38/7 Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review - Mali

GE.18-06102 (E) 240418 250418



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*

Mali

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

United Nations A/HRC/38/7

General Assembly Distr.: General 17 April 2018

English

Original: English/French

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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 Mali was held at the 4th meeting, on 16 January 2018. The

delegation of Mali was headed by the Minister of Human Rights, Kadidia Sangaré

Coulibaly. At its 10th meeting, held on 19 January 2018, the Working Group adopted the

report on Mali.

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

rapporteurs (troika) to facilitate the review of Mali: Japan, Slovenia and South Africa.

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 Mali:

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

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

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

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

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

Liechtenstein, Portugal, Slovenia, Sweden and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and

Northern Ireland was transmitted to Mali 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. The delegation of Mali explained that the submission of its national report for the

third cycle of the universal periodic review had taken place in a particularly challenging

context, characterized by insecurity, terrorism and transnational organized crime.

6. The report described the changes in Mali with regard to the promotion and

protection of human rights over the past five years. It presented and analysed changes in the

legal and institutional framework, follow-up to the recommendations and commitments

made during the universal periodic review of 2013, achievements and best practices, and

obstacles to the promotion and protection of human rights.

7. Legal and institutional developments had included the review and adoption of

legislation and regulations, in particular the Act establishing the National Human Rights

Commission, in accordance with the principles relating to the status of national institutions

for the promotion and protection of human rights (Paris Principles), and the Act amending

the Constitution. After consulting the country’s leaders, the President had decided to

postpone holding a referendum.

8. The Human Rights Defenders Act, adopted by the National Assembly after

considering the concerns of organizations for the defence of human rights, had recently

been promulgated. The Act clearly defined the rights and responsibilities of human rights

defenders and the measures the State must take to protect them.

9. The delegation highlighted the establishment of a ministry responsible exclusively

for the promotion and protection of human rights and of an emergency programme for

strengthening the justice system. It also noted the implementation of the Agreement on

Peace and Reconciliation in Mali emanating from the Algiers process.

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10. Mali was a de facto abolitionist country and observed a moratorium on the death

penalty. No executions had been carried out since the 1980s. The death sentences that had

been handed down had been systematically commuted to life imprisonment.

11. Significant action had been taken to combat impunity, including the trial of several

members of the military junta that had mounted a coup d’état in March 2012, the conviction

by the International Criminal Court of Ahmad Al Faqi Al Mahdi for war crimes in the north

of Mali and the conviction by an assize court of Aliou Mahamane Touré, a former chief of

the Islamic police, for serious human rights violations. Mali had also taken steps to

prosecute members of the security forces implicated in human rights abuses and to support

the establishment of an international commission of inquiry to investigate war crimes,

crimes against humanity, sex crimes and other serious violations of international human

rights law and international humanitarian law. The Ministry of Justice, for example, had

launched investigations in the regions where human rights violations had been reported by

organizations for the defence of human rights, and the Minister had instructed the public

prosecution services in Bamako and Mopti to open investigations into accusations made in

a number of published reports against the armed forces and the security forces. In addition,

a special police unit accompanied each company deployed in areas of conflict. Those units,

made up of appropriately trained gendarmes and criminal investigation officers, were

responsible for ensuring respect for human rights and international humanitarian law.

12. The delegation stated that the Government had embarked on a reform of the security

sector aimed at addressing the issues and challenges related to terrorism and transnational

crime. In that connection, it referred to the Military Guidance and Planning Act and the

Internal Security Planning Act. The Government had also intensified its efforts to train and

equip the military and had established a judicial office and units specializing in combating

terrorism and organized crime. Lastly, it had strengthened cooperation by the Armed Forces

of Mali, the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali

(MINUSMA), the forces of Operation Barkhane and the Group of Five for the Sahel in the

fight against terrorism and transnational organized crime.

13. The lack of security had prevented many students in northern and central Mali from

attending school. As a result, children from some communities had been transferred to other

schools, and special examinations had been organized in the places where the children were

located. Plans had also been made to take stronger security measures, in accordance with

the Guidelines for Protecting Schools and Universities from Military Use during Armed

Conflict.

14. Two bills on the rights of women and children were being drafted: the first

concerned gender-based violence, while the second concerned child protection. The

enactment of those two bills would remove discriminatory provisions from the Personal and

Family Code and criminalize female genital mutilation and other forms of gender-based

violence.

15. Considerable efforts had been made to combat the worst forms of child labour,

including the use of children in armed conflict. Child members of armed groups had

received assistance, for example, within the framework of disarmament, demobilization and

reintegration activities, which were a critical component of both the immediate stabilization

of Mali and its short-, medium- and long-term development.

16. Improved cooperation with international human rights mechanisms had been

facilitated by the establishment of a committee to monitor the preparation of the national

report for the universal periodic review in 2017. In addition, an interministerial committee

had been set up in 2009 to support the preparation of initial and periodic reports on the

implementation of the international treaties ratified by Mali. In addition, the Government’s

programme of work for the first half of 2018 included plans for the establishment of a

single mechanism for the preparation of reports and for follow-up to treaty body

recommendations. The mechanism would work closely with the Directorate General for

Human Rights, also to be established.

17. All those initiatives reflected the commitment of Mali to work for peace and national

reconciliation while ensuring full respect for human rights.

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18. In its current context of vulnerability, Mali nonetheless faced challenges, in

particular security concerns and lack of financial resources.

19. Presidential, legislative and municipal elections had been held during the reporting

period, which had also seen the culmination of the negotiations with armed groups that had

led to the signature in 2015 of the Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation in Mali. Despite

the prevailing insecurity, significant progress had been made in implementing the

Agreement. The Agreement Monitoring Committee and the National Coordinating

Committee for the Implementation of the Agreement — the latter having been superseded

by the high representative of the President — had been put in place to facilitate the

implementation of and follow-up to the commitments made with the various stakeholders.

20. Mali would respect all the commitments it had made as part of the Agreement, as it

was convinced that there was no credible alternative to a peaceful path to a lasting

settlement of the crisis. Given the challenges related to the implementation of the

Agreement, Mali hoped to receive technical and financial assistance. National human rights

institutions and civil society organizations deserved particular attention with regard to

capacity-building and technical assistance in view of the role they were called upon to play

in promoting and protecting human rights.

21. The delegation expressed appreciation for the invaluable efforts made by the

international community to help Mali emerge from the multidimensional crisis and

highlighted the excellent cooperation with the United Nations that had been made possible

by MINUSMA and the Independent Expert on the situation of human rights in Mali, who

had just made his ninth visit to the country.

22. Mali stood ready to cooperate fully with all special procedures mandate holders of

the Human Rights Council and undertook to give careful consideration to any requests for

visits by such individuals. The Government had recently invited several special rapporteurs

to visit Mali, including the Special Rapporteur on the human rights of migrants and the

Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental

freedoms while countering terrorism.

23. Lastly, Mali reiterated its commitment to the universal periodic review.

B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review

24. During the interactive dialogue, 78 delegations made statements. Recommendations

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

25. Mauritania expressed appreciation for the efforts made by Mali to protect women’s

rights and to combat gender-based violence, extrajudicial executions and torture. It

welcomed the State’s commitment to the promotion of peace and national reconciliation

and its efforts to ensure the enjoyment of the right to an adequate standard of living.

Mauritania called on the international community to continue supporting Mali.

26. Mauritius welcomed the establishment of the National Human Rights Commission,

in 2016, action plans for the national policy on human rights and for the national policy on

transitional justice for the period 2017–2021, and measures to protect the rights of women

and children. Mauritius supported the call made by Mali to the international community for

capacity-building and technical assistance.

27. Mexico recognized the willingness of Mali to cooperate with the Independent Expert

and trusted that such cooperation would be extended to all United Nations mechanisms.

Mexico also welcomed the State’s efforts to implement the peace agreement and the human

rights and transitional justice policies.

28. Montenegro commended the establishment of the National Human Rights

Commission. It noted that female genital mutilation was still a challenge, and regretted the

lack of statistics and studies on gender-based violence and the lack of adequate resources to

implement the national action plan to combat female genital mutilation. Montenegro noted

concerns regarding the revised Personal and Family Code and encouraged Mali to amend it.

GE.18-06102 5

29. Morocco welcomed the engagement of Mali regarding the re-establishment of the

rule of law, the fight against impunity, and human rights protection. It welcomed the

creation of the National Human Rights Commission and the Truth, Justice and

Reconciliation Commission. Morocco encouraged Mali to continue its efforts against

human trafficking.

30. Mozambique welcomed the efforts of Mali to implement the peace agreement. It

praised Mali for the Constitutional review process undertaken with a view to bringing the

Constitution into line with the provisions of the peace agreement. Mozambique noted that a

moratorium on the death penalty was in place.

31. Namibia commended Mali for the progress that had been made despite the

challenges posed by the conflict. Namibia welcomed the State’s commendable human

rights-related initiatives, including the establishment of a ministry responsible for human

rights. Namibia urged the international community to assist Mali.

32. Nepal recognized the challenges faced by Mali in recent years owing to the armed

conflict. It welcomed the establishment of the National Human Rights Commission and the

Ministry of Human Rights and State Reform. While welcoming the transitional justice

policy, Nepal indicated that combating female genital mutilation was crucial. Nepal stated

that Mali deserved the support of the international community in its efforts.

33. The Netherlands welcomed the reform of the National Human Rights Commission.

It regretted that no human rights perpetrators had been prosecuted. The Netherlands called

on Mali to improve the state of prisons and how the defence and security forces acted in

order to prevent violent extremist groups from gaining more ground in an already

vulnerable environment.

34. Norway stated that the development of the human rights situation in Mali depended

on all signatories to the peace agreement. Norway was particularly concerned by the

continued impunity for violence against women, including female genital mutilation, and

the disastrous effects of the crisis on the realization of the right to education.

35. Paraguay welcomed the cooperation of Mali with the Independent Expert. It

encouraged Mali to continue fighting against the impunity of perpetrators of serious human

rights and international humanitarian law violations. Paraguay expressed concerns

regarding the persistence of harmful traditional practices and stereotypes and at the high

number of victims of female genital mutilation.

36. Poland welcomed the adoption of the act aimed at promoting gender equality in

access to appointed and elected positions. It expressed concern at reports that counter-

terrorism operations by the Malian defence and security forces had led to human rights

violations, including enforced disappearance and arbitrary detention.

37. Portugal welcomed the State’s efforts to establish the National Human Rights

Commission in line with the Paris Principles. It noted that Mali had a moratorium on

executions. Portugal was concerned at reports of impunity.

38. The Republic of Korea expressed appreciation for the efforts made by Mali in

setting up the Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Commission and in strengthening its

judicial system. It welcomed the cooperation of Mali with the international community in

efforts to improve the situation in northern Mali. It supported the State’s efforts through

various programmes.

39. Rwanda commended Mali for its efforts to restore State authority on its territory. It

encouraged Mali to enhance efforts to combat discrimination and violence against women,

including by implementing relevant laws and eliminating any loopholes in national

legislation that might undermine the protection of women’s rights.

40. Senegal noted efforts by Mali to improve the human rights situation in the country

despite the terrorist attacks. It welcomed measures to fight impunity, including in

connection with violence against women and girls. Senegal welcomed the establishment of

the National Human Rights Commission in accordance with the Paris Principles.

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41. Sierra Leone welcomed the State’s commitment regarding transitional justice and

the establishment of the Ministry of Human Rights and State Reform and the National

Human Rights Commission. It noted that Mali had requested technical assistance to address

challenges in the implementation of the peace agreement, to draft reports and to implement

recommendations made by treaty bodies and during the universal periodic review process.

42. Slovenia noted that the national report had been submitted in the context of the

implementation of the peace agreement. It also noted the introduction of several bills to

bring national legislation into conformity with international human rights instruments.

43. South Africa welcomed the measures taken by Mali to promote and protect human

rights, including the adoption of the national human rights policy and action plan; the

national transitional justice policy and action plan and the strategic framework for

economic recovery and sustainable development.

44. The State of Palestine commended Mali for its efforts to strengthen human rights

protection in the country and highlighted the importance of ensuring equal treatment and

non-discrimination for women. It stated that it was important that the Government of Mali

did not yield to the pressure of religious and conservative groups, in particular regarding

revisions of the Personal and Family Code.

45. The Sudan commended Mali for its cooperation with the international community

and engagement with the universal periodic review mechanism, despite the security

situation, and for establishing a committee on follow-up to the recommendations made

under the 2008 review.

46. Sweden welcomed the steps taken to increase the participation of women in

decision-making. It noted, however, that impunity for perpetrators of human rights

violations persisted despite the acceptance by Mali of recommendations made during the

previous review to hold them accountable.

47. Switzerland noted that, despite the signature of the peace agreement in 2015, the

internal conflict had intensified and the general situation had worsened, with continued

human rights violations. Switzerland regretted that no legislation prohibiting female genital

mutilation had been adopted and that, despite the fact that the death penalty had not been

applied since 1980, new death sentences had been pronounced.

48. Timor-Leste welcomed the establishment of the Ministry of Human Rights and State

Reform and the adoption of national policies on human rights and transitional justice. It

noted in particular the State’s efforts to eradicate female genital mutilation and the adoption

of legislative measures to promote gender equality.

49. Togo, while acknowledging persistent challenges, welcomed the progress achieved

by Mali since the submission of its report for the previous review, in particular the re-

establishment of State authority on all national territory.

50. Tunisia commended the efforts made by Mali to implement the recommendations

from the previous review, in particular regarding the establishment of a normative and

institutional framework to protect human rights and the creation of the national human

rights institution.

51. Turkey condemned the serious human rights violations committed by armed groups

in northern Mali and appreciated the State’s approach to the issue of internally displaced

persons from that area. It welcomed the efforts made by Mali to strengthen democratic

institutions and stated that it would continue to assist Mali in those efforts.

52. Ukraine welcomed the national policies on human rights and on transitional justice.

It encouraged Mali to continue implementing, with the support of the international

community, the peace agreement.

53. The United Kingdom noted that further progress was needed towards implementing

the peace agreement and that investigations should be undertaken regarding human rights

violations by armed forces. It underscored that public commitment by Mali to the elections

in 2018 was needed and that more should be done to ban female genital mutilation and

reopen schools in areas affected by conflict.

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54. The United States of America expressed concern about the deterioration of the

human rights situation throughout Mali, noting that many challenges stemmed from the

failure to implement the Algiers peace agreement of 2015, and the failure of the authorities

to prevent abuse perpetrated by terrorist organizations. It also expressed concern about

allegations that serious human rights violations had been perpetrated by Malian security

forces.

55. Uruguay commended Mali for the ratification of almost all of the international

human rights instruments and for its efforts to eradicate female genital mutilation. It noted,

however, that further efforts were needed to improve gender equality.

56. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela welcomed the establishment of the National

Human Rights Commission and the implementation of socioeconomic development

programmes to improve the realization of the right to health. In its view, the international

community should continue to assist Mali in that regard. It called on Mali to continue

consolidating peace and to strengthen its measures to support women and children.

57. Viet Nam welcomed the progress achieved in the protection and promotion of

human rights in the current difficult context, in particular the adoption of socioeconomic

development plans. It also welcomed the signature of the peace agreement, and called on all

parties to implement the agreement. Viet Nam called on the international community to

support Mali in its efforts.

58. Zambia commended Mali for the human rights training provided to law enforcement

officials and judges, and welcomed the creation of the national action committee on the

eradication of practices harmful to women and children and the adoption of the national

programme to combat female genital mutilation.

59. Algeria welcomed the State’s constructive engagement with the Human Rights

Council, the progress achieved regarding the implementation of the Algiers peace

agreement, the ratification of international human rights instruments and the adoption of a

number of programmes, plans and sectorial strategies.

60. Angola welcomed the State’s cooperation with human rights mechanisms, the

adoption of national policies on human rights and transitional justice and the establishment

of the National Human Rights Commission. It noted with concern the high number of

displaced persons and the closure of many schools owing to the armed conflict.

61. Argentina commended Mali for its accession to the Convention relating to the Status

of Stateless Persons and the Convention on the Reduction of Statelessness. It also

welcomed the measures adopted to implement the peace agreement.

62. Australia was concerned about the welfare of vulnerable children, at reports of

killings of detainees, torture of suspects and mock executions and ill-treatment of prisoners,

and that the death penalty remained part of the law and was a mandatory sentence for some

crimes.

63. Austria highlighted the importance of strengthening the rule of law and the

independence of the judiciary, and expressed concern about the persistence of

discrimination against women and gender-based violence. Austria stated that victims should

receive reparation.

64. Bangladesh commended Mali for its efforts to protect human rights despite the

security challenges it faced. It welcomed measures taken to ensure the administration of

justice. Bangladesh expressed confidence that Mali would be able to overcome the existing

challenges and fulfil its national development plans with assistance from the international

community.

65. Belgium expressed awareness of the challenges that Mali faced in the fight against

terrorism and welcomed the commitment of the Joint Force of the Group of Five for the

Sahel to respect human rights. Belgium also welcomed the adoption of the law on quotas

for women in political and public life.

66. With regard to efforts to combat impunity, the delegation stated that, with the

support of partners such as MINUSMA, a programme had been set up to restore justice in

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the north of the country. Courts destroyed in the aftermath of the events of 2012 had been

rebuilt, and justice was again being administered throughout the country. In addition, Mali

was seeking to bring into operation the International Commission of Inquiry provided for in

the Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation.

67. The delegation noted that a permanent secretariat had been set up to monitor the

implementation of the National Gender Policy and a high-level council on the National

Gender Policy had also been established. In addition, the number of female communal

councillors in Mali had risen from 9 per cent in 2009 to 25 per cent in 2016.

68. The delegation stated that a preliminary draft of a bill on gender-based violence was

in the process of being adopted and that over 8,000 cutters in more than 12,000 villages had

decided to stop performing female genital mutilation. In addition, a public awareness day

was held every year on 6 February to encourage people to give up the practice of excision.

69. With regard to child soldiers, the delegation referred to a 2013 instrument for the

prevention, protection and return to their families of child members of armed forces and

related groups, the adoption of a document with the support of the United Nations

Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the adoption of Act No. 2016-058 of 2016, the Wards of

the State Act.

70. Act No. 21-2017 had amended the Labour Code to raise the minimum age of

employment from 14 to 15.

71. Mali had adopted a law designating the National Human Rights Commission as its

national mechanism for the prevention of torture. As such, the Commission would conduct

regular visits to places of deprivation of liberty. Mali had also begun building new prisons

to relieve overcrowding.

72. Benin expressed appreciation for the efforts taken by Mali to re-establish democracy

and the rule of law. It urged Mali to take further action to promote and protect human rights

and invited the international community to provide Mali with support in those efforts and

for social and economic development.

73. The Plurinational State of Bolivia expressed appreciation for the efforts of Mali to

bring about peace and reconciliation, including among State structures, public bodies,

national human rights institutions and civil society organizations.

74. Botswana commended the continued efforts of Mali to strengthen democratic

institutions and restore the constitutional order. It welcomed in particular the adoption of

the law on the establishment of the National Human Rights Commission, as well as

measures to protect the rights of children.

75. Brazil expressed its support for the establishment of the Truth, Justice and

Reconciliation Commission. It remained concerned about the persistent security challenges

in the northern and central areas of the country and the increased number of attacks against

civilians, and their negative impact on the enjoyment of human rights by women and

children.

76. Burkina Faso welcomed the transitional justice process and the peace agreement. It

urged all parties to redouble their efforts for their quick and integrated application. It called

on the international community to support Mali with the technical assistance requested.

77. Cabo Verde welcomed the establishment of the National Human Rights Commission

and the Ministry of Human Rights and State Reform, and the adoption of measures to

promote gender equality. It urged the international community to continue supporting the

implementation of the peace agreement.

78. Canada welcomed the creation of the National Human Rights Commission and the

signing of the peace agreement. Canada asked how Mali planned to speed up the

implementation of the agreement, and expressed concern about the impact that the

deteriorating security situation in central Mali had on human rights.

79. Chad welcomed the creation of the National Human Rights Commission, which also

served as the national preventive mechanism. It expressed appreciation for the strengthened

efforts to eradicate female genital mutilation and for measures taken regarding economic

GE.18-06102 9

and social rights. Chad called on the international community to support the strengthening

of national capacities in relation to security, justice and human rights.

80. Chile expressed appreciation for the adoption of the national policies on human

rights and on transitional justice and for the establishment of the Ministry of Human Rights

and State Reform. Chile urged Mali to continue to cooperate with the Independent Expert

and OHCHR and to implement recommendations on human rights.

81. China welcomed the progress made by Mali towards peaceful reconciliation. It also

welcomed efforts to promote and protect standards of living, health and education, to

combat violence against women and human trafficking and to protect the rights of women,

children and persons with disabilities.

82. Côte d’Ivoire welcomed the adoption of policies and plans of action on human rights

and transitional justice and the establishment of the Ministry of Human Rights and State

Reform. Côte d’Ivoire encouraged Mali to continue its reforms in order to address the

persisting challenges to the promotion and protection of human rights.

83. Croatia welcomed the establishment of the National Human Rights Commission. It

remained concerned about the indiscriminate attacks committed by armed extremist groups

in northern and central Mali. Croatia called on Mali to strengthen its commitment to a

peaceful resolution of the armed conflict while respecting human rights and the rule of law.

84. Cuba noted that, despite the terrorist attacks, Mali had made progress in combating

human trafficking and implementing the strategic framework for economic recovery and

sustainable development. Cuba urged the international community to continue supporting

Mali in accordance with the country’s capacity-building priorities.

85. Czechia thanked Mali for replying to its questions, acknowledged the progress made

in some human rights areas and encouraged Mali to continue its efforts.

86. Denmark commended the progress made in the area of human rights training for

Malian security forces and efforts to include provost marshals in field operations to ensure

respect for international humanitarian law. Denmark was concerned about discrimination

against women and girls and discriminatory provisions in the Persons and Family Code that

allowed for the abuse of women and young girls by their husbands.

87. Ecuador commended Mali for its adoption in 2015 of the act by which it introduced

measures to promote gender equality in access to appointed and elected office, in particular

a minimum quota of 30 per cent for each gender.

88. Egypt commended the harmonization of Malian legislation with international

instruments, the strengthening of the judicial system and transitional justice, the fight

against impunity, the implementation of economic and social development projects,

including on the rights to health, to education and to an adequate standard of living, and the

State’s cooperation with the Independent Expert.

89. Estonia invited Mali to reduce its backlog of reports that were pending submission

to the treaty bodies and to consider issuing a standing invitation to all special procedure

mandate holders. It commended the adoption of human rights policies and plans of action

on human rights and transitional justice. Estonia called on Mali to investigate allegations of

human rights violations and abuses and to hold perpetrators accountable.

90. Ethiopia welcomed the adoption of the national policy on human rights and the

establishment of the Ministry of Human Rights and State Reform. It called on the

international community to strengthen support to Mali, and for the capacities of State and

non-State actors working in the human rights field to be strengthened.

91. France noted that even though freedoms were generally guaranteed in Mali, the

situation of women, the dysfunctional judicial apparatus and certain types of behaviour by

defence and security forces remained a concern. France expressed regret that most of the

recommendations made in 2013 had not been fully implemented.

92. Gabon welcomed efforts by Mali to introduce a legislative and institutional human

rights framework through the adoption of laws to improve the judiciary. It hailed measures

10 GE.18-06102

to protect the rights of women and children, in particular the establishment of a programme

to combat female genital mutilation.

93. Georgia noted that the death penalty moratorium was respected and that no death

sentences had been carried out. It congratulated Mali on the establishment of the Ministry

of Human Rights and State Reform, hailing the adoption of a national policy on human

rights and the bill on the protection of human rights defenders.

94. Germany commended the progress made by Mali in the field of transitional justice,

as reflected by the operationalization of the regional offices of the Truth, Justice and

Reconciliation Commission. It welcomed the establishment of a national human rights

institution.

95. Ghana lauded the State’s continued commitment to respecting human rights. It

welcomed the State’s accession to international human rights instruments, and commended

Mali for successfully harmonizing its national legislation with international instruments.

96. Haiti hailed the establishment of the National Human Rights Commission and the

adoption of national policies on human rights and on transitional justice. It noted the

creation of the Ministry of Human Rights and State Reform and welcomed the national

programme to combat female genital mutilation.

97. Honduras welcomed the adoption of institutional and social reforms to implement

the peace agreement, such as the establishment of the National Human Rights Commission

and the creation of the Ministry of Human Rights and State Reform, and the national

policies on human rights and on transitional justice.

98. Iceland acknowledged the difficult circumstances in Mali and the ongoing efforts to

combat terrorism. However, it was deeply concerned about numerous allegations of human

rights abuses. It underscored the responsibility of Mali to combat impunity, address those

allegations and ensure equal access to justice.

99. India welcomed the establishment of the National Human Rights Commission. It

commended Mali on the action plan to combat human trafficking and the related

coordinating committee, and encouraged Mali to continue its efforts to eliminate female

genital mutilation through educational campaigns and awareness-raising programmes.

100. Indonesia commended Mali on the successful establishment of its National Human

Rights Commission in accordance with the Paris Principles.

101. Iraq commended Mali on its efforts to ratify international human rights instruments

and implement international commitments, especially with regard to economic and social

rights and the rights of the family.

102. Ireland welcomed the establishment of the National Human Rights Commission and

the recent adoption of legislation granting a number of rights to human rights defenders.

However, it noted that human rights abuses persisted and that the Act on torture was not

fully in line with international standards. It remained concerned about continued reports of

recruitment of child soldiers by armed groups.

103. Italy welcomed the commitment of Mali to aligning its national legislation with

international instruments and its establishment of the Ministry of Human Rights and State

Reform. It hailed the adoption in 2015 of an act establishing a gender-based quota of 30 per

cent for elected and appointed office.

104. The Lao People’s Democratic Republic welcomed the strategic framework for

economic recovery and sustainable development, noting that it was aimed at promoting, on

the basis of the Sustainable Development Goals set out in the 2030 Agenda on Sustainable

Development, inclusive and sustainable development, thereby reducing poverty and

inequality, with a view to a unified and peaceful Mali.

105. Latvia welcomed the State’s cooperation with the Independent Expert. It expressed

regret, however, about the State’s lack of cooperation with other special procedure mandate

holders. Latvia expressed appreciation for efforts made by Mali to implement measures

aimed at eliminating discrimination against women and promoting gender equality.

GE.18-06102 11

106. Luxembourg hailed the efforts made by Mali to promote respect for human rights, as

reflected by the adoption of the national policies on human rights and on national justice.

However, a number of challenges remained, especially in connection with protecting

children’s rights.

107. Madagascar welcomed the alignment of national legislation with international law. It

hailed the establishment of the Ministry of Human Rights and State Reform, and expressed

hope that similar efforts would continue. Madagascar called on the international community

to support Mali in the implementation of recommendations emanating from the universal

periodic review.

108. Maldives welcomed steps taken by Mali to promote and protect human rights, the

establishment of the National Human Rights Commission and the commitment to end the

practice of female genital mutilation. It hailed the adoption of legislation aimed at

promoting gender equality and introducing measures for women to gain access to elected

and appointed offices.

109. With regard to allegations of human rights violations committed by the security

forces, the delegation stated that Mali had established a military court that had jurisdiction

over all crimes of a military nature. In addition, special police units were deployed with

units stationed in the field. With partners such as the Office of the United Nations High

Commissioner for Refugees, Mali had also produced handbooks for military and security

forces personnel on the law of armed conflict.

110. With regard to the protection of human rights defenders, the delegation pointed out

that Mali had recently adopted Act No. 2018-003 of 12 January 2018, the Human Rights

Defenders Act, which established specific protections for women human rights defenders

and women human rights defenders with disabilities.

111. Mali had endorsed Security Council resolution 1325 (2000) on women, peace and

security and had developed a second action plan (for the period 2015–2017) relating to the

participation of women in conflict management. That instrument had emphasized the

importance of the full participation of women, on an equal footing with others, in the

prevention and resolution of conflicts. A unit for the implementation of the plan and a

monitoring committee had been set up.

112. The Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Commission had been established to help

victims gain access to justice and means of redress. It had identified more than 7,000

victims since 2014. The Commission had branches in all the country’s regions but Kidal (as

a result of the insecurity there), and there were plans for the implementation of a

programme to provide reparations for the harm that victims had suffered.

113. An independent high communications authority had been established to ensure

respect for freedom of the press, and investigations into the murders and disappearances of

journalists had been launched.

II. Conclusions and/or recommendations

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

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

114.1 Adopt an open, merit-based process when selecting national

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

Britain and Northern Ireland);

114.2 Step up its cooperation with the special procedures of the Human

Rights Council by responding positively to the pending visit requests and to

consider extending a standing invitation to all special procedure mandate

holders (Latvia);

114.3 Extend cooperation to all special procedure mandate holders

(Paraguay);

12 GE.18-06102

114.4 Improve its cooperation with special procedure mandate holders

(Burkina Faso);

114.5 Continue its cooperation with the United Nations, other international

organizations and human rights mechanisms to overcome remaining

constraints and challenges (Lao People’s Democratic Republic);

114.6 Accelerate efforts to re-establish State authority and the rule of law

in all areas of the country, including the northern and central regions

(Norway);

114.7 Continue bringing the national legislation into line with international

human rights standards (Ukraine);

114.8 Continue strengthening capacity-building for State and non-State

actors working in the human rights field (Lao People’s Democratic Republic);

114.9 Establish as a priority an effective torture prevention mechanism, in

accordance with Mali’s obligations under the Convention against Torture and

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

114.10 Strengthen the work of the National Human Rights Commission

(Sudan);

114.11 Strengthen the capacities of the National Human Rights Commission

(Togo);

114.12 Develop a strategy and allocate the resources necessary to ensure that

the national human rights institution fully complies with the Paris Principles

(Germany);

114.13 Continue strengthening national human rights institutions and

mechanisms (Nepal);

114.14 Provide the necessary support to the National Human Rights

Commission with a view to making it fully compliant with the Paris Principles

and allowing it to acquire A status (Morocco);

114.15 Strengthen the capacity of State and non-State institutions in dealing

with human rights challenges by providing human rights education and

training and establishing bilateral cooperation and assistance agreements with

other countries (Indonesia);

114.16 Investigate allegations of human rights violations committed during

the continued crisis in Mali by all parties, including Malian defence and

security forces (Norway);

114.17 Take the responsibility to combat impunity, address the allegations of

human rights abuses committed by the security and defence forces and provide

access to justice for all (Poland);

114.18 Step up its efforts to ensure all the necessary means to fight against

impunity and guarantee that perpetrators of human rights violations are

punished (Portugal);

114.19 Investigate and adjudicate human rights violations and criminal

offences by members of its defence and security forces (Republic of Korea);

114.20 Take all necessary measures to ensure impartial and effective

investigations by civilian authorities into allegations of crimes under

international law, including international human rights law, in order to identify

and prosecute those responsible, while ensuring fair trials (Sweden);

114.21 Continue the efforts to combat impunity and establish transitional

justice in order to achieve reconciliation, security and stability (Tunisia);

114.22 Ensure that the perpetrators of serious violations of human rights

and international humanitarian law are held accountable (Ukraine);

GE.18-06102 13

114.23 Take action to prosecute security forces involved in human rights

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

114.24 Investigate credible allegations of human rights abuses and

violations, and hold anyone found responsible to account (United States of

America);

114.25 Deepen the measures taken to investigate and sanction allegations of

arbitrary execution, inhuman and degrading treatment, torture and illegal

detention (Argentina);

114.26 Investigate and monitor all cases of alleged torture, killings and ill-

treatment of prisoners, and establish measures to ensure the perpetrators are

held to account (Australia);

114.27 Expedite all the necessary measures to combat the impunity of

perpetrators of serious violations of human rights and international

humanitarian law, and ensure victims’ access to truth, justice and reparations

(Austria);

114.28 Implement its commitment to launch formal investigations into

recent allegations of human rights abuses by the Malian security forces in Mali

(Canada);

114.29 Ensure access to justice for victims of the conflict and ensure

accountability by bringing to justice all perpetrators of abuses and violations of

human rights and international humanitarian law, including sexual violence,

and by accelerating the work of the Truth, Justice and Reconciliation

Commission (Canada);

114.30 Take action to investigate impartially, in a timely manner and

thoroughly allegations of torture and extrajudicial execution by military forces,

and ensure the accountability of perpetrators as well as rehabilitation and

reparations for victims (Czechia);

114.31 Ensure that alleged past and ongoing human rights violations by

members of the Malian security forces are independently and thoroughly

investigated, prosecuted and adjudicated (Denmark);

114.32 Ensure accountability and reparations in order to avoid situations of

impunity given possible cases of crimes against humanity, war crimes or other

serious violations of human rights (Ecuador);

114.33 Put an end to human rights violations committed by defence and

security forces by systematically carrying out investigations and handing down

penalties (France);

114.34 Investigate and prosecute all allegations of human rights violations,

including those committed by security forces, and introduce a mechanism of

internal oversight for the security forces (Germany);

114.35 Further engage in the fight against impunity, ensuring that

perpetrators of serious human rights violations are prosecuted and that victims

have access to justice and reparations (Italy);

114.36 Strengthen mechanisms for accountability of the Malian defence and

security forces to act in line with international humanitarian law (Netherlands);

114.37 Update the legal framework regarding impunity and conclude the

judicial proceedings against alleged perpetrators of serious human rights

violations (Mexico);

114.38 Increase facilities dedicated to the victims of conflict-related violence

(Iraq);

114.39 Consider developing a comprehensive strategy for security sector

reform to allow for the disarmament, demobilization and reintegration of

14 GE.18-06102

combatants, as well as redeploy the reconstituted Malian defence and security

forces across the country (Ghana);

114.40 Conduct awareness-raising campaigns to eliminate the stigmatization

of women seeking recourse through the justice system (Timor-Leste);

114.41 Take measures to accelerate the investigation of all complaints

regarding sexual violence and quickly reach a judgment of the suspects and the

compensation of the victims (France);

114.42 Continue efforts in implementing the agreement for peace and

reconciliation in Mali (South Africa);

114.43 Establish an international commission of inquiry as provided for in

the Algiers peace agreement (Sweden);

114.44 Respect all its commitments made in the framework of the

implementation of the Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation in Mali

emanating from the Algiers process, with a view to/for a peaceful and lasting

settlement of the crisis (Chad);

114.45 Continue the efforts to promote the peace and reconciliation process

to achieve security and stability (China);

114.46 Take steps aimed at fully implementing the Agreement on Peace and

Reconciliation in Mali (Namibia);

114.47 Put an end to the impunity of perpetrators of human rights

violations, in particular in northern Mali, including perpetrators of sexual

violence against women, and protect the victims against stigmatization

(Burkina Faso);

114.48 Fully implement the Algiers peace accord, including by providing

meaningful decentralization of central government authority and carrying out

demobilization, disarmament and reintegration programmes (United States of

America);

114.49 Continue efforts to consolidate peace and national reconciliation

throughout the country (Algeria);

114.50 Implement the peace agreement of 2015 and ensure the necessary

resources for the Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Commission to accomplish

its mandate (Brazil);

114.51 Take the necessary measures to ensure respect for human rights in all

action taken to combat terrorism, and allow the competent organizations, such

as the International Committee of the Red Cross or OHCHR, access to persons

suspected of terrorism (Belgium);

114.52 Follow advocacy efforts to prevent and avoid community violence

(Morocco);

114.53 Take all measures to ensure compliance by its armed forces with

international human rights standards, in particular the absolute ban on torture

(Ireland);

114.54 Improve conditions in detention centres (Zambia);

114.55 Strengthen measures to reduce overcrowding in prisons (Angola);

114.56 Address and improve the state of its prisons with a view to ensuring

that prisoners are incarcerated in line with international human rights

standards (Netherlands);

114.57 Adopt laws defining and criminalizing human trafficking and

slavery, in particular of women and girls (Republic of Korea);

114.58 Continue the efforts to combat human trafficking and protect women

and children from sexual exploitation (Tunisia);

GE.18-06102 15

114.59 Continue the implementation of the operational plan of its

programme for judicial development (Sudan);

114.60 Reduce considerably the number of detainees in pretrial detention

and ensure their judgement within a reasonable period of time (France);

114.61 Adopt the national strategy for the modernization of civil registration

procedures (Côte d’Ivoire);

114.62 Introduce sufficient transparency measures in the parliamentary and

presidential elections to take place in 2018 (Republic of Korea);

114.63 Continue pursuing the public policies focused on socioeconomic

development and promotion of human rights (Senegal);

114.64 Continue to implement socioeconomic development projects, which

would further intensify the progress already made (State of Palestine);

114.65 Continue strengthening its infrastructure and social programmes for

the most vulnerable groups, especially women and children (Bolivarian

Republic of Venezuela);

114.66 Continue to promote its economic and social sustainable development

to lay a solid foundation for its people to enjoy all human rights (China);

114.67 Take the necessary measures to fight poverty (Algeria);

114.68 Redouble its effort to mobilize national and international resources

dedicated to poverty reduction (Indonesia);

114.69 Promote the return of refugees who left the country during the

conflict, ensuring their security and protecting their rights, through measures

aimed at their effective reintegration into the economic, social and cultural

context (Ecuador);

114.70 Develop strategies to mitigate the impacts of desertification and lack

of drinking water on the rights of vulnerable groups such as women and

children (Viet Nam);

114.71 Strengthen vocational training programmes to further promote the

integration of youth into the labour market (Viet Nam);

114.72 Continue efforts to strengthen the education and health sector,

targeting primarily the vulnerable population, in particular, children and

women (Senegal);

114.73 Continue efforts in providing special State assistance to patients

living with HIV and AIDS (South Africa);

114.74 Do its utmost to safeguard the fundamental rights of all citizens,

regardless of gender and ethnicity, in line with relevant international human

rights instruments, including the right to education (Norway);

114.75 Take all necessary measures to guarantee the right to education in

emergency and conflict situations and to ensure that education is accessible to

all (Timor-Leste);

114.76 Establish strategies to support and strengthen the progress recently

achieved in the field of education (Viet Nam);

114.77 Continue efforts to promote the right to education and provide

education to all without discrimination (Egypt);

114.78 Strengthen the education system and increase access to education

(Iraq);

114.79 Continue to improve access to education for all Malians from an

early age (Maldives);

16 GE.18-06102

114.80 Find alternatives to the closure of schools due to security reasons in

order to maintain teaching in cooperation with teachers’ unions and local

authorities (France);

114.81 Adopt all measures necessary to ensure the right to education in

emergencies and conflict situations, and ensure that education is available to

all, in particular migrants, refugees and asylum-seeking children (Honduras);

114.82 Continue working towards achieving reforms and commitments that

allow it to improve redistribution and ownership of land, taking into account

ancestral practices and protecting the small farmers (Plurinational State of

Bolivia);

114.83 Continue to enhance its efforts to promote and protect the rights of

children and women (Mauritius);

114.84 Redouble efforts to promote gender equality and women’s

empowerment, in the context of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development

(Brazil);

114.85 Work further on the protection of the rights of women to ensure their

full respect (Lao People’s Democratic Republic);

114.86 Continue its efforts to promote gender equality and combat gender-

based violence against women (Nepal);

114.87 Continue the efforts to combat discrimination against women and

achieve gender equality (Tunisia);

114.88 Continue its actions to combat discrimination against women (Côte

d’Ivoire);

114.89 Continue efforts to fight discrimination against women in law and in

practice (Egypt);

114.90 Harmonize its legislation to eliminate discrimination against women

(Austria);

114.91 Strengthen measures in protecting women’s rights and ensuring their

equal pay for work of equal value (South Africa);

114.92 Expedite the revision of the Labour Code and ensure that it

guarantees substantive equality of women and men (Zambia);

114.93 Reduce the gender pay gap (Iraq);

114.94 Continue working towards achieving equality and political and

economic inclusion for women, particularly in rural areas (Plurinational State

of Bolivia);

114.95 Strengthen efforts to fight the stigmatization of women and children

subjected to forced and early marriage, sexual slavery, rape and torture

committed by extremist groups (Poland);

114.96 Redouble efforts to significantly reduce and eventually eliminate all

forms of discrimination and violence against women and children (Cabo

Verde);

114.97 Step up efforts to combat all forms of violence against women and

girls (Georgia);

114.98 Adopt legislative and policy measures to combat sexual violence,

including forced and early marriage, sexual slavery, rape and torture

committed against women by extremist groups and members of the armed

forces, as well as the impunity of the perpetrators (Honduras);

114.99 Expedite efforts to adopt legislation to combat gender-based violence

and establish a national programme to combat the sexual exploitation of

women and girls (Sierra Leone);

GE.18-06102 17

114.100 Undertake awareness campaigns in order to end the social

stigmatization affecting women who have been victims of rape or sexual abuse

and provide effective access to justice for all women and girls (Chile);

114.101 Enact adequate measures to ensure medical, psychosocial and

judicial support for the victims of serious human rights violations, in particular

former child soldiers and victims of sexual crimes, including conflict-related

sexual violence (Slovenia);

114.102 Establish a mechanism to assist victims of human trafficking and

sexual exploitation (Togo);

114.103 Strengthen the implementation of legislation and policies aimed at

ending harmful traditional practices, in particular child, early and forced

marriage and female genital mutilation (Rwanda);

114.104 Take concrete steps towards the implementation of programmes and

policies aimed at eliminating practices that are harmful to women’s and girls’

health, including excision (Namibia);

114.105 Enhance efforts to prevent and combat all forms of violence against

women, including female genital mutilation (Italy);

114.106 Continue developing and implementing public policies to prevent,

address, punish and eradicate all forms of violence against women, including

female genital mutilation and forced and early marriage (Paraguay);

114.107 Continue its awareness-raising efforts to promote the abandonment

of the practice of female genital mutilation (Gabon);

114.108 Continue efforts to combat early marriage (Tunisia);

114.109 Continue efforts to combat and protect women against all forms of

sexual violence, including child, early and forced marriage (Maldives);

114.110 Conduct awareness campaigns to reduce child and early marriage

(Chile);

114.111 Implement measures which promote gender equality and ensure

better access by women to decision-making positions (Sierra Leone);

114.112 Take the necessary measures to ensure effective follow-up of the law

on quotas for women’s participation (Belgium);

114.113 Implement a national strategy for the increased participation and

representation of women in general elections (Czechia);

114.114 Ensure the full and meaningful participation of women in all political

processes in Mali, particularly processes regarding the Algiers peace agreement

(Sweden);

114.115 Bring about the effective participation of women in all stages of the

peace, stabilization and reconstruction process in Mali (Chile);

114.116 Adopt the declaration on safety in schools and commit to implement

the guidelines for the protection of schools and universities against their

military use during conflicts (Switzerland);

114.117 Take steps to better protect the rights of the child and establish,

resource and monitor specialized agencies to promote and protect the rights of

vulnerable children (Australia);

114.118 Continue intensifying its efforts to put an end to child labour within

the framework of the national programme to combat child labour through the

dissemination of laws that prohibit it (Cuba);

114.119 Take steps to review and strengthen the legislative framework to

ensure that the worst forms of child labour are criminalized and effectively

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

18 GE.18-06102

114.120 Strictly prohibit child labour and raise the minimum age of

employment (Zambia);

114.121 Take decisive and adequate measures to end the practice of forced

and compulsory recruitment of children by armed groups (Poland);

114.122 Adopt the necessary measures, with the support of MINUSMA, to

prevent the occupation of schools by armed groups and establish protection

mechanisms to prevent the forced recruitment of children and adolescents

(Mexico);

114.123 Enact and enforce laws to criminalize the recruitment of child

soldiers and slavery (United States of America);

114.124 Strengthen efforts to ensure the protection and well-being of

children, especially with regard to the recruitment and reintegration of child

soldiers as well as education (Austria);

114.125 End the forced recruitment of children into active roles in armed

conflict (Botswana);

114.126 Take steps to protect children from recruitment as child soldiers and

ensure long-term rehabilitation and reintegration programmes for those

demobilized (Czechia);

114.127 Strengthen efforts to prevent and combat the recruitment and use of

children in armed conflict and ensure their reintegration in society (Italy);

114.128 Take all necessary measures to put an end to the practice of

recruitment and use of child soldiers by armed groups and take measures to

allow for their social reinsertion (Luxembourg);

114.129 Support the socioeconomic reinsertion of children and youth living on

the street (Luxembourg);

114.130 Continue to improve the legal framework for the protection of

persons with disabilities (Haiti);

114.131 Adopt concrete measures in favour of migrants and asylum seekers

(Haiti);

114.132 Finalize the draft law on the protection of human rights defenders

(Burkina Faso);

114.133 Pass the draft law for the recognition and protection of human rights

defenders (Germany).

115. The following recommendations will be examined by Mali, which will provide

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

Council:

115.1 Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on

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

appropriate measures to abolish the death penalty (Switzerland);

115.2 Consider ratifying the Second Optional Protocol to the International

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

and commute death sentences to prison sentences (Uruguay);

115.3 Revive consultations on the proposed bill for the abolition of the

death penalty and consider ratifying the Second Optional Protocol to the

International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Namibia);

115.4 Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on

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

(Montenegro); Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International

Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Estonia); Take measures to ratify the

GE.18-06102 19

Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political

Rights (Georgia);

115.5 Consider fully abolishing the death penalty (Italy);

115.6 Abolish fully the death penalty and ratify the Second Optional

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

the abolition of the death penalty (Portugal);

115.7 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on

Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (Portugal);

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

Child (Portugal); Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights

of the Child on a communications procedure (Croatia);

115.9 Revise mining codes, policies and practices in order to meet the

expectations of local communities and invest the generated revenue in

infrastructure programmes (Haiti);

115.10 Take measures to introduce a de jure moratorium on executions and

take concrete steps towards the total abolition of the death penalty (Rwanda);

115.11 Formally abolish the death penalty (Australia);

115.12 Consider abolishing the death penalty (Mozambique);

115.13 Implement the draft legislation aimed at decriminalizing press

offences, which is necessary progress in the promotion of free media in Mali

(Austria);

115.14 Decriminalize defamation and place it in a civil code in accordance

with international standards (Estonia);

115.15 Eliminate all discriminatory provisions and practices against women

and girls contained in the Personal and Family Code, including those relating

to inheritance and the obligation to obey the husband (Paraguay);

115.16 Reassess the negative implications of the discriminatory provisions

included in the preliminary draft of the revised Personal and Family Code that

could prove detrimental and a step backward for Malian women, so as to

ensure that the rights and full freedom of Malian women are realized, free from

any discrimination whatsoever (State of Palestine);

115.17 Continue to take measures to ensure gender equality, and make

adequate revisions to the provisions of the Persons and Family Code that are

inconsistent with international standards on women’s rights (Turkey);

115.18 Eliminate all provisions and discriminatory practices against women

and girls from the Personal and Family Code, and reinforce the prohibition, by

law, of harmful cultural and traditional practices against girls and women

(Mexico);

115.19 Ensure that all discriminatory provisions against women contained in

the Family Code and the Labour Code are repealed (Burkina Faso);

115.20 Reinstate in the Persons and Family Code the wording of article 25 of

the 2009 version of the Code, reading that “The international treaties and

agreements regarding the protection of women and children, duly ratified by

Mali and published are applicable (Denmark);

115.21 Repeal all discriminatory provisions of the Persons and Family Code

in order to adopt a new comprehensive framework to fight discrimination

(Honduras);

115.22 Undertake, without delay, the reform necessary to eliminate all

discriminatory provisions and practices against women and girls contained in

the Persons and Family Code (Iceland);

20 GE.18-06102

115.23 Repeal all discriminatory provisions, including those in the Personal

and Family Code (Latvia);

115.24 Enact comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation and conduct

wide public debate on the importance of introducing equal rights for women

and men (Montenegro);

115.25 Adopt legislation against gender discrimination, that, inter alia, will

prohibit all forms of gender-based violence, including female genital mutilation,

and promote and protect the human rights of women and girls in Mali

(Slovenia);

115.26 Criminalize female genital mutilation to significantly reduce the

proportion of the population that are victims of such acts; strengthen

awareness raising campaigns, in particular in partnership with religious

leaders, and implement actions to provide for economic and social reconversion

for women who practice female genital mutilation (France);

115.27 Continue its efforts to introduce a law banning all forms of gender-

based violence (Switzerland);

115.28 Work to eliminate all forms of discrimination against women and

girls that remain in the Persons and Family Code (Togo);

115.29 Rapidly adopt a law aimed at combating gender-based violence, in

compliance with its obligations under the Convention on the Elimination of All

Forms of Discrimination against Women (Belgium);

115.30 Ensure that the fight against discrimination against women and

gender-based violence are backed up by legislation (Madagascar);

115.31 Adopt, before the next universal periodic review cycle, a legislative

ban on female genital mutilation and domestic violence and conduct awareness-

raising campaigns in order to eliminate these forms of violence in practice

(Czechia);

115.32 Adopt legislation outlawing all forms of gender-based violence,

including the traditional practice of female genital mutilation (India);

115.33 Continue the necessary measures to prohibit any form of female

genital mutilation, in accordance with the recommendations formulated by the

Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women and the

Committee on the Rights of the Child; and implement actions to eliminate any

other form of discrimination based on gender or violent traditional practices

against women (Uruguay);

115.34 Criminalize female genital mutilation (Paraguay);

115.35 Finalize the bill that prohibits the practice of female genital

mutilation, which can concern up to 90 per cent of girls (Poland);

115.36 Deepen the measures to develop a comprehensive plan against the

harmful cultural practices and traditions that persist against women, in

particular by adopting a law that prohibits female genital mutilation

(Argentina);

115.37 Adopt legislation outlawing all forms of the traditional practice of

female genital mutilation and finalize the review of the Criminal Code in order

to include provisions punishing violence against women (Botswana);

115.38 Finalize the draft law prohibiting and punishing female genital

mutilation (Burkina Faso);

115.39 Accelerate legislative measures leading to a strict prohibition and

punishment of female genital mutilation and early marriage (Cabo Verde);

115.40 Introduce legislation to ban female genital mutilation (Canada);

GE.18-06102 21

115.41 Ensure the enactment and implementation of legislation to

criminalize female genital mutilation, in addition to the design of public policies

and concrete actions aimed at fully eradicating this practice (Ecuador);

115.42 Accelerate the process of adopting a draft law against gender-based

violence, including female genital mutilation (Gabon);

115.43 Adopt criminal laws prohibiting all forms of female genital

mutilation and cutting and initiate a public debate addressing harmful

traditional practices (Germany);

115.44 Adopt legislation to prohibit all forms of female genital mutilation

and cutting (Iceland);

115.45 Adopt legislation to ban all forms of genital mutilation and ensure

that this practice be punished (Luxembourg);

115.46 Adopt criminal laws explicitly prohibiting female genital mutilation

(Norway);

115.47 Set the minimum age of marriage at 21 for boys and girls and raise

public awareness of this law, in particular among women and girls (Haiti);

115.48 Establish the same age of marriage for boys and girls as 18, and

strengthen efforts aimed at ending child, early and forced marriage (Sierra

Leone);

115.49 Adopt a legal mechanism to combat child and early marriage

(Angola);

115.50 Amend existing legislation to raise the minimum age of consent for

marriage to 18 years for women, as provided for in the Protocol to the African

Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa (the

Maputo Protocol) (Canada);

115.51 Repeal the Persons and Family Code to bring it into line with the

constitutional prohibition of gender-based discrimination, including by

granting equal succession rights to women and girls and raising the minimum

age of marriage for girls to 18 years (Germany);

115.52 Raise the minimum age of marriage for girls to 18 years, without

exception, in line with the Maputo Protocol (Iceland);

115.53 Align the minimum age of marriage for girls with international

standards to 18 as opposed to 16, in order to eradicate early and forced

marriage for girls (Namibia);

115.54 Increase the minimum age for marriage of girls to 18 years of age, in

line with the Maputo Protocol (Luxembourg).

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

have been examined by Mali and have been noted by Mali:

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

Rights Council (Portugal);

116.2 Issue an open standing invitation to the special procedures of the

Human Rights Council (Ukraine);

116.3 Consider the possibility of extending a standing invitation to all

United Nations special procedure mandate holders (Georgia);

116.4 Issue and implement a standing invitation to the thematic human

rights special procedures of the Human Rights Council (Czechia);

116.5 Redouble its efforts to put an end to traditional and harmful

practices, such as child and forced marriage, polygamy, humiliating and

degrading practices and forced feeding (Honduras);

22 GE.18-06102

116.6 Immediately demobilize all children being used by the government-

supported militias (Iceland);

116.7 Take all feasible measures to protect children from recruitment by

State-allied and non-State armed groups (Ireland).

117. All conclusions and/or recommendations contained in the present report reflect

the position of the submitting State(s) and/or the State under review. They should not

be construed as endorsed by the Working Group as a whole.

GE.18-06102 23

Annex

Composition of the delegation

The delegation of Mali was headed by Kadidia Coulibaly Sangaré, Minister of

Human Rights, and composed of the following members:

• M. Abraham Bengaly, Secrétaire général du Ministère des droits de l’homme;

• M. Zoumana Diarra, Conseiller technique, Ministère des droits de l’homme;

• M. Salifou Maiga, Conseiller technique, Ministère de la solidarité et de l’action

humanitaire;

• M. Modibo Sacko, Conseiller technique, Ministère de la justice;

• Commandant Malado Keita, Conseillère Technique, Ministère de la réconciliation

nationale et de la cohésion sociale;

• M. Bakary Doumbia, Ministère des affaires étrangères et de la coopération

internationale;

• Lt Col. Mamadou Daba Coulibaly, Ministère de la sécurité et de la protection civile;

• Mme Sophie Tounkara Soucko, Ministère de la promotion de la femme, de l’enfant

et de la famille;

• M. Mamadou Diakité Expert, ancien ministre.