented. It noted with concern action taken against journalists and human rights

defenders. It also expressed concern about child labour.

35. The Bahamas welcomed efforts to enforce anti-corruption legislation and the

adoption of an action plan to combat trafficking in persons and the Strategic Development

Plan.

36. Bangladesh welcomed the comprehensive strategy on social assistance, the National

Plan to Combat Violence against Women and Girls, the Strategic Development Plan and

the strengthening of law enforcement agencies and the judicial system.

37. Belgium lamented the slow progress in improving prison conditions. It was

concerned about gender-related violence and limited access to justice for victims.

38. The Plurinational State of Bolivia welcomed measures taken to combat extreme

poverty.

39. Botswana welcomed the Universal, Free and Compulsory Education Programme, the

signing of the Convention against Torture 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 expressed concern about child detainees, child domestic workers and

gaps in birth registration.

40. Brazil encouraged more vigorous action to prevent and punish trafficking in persons

and provide redress for victims. It commended Haiti for the award of A status to the

Ombudsman’s Office.

41. Burundi welcomed the ratification of the International Covenant on Economic,

Social and Cultural Rights and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the

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

the Convention against Torture and the International Convention on the Protection of the

Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families. It encouraged the adoption

of the national human rights plan.

GE.16-22488 7

42. Canada noted the inclusion in police training courses of modules on human rights

and support for women victims of violence.

43. Chile applauded the strengthening of the National Police, measures to

professionalize their staff and the establishment of a commission on prolonged pretrial

detention.

44. Colombia welcomed the 2012 amendments to the Constitution and cooperation with

the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, the United Nations

Stabilization Mission in Haiti and the Independent Expert on the situation of human rights

in Haiti.

45. The Congo urged Haiti to continue cooperating with the treaty bodies to strengthen

national mechanisms for the promotion and protection of human rights.

46. Côte d’Ivoire commended the authorities for their cooperation with the Independent

Expert on the situation of human rights in Haiti and urged them to focus on promoting and

protecting human rights during the post-disaster reconstruction process.

47. Croatia welcomed the ratification of the International Covenant on Economic, Social

and Cultural Rights and the Convention on Protection of Children and Cooperation in

respect of Intercountry Adoption.

48. Cuba made a recommendation.

49. Cyprus noted the establishment of the Office of the Deputy Minister for Human

Rights and the Fight against Extreme Poverty and of the Interministerial Human Rights

Committee. It encouraged more vigorous action to combat sexual violence against women,

improve children’s access to education and address prison conditions.

50. Czechia made recommendations.

51. Denmark welcomed the signing of the Convention against Torture and encouraged

Haiti to take further steps towards ratification. The Convention against Torture Initiative

was willing to assist it in that regard.

52. Ecuador welcomed the ratification of the International Covenant on Economic,

Social and Cultural Rights and the Convention on Protection of Children and Cooperation

in respect of Intercountry Adoption. It encouraged Haiti to ratify the Convention against

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

Workers and Members of Their Families, which had been signed in 2013.

53. Egypt welcomed the drafting of the national human rights plan, reform of the justice

system, the strengthening of the National Police, action to combat violence against women,

the implementation of a food-security programme, the adoption of the Trafficking in

Persons Act and ratification of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and

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

the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography.

54. El Salvador welcomed the progress made, despite the lack of resources and natural

disasters, in child protection and in the fight against hunger, disease, unemployment,

illiteracy, trafficking in persons and inequality between women and men.

55. Italy welcomed the adoption of the second National Plan to Combat Violence

against Women and Girls, the Gender Equality Action Plan, programmes to improve child

health coverage and measures to combat child domestic labour and economic exploitation.

56. Georgia applauded efforts to cooperate with special procedures and encouraged the

Government to issue a standing invitation to special procedure mandate holders. It

welcomed the ratification of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural

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

children, child prostitution and child pornography.

57. Germany expressed concern about ongoing mass evictions, including from

displacement camps, and underscored the need to ensure access to adequate housing on a

non-discriminatory basis. It was also concerned about alleged mistrust of the justice system

owing to the high rate of corruption.

58. Ghana welcomed efforts to increase the size of the police force, reform the justice

system and build new prisons, and encouraged Haiti to expedite the establishment of a legal

aid system. It welcomed action to eradicate illiteracy and gender inequality in education but

expressed concern about allegations of widespread gender discrimination and ill-treatment.

59. Guatemala regretted the electoral uncertainty generated by allegations of electoral

fraud. It hoped that the resumption of the electoral process would restore national stability.

It was concerned about reports of persistent gender-based discrimination, violence and ill-

treatment.

60. The Holy See welcomed the drafting of a national human rights plan. It noted the

efforts to combat trafficking in persons and praised 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.

61. The Philippines welcomed the training modules for police officers in human rights,

particularly children’s rights, and support for women victims of violence. It also welcomed

measures to address prolonged pretrial detention.

62. Iraq praised the care arrangements provided for street children under the Universal,

Free and Compulsory Education Programme.

63. Ireland expressed concern about the prevalence and length of pretrial detention. It

also expressed concern about widespread sexual and gender-based violence and delays in

adoption of the necessary legislation.

64. France made recommendations.

65. Jamaica welcomed the reduction in the number of pretrial detainees and measures

taken to monitor the adoption of Haitian children by foreigners. It shared the Government’s

concern about the restavek system.

66. Japan welcomed the Government’s leading role in efforts to hold elections, which

were essential for political stability and economic growth, and encouraged it to move

steadily forward with the electoral process.

67. Libya made a recommendation.

68. Madagascar welcomed efforts to ensure that disadvantaged children in rural areas

received free primary education. In view of the persistence of sexual violence, it

encouraged Haiti to promote effective strategies to eradicate gender-based discrimination. It

welcomed the Strategic Development Plan.

69. Maldives applauded investment in promoting the rights of children through the

establishment of the Universal, Free and Compulsory Education Programme, the National

Education Fund and other educational initiatives.

70. Mexico welcomed the strengthening of the Ombudsman’s Office, efforts to combat

trafficking in persons and procedures aimed at improving conditions in detention facilities,

reducing the length of pretrial detention and training judges. It encouraged Haiti to continue

making efforts to achieve universal, free and compulsory primary education.

GE.16-22488 9

71. Mongolia welcomed the strengthening of the national human rights institution and

the drafting of the national human rights plan. It encouraged Haiti to mainstream human

rights policies in the Strategic Development Plan.

72. Montenegro welcomed programmes to provide free high-quality education to

children, especially children with disabilities. It enquired about planned governmental

action to ensure that women’s rights were fully promoted and protected.

73. Morocco welcomed the ratification of the International Covenant on Economic,

Social and Cultural Rights and the Convention on Protection of Children and Cooperation

in respect of Intercountry Adoption, the signing of the Convention against Torture and the

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

Members of Their Families, the acquisition of A status by the Ombudsman’s Office and the

professionalization of the National Police.

74. Mozambique welcomed the ratification of the International Convention on the

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

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

prostitution and child pornography and the signing of the Convention against Torture and

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

Members of Their Families. It took note of the national contingency plan to address natural

disasters and the creation of a technical unit to provide assistance to the most vulnerable

people.

75. Namibia encouraged the Government to pursue its efforts to reform the justice sector

and to reinforce action to combat violence against women and girls, particularly in camps

for displaced persons.

76. First, the delegation of Haiti thanked the delegations for the solidarity shown in the

wake of the natural disasters that had recently struck the country.

77. The delegation recalled that the electoral process was ongoing. Hurricane Matthew

had struck Haiti a few days before the elections, which had originally been scheduled for 9

October. As a result, the Provisional Electoral Council had been forced to postpone them to

20 November 2016. Despite the significant level of damage that had been caused, the

Government had committed itself to taking all necessary measures to rebuild the voting

centres and schools so that the elections could take place on the new date.

78. In that regard, the Government had undertaken to ensure that the elections organised

by the Provisional Electoral Council were a neutral and impartial process. Consequently,

the Ministry of Justice and Public Security had organized meetings with police forces and

government commissioners to ensure that the administration did not interfere with the

electoral process.

79. With regard to prolonged pretrial detention, the delegation stressed that it was a

matter of great concern to the Government and reiterated that significant progress had been

made in several departments, particularly in the west of the country.

80. The question of pretrial detention had been the subject of a policy statement

presented by the Prime Minister and subsequently ratified by parliament, leading to the

creation of the recently established presidential commission. The purpose of the

commission was to draw up a definitive list of detainees, particularly those being held in

prolonged pretrial detention, in order to plan and schedule dates for criminal court hearings

with the presiding judges of the courts of first instance, chief prosecutors and government

commissioners.

81. As a result, the delegation expected the number of detainees held in prolonged

pretrial detention to fall by around half.

10 GE.16-22488

82. The Netherlands expressed concern about the prevalence of food insecurity and

malnutrition. It was also concerned about the lack of legislation criminalizing rape,

domestic violence, sexual harassment and other forms of violence against women.

83. Nicaragua welcomed the ratification of the International Covenant on Economic,

Social and Cultural Rights, the Convention on Protection of Children and Cooperation in

respect of Intercountry Adoption and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights

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

84. Nigeria welcomed the establishment of the Interministerial Human Rights

Committee, the adoption of the Strategic Development Plan and action to eliminate

discrimination and violence against women.

85. Norway encouraged Haiti to intensify efforts to implement human rights

conventions. It noted persistent challenges relating to gender equality and the failure to

ensure universal access to education.

86. Pakistan welcomed efforts to reform the justice system and to end prolonged pretrial

detention. It also welcomed the increased socioeconomic participation of women and

persons with disabilities and efforts to promote children’s rights.

87. Panama welcomed the ratification of important human rights instruments, the

establishment of the Interministerial Human Rights Committee and the adoption of the

Paternity, Maternity and Filiation Act and the Adoption Act.

88. Paraguay made recommendations.

89. Peru welcomed the adoption of the Strategic Development Plan aimed at providing

drinking water and sanitation services, eradicating illiteracy and improving access to

housing and health care. It also welcomed the establishment of the Ombudsman’s Office.

90. Indonesia welcomed the establishment of the Interministerial Human Rights

Committee and the acquisition of A status by the Ombudsman’s Office. It noted the

strengthening of the National Police and reforms in criminal law, pretrial detention and

access to justice.

91. Portugal expressed concern about widespread gender discrimination and ill-

treatment. It was also concerned about the placement of children in domestic service, where

many were subjected to slavery-like conditions and to physical, emotional and sexual

abuse.

92. Qatar welcomed the drafting of the national human rights plan and the adoption of

the Strategic Development Plan.

93. The Republic of Korea welcomed the ratification of the International Covenant on

Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the adoption of the Anti-Corruption Act and the

successful implementation of the Universal, Free and Compulsory Education Programme.

94. Rwanda welcomed the reform of the justice sector and improved access to justice,

and encouraged Haiti to ratify the Convention against Torture. It welcomed efforts to

combat gender-based violence and encouraged Haiti to step up measures to prevent

violence against women in displacement camps.

95. Senegal welcomed the establishment of the Office of the Deputy Minister for

Human Rights and the Fight against Extreme Poverty and the creation of the

Interministerial Human Rights Committee.

96. Serbia welcomed efforts to include a definition of torture aligned with that contained

in the Convention against Torture in the new Criminal Code and encouraged Haiti to align

existing rules on pretrial detention with international standards.

GE.16-22488 11

97. Sierra Leone welcomed the ratification of the International Covenant on Economic,

Social and Cultural Rights and the adoption of the Trafficking in Persons Act. It

encouraged the Government to work with international stakeholders to counter the impact

of the natural disasters.

98. Singapore welcomed the adoption of the Strategic Development Plan, the expanded

health coverage for children and the reconstruction of health facilities affected by previous

natural disasters.

99. Slovenia welcomed the ratification of international human rights instruments, the

training of police officers in human rights and progress in ensuring free education at the

primary- and middle-school level.

100. Spain expressed concern about the situation with respect to drinking water and

sanitation, which exacerbated the cholera epidemic. It noted the serious risks of violence

and trafficking faced by internally displaced children, children in domestic service and

stateless children.

101. The Sudan welcomed the ratification and signing of several international human

rights instruments, the establishment of the Interministerial Human Rights Committee and

the adoption of the National Plan to Combat Violence against Women and Girls.

102. Switzerland noted that the issues of impunity and unduly slow legal proceedings

remained a major challenge. It welcomed the proposals in the Strategic Development Plan

to rehouse displaced persons, increase the amount of urbanized land and develop a housing

finance system.

103. The Syrian Arab Republic made recommendations.

104. Timor-Leste welcomed the mandate given to the High Council of the Judiciary and

the inclusion of human rights in the National Police training curriculum. It expressed

concern about the slavery-like conditions to which many child domestic workers were

subjected.

105. Togo noted the establishment of the Office of the Deputy Minister for Human

Rights and the Fight against Extreme Poverty and the creation of the Interministerial

Human Rights Committee. It commended Haiti for measures taken to improve detention

conditions, reduce judicial delays and combat impunity.

106. Trinidad and Tobago welcomed efforts to combat violence and discrimination

against women and steps taken to improve the judicial system, food security and access to

education. It also welcomed the forthcoming presidential and parliamentary elections.

107. Turkey welcomed the drafting of a national human rights plan and the A status

earned by the Ombudsman’s Office.

108. Ukraine welcomed the strengthening of the National Police, the ratification of the

International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, enforcement of the Anti-

Corruption Act, adoption of the Strategic Development Plan and reform of the justice

system.

109. The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland expressed particular

concern about persistent gender-based violence, illegal detention and enslavement of

children as restaveks.

110. Costa Rica welcomed the ratification of the International Covenant on Economic,

Social and Cultural Rights and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the

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

about the low percentage of women involved in decision-making and the excessive use of

12 GE.16-22488

force by the police during peaceful demonstrations. It underscored the importance of

political commitment to the electoral process.

111. Thailand welcomed the adoption of the Strategic Development Plan and the

ratification of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.

112. With regard to its commitment to international instruments, the delegation of Haiti

stated that the State had made great progress towards universalising international human

rights instruments by adopting and ratifying several such instruments.

113. By way of conclusion, the delegation stated that the Government would continue to

strive to be a full party to the current international instruments and to those that would be

ratified shortly. Furthermore, despite the exceptional difficulties caused by Hurricane

Matthew, the Government reaffirmed its commitment to holding early, free and democratic

elections in accordance with the recommendations made during the review.

114. With regard to the rights of women and minors, the Government acknowledged the

current lack of female members of parliament and stated that it expected the representation

of women to improve following the elections in November.

II. Conclusions and/or recommendations

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

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

115.1 Adopt, in consultation with civil society, a plan of action to prioritise,

ratify and implement key international human rights treaties (Australia);

115.2 Continue the process of ratification of the main international human

rights instruments (Italy);

115.3 Continue to study and consider the ratification of more international

human rights instruments (Syrian Arab Republic);

115.4 Carry out efforts to ratify the Optional Protocols to the Convention on

the Rights of the Child and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of

Discrimination against Women (El Salvador);

115.5 Speed up the process of ratification of the Convention against Torture

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

involvement of children in armed conflict (Georgia);

115.6 Ratify the Convention against Torture (Botswana) (Montenegro)

(Spain);

115.7 Ratify the Convention against Torture (Iraq);

115.8 Ratify the Convention against Torture (Senegal);

115.9 Take steps to ratify the Convention against Torture (Norway);

115.10 Intensify its efforts to ratify the Convention against Torture

(Denmark);

115.11 Ratify the Convention against Torture, the Optional Protocol to

the Convention against Torture and the International Labour Organization

(ILO) Domestic Workers Convention, 2011 (No. 189) (Paraguay);

** The conclusions and recommendations have not been edited.

GE.16-22488 13

115.12 Strengthen its legal arsenal by ratifying the Convention against

Torture and by acceding to the International Covenant on Economic, Social

and Cultural Rights (France);

115.13 Finalise the procedures to ratify the International Convention on

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

Families and the Convention against Torture (Egypt);

115.14 Complete ratification of the Convention against Torture, the

International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant

Workers and Members of Their Families, the Convention relating to the Status

of Statelessness Persons and the Convention on the Reduction of Statelessness

(Nicaragua);

115.15 Ratify and accede to the Convention against Torture, the

International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant

Workers and Members of Their Families and the International Convention for

the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (Sierra Leone);

115.16 Ratify the International Convention on the Protection of the

Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families, signed in 2013

(Bangladesh);

115.17 Take steps to ratify the International Convention on the

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

Families (Togo);

115.18 Consider ratifying the International Convention on the Protection

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

Domestic Workers Convention, 2011 (No. 189) (Philippines);

115.19 Consider the ratification of the Optional Protocol to the

Convention against Torture (Georgia);

115.20 Implement, strictly, the Convention on the Elimination of All

Forms of Discrimination against Women and accede to its Optional Protocol

(Ghana);

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

Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and take all

appropriate legislative measures (Netherlands);

115.22 Ratify the Convention on the Status of Stateless Persons and the

Convention on the Reduction of Statelessness (Belgium);

115.23 Ratify the Convention on the Status of Stateless Persons and the

Convention on the Reduction of Statelessness (Panama);

115.24 Continue to ensure the implementation of ratified human rights

treaties (Pakistan);

115.25 Take further appropriate actions to promote effective

implementation of the existing legal framework (Mongolia);

115.26 Prioritize law reform process (Ukraine);

115.27 Continue to strengthen the rule of law in the country by swiftly

adopting the Criminal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure (Portugal);

115.28 Expedite the adoption of the Child Protection Code (Timor-

Leste);

14 GE.16-22488

115.29 Adopt a Child Protection Code that includes physical, emotional

and sexual abuse (Portugal);

115.30 Make all possible efforts to ensure and guarantee the full

operational status of national government institutions, including the

parliamentary and electoral systems (Paraguay);

115.31 Strengthen the inter-sectorial coordination mechanisms to achieve

a concrete materialization of the international cooperation in the areas of

internal security, human rights protection and democratic political stability

(Chile);

115.32 Take into consideration the recommendations from the Office of

the Ombudsman, as well as provide it with enough resources to operate

(Guatemala);

115.33 Renew the mandate of the National Disabilities Council

(Jamaica);

115.34 Strengthen the Minor’s Protection Unit (Timor-Leste);

115.35 Continue its efforts in order to provide full access to justice,

health services and education for all (Holy See);

115.36 Maintain as a high priority, the steps to safeguard the human

rights of women and persons with disabilities (Holy See);

115.37 Complete the vetting process of the police officers (Ukraine);

115.38 Continue to effectively coordinate international aid so that it is

focused on the affected populations (El Salvador);

115.39 Strengthen its work to promote a human rights culture

throughout the country and ensure rule of law and equal treatment before the

law (Norway);

115.40 Implement a plan of action to promote human rights, in

cooperation with civil society and the Office of the Ombudsman, with a special

emphasis on the rights of women and vulnerable groups (Colombia);

115.41 Implement a plan of action to promote and protect human rights,

in cooperation with civil society and the Ombudsman’s Office (Portugal);

115.42 Continue efforts for the finalization of National Human Rights

Plan (Pakistan);

115.43 Launch and implement a National Human Rights Action Plan in

order to improve the promotion and protection of human rights, with the

participation of civil society (Indonesia);

115.44 Implement as soon as possible the 2014 National Human Rights

Action Plan with easily measurable indicators (Spain);

115.45 Strengthen the human rights education training program and

expand it to other governmental departments (Morocco);

115.46 Continue the implementation of the strategic development plan

(Pakistan);

115.47 Continue its efforts towards implementing and enforcing the

Haitian Strategy for Development (Sudan);

GE.16-22488 15

115.48 Implement the measures laid out in the Strategic Development

Plan (Spain);

115.49 Continue its efforts in implementing the national strategic plan

for development which will strengthen the economic, social and cultural rights,

particularly by eliminating poverty and attaining education and access to

health services (Libya);

115.50 Speed up implementation of the Strategic Development Plan for

Haiti in order to prevent epidemics (Madagascar);

115.51 Consider the possibility of mainstreaming the rights of persons

with disabilities in the reconstruction plans and programmes (Qatar);

115.52 Continue to open channels of cooperation with the United Nations

human rights mechanisms and with the States, particularly in the area of

education, ratification and implementation of international treaties, and the

fight against impunity (Argentina);

115.53 Seek and avail itself of international cooperation to fully

implement national action plans and strategies (Bahamas);

115.54 Continue to seek assistance and cooperation, as it deems

appropriate, to support ongoing initiatives to fulfil its various international

human rights obligations and implement those recommendations which will be

accepted during the current universal periodic review cycle (Trinidad and

Tobago);

115.55 Continue to engage its regional and international partners with

the view of seeking technical and other assistance towards its full compliance

with its human rights treaty obligations (Philippines);

115.56 Intensify its cooperation efforts, including with international

organizations, with view to harmonize its human rights legislation (Morocco);

115.57 Seek technical assistance in order to improve human rights in the

country (Nigeria);

115.58 Cooperate fully with the United Nations treaty bodies (Côte

d’Ivoire);

115.59 Continue its cooperation with international human rights

mechanisms (Cuba);

115.60 Continue its efforts to develop policies aimed at the protection of

women rights (Syrian Arab Republic);

115.61 Tackle negative attitudes related to gender and discrimination

against women through human rights training of law enforcement and judicial

bodies’ agents (Colombia);

115.62 Put in place a strategy to combat discriminatory stereotypes and

implement, in collaboration with civil society, awareness-raising programs to

enhance non-stereotypical portrayals of women and girls (Portugal);

115.63 Continue to amend and update (criminal and civil) legal codes to

protect women from sexual exploitation, gender-based violence and

discrimination (Maldives);

16 GE.16-22488

115.64 Remove from its legislation and practice all civil and criminal

provisions which constitute discrimination towards women and girls

(Paraguay);

115.65 Intensify its efforts in protecting the rights of women and promote

gender equality by revising legal framework, strengthening law enforcement

and supporting victims of domestic violence in their legal process,

rehabilitation and reintegration (Thailand);

115.66 Continue strengthening the participation of women in decision

making processes (Iraq);

115.67 Establish effective measures to ensure access of women to

decision-making positions (Costa Rica);

115.68 Establish and strengthen policies and legal provisions for the

promotion of women’s rights, in particular the strengthening of their autonomy

and participation in political, economic and social life, in recognition of their

fundamental role in the development of a nation (Nicaragua);

115.69 Continue its efforts to promote gender equality, including by

taking concrete measures to combat the high level of violence against women

(Norway);

115.70 Implement programmes for human rights education and

awareness-raising against discrimination, as well as for the promotion of the

rights of women, children and other vulnerable groups (Italy);

115.71 Investigate and sanction the acts of violence and discrimination

committed on the ground of sexual orientation (Uruguay);

115.72 Implement measures to combat prison overcrowding (Angola);

115.73 Improve detention conditions of detainees, in particular minors

(Algeria);

115.74 Reduce significantly the periods of pre-trial detention and ensure

that minors have separate spaces in the detention centres and prisons (Spain);

115.75 Allocate additional resources to increase case processing and

reduce the number of pre-trial detainees (United States of America);

115.76 Effectively address the situation of persons who have been in

prolonged pre-trial detention in full accordance with the principle of

proportionality (Republic of Korea);

115.77 Continue its efforts to strengthen its legal framework to combat

prolonged pre-trial detention (Plurinational State of Bolivia);

115.78 Improve the incarceration conditions of prisoners, particularly by

reducing overcrowding, malnutrition and the shortage of adequate medical

care (Belgium);

115.79 Redouble efforts to improve the conditions of persons deprived of

their liberty, in particular by reducing periods of pre-trial detention,

facilitating access to justice, and improving the facilities of detention centres

(Mexico);

115.80 Develop and put in place a strategy to improve, as soon as

possible, detention conditions of minors separated from adults, and reduce the

duration of police custody and pre-trial detention (Canada);

GE.16-22488 17

115.81 Take urgent measures to counter overcrowding, in particular by

focusing on alternative measures to detention, and to guarantee the access of

prisoners to basic health care and an adequate diet (Switzerland);

115.82 Continue its efforts to combat violence against women (Egypt);

115.83 Take additional measures to address all forms of violence against

women and girls, including women and girls with disabilities (Georgia);

115.84 Take further appropriate actions to combat gender based

violence, discrimination and legalize domestic violence (Mongolia);

115.85 Amend all legislative provisions discriminatory against women

and introduce a comprehensive law preventing and combating violence against

women and girls, including a definition of rape in line with international

standards and the criminalization of marital rape (Czechia);

115.86 Adopt and effectively implement comprehensive legislation

criminalising rape, domestic violence, sexual harassment and other forms of

violence (Australia);

115.87 Adopt a comprehensive legislative framework concerning violence

against women that includes a definition of rape in line with international

standards and criminalize marital rape (Belgium);

115.88 Continue strengthening the participation of women, and

especially, ensure the adoption of the framework legislation on prevention,

sanction and elimination of violence against women and girls (Plurinational

State of Bolivia);

115.89 Remedy violence against women and girls, including gender and

sexual violence, through the implementation of legislation that prevents and

criminalises such acts (Canada);

115.90 Adopt and implement efficiently a comprehensive legislation on

combating violence against women (Italy);

115.91 Adopt the existing draft law on combatting violence against

women to incorporate the criminalization of marital rape, incest, and sexual

harassment (Ireland);

115.92 Continue its efforts in implementing the Strategy of combating

violence against women and girls 2012-2016 (Sudan);

115.93 Deepen measures aimed at guaranteeing the fight against

impunity of perpetrators of acts of gender violence and sexual abuse, in

particular against women and girls living in the IDP camps (Argentina);

115.94 Ensure that the police and judiciary are trained to deal

impartially with women reporting gender based violence, and that all such

complaints are fully investigated and prosecuted (United Kingdom of Great

Britain and Northern Ireland);

115.95 Establish a legal framework to better protect women and girls

from sexual exploitation and forced marriage (Sierra Leone);

115.96 Raise awareness on the responsibility to investigate cases of

human rights violations against women and girls in the IDP camps (Argentina);

18 GE.16-22488

115.97 Consider adopting further measures to enhance legal protection to

vulnerable groups, including on the issues of gender violence and child labour

(Brazil);

115.98 Continue giving special priority to the care of street children

(United Republic of Tanzania);

115.99 Continue efforts to combat child domestic labour (United

Republic of Tanzania);

115.100 Ensure the systematic enforcement of laws eliminating child-

labour, including the establishment of a clear minimum age for domestic work

(Austria);

115.101 Take further steps to combat child domestic labour and child

abuse (Armenia);

115.102 Address the question of children in domesticity by strengthening

the measures already adopted to prevent, combat and eliminate this

problematic in line with the international commitments taken by the country

(Canada);

115.103 Adopt a law against the placement of children in domesticity that

are victims of several abuses (Congo);

115.104 Continue the actions to protect street children and provide them

with food, health, education and housing basic services (Ecuador);

115.105 Adopt a holistic, long-term approach that involves phasing out

“restaveks ”; incorporating international best practices which could include

increased inspections, sensitisation of parents, children and employers, and

guaranteed schooling for child domestics (Jamaica);

115.106 Take further appropriate actions to eliminate child labour,

trafficking and protect street children (Mongolia);

115.107 Eradicate domestic child labour and economic exploitation of

children (Panama);

115.108 Make decisive efforts to criminalize the practice of placing

children in domestic service (Slovenia);

115.109 Take strong measures to prevent child labour and make sure that

children who are employed as domestic help, the so-called “restaveks ”, can go to

school (Norway);

115.110 Fully implement the Trafficking in Persons Act 2014 and ensure

the continued work of the Committee against Trafficking in Persons

(Bahamas);

115.111 Vigorously investigate, prosecute, convict and sentence

traffickers, including those responsible for domestic servitude and child sex

trafficking (United States of America);

115.112 Continue its efforts to implement the national action plan to

combat trafficking in persons (Qatar);

115.113 Increase efforts to combat all forms of human trafficking, as

previously recommended (Slovenia);

GE.16-22488 19

115.114 Facilitate the implementation of the mandate of the National

Committee against Human Trafficking with concrete measures and avoid

impunity (Spain);

115.115 Ensure sufficient resources for the effective implementation of the

law on trafficking of persons (Timor-Leste);

115.116 Ensure that the Judiciary, including the Supreme Council of the

Judiciary, has adequate resources and can function without political

interferences (Uruguay);

115.117 Ensure sufficient human resources in the judicial system,

including the Supreme Court of the Judiciary, to enable it to operate

independently, to decrease the number of persons in preventive custody and to

guarantee the right to a fair trial (Germany);

115.118 Ensure the judiciary, including the Supreme Council of the

Judiciary (CSPJ) is provided with adequate resources and able to operate free

from political interference (Australia);

115.119 Strengthen the independence and professionalism of the judiciary

and adopt a system of transparent appointment and removal of judges

(Czechia);

115.120 Take steps to strengthen and reform the judiciary to reduce the

numbers of pre-trial detainees, particularly minors (Ireland);

115.121 Ensure the rule of law, in particular through proper management

of judicial structures and systems (Japan);

115.122 Further take appropriate actions to strengthen the judicial system

and improve detention conditions (Mongolia);

115.123 Take the necessary measures to allow the judicial system to

effectively fight against impunity, including through judicial processes that are

carried out within reasonable deadlines (Switzerland);

115.124 Increase the number of magistrates to alleviate court proceedings,

and take measures regarding their election to ensure their independence (Costa

Rica);

115.125 Ensure accountability for human rights abuses, to strengthen the

rule of law and break the pervasive cycle of impunity that hinders

reconciliation and limits Haiti’s economic development (United States of

America);

115.126 Continue its national efforts to combat corruption and impunity

(Egypt);

115.127 Strengthen institutional capacities to investigate and prosecute all

allegations of corruption and mismanagement of funds (Maldives);

115.128 Adopt and fully implement the draft Nationality Law (Bahamas);

115.129 Consider a reform of the civil registration system guaranteeing

the rights of all Haitians, including those living abroad (France);

115.130 Continue the process of modernization of the civil registry and

identification of persons and the efforts to register and provide documents to

the persons living in camps and to Haitians living abroad; seek support from

20 GE.16-22488

friendly governments and international agencies, such as the Office of the

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, as appropriate (Nicaragua);

115.131 Improve the documentation process for citizens, which would help

actual and effective realization of children’s rights in adoption processes

(Spain);

115.132 Continue measures to close gaps in birth and civil registration

(Bahamas);

115.133 Promote a full registration of children so as to confront the

situation of food insecurity and malnutrition (Holy See);

115.134 Establish a minimum age of marriage of 18 for both girls and boys

(Botswana);

115.135 Restore, as soon as possible, the constitutional order by organizing

elections (Côte d’Ivoire);

115.136 Ensure free and fair elections held peacefully in regular intervals

and at all levels in accordance with international standards, conduct impartial

investigation into allegations of excessive use of force by the police and

arbitrary arrests during the elections and bring perpetrators to justice

(Czechia);

115.137 Intensify collective efforts to ensure that scheduled elections are

conducted as smoothly as possible, in spite of ongoing recovery efforts utilizing

its renowned resilience (Jamaica);

115.138 Move towards the conclusion of the electoral process to guarantee

civil and political rights of all citizens (Mexico);

115.139 Take forward and complete, with political stakeholders, the

electoral process as a matter of urgency (Namibia);

115.140 Take forward the electoral process (Ukraine);

115.141 Ensure a safe and enabling environment for journalists and

human rights defenders, including through the implementation of the

precautionary measures or interim measures of protection of the Inter-

American Commission on Human Rights where these have been granted

(Austria);

115.142 Provide effective protection to lawyers, human rights defenders

and journalists in order to guarantee a safe environment for the development of

their work (Colombia);

115.143 Investigate and sanction the cases of attacks, threats, harassment

or intimidation against journalists, lawyers and human rights defenders

(Uruguay);

115.144 Guarantee that all allegations of attacks, threats and acts of

harassment or intimidation targeting human rights defenders are subject to

thorough investigations (France);

115.145 Strengthen the efforts to improve living standards of economically

vulnerable population (Algeria);

115.146 Continue to take measures with a strong social impact to improve

the economic situation of the Haitian people, by focusing on vulnerable groups,

particularly women, children and persons with disabilities (Senegal);

GE.16-22488 21

115.147 Implement measures to guarantee the rights to adequate food,

clean water and sanitation, in order to prevent the spread of diseases among the

population, paying special attention to refugee camps (Mexico);

115.148 Put in place all the necessary measures to ensure that the

population has access to adequate sanitation and clean drinking water

(Portugal);

115.149 Work towards improving people’s basic rights such as the right to

food and the right to the highest attainable standard of health (Thailand);

115.150 Strengthen programmes to combat food insecurity, improve

nutrition and access to local food production through the development of the

agricultural sector (Plurinational State of Bolivia);

115.151 Continue its four-year food safety program, foreseen in 2012, in

order to continue improving nutrition and access to locally produced food for

the most vulnerable households in Haiti (Ecuador);

115.152 Improve its citizen’s access to food by adopting a national strategy

to protect its agriculture against the effects of climate change and natural

disasters (Netherlands);

115.153 Further develop public health policy, with a focus on guaranteeing

access to health for children and women (Cyprus);

115.154 Continue to strengthen its public healthcare system and improve

access to healthcare services, particularly for women, children and older

persons (Singapore);

115.155 Engage further efforts in protection of public health, namely to

undertake systematic review of the health situation and to take all necessary

measures in order to prevent and combat transmissible diseases, including

cholera (Serbia);

115.156 Proceed with international cooperation and with the United

Nations specialised agencies to enhance the government efforts in providing

free education and eliminate illiteracy (Syrian Arab Republic);

115.157 Take the necessary measures to advance in the elimination of

illiteracy and the basic education of women and men (Chile);

115.158 Continue strengthening its education policy, focusing on the most

disadvantaged sectors (Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);

115.159 Take necessary measures to put into practice free education for

the first six years of primary education and eradicate all discrimination,

including class, gender and between rural and urban populations in the

education system (Austria);

115.160 Continue to adopt programmes that will ensure disadvantaged

children, particularly in rural areas, enjoy the right to education (Nigeria);

115.161 Take additional steps to improve accessibility to education,

including for children in domestic service and children with disabilities and

ensure inclusive and quality education for all (Slovenia);

115.162 Continue to take steps to prevent disruption to education faced by

children affected by Hurricane Matthew, and implement policies and

programmes that promote access to education (Singapore);

22 GE.16-22488

115.163 Further take appropriate actions to improve access to social

services for the people with disabilities (Mongolia);

115.164 Continue to implement measures to reduce the high rate of

displaced people (Angola);

115.165 Promote a disaster risk awareness campaign throughout the

country (Angola);

115.166 Work to apply a human rights approach to all initiatives related

to disaster prevention and response to emergencies in its efforts to build

national capacity and resilience to natural disasters (Brazil);

115.167 Spare no effort to face and mitigate the consequences of climate

change and natural disasters (Holy See);

115.168 Provide food, water and health support not only in the direct

aftermath of natural disasters, but also in the reconstruction phase, with special

consideration given for women and children and other particularly vulnerable

groups (Japan);

115.169 Prioritize implementation of a coordinated national and local

disaster risk preparedness plan of action (Maldives);

115.170 Take all necessary measures to consolidate the system of

protection of human rights of all persons prior to, during and in the aftermath

of emergency situations (Serbia);

115.171 Establish coordinated disaster risk management strategies and

action plan (Sierra Leone);

115.172 Strengthen its protection efforts to face the dangers of natural

disasters and encourage the international community to provide the necessary

assistance (Syrian Arab Republic);

115.173 Put in place a coordinated action plan for preparedness to the

risks of natural catastrophes (Turkey);

115.174 Prioritize the development of disaster risk reduction and

preparedness strategies which include promotion of forestation (Republic of

Korea);

115.175 Conduct environmental impact studies when granting mining

concessions and promote prior consultation and transparency measures during

these concessions (Costa Rica).

116. The following recommendations will be examined by Haiti, which will provide

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

Council:

116.1 Ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons

from Enforced Disappearance (Uruguay);

116.2 Ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons

from Enforced Disappearance as early as possible (Japan);

116.3 Step up efforts to systematically address exploitation of and violence

against children, including by introducing and effectively implementing

legislation criminalizing the practice of placing children from poor families in

domestic services (so-called restavek) (Czechia);

GE.16-22488 23

116.4 Speed up the procedure to adopt the law against the high rate of

pregnancy among adolescent girls (Congo);

116.5 Update the memorandum of understanding with the Dominican

Republic on repatriation mechanisms in accordance with international

standards and norms (Uruguay).

117. The recommendations below did not enjoy the support of Haiti and would thus

be noted:

117.1 Accelerate the ratification of all international human rights instruments

(Congo);

117.2 Formalize its commitment to the abolition of the death penalty by

ratifying the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil

and Political Rights (Australia);

117.3 Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil

and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty (Montenegro);

117.4 Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on

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

(Rwanda);

117.5 Accede to the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on

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

(Namibia);

117.6 Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on

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

as the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of

Discrimination against Women (Croatia);

117.7 When elected, the new President seeks early ratification of the

Convention against Torture and ratification of the Rome Statute of the

International Criminal Court (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern

Ireland);

117.8 Accelerate the process of ratification of the Convention against Torture

(Togo);

117.9 Finalize the procedure of ratification of Convention against Torture and

the Optional Protocol thereto (Serbia);

117.10 Accelerate the ratification process of the Convention against

Torture and the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All

Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (Burundi);

117.11 Redouble its efforts to ratify the Convention against Torture and

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

Workers and Members of Their Families (Indonesia);

117.12 Ratify promptly the Convention against Torture and its Optional

Protocol; and the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of

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

117.13 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on

Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (Uruguay);

24 GE.16-22488

117.14 Ratify the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, the

Convention against Torture and the Optional Protocol to the Convention

against Torture (Czechia);

117.15 Ratify the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court

(Uruguay);

117.16 Ratify the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court and

align its national legislation (Cyprus);

117.17 Ratify the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court

which was already signed in 1999 and guarantee its full implementation into

national law (Germany);

117.18 Accede and bring into line its legislation with the Rome Statute of

the International Criminal Court (Guatemala);

117.19 Consider ratifying the Rome Statute of the International Criminal

Court (Timor-Leste);

117.20 Ratify the Convention on the Non-Applicability of Statutory

Limitations to War Crimes and Crimes against Humanity (Armenia);

117.21 Issue a standing invitation to all the United Nations human rights

special procedures mandate holders (Mongolia) (Panama) (Rwanda);

117.22 Consider the possibility of extending a standing invitation to the

human rights special procedures and facilitating an institutional channel to give

an answer to their communications (Paraguay);

117.23 Strengthen the democratic institutions (Peru);1

117.24 Design and implement a series of measures to combat

discriminatory stereotypes, including stereotypes based on gender (Croatia);

117.25 Establish a strategy to combat discriminatory stereotypes

(Guatemala);

117.26 Take measures to combat norms, practices and stereotypes that

cause discrimination and violence based on sexual orientation and gender

identity (Colombia);

117.27 Eliminate violence against women in all its manifestations (Peru);2

117.28 Provide, as soon as possible, documents to persons of Haitian

origin living in the Dominican Republic to regularize their status and thus

avoid deportations, in coordination with the International Organization for

Migration (Canada);

117.29 Raise the minimum age of marriage to 18 for both boys and girls

(Sierra Leone);

1 The recommendation, as read during the interactive dialogue, was: “There are many challenges,

among which we identify two central tasks that are pending: the strengthening of democratic

institutions — in this regard, we welcome the upcoming presidential elections — and the elimination

of violence against women in all its forms.”

2 See footnote 1.

GE.16-22488 25

117.30 Redouble its efforts to eliminate discrimination against women,

including by establishing the minimum marriage age of 18 for both men and

women (Republic of Korea);

117.31 End all enforced evictions from displacement camps and establish

an official moratorium on mass eviction until all legal and procedural

safeguards compliant with international human rights standards are in place

(Germany);

117.32 Take measures that guarantee access of IDPs to basic services, so

that they can leave the camps (Argentina);

117.33 Implement policies to guarantee the rights of displaced persons,

particularly following natural disasters, as well as of those persons expelled

from a third country who risk statelessness (Switzerland).

118. The Haitian delegation could not accept the recommendations in paragraphs 23

and 27 because Peru did not follow standard practice in making the

recommendations.

119. 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.

26 GE.16-22488

Annex

Composition of the delegation

The delegation of Haiti was headed by the Minister of Justice and Public Security, H.E.

Camille Edouard Junior, and composed of the following members:

• H.E. Pierre André Dunbar, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Haiti to

the United Nations and other international organizations in Geneva;

• Ambassador Laurence Pean Mevs, Deputy Permanent Representative of Haiti to the

United Nations and other international organizations in Geneva;

• Ms. Denise Poulard, Special Advisor to the President of the Republic;

• Mr. Pierre Mary Guy St. Amour, Minister Counsellor, Haiti Permanent Mission,

Geneva;

• Ms. Anita Dolma, Chargée de Mission, Legal Unit, Office of the Prime Minister;

• Mr. Frantz Dorfainville, Director of Legal Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and

Worship;

• Ms. Vénus Marie Myrthée Thebaud, Director of Political Affairs and Human Rights,

Ministry of Interior and Territorial Communities;

• Ms. Charlotte Marie Tessy Romulus Gerbier, Director of Legal Affairs, Ministry

Women’s Affairs and Women’s Rights;

• Mr. Jean Fallières Bazelais, Coordinator of the Legal Unit, Minister of Justice and

Public Security;

• Mr. Nazaire Altemar, Counsellor, Haiti Permanent Mission, Geneva;

• Mr. Didier Georges, Haiti Permanent Mission, Geneva;

• Mr. André Ybreus, Assistant Director, Legal Directorate of the Ministry of Social

Affairs and Labour.