38/17 Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review - Serbia

GE.18-06191(E)



Human Rights Council Thirty-eighth session

18 June–6 July 2018

Agenda item 6

Universal periodic review

Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review*

Serbia

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

United Nations A/HRC/38/17

Introduction

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

with Human Rights Council resolution 5/1, held its twenty-ninth session from 15 to 26

January 2018. The review of Serbia was held at the 16th meeting, on 24 January 2018. The

delegation of Serbia was headed by the Acting Director of the Office for Human and

Minority Rights, Suzana Paunović. At its 18th meeting, held on 26 January 2018, the

Working Group adopted the report on Serbia.

2. On 10 January 2018, the Human Rights Council selected the following group of

rapporteurs (troika) to facilitate the review of Serbia: Belgium, Philippines and Togo.

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 Serbia:

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

with paragraph 15 (a) (A/HRC/WG.6/29/SRB/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.6/29/SRB/2);

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

(A/HRC/WG.6/29/SRB/3).

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

Liechtenstein, Portugal, Slovenia, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom of Great

Britain and Northern Ireland and the United States of America and was transmitted to

Serbia through the troika. These questions are available on the website of the universal

periodic review.

I. Summary of the proceedings of the review process

A. Presentation by the State under review

5. Since the second cycle of the universal periodic review, Serbia had submitted reports

to eight United Nations treaty bodies and, in the period under review, had submitted more

than 300 reports under the special procedures of the Human Rights Council. It had received

visits from the Special Rapporteur on the human rights of internally displaced persons, the

Special Rapporteur in the field of cultural rights, the Special Rapporteur on torture and

other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment and the Working Group on

Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances.

6. Serbia was a candidate country for European Union membership and special

attention was being paid to promoting the rule of law and protecting human rights. Serbia

cooperated actively with the Council of Europe and with the Organization for Security and

Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) in the field of the protection and promotion of human and

minority rights. It had ratified multiple Council of Europe conventions in the field of human

and minority rights, including the Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and

Fundamental Freedoms.

7. The United Nations Office in Belgrade and the OSCE Mission to Serbia had

provided significant support in the process of drafting the national report for the third

review cycle.

8. Serbia had not had the capacity to monitor the implementation of international

human rights treaties in the autonomous province of Kosovo and Metohija since the

administration of that province had been entrusted to the United Nations Interim

Administration Mission in Kosovo.

9. In 2014, the Government of Serbia had established the Council for Monitoring the

Implementation of the Recommendations of the United Nations Human Rights

Mechanisms. The Council’s main goal was to facilitate more effective monitoring of

recommendations that were received, and to improve intersectoral cooperation on their

implementation. It had developed a plan for the implementation of all recommendations

that United Nations human rights mechanisms made to Serbia. The plan for 2018 was to

link the implementation of each recommendation from the United Nations mechanisms to

the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals.

10. An adequate legal framework and sufficient resources had been provided for the

operation of independent State bodies. In May 2015, the National Assembly had appointed

a new Commissioner for the Protection of Equality. The Commissioner’s office had moved

to larger premises in 2016. A new Protector of Citizens (Ombudsman) had been appointed

in July 2017 and the Action Plan for Negotiating Chapter 23 concerning accession to the

European Union encompassed measures to strengthen the capacities of the Ombudsman’s

Office.

11. Training courses in the field of human rights were organized continuously and at all

levels, and records were kept on them.

12. The National Judicial Reform Strategy for the period 2013–2018 had been adopted,

as had the accompanying action plan. The Government had identified the need to amend the

Constitution in relation to the influence exerted by the legislative and executive authorities

over the process of the election and dismissal of judges, presidents of courts and public

prosecutors, and over the election of members of the High Judicial Council and the State

Prosecutors’ Council.

13. Serbia had ratified all the most important international instruments on fighting

corruption. The National Anti-Corruption Strategy for the period 2013–2018 identified

sectors that were considered to be at particular risk of corruption.

14. The National Assembly had elected a new War Crimes Prosecutor on 15 May 2017

and the Government had adopted the National Strategy for the Prosecution of War Crimes

for the period 2016–2020. Serbia continued to cooperate with the International Residual

Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals as the legal successor to the International Tribunal for

the Prosecution of Persons Responsible for Serious Violations of International

Humanitarian Law Committed in the Territory of the Former Yugoslavia since 1991.

15. The definition of torture in the Criminal Code would be amended as part of the

process of bringing the Code into accordance with international standards. A higher level of

expertise and awareness of the need for zero tolerance of torture would be achieved through

continuous training of law enforcement officers, judges and officers responsible for

enforcing criminal sanctions. Measures based on the recommendations of the United

Nations Committee against Torture and the European Committee for the Prevention of

Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment were being actively

implemented.

16. The Penal Sanctions Enforcement System Development Strategy to be enforced by

2020 and the accompanying action plan contained detailed measures for improving prison

conditions.

17. Serbia had tackled the migrant and refugee crisis responsibly and had demonstrated

its commitment to international and European values and standards. The Migration Profile

had been developed as a tool for monitoring migration flows and trends. The Commissariat

for Refugees and Migration maintained databases of refugees and internally displaced

persons, and records of asylum seekers and migrants who had been placed at the permanent

asylum centres and reception centres. All migrants and refugees were provided with

appropriate accommodation, with all standards ensured. In addition, social work centres

and social security institutions had been instructed to manage emergency accommodation,

guardianship of underage migrants and refugees, adequate health care and psychosocial

support. Underage migrants and refugees were offered the chance to participate in the

formal education system. The adoption in 2014 of the Law on the Employment of

Foreigners had constituted a significant development for migrants, refugees and internally

displaced persons. Foreigners who were employed according to that law had equal rights

and obligations in terms of work, employment and self-employment to those of citizens, if

the conditions prescribed by the law were met.

18. The Government had adopted a bill on asylum and temporary protection. It had also

adopted the National Strategy for Resolving the Issues of Refugees and Internally

Displaced Persons for the period 2015–2020 to tackle the problem of protracted internal

displacement. It was implementing the Regional Housing Programme to address the issue

of refugees from the former Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia.

19. Serbia was endeavouring to encourage tolerance and intercultural dialogue and to

take action to promote mutual respect, understanding and cooperation among all residents,

regardless of their national, cultural, linguistic or religious identity. The Constitution

stipulated that persons from national minorities could elect national representative councils,

which had an advisory role in State bodies. During the 2010 and 2014 electoral cycles,

members of the councils of national minorities had been directly elected, making Serbia

one of few countries to provide national minorities with the means to elect their

representatives. Furthermore, the Action Plan for the Realization of the Rights of National

Minorities had been drawn up as a mechanism to ensure the full implementation of the

legislative framework and to measure progress in the realization of the rights of national

minorities.

20. The adoption of the Strategy for the Social Inclusion of Roma Men and Women

2016–2025 ensured continued provision of a better quality of life for citizens of Roma

origin. Given that the Roma experienced more difficulties in finding employment than other

sectors of society, active employment policy measures had been put in place for them,

along with self-employment incentive programmes and employment subsidies for private

sector employers. In the field of housing, records of the number and location of informal

Roma settlements in Serbia had been established for the first time, thus allowing for the

planned allocation of funds to address the relevant issues.

21. The Government had adopted the National Strategy for Gender Equality 2016–2020

with the accompanying action plan. The National Action Plan for the Implementation of

United Nations Security Council resolution 1325 had been adopted in May 2017. The

Government had formed the Gender Equality Coordination Body in 2014.

22. Serbia had ratified the Council of Europe Convention on Preventing and Combating

Violence against Women and Domestic Violence (the Istanbul Convention) in October

2013. The Serbian Law on Amendments to the Criminal Code and the Law on the

Prevention of Domestic Violence had been adopted in November 2016 to ensure alignment

with that convention. The Government had established the Council for the Suppression of

Domestic Violence to monitor implementation of the Law on the Prevention of Domestic

Violence and to eliminate shortcomings that arose in practice.

23. The Government had started working on amendments to regulations that would

explicitly prohibit the corporal punishment of children and further improve the provisions

of the existing Family Law.

24. Regarding persons with disabilities, the anti-discrimination laws had been

supplemented in March 2015 by the Law on the Use of Sign Language and the Law on the

Movement of Blind People with the Assistance of Guide Dogs.

25. In accordance with European Union goals for 2022, the National Strategy on Ageing

had been introduced into development plans.

26. Since 2014, pride events had been held to promote the rights of lesbian, gay,

bisexual, transgender and intersex persons, and the police presence at such events had been

gradually reduced.

27. Over 2,000 criminal charges had been brought against persons involved in human

smuggling and trafficking. The National Strategy for the Prevention and Suppression of

Trafficking in Humans, especially Women and Children, and the Protection of Victims for

the period 2017–2022 had been adopted along with the accompanying action plan. A

government working group had been set up to implement and monitor the strategy. The

capacity of the Criminal Police Directorate to combat human trafficking was being boosted

through a specialization programme for inspectors. In addition, a centre providing

protection for victims of trafficking had been established, the aim of which was to ensure

the best interests and safety of victims and cooperation with social work centres, the police,

public prosecutors’ offices, courts and citizens’ associations.

28. The Serbian Constitution and laws guaranteed the full freedom of the media and

prohibited censorship, in accordance with international and European standards. Journalists

were accorded the same formal protection under the criminal law as the President of the

Republic, the Prime Minister, members of the Government, Constitutional Court judges,

judges, public prosecutors, deputy public prosecutors, lawyers and police officers.

29. Under the amendment to the Criminal Code of 2012, consideration was given to

whether an act of hatred was committed based on race or religion, national or ethnic

affiliation, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity.

30. Serbia remained committed to making further progress in the process of

democratization, fulfilment of its international obligations and achievement of the highest

standards, especially in the field of human rights.

B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review

31. During the interactive dialogue, 74 delegations made statements. Recommendations

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

32. Ireland commended progress on the protection of journalists and freedom of

expression. In the light of the persistent homophobia and discrimination against lesbian,

gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons, Ireland called on Serbia to make provision

in law for same-sex civil partnership and marriage. It noted the difficulties faced by

members of minorities in terms of access to education, health care and accommodation,

despite efforts to combat discrimination against them.

33. Italy welcomed efforts to promote human rights and the rule of law, including the

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

against Women and Domestic Violence. It commended the provision of training on human

rights and non-discrimination for public officers, and the commitment of Serbia to

combating corruption.

34. Kyrgyzstan welcomed the fact that Serbia had strengthened its national legislative

framework, ratified several human rights instruments and adopted policies on human rights.

35. Latvia acknowledged the progress made on respecting human rights, but noted with

concern the lack of implementation of the law on gender equality, and the prosecution of

journalists and members of civil society.

36. Lebanon commended Serbia for its efforts to promote the human rights of its

citizens, combat hate crime and promote tolerance.

37. Maldives welcomed the measures being taken to combat domestic violence and to

improve the status of women. It commended the strategy that had been adopted to ensure

the rights to a healthy environment, water and sanitation.

38. Mexico acknowledged the establishment of the Council for Monitoring the

Implementation of the Recommendations of the United Nations Human Rights

Mechanisms, and the Action Plan for the Realization of the Rights of National Minorities.

39. Mongolia praised the legal and institutional progress made on human rights, and the

commitment of Serbia to children’s rights, including with regard to birth registration and

corporal punishment. It encouraged Serbia to implement the Law and the National Strategy

on the Prevention of Domestic Violence.

40. Montenegro welcomed the progress Serbia had made in terms of human rights,

particularly its strengthened legal framework. It expressed concern about violence against

women and domestic violence, while welcoming positive steps that were being taken to

tackle those phenomena.

41. Morocco welcomed the ratification by Serbia of the Optional Protocols to the

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

pornography and on the involvement of children in armed conflict, as well as its acceptance

of the amendment to article 20 (1) of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of

Discrimination against Women. Morocco also welcomed the creation in 2014 of the

Council for Monitoring the Implementation of the Recommendations of the United Nations

Human Rights Mechanisms.

42. Mozambique praised the efforts of Serbia to implement the previous universal

periodic review recommendations and to submit its reports to the treaty bodies.

Mozambique noted the continuous efforts being made to include national minorities in

society and ensure their access to basic rights.

43. The Netherlands welcomed the comprehensive reform process being undertaken in

Serbia, which included ensuring freedom of expression for lesbian, gay, bisexual,

transgender and intersex persons.

44. New Zealand welcomed the delegation of Serbia to the universal periodic review

session.

45. Norway stressed that, despite the progress made, more needed to be done to

consolidate the rule of law, particularly to strengthen the judiciary. Norway was concerned

at the lack of political diversity in the media. It urged Serbia to take further measures to

protect against hate crime.

46. The Philippines acknowledged the ratification of the Convention on Jurisdiction,

Applicable Law, Recognition, Enforcement and Cooperation in respect of Parental

Responsibility and Measures for the Protection of Children, and of the Convention on

Protection of Children and Cooperation in respect of Intercountry Adoption. It noted the

progress made in terms of improving gender equality and the treatment of marginalized

groups.

47. Poland recognized the efforts to comply with the recommendations accepted during

the second review cycle and the developments made in combating discrimination, violence

against women and corruption.

48. Portugal welcomed the improvements made since the previous review. It

commended the progress that had been achieved in the education system, but stressed the

need for further developments in that area.

49. The Republic of Korea noted the efforts of the Government to accommodate

refugees and unaccompanied children, as well as the reforms to make the institutional and

legislative framework more transparent and equitable.

50. The Republic of Moldova welcomed the establishment of the Council for

Monitoring the Implementation of the Recommendations of the United Nations Human

Rights Mechanisms. It noted that several measures had been taken to ensure gender

equality, combat violence against women, and protect the rights of persons with disabilities,

children and minorities.

51. Romania applauded the improvements that had been made to the legislative

framework regarding the status and participation of persons belonging to national

minorities in social and political life, as well as in the implementation of those laws.

52. The Russian Federation appreciated the establishment of the Council for the

Implementation of the Recommendations of the United Nations Human Rights Mechanisms

and the measures taken to combat discrimination against national minorities, including the

national action plan to increase their participation in the work of public institutions and the

use of their languages.

53. Sierra Leone acknowledged several measures to ensure gender equality. It

encouraged Serbia to adopt a strategy to address domestic violence and to allocate the

necessary resources to the Council for the Improvement of the Status of Roma and

Implementation of the Decade of Roma Inclusion.

54. Singapore noted several measures that had been taken to promote equal

opportunities for minorities. It commended Serbia for its efforts to strengthen the rule of

law, including the adoption of the National Strategy for Judicial Reform 2013–2018, and

the law on the protection of the right to a fair trial.

55. Slovakia noted with concern reports of intimidation of and attacks and death threats

against journalist and media workers. It also noted the results achieved by search operations

for persons who had gone missing during the armed conflicts of the 1990s. It further noted

the progress made in the protection of the rights of the child.

56. Slovenia applauded measures taken to improve national legislation to combat

domestic violence. However, it remained concerned about the persistence of gender-based

violence and the high unemployment rate of women. Slovenia encouraged Serbia to

strengthen its measures to eradicate social stigmatization, discrimination and violence

against members of minorities and vulnerable groups.

57. The State of Palestine noted the establishment of councils for the implementation of

non-discrimination policies and of a strategy to protect the rights of the Roma, as well as

the adoption of a national action plan on the rights of national minorities.

58. Sweden noted the ongoing efforts of the Government to fulfil its obligations to

promote and protect human rights. It encouraged Serbia to continue its efforts in that area.

59. Switzerland noted the adoption of various strategies and laws in line with

international human rights standards. However, it was concerned that restrictions were

imposed on the right to freedom of expression and opinion of civil society, including

human rights defenders and the media.

60. The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia noted the efforts of the Government to

implement the recommendations from the previous review cycle. It welcomed the

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

against Women and Domestic Violence.

61. Timor-Leste noted the measures taken to address the issue of late birth registration,

to improve access to adequate health care and to improve the education system. It remained

concerned by the high rates of school non-attendance and dropout.

62. Tunisia noted the participatory approach in drafting the national report by involving

all relevant stakeholders and civil society. It also noted the strengthening of the normative

and institutional framework of human rights, including the ratification of the Council of

Europe Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence against Women and Domestic

Violence.

63. Turkey welcomed the adoption of the Action Plan for the Realization of the Rights

of National Minorities, stipulating greater participation of national minorities in the

Government, the use of their scripts and the protection of their rights to education and

culture. It welcomed the adoption of a national strategy for the prosecution of war crimes

and the appointment of a new War Crimes Prosecutor in 2017.

64. Turkmenistan noted the establishment of a department of demography and

population policy and of the Council for the Implementation of the Recommendations of

the United Nations Human Rights Mechanisms. It welcomed the progress made on gender

equality, the status of the Roma, persons with disabilities, migrants and national minorities.

65. Ukraine noted the efforts taken by Serbia to improve the institutional and legislative

framework on human rights, in particular, through the ratification of international human

rights treaties. Ukraine acknowledged the establishment of the Council for the

Implementation of the Recommendations of the United Nations Human Rights

Mechanisms.

66. The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland welcomed the efforts of

Serbia to tackle human trafficking, particularly the Serbian Assembly’s recent partnership

with the Human Trafficking Foundation, which was based in the United Kingdom. It was

concerned about the protection of freedom of expression and urged Serbia to step up

enforcement of its own guarantees for freedom of expression.

67. The United States of America thanked Serbia for its efforts to provide humanitarian

assistance to refugees and asylum seekers. It was concerned about threats and violence

targeting independent journalists and civil society activists. It remained concerned by the

lack of progress in bringing to justice the perpetrators of the 1999 murders of the Bytyqi

brothers.

68. Uruguay noted the actions taken by Serbia to combat crimes motivated by prejudice.

Uruguay expressed concern that corporal punishment was permitted in the home and in

public institutions.

69. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela recognized the adoption of the new legal

framework aimed at combating all forms of discrimination in Serbia. It noted that the

Action Plan for the Realization of the Rights of National Minorities provided greater

opportunities for the participation of minorities in the work of the Government.

70. Viet Nam noted that Serbia had put in place numerous measures to promote and

protect human rights, particularly for women and children, persons with disabilities and

elderly persons. Viet Nam welcomed the achievements of Serbia in the field of gender

equality.

71. Afghanistan commended the action taken by Serbia towards gender equality and the

efforts of the Coordination Body for Gender Equality to improve the status of women.

72. Albania commended Serbia for its ratification, since the second review cycle, of

significant international human rights instruments, including the Istanbul Convention.

Albania welcomed the reform of the domestic legal framework with a view to strengthening

institutional capacities and media freedom and improving respect for human rights.

73. Algeria noted that Serbia had ratified several regional legal instruments and

harmonized its domestic law with international human rights treaties. Algeria welcomed the

measures adopted by Serbia within the framework of its 2016 national human rights plan

and the establishment of the Council for the Implementation of the Recommendations of

the United Nations Human Rights Mechanisms.

74. The delegation of Serbia, responding to some of the statements that had been made,

said that the independent State bodies had been fully supported politically and financially

from the national budget between the two review cycles. In fact, they had benefited

significantly from increased funding.

75. Regarding the transparency of media ownership, a media registry has been

established under the Law on Public Information and Media. Civil society organizations

participated in the formulation and amendment of provisions of the Constitution and in

public debates.

76. The delegation stated that Serbia had adopted the National Strategy for the

Prosecution of War Crimes and cooperated diligently with the International Residual

Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals, the legal successor to the International Tribunal for the

former Yugoslavia. Regarding victims’ right to compensation, Serbia planned to draft a

national strategy on improving the rights of victims of crime.

77. Legislative solutions to uphold the rights of national minorities had been

implemented based on the laws on employment in public service and on employees in

autonomous provinces and local self-government units. There were 21 national minority

councils active in Serbia and over 300 million dinars (around €2.5 million) were allocated

annually to their work from the budget of Serbia and the Autonomous Province of

Vojvodina.

78. The delegation stated that the Law on Public Assembly stipulated that public

gatherings could be enjoyed freely and that everyone had the right to organize a gathering

and to participate in it, in accordance with that law. Assembly was not allowed, however, in

a place where, due to the characteristics of the site itself or its special purpose, it would

pose a danger or a threat to the safety of persons, property, public health, morals, the rights

of others or State security.

79. The delegation of Serbia stated that a situational analysis and analysis of the existing

legal framework for the protection of children from the worst forms of child labour had

been undertaken and a proposal had been made to amend several laws. In May 2017, the

Government had adopted a decree on the list of dangerous jobs for children and the worst

forms of child labour.

80. Argentina congratulated Serbia for the establishment of the Council for the

Implementation of the Recommendations of the United Nations Human Rights

Mechanisms. It congratulated Serbia on the inclusion of article 54 in the Criminal Code

regarding hate crimes. Argentina recognized the commitment of Serbia to fighting

impunity.

81. Armenia commended Serbia for its ratification of a number of international human

rights instruments. Armenia welcomed the increased efforts being made by Serbia to

combat trafficking in persons and discrimination against women, and its efforts to promote

gender equality. It appreciated the measures being taken by the Coordination Body for

Gender Equality.

82. Australia commended Serbia for its efforts to advance the rights and protection for

lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons and noted that the 2017 pride

parade had taken place without incident. It noted that Serbia did not have comprehensive

legislation in place to protect the rights of intersex persons in terms of equality and non-

discrimination.

83. Austria commended the efforts Serbia had made to improve its legislative and

institutional framework. Austria noted that corporal punishment of children and domestic

violence remained an issue, and that Roma, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex

persons, persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups continued to face

discrimination in Serbia.

84. Azerbaijan appreciated the solid commitment of Serbia to the universal periodic

review process and its active engagement with the treaty bodies and special procedures of

the Human Rights Council. It commended the establishment of the Council for the

Implementation of the Recommendations of the United Nations Human Rights Mechanisms

and noted with interest the legislative and institutional changes that had been made in order

to better promote human rights.

85. Belarus welcomed the strategic approach being taken on gender equality issues,

including the implementation of the National Strategy for Gender Equality and its plan of

action, and the establishment of the Coordinating Council on Gender Equality. It noted with

interest the steps being taken to implement the recommendations of the United Nations

human rights mechanisms.

86. Belgium recognized the positive steps that had been taken to implement the

recommendations from the previous review cycle, particularly the progress made in

tackling human trafficking. Belgium was convinced that further progress could be achieved

in the fight against impunity and hate crime and to uphold freedom of expression.

87. Bhutan praised Serbia on its ratification of the Istanbul Convention and for the

amendments it had made to domestic legislation, particularly on combating domestic

violence. Bhutan wished Serbia success in its implementation of the National Strategy for

the Prevention and Suppression of Trafficking in Human Beings and the National Anti-

Corruption Strategy.

88. Bosnia and Herzegovina noted with appreciation the steps taken to strengthen the

normative framework on the prevention of domestic violence and to fight human

trafficking. It asked Serbia to provide more information on the assistance given to victims

of trafficking under the National Strategy for the Prevention and Suppression of Trafficking

in Human Beings.

89. Brazil congratulated Serbia for adopting the Law on the Prevention of Domestic

Violence and for progress in protecting the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and

intersex persons. Brazil encouraged Serbia to continue fighting homophobia and

discrimination by implementing the anti-discrimination law. It expressed concern about the

situation of migrants and refugees and people at risk of statelessness.

90. Bulgaria welcomed steps to improve the normative and institutional framework

regarding the status of national minorities and their equal participation in political and

social life. It encouraged Serbia to provide radio and television broadcasting in Bulgarian

for the Bulgarian national minority.

91. Canada commended Serbia for the steps it had taken to uphold human rights,

particularly the rights to freedom of assembly and of expression. It expressed concern about

the Serbian Defence Minister’s public praise of Vladimir Lazarević, who had been

convicted of war crimes.

92. Chile congratulated Serbia for ratifying the Council of Europe Convention on

Preventing and Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence and for

adopting policies aimed at eliminating discrimination against women, persons with

disabilities, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons, migrants, refugees and

national minorities.

93. China commended Serbia for its efforts to ensure economic and social development

and gender parity, to enhance living standards, education and health care, to combat

domestic violence and to protect the rights of women, children, persons with disabilities

and the Roma.

94. Costa Rica congratulated Serbia for ratifying several international human rights

instruments and for approving domestic legislation to combat discrimination against

minorities. It expressed concern about the low prosecution rates for crimes committed

during the armed conflict and for cases of discrimination and domestic violence.

95. Côte d’Ivoire welcomed the implementation of the national human rights plan and

the establishment of the Council for the Implementation of the Recommendations of the

United Nations Human Rights Mechanisms. It was concerned at reports of alleged human

rights violations of the rights of members of civil society and of discrimination against

women.

96. Croatia acknowledged developments in preventing hate speech, hate crimes and

discrimination, and urged Serbia to implement the action plans it was developing within the

framework of the European Union accession process. Croatia expressed regret that the

prosecutorial strategy for the investigation and prosecution of war crimes had not been

adopted, leaving victims of war crimes without adequate compensation.

97. Cuba welcomed the adoption of the National Strategy for Gender Equality 2016–

2020 and the 2020 Education Strategy, and the entry into force of the Law on the

Prevention of Domestic Violence.

98. Cyprus commended Serbia for amending the Criminal Code regarding rape,

stalking, sexual harassment, forced marriage and genital mutilation. Cyprus welcomed the

establishment of and the activities undertaken by the Coordination Body for Gender

Equality.

99. Czechia thanked Serbia for its responses to some of its advance questions. It

acknowledged the progress made by Serbia on several areas of human rights and

encouraged it to continue on that path.

100. Egypt appreciated the adoption of the Action Plan for the Realization of the Rights

of National Minorities, which provided for greater participation of national minorities in the

Government.

101. Estonia appreciated the cooperation of Serbia with the United Nations procedures

and bodies and highlighted the need for protection of freedom of expression and the

pluralism of the media. Estonia expressed regret at reports that girls and women were

frequently exposed to violence and alleged cases of violence against children, child

trafficking and the commercial sexual exploitation of children.

102. France welcomed progress in several areas, such as legislation on gender equality.

103. Gabon highlighted the measures taken to promote gender equality and to protect

persons with disabilities, migrants, refugees and national minorities. Gabon welcomed

measures aimed at providing independent human rights mechanisms with a legal

framework, sufficient financing and efficient administration.

104. Georgia welcomed the establishment of the Council for the Implementation of the

Recommendations of the United Nations Human Rights Mechanisms. Georgia encouraged

Serbia to strengthen its legal framework to provide for more effective prevention of all

forms of violence against women.

105. Germany highlighted the need to strengthen the rule of law, and stated that

legislation to improve the situation of migrants, refugees and minorities should be

effectively implemented. It noted the backlog with regard to the prosecution of crimes

under international law.

106. Greece commended legal steps taken to tackle the issue of hatred, intolerance, racial

discrimination and discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons.

Greece welcomed the adoption of the Action Plan for the Realization of the Rights of

National Minorities, which provided for greater participation of national minorities in the

Government.

107. Honduras commended the adoption in 2016 of the Law on the Prevention of

Domestic Violence and the amendments made to the provisions of the Criminal Code on

non-consensual sexual relations, including harassment and forced marriage.

108. Iceland welcomed the efforts made by Serbia to promote the right to peaceful

assembly of lesbian, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons. It also welcomed the

adoption in 2016 of the Law on the Prevention of Domestic Violence and the amendments

to the provisions of the Criminal Code on rape and non-consensual sexual relations,

stalking, sexual harassment, forced marriage and genital mutilation.

109. India commended Serbia for the steps taken to improve the status of women and

promote gender equality and for the adoption of the National Strategy for Gender Equality

2016–2020. In addition, it welcomed the enactment of laws on the prevention of

discrimination against persons with disabilities and the adoption of the Action Plan for the

Realization of the Rights of National Minorities.

110. Indonesia expressed appreciation for the ratification by Serbia of international

human rights instruments and welcomed the convening of numerous human rights training

sessions for government officials in the field of human rights protection and anti-

discrimination.

111. Iraq welcomed the institutional framework established to follow up on the

implementation of recommendations in the field of human rights.

112. The delegation of Serbia concluded by reiterating that Serbia had demonstrated its

commitment to the protection of human rights by the manner in which it had prepared for

and participated in the third cycle of the universal periodic review. The best illustration of

that claim was the strengthening of institutional capacities in preparation for the process,

the improvement of the reporting process itself, the involvement of all relevant domestic

stakeholders in the preparations for the third review cycle, and the high level of cooperation

that had been achieved among the different stakeholders. Serbia would strive in the future

to link the process of reporting to the United Nations human rights mechanisms with the

Sustainable Development Goals. Serbia remained committed to the universal periodic

review process and to cooperating with the Human Rights Council.

II. Conclusions and/or recommendations

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

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

113.1 Strengthen the rule of law through constitutional amendments as well

as other reforms that enhance the independence and efficiency of the judiciary

(Norway);

113.2 Ensure that the discussions on constitutional reforms regarding the

independence of the judiciary move ahead in a timely and inclusive manner and

that the outcome of this process is swiftly implemented (Sweden);

113.3 Strengthen judicial independence by implementing the constitutional

reform currently under way, in accordance with the standards of the Venice

Commission, and improve access to justice for all citizens (France);

113.4 Continue the harmonization of the Criminal Code provisions with

international norms (Morocco);

113.5 Strengthen the legal framework for the Ombudsman (Poland);

113.6 Grant the Protector of Citizens (Ombudsman) the necessary legal

and financial means to fulfil its mandate (Algeria);

113.7 Strengthen the mandate of the Protector of Citizens and ensure its

independent functioning, in line with the Paris Principles, and by allocating

sufficient financial and human resources to it (Republic of Moldova);

113.8 Implement the Strategy for the Prevention of and Protection from

Discrimination and the corresponding Action Plan (Cuba);

113.9 Continue to combat all forms of discrimination, including through

the implementation of the Strategy for the Prevention of and Protection from

Discrimination (Cyprus);

113.10 Strengthen anti-discrimination mechanisms, including for lesbian,

gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons, and continue efforts to

promote the human rights of persons belonging to minorities, especially the

Roma minority (France);

113.11 Continue to strengthen its efforts on the promotion and protection of

human rights, especially with regard to the rights of vulnerable populations,

including women and children (Viet Nam);

113.12 Continue efforts towards promoting and protecting human rights,

especially those of vulnerable groups (Bhutan);

113.13 Strengthen national measures to promote tolerance and pluralism in

order to prevent ethnic discrimination (Indonesia);

113.14 Strengthen efforts to prevent and combat all forms of discrimination,

including against women, children, Roma and lesbian, gay, bisexual,

transgender and intersex persons (Italy);

113.15 Continue to organize regular information campaigns aimed at

strengthening the equality of the sexes and overcoming gender stereotypes

(Belarus);

113.16 Continue to promote economic and social sustainable development to

meet its people’s need for a better life (China);

113.17 Continue pursuing appropriate policies to achieve more balanced

economic and social development among the regions in the country (Bulgaria);

113.18 Take the necessary measures to promote the participation of women

in the labour market in a wider range of occupations, including through

awareness-raising to overcome gender stereotypes (Iceland);

113.19 Initiate the application of innovative approaches and technological

innovations for the efficient, accountable and transparent delivery of public

services (Azerbaijan);

113.20 Put in place further measures to improve the independence,

accountability and effectiveness of the justice system (Australia);

113.21 Increase efforts to combat hate speech (Lebanon);

113.22 Strengthen an independent judiciary that guarantees the rule of law

and tackles corruption by implementing European Union recommendations

(Germany);

113.23 Pursue efforts to strengthen the judiciary through the

implementation of the national strategy adopted for this purpose (Morocco);

113.24 Fully respect and implement the principles of the rule of law by

taking all necessary measures to ensure the effective and independent

functioning of the judiciary (Estonia);

113.25 Continue with its judicial reforms to effectively introduce the rule of

law in all aspects of society (Republic of Korea);

113.26 Continue implementing all expedient measures in its National

Strategy for Judicial Reform 2013–2018 that help strengthen the rule of law

until a new national strategy is drawn up (Singapore);

113.27 Take steps to improve judicial independence by limiting the scope for

political influence over judicial appointments (Canada);

113.28 Continue the promotion of initiatives to empower the country’s

women at the economic, political and social levels (Bosnia and Herzegovina);

113.29 Pursue efforts with a view to improving accessibility to human rights

training and education (Morocco);

113.30 Enhance its efforts to reduce non-attendance and school drop-out

rates, ensuring the effective implementation of the 2020 Education Strategy

(Cyprus);

113.31 Make further efforts to promote opportunities for access to education

for all (Iraq);

113.32 Develop programmes to reduce dropout rates from schools (Timor-

Leste);

113.33 Support efforts to ensure students from ethnic minority groups have

access to school textbooks in their native language (United States of America);

113.34 Step up efforts towards achieving inclusive education for all children

(Georgia);

113.35 Strengthen training programmes for State agents in the field of the

rights of minorities (Algeria);

113.36 Continue to take effective measures to promote gender equality and

to better protect women’s rights (China);

113.37 Continue developing actions to improve the status of women and

gender equality (Cuba);

113.38 Continue to make efforts to improve equality between men and

women, and in particular support rural women and assist them in their

economic empowerment (Egypt);

113.39 Continue its efforts to increase the representation of women within

State and local administrations (New Zealand);

113.40 Promote the participation of women in public and political life, and

in the labour market (Poland);

113.41 Continue enhancing the role of women in strengthening democracy

and ensuring sustainable development (Azerbaijan);

113.42 Strengthen the measures to prevent all forms of violence against

women, in particular domestic violence, and strengthen the legal protection of

women against discrimination and all forms of violence (Mexico);

113.43 Adopt the National Strategy for the Prevention and Suppression of

Violence against Women and Young Girls in the Family and Partnership

Relations and ensure its effective implementation (Republic of Moldova);

113.44 Formulate and implement systematic measures towards the

eradication of stereotypes of women in society, creating a climate of zero

tolerance for violence against women (Slovenia);

113.45 Continue efforts to combat discrimination against women and all

forms of violence against women, including domestic violence (Tunisia);

113.46 Redouble efforts to effectively prevent all forms of violence against

women (Indonesia);

113.47 Take efforts to combat gender-based violence, such as violence in

family and partner relationships, sexual harassment and rape (Kyrgyzstan);

113.48 Monitor and step up efforts to implement the legislation on domestic

and gender-based violence and strengthen support for victims (Czechia);

113.49 Take further measures to combat domestic violence by, inter alia,

establishing shelters and supporting centres with medical, psychological and

legal support (Austria);

113.50 Continue its efforts to combat domestic violence (Gabon);

113.51 Continue the promotion of educational policies against violence,

particularly physical and gender-based violence against women and children

(State of Palestine);

113.52 Continue efforts to effectively protect women and children against

violence, particularly by considering running an awareness-raising campaign in

this respect (Poland);

113.53 Complete efforts in order to effectively protect children from violence

and abuse (Greece);

113.54 Work towards the deinstitutionalization of children with disabilities

and the removal of barriers that hinder the effective access of children with

disabilities to education (New Zealand);

113.55 Continue efforts to guarantee non-discrimination against persons

with disabilities and adopt appropriate measures to ensure equal opportunities

for them in education, employment and access to housing (Mexico);

113.56 Continue to strengthen legislative mechanisms on the protection of

the rights of persons with disabilities (Russian Federation);

113.57 Work to protect cultural heritage in Serbia and respect diversity

(Lebanon);

113.58 Implement effective public policies to combat discrimination and

ensure effective access to education and health-care services to ethnic

minorities in the country (Mexico);

113.59 Strengthen its efforts to promote respect for the rights of minorities,

especially its national and ethnic minorities (Philippines);

113.60 Continue the work in the area of combating discrimination against

national minorities (Russian Federation);

113.61 Take further measures to upgrade the legislation on the promotion

and protection of the rights of persons belonging to national minorities and

ensure its implementation (Bulgaria);

113.62 Work closely with the relevant stakeholders, such as the National

Minorities Councils, to ensure the effective implementation of the Action Plan

for the Realization of the Rights of National Minorities (Singapore);

113.63 Develop and promote strategies aimed at promoting tolerance for

persons belonging to ethnic, national, racial, religious and other minorities

(Sierra Leone);

113.64 Step up its efforts to promote tolerance for persons belonging to

ethnic, religious and other minorities (Timor-Leste);

113.65 Continue to intensify efforts to promote tolerance towards persons

belonging to ethnic, national, racial, religious and other minorities, including

Roma (Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);

113.66 Intensify the work for the promotion of tolerance towards persons

belonging to ethnic, national, racial, religious and any other minorities,

including Roma (Uruguay);

113.67 Take the necessary steps to ensure the rights of minorities,

particularly the Roma (Afghanistan);

113.68 Increase efforts to promote tolerance towards people belonging to

ethnic and national minorities, including the Roma, and to do so through

awareness-raising campaigns (Chile);

113.69 Continue efforts to promote the educational and economic level of

national minorities and to help them integrate into society (Egypt);

113.70 Increase efforts to promote tolerance towards people belonging to

ethnic, national, racial and religious minorities, particularly the Roma (Côte

d’Ivoire);

113.71 Continue to ensure non-discriminatory and adequate maternal health

care for Roma mothers and young children (Maldives);

113.72 Improve the human rights situation of the Roma minority

(Mozambique);

113.73 Ensure the effective integration of Roma people into Serbian society

(Germany);

113.74 Establish an efficient and coordinated system for the integration of

refugees into society (Germany).

114. The following recommendations will be examined by Serbia, which will provide

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

Council:

114.1 Consider ratifying the International Convention on the Protection of

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

114.2 Consider ratifying the International Convention on the Protection of

the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (Bolivarian

Republic of Venezuela);

114.3 Consider ratifying the International Convention on the Protection of

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

114.4 Increase efforts to ratify the International Convention on the

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

Families (Chile);

114.5 Finalize the ratification of the International Convention on the

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

Families (Afghanistan);

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

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

114.7 Accede to the International Convention on the Protection of the

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

114.8 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on

Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (Costa Rica);

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

Child on a communications procedure (Slovakia);

114.10 Issue an open, standing invitation to the special procedures of the

Human Rights Council (Ukraine);

114.11 Adopt an open, merit-based selection process when selecting national

candidates for United Nations treaty body elections (United Kingdom of Great

Britain and Northern Ireland);

114.12 Amend the Criminal Code in order to explicitly criminalize racism

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

114.13 Take the necessary measures to incorporate the crime of enforced

disappearance into national legislation and establish an adequate legislative

framework to enable access to the files related to cases of enforced

disappearance and other human rights violations (Argentina);

114.14 Establish a national human rights institution in accordance with the

Paris Principles (Ukraine);

114.15 Accelerate the process of amending national legislation in line with

the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading

Treatment or Punishment (Georgia);

114.16 Strengthen the mandate and independence of its Ombudsman’s

Office, ensuring that it is adequately resourced and that it can operate

independently (Ireland);

114.17 Adopt a comprehensive law on children’s rights and establish an

office of the Ombudsman for Children (Mongolia);

114.18 Increase the funding for the national preventive mechanism within

the budget of the Ombudsman’s Office and set up a separate national

preventive mechanism unit or department within the Ombudsman’s Office

(The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia);

114.19 Ensure swift and smooth adoption of the bill on a children’s

ombudsmen (Slovakia);

114.20 Guarantee the independence and strengthen the legal capacities of

the Ombudsman by including in domestic legislation measures that would allow

for proper interaction with the international human rights system and civil

society organizations (Costa Rica);

114.21 Take all the necessary measures to ensure the full and effective

implementation of the law on anti-discrimination, in particular with regard to

national minorities, which remain the most vulnerable and socioeconomically

marginalized (Switzerland);

114.22 Increase efforts to promote tolerance for persons belonging to ethnic,

national, racial, religious or other minorities and address hate speech,

discrimination and hate crime more effectively (Croatia);

114.23 Take additional serious measures to combat xenophobia, hate speech

and discrimination based on race, nationality, ethnicity and religion

(Kyrgyzstan);

114.24 Continue to strengthen the fight against incitement to violence and

discrimination against vulnerable groups and ensure that crimes motivated by

prejudice are investigated and their perpetrators punished (Bolivarian

Republic of Venezuela);

114.25 Improve policies aimed at preventing and combating racial

discrimination (Mozambique);

114.26 Develop educational materials that promote pluralism for combating

ethnic polarization and discrimination (Albania);

114.27 Increase Serbia’s tolerance towards people belonging to different

ethnic, national or religious backgrounds and provide internally displaced

persons with the necessary identification documents to receive basic services

(State of Palestine);

114.28 Ensure that all children born in Serbia have access to timely birth

registration immediately after birth, without discrimination and regardless of

the legal or documentation status of their parents (Brazil);

114.29 Strengthen efforts to eliminate discrimination on the basis of sexual

orientation and gender identity (Czechia);

114.30 Ensure full implementation of the law on gender equality (Latvia);

114.31 Harmonize gender equality to guarantee equal rights for men and

women (Turkmenistan);

114.32 Strengthen measures to combat all forms of social stigmatization,

discrimination and violence against persons based on their sexual orientation,

gender identity and HIV status (Portugal);

114.33 Take concrete steps to protect lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and

intersex people and their freedom of assembly and expression, and to eradicate

all forms of discrimination and violence based on sexual orientation and gender

identity (New Zealand);

114.34 Improve measures aimed at eradicating all forms of social

stigmatization, discrimination and violence on the basis of sexual orientation,

gender identity and HIV status (Honduras);

114.35 Strengthen discrimination protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual,

transgender and intersex persons, and enact legislation that includes protection

from discrimination on the grounds of intersex status (Australia);

114.36 Strengthen measures to eradicate all forms of social stigmatization,

discrimination and violence against persons based on their sexual orientation

and gender identity (Iceland);

114.37 Increase the Government’s control over Serbian companies operating

abroad, particularly any negative impact of their activities on the protection of

human rights, especially in conflict zones, including cases of foreign occupation,

where there are heightened risks of human rights violations (State of Palestine);

114.38 Actively engage with the international community in efforts to

promote and protect human rights in the context of climate change (Viet Nam);

114.39 Take all the necessary steps to prevent impunity for serious crimes

under international law and to further increase efforts to shed light on the fate

of missing persons (Netherlands);

114.40 Strengthen the fight against impunity for war crimes, in particular by

accelerating investigations and prosecution, including high-level cases, and by

ensuring access to justice and reparation to victims without discrimination and

in line with the international standards (Croatia);

114.41 Cooperate fully with the International Residual Mechanism for

Criminal Tribunals and implement the National Strategy for the Prosecution of

War Crimes (Sweden);

114.42 Implement fully the National Strategy for the Prosecution of War

Crimes, beginning by defining clear and specific priorities (Switzerland);

114.43 Initiate a vetting process to identify all government officials who have

allegedly been involved in the commission of war crimes (Albania);

114.44 Fully investigate and hold accountable those responsible for the 1999

murder of the Bytyqi brothers (United States of America);

114.45 Ensure the full cooperation with the International Residual

Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals, as the successor to the International

Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (Belgium);

114.46 Take measures to guarantee the prosecution of those who participate

in war crimes and to secure proper redress for the victims (Costa Rica);

114.47 Increase efforts to protect human rights defenders and to put an end

to the impunity of those who violate their rights (Côte d’Ivoire);

114.48 Strengthen investigative measures and punishment of the

perpetrators of hate crimes motivated by prejudice (Argentina);

114.49 Apply more efficiently the legislation against hate speech, given

reports of the continued rise in hate speech in Serbian public discourse

(Norway);

114.50 Ensure full access to all information, including access to archives, to

enable the tracing, identifying and ascertaining of the fate of missing persons or

their remains (Croatia);

114.51 Consider introducing the legislative amendments necessary to

broaden the definition of victims of enforced disappearance to include the

relatives of a disappeared person (Slovakia);

114.52 Ensure that police, prosecutors and the judiciary are all fully aware

of their responsibilities with regard to the identification, prosecution and

adjudication of hate crimes (Belgium);

114.53 Take measures to strengthen the rule of law, including through a full

and public enquiry into the police and municipal authorities’ alleged

involvement in the Belgrade Waterfront night-time demolitions, the so-called

Savamala case in the city centre in April 2016 (Canada);

114.54 Strengthen the legal framework for the fight against corruption and

strengthen the powers and resources of the anti-corruption agency (France);

114.55 Take timely action to provide media workers with protection and

ensure that perpetrators of crimes against media workers are duly investigated,

prosecuted and sanctioned (Ireland);

114.56 Adopt measures to protect and promote freedom of expression,

including freedom of speech and information, and ensure that journalists and

human rights defenders are able to work freely and safely (Italy);

114.57 Enhance laws on media freedom (Lebanon);

114.58 Ensure the full implementation of the media laws that were adopted

in 2014, as part of the necessary steps that need to be taken to improve media

freedom and the protection of journalists (Netherlands);

114.59 Implement reforms on media ownership and revenues, with the aim

of guaranteeing transparency and a level playing field for the media, regardless

of ownership and affiliations (Norway);

114.60 Strengthen the effectiveness of action taken to enhance editorial

independence and media pluralism (Poland);

114.61 Effectively guarantee the freedom of the press by ensuring the safety

of journalists and their activities, and the independence of the media’s editorial

boards (Republic of Korea);

114.62 Support the independence and pluralism of the media, including by

creating transparency regarding the financing of media and media ownership,

and by comprehensive implementation of the law on the privatization of the

media (Germany);

114.63 Take the necessary measures to ensure that the media regulator can

operate effectively and in complete independence (Belgium);

114.64 Conclude the work on a new media strategy, in full partnership with

civil society, and ensure that the strategy is in conformity with Serbia’s

international obligations and is fully implemented once adopted (Sweden);

114.65 Enhance laws protecting freedom of expression (Lebanon);

114.66 Enhance efforts regarding the protection and promotion of the

freedoms of expression and of the press (Brazil);

114.67 Conduct prompt and impartial investigations into all allegations of

crimes against journalists and the media and bring the perpetrators to justice

(Slovakia);

114.68 Take steps to enable the exercise of freedom of expression, including

by improving transparency of media ownership and financing, and

investigating and prosecuting cases of intimidation of and violence against

journalists (Australia);

114.69 Conduct impartial, thorough and effective investigations into all cases

of attacks, harassment and intimidation against journalists and human rights

defenders, and bring perpetrators of such offences to justice (Germany);

114.70 Ensure that all threats, intimidation and attacks against journalists

and human rights defenders are thoroughly investigated, ensuring no impunity

for perpetrators (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland);

114.71 Ensure thorough, prompt and independent investigations into all

reports of human rights violations against human rights defenders and

journalists and bring to justice those suspected of committing such crimes

(Greece);

114.72 Refrain from prosecuting journalists, human rights defenders and

other members of civil society as a means of deterring or discouraging them

from freely expressing their opinions (Latvia);

114.73 Increase efforts to prevent cases of violence against journalists and

media workers (Czechia);

114.74 Address threats and attacks against journalists and improve the

transparency of media ownership and the independence of media outlets

(Estonia);

114.75 Take steps to ensure conditions for the full exercise of freedom of

expression, including by: (i) ensuring effective investigation and prosecution of

alleged threats and attacks on journalists; and (ii) ensuring an equal

opportunity for all media to access funding available from government sources

(Canada);

114.76 Guarantee freedom of expression by combating intimidation of the

media and civil society and by ensuring the transparency of media financing

(France);

114.77 Ensure the safety of journalists and writers so that they can work

freely, express critical opinions and cover topics that the Government might

deem sensitive, without fear of reprisals (Switzerland);

114.78 Fully investigate incidents of serious threats and violence against

journalists and civil society activists, and hold the perpetrators accountable

(United States of America);

114.79 Foster an enabling environment where freedom of expression can be

exercised without hindrance and ensure that all threats and violence against

journalists and bloggers are publicly condemned and properly and promptly

investigated (Austria);

114.80 Recognize the important role of human rights defenders, many of

whom face particular risks and threats, and provide practical support for them

to carry out their human rights work, including by preventing any acts of

reprisal or intimidation against them (New Zealand);

114.81 Protect human rights defenders by initiating independent, impartial

and effective investigations into threats against them (Republic of Korea);

114.82 Guarantee political pluralism by ensuring access for all parties to the

media and to funding and by strengthening the power of independent

institutions for the protection of the rights of citizens (France);

114.83 Adopt measures to fully apply the principle of equal pay for work of

equal value, bearing in mind the gender wage gap (Portugal);

114.84 Step up efforts towards meeting the goal of improving housing

conditions for those most in need (Greece);

114.85 Further develop the provision of health-care services, including

mental health care, in prisons (Portugal);

114.86 Consider the possibility of elaborating programmes to provide

inclusive education (Belarus);

114.87 Review and revise the Criminal Code, the Family Code and other

relevant laws with a view to effectively preventing all forms of violence against

women (Estonia);

114.88 Improve legislation and laws related to domestic violence (Iraq);

114.89 Establish legislative and other measures to protect children from

abuse and violence (Kyrgyzstan);

114.90 Establish legislative and other measures to ensure compliance with

the general protocol on the protection of children from abuse and violence

(Estonia);

114.91 Enact legislation to explicitly prohibit corporal punishment of

children in all settings, including at home (Montenegro);

114.92 Explicitly prohibit corporal punishment of children in legislation

(Portugal);

114.93 Prohibit by law corporal punishment of children, including in the

family (Austria);

114.94 Adopt all necessary measures to eradicate corporal punishment of

boys and girls (Chile);

114.95 Seriously consider prohibiting in its legislation any type of corporal

punishment, promoting non-violent disciplinary alternatives and generating

public awareness of the harmful effects of corporal punishment, in line with the

recommendations made by Uruguay during the second cycle and accepted by

Serbia (Uruguay);

114.96 Adopt the planned legislative amendments to explicitly prohibit all

corporal punishment of children, in all settings (Slovenia);

114.97 Strengthen further implementation of the deinstitutionalization

process, with particular focus on children without parental care under age of 3

(Montenegro);

114.98 Adopt specific measures to prevent and combat multiple and

intersectional discrimination against women and girls with disabilities, in

particular in access to justice, protection against domestic violence and abuse,

and in education, health and employment (Honduras);

114.99 Continue the efforts aimed at improving the conditions for persons

belonging to national minorities to preserve and develop their own culture and

to have access to education, religious services and media in their own languages

throughout the entire territory of Serbia (Romania);

114.100 Further promote the effective participation of national minorities,

especially the Roma minority, in electoral processes and their representation in

public administration (The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia);

114.101 Consider adopting a law on racial discrimination and continue efforts

to combat racial discrimination and hate speech against foreigners and

minorities, particularly the Roma (Tunisia);

114.102 Redouble its efforts in the promotion of tolerance towards persons

belonging to ethnic, national, racial, religious and other minorities, including

Roma (Honduras);

114.103 Take further measures to overcome the prevailing discrimination

against Roma in the enjoyment of economic, social and cultural rights

(Albania);

114.104 Ensure the full implementation of the new strategy for Roma

inclusion and adopt the action plan promptly (Austria);

114.105 Continue the efforts to enable tangible progress in combating

trafficking in persons (Turkmenistan);

114.106 Increase human and financial resources dedicated to the office for the

coordination of measures against trafficking in persons, to help drive national

improvements in support of achieving target 8.7 of the Sustainable

Development Goals (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland);

114.107 Continue efforts to combat human trafficking, particularly

trafficking of unaccompanied migrant children (Tunisia);

114.108 Continue increasing the actions to combat trafficking in persons,

especially women and children, and reinforce measures to prevent and improve

the detection of these cases (Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);

114.109 Strengthen measures to prevent and combat trafficking in persons,

paying special attention to migrants and refugees (Honduras);

114.110 Strengthen measures to combat and eliminate trafficking in persons,

particularly migrants and refugees (Sierra Leone);

114.111 Promote efforts to prevent and combat human trafficking,

particularly of refugees and migrants (State of Palestine);

114.112 Strengthen its measures to prevent and combat trafficking in

persons, with a specific focus on migrants and refugees (Timor-Leste);

114.113 Strengthen measures to prevent and combat trafficking in persons,

placing a specific focus on migrants and refugees, in line with the Human

Rights Committee’s recommendation (Ukraine);

114.114 Intensify efforts to prevent and combat trafficking in persons,

focusing on migrants and refugees (Indonesia);

114.115 Improve special procedures for asylum seekers (Iraq);

114.116 Adopt a comprehensive policy aimed at providing durable solutions

for all internally displaced persons in Serbia, which would include local

integration in a pragmatic way, taking into consideration return and settlement

in other places, implementing the law on temporary and permanent residence

in a holistic manner (Honduras).

115. 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 Serbia was headed by Ms. Suzana Paunović and composed of the

following members:

• Ms. Suzana Paunović, Acting Director of the Office for Human and Minority Rights

of Serbia, Head of delegation;

• Mr. Vladislav Mladenović, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of Serbia to the

United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva;

• Ms. Ana Marija Viček, State Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Science and

Technological Progress;

• Mr. Ivan Bošnjak, State Secretary in the Ministry of State Administration and Local

Self Government;

• Mr. Ferenc Vicko, State Secretary in the Ministry of Health;

• Ms. Vesna Popović, Judge of Supreme Court of Cassation;

• Mr. Zoran Lazarov, Assistant Minister of the Interior;

• Mr. Čedomir Backović, Assistant Minister of Justice;

• Ms. Jasmina Kiurski, Deputy Public Prosecutor;

• Mr. Marko Nikolić, Acting Assistant Director of the Department for Cooperation

with churches and religious communities, Ministry of Justice;

• Ms. Mirjana Nikolić, Coordinator in the Department for Human Rights and

Humanitarian Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs;

• Ms. Aleksandra Stepanović, Head of Department in the Administration of Criminal

Justice Unit;

• Ms. Snežana Pečenčić, Head of Department for Legal Affairs, Projects, Financing

and Registration of Foreign Reporters, Ministry of Culture and Information;

• Mr. Milan Andrić, Coordinator for Strategic Planning and Development, Ministry of

the Interior;

• Mr. Vladimir Vukićević, Human Rights Consultant, Ministry of Justice;

• Ms. Branislava Mitrović, Independent Counsellor, Office for Kosovo and Metohija;

• Ms. Svetlana Velimirović, Deputy Commissioner for Refugees and Migrations;

• Mr. Dragan Vulević, Head of Department, Ministry of Labour, Employment,

Veteran and Social Affairs;

• Ms. Biljana Stojković, Ministry of Labour, Employment, Veteran and Social

Affairs;

• Ms. Ljiljana Lončar, Counsellor to the Deputy Prime Minister for Gender Equality;

• Ms. Aleksandra Đorđević, Counsellor, Ministry of Culture and Information;

• Ms. Jasna Plavšić, Head of Group for Anti-Discrimination Policy, Office for Human

and Minority Rights;

• Ms. Svetlana Đorđević, Independent Counsellor, Office for Human and Minority

Rights;

• Ms. Tanja Srećković, Counsellor, Office for Human and Minority Rights;

• Ms. Kristina Brković, Counsellor, Office for Human and Minority Rights;

• Mr. Dušan Ignjatović, Consultant, Office for Human and Minority Rights;

• Mr. Vladan Lazović, First Counsellor, Permanent Mission of Serbia to the United

Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva;

• Ms. Antonia Jutronić, Officer, Permanent Mission of Serbia to the United Nations

Office and other international organizations in Geneva.