39/9 Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review - Germany

GE.18-11467(E)



Human Rights Council Thirty-ninth session

10–28 September 2018

Agenda item 6

Universal periodic review

Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review*

Germany

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

United Nations A/HRC/39/9

Introduction

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

with Human Rights Council resolution 5/1, held its thirtieth session from 7 to 18 May 2018.

The review of Germany was held at the 4th meeting, on 8 May 2018. The delegation of

Germany was headed by the Federal Government Commissioner for Human Rights Policy

and Humanitarian Aid, Bärbel Kofler. At its 10th meeting, held on 11 May 2018, the

Working Group adopted the report on Germany.

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

rapporteurs (troika) to facilitate the review of Germany: Democratic Republic of Congo,

Kyrgyzstan and United States of America.

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 Germany:

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

paragraph 15 (a) (A/HRC/WG.6/30/DEU/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.6/30/DEU/2);

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

(A/HRC/WG.6/30/DEU/3).

4. A list of questions prepared in advance by Azerbaijan, Belgium, Brazil, Portugal,

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

Uruguay was transmitted to Germany 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 stated that Germany was a liberal and pluralistic democracy in which

the rule of law was firmly anchored, with developed institutions and civil society. The

Basic Law was founded on human rights. The human rights conventions were adhered to by

all German courts and by the administration. However, a critical view conducted by

external partners was a valuable exercise even for functioning democracies and

constitutional States such as Germany.

6. Even if rights were extremely well protected in Germany, there were new

developments and challenges. These included racist views and discriminatory attitudes in

various sections of German society that had to be counteracted. Racism and hateful views

were incompatible with the German legal system and fundamental values. They were

unacceptable and would be challenged. The integration of a large number of migrants,

refugees and asylum seekers had also given rise to major challenges. Equality between men

and women still needed to be fully realized.

7. The universal periodic review process was especially valuable as it provided an

opportunity to ascertain the views of other States on what Germany could do better to

respect and protect individuals’ rights.

8. All governmental ministries as well as the Länder had been involved in the drafting

of the National Report. Several exchanges with civil society and with the German Institute

for Human Rights had provided valuable impetus in this process.

9. The National Action Plan against Racism, adopted by the Cabinet in 2017, had been

expanded to include homophobia and transphobia. The Plan was connected to the Federal

Government Strategy to Prevent Extremism and Promote Democracy.

10. The Government of Germany had strongly condemned the recent anti-Semitic

attacks and a Federal Government Commissioner for Jewish Life in Germany and the Fight

against Anti-Semitism had been appointed.

11. Refugee movements and migration had grown into a global challenge of an immense

magnitude. In this regard, Germany had undertaken broad engagement within the

framework of the international cooperation and had put forward concrete proposals in

relation to the movement and migration of refugees.

12. The integration of refugees was an ongoing process for society as a whole and

brought with it challenges. Integration had been organized in towns, local administrations,

workplaces, schools and nurseries, with the participation of citizens.

13. The integration measures were aimed at achieving equal opportunity for all people

who were eligible, regardless of their national, ethnic or religious origins.

14. With regard to implementing border controls in a manner consistent with human

rights, police situation reports would have to be taken into consideration and in certain

sections of the border the controls would focus on certain groups of people or particular

means of transport. An individual’s features would not be the sole or decisive factor for

police measures. The facts had to be objective and verifiable by a court.

15. Although freedom of opinion was vital to free societies, it was not unlimited. For

example, German criminal law contained provisions that enabled certain forms of hate

speech to be punished.

16. The State had a responsibility to protect its citizens from hate speech However, it

was crucial to ensure that freedom of opinion was not impaired in fulfilling this

responsibility.

17. The equality of women and girls and thus the implementation of the Convention on

the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women was a high priority for

Germany. Many key human rights and gender equality initiatives had been launched for

which Germany had received praise from the Committee on the Elimination of

Discrimination against Women. However, Germany had some way to go to achieve full

gender equality in all spheres. On 12 October 2017, Germany had ratified the Council of

Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic

violence. Furthermore, additional measures would be undertaken, including further

development of support services, a new programme on prevention and a nationwide

awareness-raising campaign.

18. In January 2017, Germany had adopted the second action plan on implementing

Security Council resolution 1325 (2000) on women, peace and security for the period

2017–2020. Germany’s efforts had been aimed at prevention, participation and protection,

the three main principles of the resolution.

19. Germany was firmly committed to the goals of the Convention on the Rights of the

Child and had implemented recommendations by the Committee on the Rights of the Child

in many areas. Germany was set to report to the Committee in April 2019. In 2015, an

independent monitoring office had been established at the German Institute for Human

Rights to oversee implementation of the Convention.

20. The governing parties had agreed that the explicit fundamental rights of children

would be incorporated into the text of the Basic Law.

21. The protection of children from human trafficking, prostitution and pornography

was important to Germany. Identification mechanisms were being put in place to make it

easier to identify underage victims of human trafficking/child trafficking and child

prostitution.

22. Germany was keen to create a society that welcomed, respected and accepted sexual

and gender diversity. In June 2017, marriage was made possible for same-sex partners.

23. In recent years, Germany had intensified its efforts to implement the Convention on

the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The Federal Participation Act, which improved the

situation for individuals with disabilities, had been developed in line with that Convention,

and the Act on Equal Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities had also been amended.

Those efforts had been further strengthened by the second national action plan on persons

with disabilities.

24. At the international level, Germany had continued to promote human rights in its

bilateral relations and in multinational forums, particularly the United Nations. Germany

had been a key supporter of OHCHR. The extensive humanitarian engagement undertaken

by Germany had led to the implementation of human rights such as the rights to water and

sanitation, to education and to housing.

25. The focus of the human rights-based approach in development policy was premised

on the structural causes of social exclusion and on poverty, leading to the promotion of the

rights of disadvantaged sections of the population. Important pillars of development policy

included the empowerment of the population, especially women.

26. Germany was firmly committed to promoting responsible business that would

respect human rights in its global supply chains. In that regard, a National Action Plan for

Business and Human Rights had been developed. In 2020, a comprehensive report would

evaluate the general implementation of the Plan by all stakeholders, including the

Government.

27. Germany took specific measures to fulfil its obligation to protect human rights

defenders in accordance with the Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.

B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review

28. During the interactive dialogue, 109 delegations made statements.

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

report.

29. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela expressed concern about structural racial

discrimination and about the use of harmful practices against people with disabilities.

30. Viet Nam was encouraged by the initiatives Germany had taken to promote gender

equality, particularly the enactment of legislation.

31. Zambia commended Germany for the positive steps it had taken to protect refugees’

rights. It expressed concerns about underreporting and low prosecution and conviction rates

for gender-based violence cases.

32. Afghanistan valued the inter-State cooperation and development assistance provided

by Germany for human rights.

33. Albania commended Germany for ratifying the Council of Europe Convention on

the Protection of Children against Sexual Exploitation and Sexual Abuse (the Lanzarote

Convention), the Council of Europe Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence

against Women and Domestic Violence (the Istanbul Convention), and the United Nations

Convention against Corruption.

34. Algeria commended Germany for its efforts in ensuring birth registration and for the

development of the National Action Plan against Racism 2017 and National Plan of Action

to implement the Convention on Persons with Disabilities.

35. Andorra shared the concerns of the Committee on the Elimination of Racial

Discrimination that the majority of pupils with disabilities were educated in separate

institutions for children with special needs.

36. Angola welcomed the adoption of the National Action Plan against Racism.

37. Argentina noted the measures that had been taken to combat racism, xenophobia and

anti-Semitism, and measures to protect migrant and asylum seekers.

38. Armenia welcomed the adoption of action plans to strengthen the rights of children

and to combat racism. It noted efforts to assist victims of human trafficking.

39. Australia welcomed the steps taken by Germany since its previous review, including

those related to the integration of refugees and the combating of racial discrimination.

40. Austria commended Germany for its engagement with civil society throughout the

review process and the positive steps it had taken to implement recommendations from

previous reviews.

41. Azerbaijan echoed the call by the Working Group of Experts on People of African

Descent for effective action against the practice of racial profiling by enforcement officials.

42. Bahrain expressed concerns about attacks against Muslims, on mosques, synagogues

and religious associations, and on asylum seekers and refugee facilities. It was also

concerned by the lack of support for underage human trafficking victims.

43. Belarus noted the adoption of the National Action Plan against Racism and the

establishment of a working group to protect children from sexual violence and exploitation.

44. Belgium commended Germany for the efforts it had taken to accommodate refugees

and for the publication of a National Action Plan against Racism and discrimination.

45. Benin appreciated the achievements of Germany in protecting human rights,

including the rights of women, children and immigrants.

46. Bhutan noted the measures Germany had taken to protect the rights of vulnerable

groups including women, children and migrants. It appreciated its increased contribution to

development assistance.

47. The Plurinational State of Bolivia welcomed the federal programmes in Germany to

combat discrimination and forms of hate towards certain groups of people.

48. Bosnia and Herzegovina welcomed the steps Germany had taken to strengthen the

foundation for protection of human rights in line with recommendations from the previous

review.

49. Botswana commended Germany for developing the National Action Plan against

Racism 2017, and for enacting the Transparency on Pay Act, which came into force on 6

July 2017.

50. Brazil noted the attacks against immigrants, refugees and reception centres. It

encouraged Germany to prosecute hate crimes and to guarantee birth registration to all

children born on its territory, irrespective of the status of their parents.

51. Bulgaria noted efforts to ensure gender equality and to realize the rights of persons

with disabilities. It recognized the contribution of Germany as an elected member of the

Human Rights Council.

52. Burkina Faso encouraged Germany to continue its efforts to enhance the

reintegration of refugees with greater attention given to their right to family reunification.

53. Canada encouraged Germany to take all steps to support the long-term prospects for

success of all its residents, citizens and non-citizens alike.

54. Chile urged Germany to continue progress towards the full implementation of the

Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

55. China noted the achievements made by Germany in protecting human rights. It was

concerned about serious racism and xenophobia in Germany.

56. The Congo welcomed the noble initiative taken by Germany in welcoming

numerous refugees.

57. Costa Rica expressed concern about the proliferation of racist and xenophobic

speech by movements and political parties.

58. Côte d’Ivoire commended Germany for its commitment to human rights protection,

as reflected by its implementation of legislative and institutional reforms.

59. Cuba noted concerns that persons of African descent were not officially recognized

as a minority group.

60. Cyprus encouraged Germany to enhance further its efforts within the framework of

the National Action Plan Against Racism regarding institutional procedures.

61. Czechia welcomed the measures Germany had taken to combat racist activities,

particularly as it experienced massive immigration.

62. The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea was concerned about human rights

abuses in some areas of economic, social and cultural life in Germany.

63. Norway commended Germany for its active role in the Human Rights Council and

for its efforts to improve gender equality.

64. Ecuador welcomed the action Germany had taken on business and human rights that

required corporations to take action that went further than voluntary commitments.

65. Egypt was concerned that hate speech, racism and xenophobia remained widespread

in Germany and asked about measures taken to oppose racist speech.

66. Estonia welcomed efforts Germany had taken to expand work on child protection

and increased engagement to protect women against violence.

67. Finland welcomed the entry into force in Germany of the Council of Europe

Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence against Women and Domestic

Violence.

68. France commended Germany for its continued support for human rights, noting the

recent appointment of a commissioner for combating anti-Semitism.

69. Gabon welcomed the adoption by Germany of laws and measures to promote respect

for the rights of women, children and disabled persons.

70. Georgia welcomed the ratification by Germany of international conventions and

noted its ratification of the Istanbul Convention.

71. Ghana commended Germany for its efforts to counter anti-Gypsyism and to

accommodate a large number of migrants and refugees.

72. Greece commended Germany for its initiatives undertaken in the area of human

rights education.

73. Haiti stated that, by welcoming a large number of refugees, Germany had placed

itself as a world leader in human rights protection.

74. Honduras noted the generous efforts and the commitment by Germany in receiving a

large number of refugees.

75. Hungary welcomed the measures Germany had taken to realize the rights of persons

with disabilities but was concerned that discriminatory stereotyping related to disability

persisted.

76. Iceland welcomed the adoption by Germany of legislation to promote transparent

wage structures and ensure gender equality in leadership positions.

77. India commended Germany for its gender equality initiatives and its National Action

Plan Against Racism 2017.

78. Indonesia welcomed the adoption by Germany of the national action plans on

business and human rights in 2016 and to combat racism in 2017.

79. The Islamic Republic of Iran was concerned about the export by Germany of arms to

conflict zones and the inadequate protection of religious and ethnic minorities.

80. Iraq welcomed the humanitarian assistance of Germany and its reception of

refugees. It noted the cooperation with the United Nations human rights mechanisms.

81. Ireland welcomed the establishment by Germany of a monitoring office to oversee

the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child and noted the adoption of

legislation to combat human trafficking.

82. Israel commended Germany for its national action plans against racism and human

trafficking and its efforts to combat anti-Semitism.

83. In response to questions and comments, the delegation of Germany stated that the

National Action Plan for Business and Human Rights contained 50 measures that addressed

a range of issues, such as procurement by companies, including those under State

ownership. The Interministerial Committee for Business and Human Rights would be

responsible for monitoring and implementing the Plan. A number of measures had been

introduced to promote equal opportunities and to close the gender pay gap, which included

further development of childcare support for parents, the promotion of equal participation

of men and women in managerial positions and the introduction of measures to promote

pay transparency.

84. The Government had taken initiatives to combat racism and extremism at the

federal, lander and municipal levels of governance. Those measures included the allocation

of funds and the amendment of legislation to ensure more effective prosecution of racist

crimes, racist remarks and hate speech. Furthermore, the Network Enforcement Act, which

came into effect on 1 October 2017, had placed an obligation on social networks with more

than 2 million registered users in Germany to provide an effective complaints mechanism

for specific illegal content and to delete manifestly unlawful content within 24 hours of

being reported.

85. Police controls were conducted on the basis of police findings and objective criteria

that could be reviewed by courts. That meant that the look of a person could not be the sole

factor for performing police measures.

86. In 2017, about 290,000 people had participated in government-financed language

and integration courses for the first time. To enable parents to attend the language courses,

childcare facilities had been provided. Migration counselling had also been made available

for adults.

87. It was important for Germany to work towards a society that accepted, supported

and promoted sexual and gender diversity. Following rulings from the Federal

Constitutional Court and the Supreme Court of Germany, the Government had intended to

introduce into law the option of a third gender. Intersex children were better protected

against irreversible and unnecessary medical interventions.

88. Measures had been taken to protect children against sexual violence and

exploitation, including a revision of the relevant provisions of the Code of Criminal

Procedure to offer better protection to children throughout court proceedings. Therapy

services for victims had also improved.

89. A national federal cooperation network had been established to assist in the

prevention of the exploitation of children, including the coordinated cooperation of youth

welfare offices, police and counselling agencies.

90. Democracy and human rights education was part of the curricula at all school levels.

Universities also had research priorities and chairs specially dedicated to human rights

education and research.

91. In 2018, Germany celebrated 100 years of women’s suffrage. However, there had

been setbacks in the political participation of women at the federal level.

92. There was a diversified system of assistance for women victims of violence. There

were 350 women shelters and more than 40 protective apartments with more than 6,000

spaces that could accommodate about 30,000 people, including the children of victims.

There were also 750 specialized agencies for counselling.

93. Italy appreciated the attention given by Germany to human rights education and the

efforts to combat racism with the adoption of a new national action plan.

94. Japan commended Germany for its initiatives relating to the rights of women and

children and the establishment of a child rights monitoring institution.

95. Kazakhstan expressed concern about the increasing inter-ethnic and interreligious

tensions in Germany, as well as the rise in hate speech, xenophobia, Islamophobia and

racist discourse.

96. Kenya thanked Germany for its national report on the promotion and protection of

human rights.

97. Lebanon valued the commitment of Germany to protecting the rights of its citizens

and residents.

98. Libya welcomed the adoption by Germany of the National Action Plan on Business

and Human Rights, which addressed the potential harmful effects of business on human

rights.

99. Liechtenstein commended Germany for combating violations of rights and basic

freedoms worldwide, supporting human rights defenders and ratifying the United Nations

Convention Against Corruption.

100. Luxembourg commended Germany for its efforts to combat extremism through

preventive initiatives and for introducing same-sex marriages.

101. Madagascar regretted the unwillingness of Germany to adopt legislation to eradicate

racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and intolerance.

102. Malaysia commended Germany for ensuring that the rule of law and human rights

were embedded within its national policies and programmes.

103. Maldives commended Germany for its efforts to protect women and children from

violence and abuse by ratifying relevant Council of Europe conventions.

104. Mali welcomed the ratification by Germany of Council or Europe conventions

relating to violence against women, domestic violence and child protection, and of the

United Nations Convention Against Corruption.

105. Mauritania encouraged Germany to continue strengthening measures to improve the

integration of ethnic minorities into the labour market.

106. Mexico noted the hosting of a large number of refugees by Germany and its

promotion of integration.

107. Mongolia commended Germany for ratifying the United Nations Convention against

Corruption and for its commitment to promoting gender equality.

108. Montenegro applauded Germany for receiving high numbers of asylum seekers and

refugees and for ratifying the Lanzarote Convention and Istanbul Convention.

109. Morocco noted the adoption by Germany of plans of action relating to persons with

disabilities, equality and protection from sexual violations.

110. Myanmar expressed concern about alleged violations and abuses in business and

trade in Germany that had an impact on the full enjoyment of human rights.

111. Namibia commended Germany for its human rights-related legislative and

institutional initiatives undertaken since the previous review.

112. Nepal welcomed the initiatives that had been undertaken by Germany to advance

living standards, ensure gender equality and combat discrimination.

113. The Netherlands welcomed the importance given by Germany to anti-discrimination

based on sexual orientation and noted the adoption of legislation allowing for same-sex

marriages.

114. Nigeria commended Germany for ensuring that police powers were in compliance to

human rights, especially concerning racism and discrimination issues.

115. Denmark commended Germany for the progress achieved towards strengthening its

national human rights institutions.

116. Pakistan stated the issue of ethnic and racial profiling by the German police and

discrimination against Muslim women should be addressed.

117. Paraguay commended Germany for its law on the equal participation of women and

men and for expanding childcare services.

118. Peru acknowledged the leadership of Germany in welcoming asylum seekers and

migrants, which was an example of its commitment to human rights.

119. The Philippines was concerned that migrants in irregular situations in Germany had

limited access to basic social services.

120. Poland welcomed the implementation by Germany of legislative measures that

provide for independent judicial supervision over decisions by the Youth Welfare Offices.

121. Portugal welcomed the amendment by Germany to section 46 of its Criminal Code

requiring the consideration of racist motivation as specific aggravating circumstance.

122. Qatar commanded Germany for efforts taken in combating human trafficking and its

implementation of National Action Plans against Racism and on Business and Human

Rights.

123. The Republic of Korea encouraged Germany to continue its efforts to expedite the

social inclusion of migrant people and to consolidate its social integrity.

124. The Republic of Moldova commended the efforts of Germany directed towards

combating discrimination, preventing all forms of extremism and promoting democracy.

125. Romania commended Germany for its commitment to the protection and promotion

of human rights at the national and international levels.

126. The Russian Federation noted with regret the high levels of ethnic and religious

intolerance and the anti-Semitic and anti-immigrant sentiments in Germany. Many of those

acts had not been reflected in the statistics as extremist acts.

127. Rwanda encouraged Germany to adopt more proactive measures to combat racial

discrimination, including through implementation of the National Action Plan against

Racism.

128. Senegal commended Germany for policies aiming at a better protection of political,

economic, social and cultural rights.

129. Serbia stated that Germany had played an important role in the creation of human

rights standards within the United Nations system.

130. Slovakia noted the attention given by Germany to the protection of journalists,

including its support for the establishment of a Special Representative for the Safety of

Journalists.

131. Slovenia acknowledged efforts made by Germany in the area of equal opportunities

for women, but noted the significant decrease in the number of women members of

parliament.

132. South Africa commended Germany on its welcoming approach to migrants and

refugees and its efforts to promote diversity and integration while addressing social

tensions.

133. Spain commended Germany for its ratification of the United Nations Convention

against Corruption.

134. Sri Lanka commended Germany for its efforts to address trafficking and exploitation

of children and young people.

135. The State of Palestine commended Germany for its commitment to promote human

rights and welcomed the efforts to combat discrimination and extremism.

136. The Sudan appreciated the efforts of Germany to promote human rights and to

implement the recommendations from the previous review.

137. Sweden thanked Germany for its comprehensive report and presentation.

138. Switzerland commended Germany for its adoption of the 2016 National Action Plan

on Business and Human Rights.

139. The Syrian Arab Republic expressed concern about racially motivated crimes,

discrimination, and stigmatization of foreigners in Germany.

140. Thailand commended Germany for promoting the rights of migrants, yet was

concerned with the growing racism and xenophobia sentiments.

141. Togo welcomed the measures taken by Germany to protect human rights,

particularly the adoption of a plan of action to combat racism.

142. Tunisia welcomed the steps taken by Germany to develop the human rights system

and the legislative and institutional framework through the ratification of several

international conventions.

143. Turkey noted with appreciation the leading role of Germany in addressing the

refugee crisis in Europe.

144. Ukraine noted the implementation by Germany of recommendations from the

previous review. It commended Germany for its comprehensive approach in combating

discrimination.

145. The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland encouraged Germany to

adopt legislation to combat racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance.

146. The United States of America expressed concern about reports of anti-Semitic acts

and violence against Muslims and immigrants.

147. Uruguay welcomed the special attention given by Germany to combating

discrimination and extremism, to the empowerment of women and to gender equality.

148. In response to further questions and comments, the delegation of Germany stated

that Germany was in the process of drafting legislation on the return to fulltime

employment for women after maternal leave. Germany would also seek to ratify ILO

Convention No. 169 and the Optional Protocol on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.

149. The implementation of the National Action Plan against Racism had commenced.

150. In relation to integration, research and measures would be intensified to monitor

integration and to expose both successes and shortcomings of the integration strategy.

151. Following the crimes committed by the National Socialist Underground, the

definition of politically motivated crimes had been revised to take into account the

perspective of victims. A total of 11 thematic fields were now in use to categorize hate

crimes.

152. The delegation stated that it was the goal of the Federal Government to ensure the

inclusion of persons with disabilities in the job market and in schools.

153. Germany was working towards a comprehensive approach to addressing climate

change in collaboration with United Nations agencies and other countries.

154. The delegation thanked States for their recommendations.

II. Conclusions and/or recommendations

155. The following recommendations will be examined by Germany, which will

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

Rights Council:

155.1 Ratify the Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All

Migrant Workers and Members of their Families (Algeria) (Egypt) (Honduras)

(Philippines) (Senegal) (Zambia);

155.2 Consider ratifying the Convention on the Protection of the Rights of

All Migrant Workers and Members of their Families (Azerbaijan) (Chile)

(Uruguay);

155.3 Reconsider ratifying the International Convention on the Protection

of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of their Families

(Indonesia);

155.4 Sign and ratify the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant

on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (Bosnia and Herzegovina) (Italy);

155.5 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on

Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (Montenegro) (Zambia) (Spain);

155.6 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on

Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, including accepting the competence of

the Committee as regards the inquiry procedure (Finland);

155.7 Ratify Protocol No. 12 to the Convention for the Protection of

Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms of 4 November 2000 (Ukraine)

(Mali);

155.8 Ratify the Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention, 1989 (No.

169) of the International Labour Organization (ILO) (Denmark);

155.9 Ratify the 2014 ILO Protocol of 2014 to the Forced Labour

Convention, 1930 (No. 29) (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern

Ireland);

155.10 Continue the leadership role in setting good practices, particularly

in its cooperation with Human Rights mechanisms and institutions, and

continue its efforts in promoting responsible business conduct in respecting

human rights through its National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights

and in fostering greater involvement of women in promoting peace and security

(Bhutan);

155.11 Pay particular attention to those recommendations made by the

Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent that have yet to be

taken into account (Congo);

155.12 Continue to engage with the Human Rights Council and its

mechanism (Myanmar);

155.13 Adopt a fully open selection process when selecting national

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

Britain and Northern Ireland);

155.14 Harmonize arms export control legislation in line with provisions of

the Arms Trade Treaty and the Council of the European Union Common

Position, and ensure that, before export licenses are granted, comprehensive

and transparent assessments are conducted of the impact that the misuse of

small arms and light weapons would have on women, including those living in

conflict zones (Albania);

155.15 Adjust national legislation and policies and practices with the

provisions of article 7, paragraph 4, of the Arms Trade Treaty (Costa Rica);

155.16 Strengthen the assessment of the human rights impact of the arms

export licensing system to prevent them from being used to commit or facilitate

serious acts of gender-based violence or serious acts of violence against women

and children (Peru);

155.17 Strengthen legislation on corporate human rights abuses of

transnational companies registered or domiciled in Germany, especially when

operating abroad (Brazil);

155.18 Strengthen oversight over German companies operating abroad

with regard to any negative impact of their activities on the enjoyment of

human rights, particularly in conflict areas, which includes situations of foreign

occupation, which there are heightened risks of human rights abuses (State of

Palestine);

155.19 Investigate the activities of corporations, particularly when those

activities adversely affect human rights (Sudan);

155.20 Adhere to the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights

initiative, a multi-stakeholder body specific to the extractive industry and

implementing the Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights

(Switzerland);

155.21 Intensify existing oversight over the implementation of the National

Action Plan on Business and Human Rights adopted by the Federal

Government (Georgia);

155.22 Facilitate effective oversight over the implementation of the

National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights adopted by the Federal

Government (Kenya);

155.23 Expand its National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights to

increase the focus on in-country due diligence issues, such as black market

labour exploitation in the construction sector (United Kingdom of Great

Britain and Northern Ireland);

155.24 Strengthen its national policy to promote cooperate social

responsibility and to implement the Guiding Principles on Business and Human

Rights (Myanmar);

155.25 Expedite the establishment of the grievance mechanisms provided

for in the National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights (South Africa);

155.26 Expand the mandate of the German Institute for Human Rights to

include the receipt of complaints of human rights violations (Denmark);

155.27 Expand the mandate of the German Institute for Human Rights to

include reception of complaints of violations of human rights against agents of

the State (Philippines);

155.28 Empower the Human Rights Institute to receive complaints of

human rights violations (Mali);

155.29 Consider the establishment or strengthening of the existing national

mechanism for coordination, implementation, reporting and follow-up, in line

with elements arising from good practices identified by OHCHR (Portugal);

155.30 Consider the establishment of a national coordination mechanism

for the preparation of reports, follow-up and implementation of

recommendations, in line with the elements of the 2016 OHCHR guide on

national mechanisms for reporting and follow-up (Uruguay);

155.31 Establish a Permanent National Follow-up and Implementing

Mechanism for the received recommendations from different human rights

mechanisms and continue to support the strengthening of human rights

institutions in its framework of cooperation policy, particularly assigning

resources to strengthen the national mechanism for reporting and follow-up

(Paraguay);

155.32 Continue to extend development assistance, including for the

implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (Nepal);

155.33 Continue to promote the integration of employees with an

immigration background into the criminal police (Angola);

155.34 Eliminate discriminatory legislation and practices in health-care

and education systems and in the labour market that discriminate and

marginalize migrants and minorities and other specific groups in need of

protection (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea);

155.35 Continue efforts in the promotion of gender equality (Viet Nam);

155.36 Consider formulating a comprehensive plan of action to eliminate

discriminatory stereotypes regarding the roles and responsibilities of women

and men in the family and in society (Slovenia);

155.37 Continue to work towards enhancing gender equality and women’s

political and economic empowerment (Iceland);

155.38 Continue efforts to promote gender equality, particularly with

regard to leadership positions, including by implementing the goal of equal

participation of men and women in management positions in the civil service by

2025 (France);

155.39 Take further measures to strengthen its efforts in achieving gender

equality, particularly in the field of labour (Mongolia);

155.40 Continue measures for gender equality in decision-making and to

combat domestic and gender-based violence against women (Nepal);

155.41 Strengthen measures to promote gender equality, particularly with

regard to the underrepresentation of women in political decision-making

positions, eliminating the gender wage gap and ensuring women and men have

equal opportunities in the labour market (Rwanda);

155.42 Continue efforts to promote gender equality especially in

employment to guarantee the close of wage gap (Tunisia);

155.43 Consider adopting a comprehensive national gender equality

strategy or plan to address the structural factors perpetuating gender

inequalities in all aspects (Namibia);

155.44 Increases public awareness of the existence and purpose of the

General Equal Treatment Act, and ensures its full implementation (Norway);

155.45 Realize substantive gender equality, in accordance with the

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

against Women, throughout the process of implementation of the 2030 Agenda

for Sustainable Development (Hungary);

155.46 Strengthen measures to implement the International Convention on

the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (South Africa);

155.47 Promote the Equal Opportunities Action Plan, as provided for in

the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against

Women (Angola);

155.48 Develop a comprehensive national action plan to promote gender

equality, including to address intersecting forms of discrimination, ensuring its

effective monitoring through concrete targets and indicators and the

identification of pertinent accountability mechanisms where remaining gaps for

equality prevail (Finland);

155.49 Address the absence of a comprehensive national gender equality

strategy, policy or action plan that tackles the structural factors perpetuating

gender inequalities (Albania);

155.50 Adopt a national gender equality strategy that includes concrete

and effective measures, to eliminate the structural factors perpetuating

inequality and gender-based violence in society (Honduras);

155.51 Accelerate the achievement of substantive gender equality,

including measures to promote equal representation of men and women in

decision-making positions (Bosnia and Herzegovina);

155.52 Enhance measures to effectively and comprehensively combat

racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, especially

through education that promotes respects for cultural diversity, identity, social

harmony and social inclusion from young ages (Thailand);

155.53 Strengthen the capacity and the independence of the federal anti-

discrimination agency to allow it to conduct investigations into complaints of

discriminations, in particular relating to race, and to engage prosecutions

(Togo);

155.54 Broaden the focus of the fight against racism, including the

condemnation of all cases of hate speech, as well as the possibility of revising

the General Law of Equal Treatment, to ensure effective protection against

discrimination (Spain);

155.55 Increase efforts and use all possible means to counter all acts of

racism (State of Palestine);

155.56 Increase effort to eradicate incitement to hatred, racism,

xenophobia, homophobia and transphobia, condemning discourses that

motivate intolerance and crimes based on prejudice (Uruguay);

155.57 Take effective measures to counter xenophobia, intolerance and

Islamophobia (Turkey);

155.58 Take all measures necessary to combat racial discrimination,

xenophobia and Islamophobia all over the country (Islamic Republic of Iran);

155.59 Take measures to ensure the fight xenophobia (Sudan);

155.60 Continue efforts to combat all forms of discrimination against

foreigners and to prevent racial discrimination and hate speech (Tunisia);

155.61 Designate an institution, such as the Federal Anti-Discrimination

Agency, with a mandate to receive and investigate complaints on hate crimes

(Turkey);

155.62 Enhance reporting and recording mechanisms and procedures on

hate crimes, improve data collection systems for statistics and regularly

publicize such information (Turkey);

155.63 Publish transparent and accessible statistics on extremist crimes

(Russian Federation);

155.64 Continue to promote the efforts to eliminate racial discrimination

(Iraq);

155.65 Step up efforts to combat hate speech in the media and

manifestations of ethnic and religious discrimination, and introduce criminal

liability for the dissemination of racist and neo-Nazi ideology (Russian

Federation);

155.66 Sustain and scale up its efforts in combating racism and

discrimination in all its forms (Nigeria);

155.67 Intensify its efforts to combat and contain the rise of racism,

strongly condemning racist statements made by political leaders, authorities

and public figures and punishing those responsible (Bolivarian Republic of

Venezuela);

155.68 Implement measures to prevent, investigate and sanction hate

speech and participation in racist activities by parliamentarians and politicians,

in line with the recommendations of the Commissioner of the Council of

Europe (Mexico);

155.69 Continue to pursue action against hate speech and racist

propaganda, and raise awareness of these at the federal and Länder levels

(Ireland);

155.70 Institute measures to counter and stem the tide of racism, in

particular by strongly condemning all racist statements by public authorities,

political leaders and public figures, including through the institution of

criminal proceedings (Ghana);

155.71 Strengthen measures to combat the resurgence of racist and

xenophobic speech, including by the investigation and prosecution of such cases

(Ecuador);

155.72 Strengthen its efforts to fight racism, including by enhancing

institutional capacity to systematically document, investigate and prosecute

racially motivated crimes (Rwanda);

155.73 Continue efforts to combat Islamophobia, racism, racial

discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance (Libya);

155.74 Take effective and rapid measures to combat hate speech,

Islamophobia and racist aggressive acts, which are widespread in society, and

commit to remedying their long-term effects (Egypt);

155.75 Intensify efforts to combat racism, racial discrimination and

xenophobia and to prevent racist or xenophobic hate speech, especially against

Muslims, immigrants and refugees (Qatar);

155.76 Ensure that all forms of discriminatory practice are prohibited and

sanctioned under a solid legislative framework (Madagascar);

155.77 Harmonize its domestic legislation with international standards on

human rights, introducing a definition of racial discrimination in line with the

Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination

(Honduras);

155.78 Adopt legislation to combat racism, racial discrimination,

xenophobia and related intolerance, with a particular focus on eliminating the

practice of racial profiling by federal and State law enforcement officials

(Azerbaijan);

155.79 Develop and strengthen the efficiency of the legal framework on

racial discrimination and xenophobia (Lebanon);

155.80 Prohibit discriminatory racial profiling and ensure effective

implementation of independent internal complaint mechanism (India);

155.81 Take concrete steps to stop ethnic or religious profiling by its law

enforcement officials (Pakistan);

155.82 Introduce legislative guarantees and law enforcement mechanisms

to rule out racial profiling (Russian Federation);

155.83 Amend relevant legislation at the national and provincial levels to

outlaw racial profiling (South Africa);

155.84 Establish adequate legal safeguards to prevent racial profiling

(Syrian Arab Republic);

155.85 Strengthen practical measures to investigate any act of racial

discrimination (Belarus);

155.86 Take the measures necessary to investigate acts of violence and

discrimination in relation to anti-Semitism and Islamophobia and punish the

perpetrators of such acts (Argentina);

155.87 Continue the policy of combating racism, ensuring that racist and

xenophobic speech is subjected to investigation and, where appropriate,

prosecution and conviction, with appropriate sanctions (Côte d’Ivoire);

155.88 Implement the National Action Plan against Racism, with a focus

on eliminating structural racial discrimination in all spheres (Kenya);

155.89 Effectively implement the National Action Plan against Racism

(Malaysia);

155.90 Take measures for effective implementation of the National Action

Plan against Racism, with a view to eliminate racial/ethnic discrimination in all

spheres (Pakistan);

155.91 Ensure that the National Action Plan against Racism is fully

implemented with a view to eliminate structural and institutional racial

discrimination, including those against people of African descent (Namibia);

155.92 Continue to combat racial discrimination at the workplace and in

daily life in the light of the updated National Action Plan against Racism

(Romania);

155.93 Continue to strengthen efforts to counteract racist and

discriminatory attitudes towards foreigners and to promote better career

prospects for migrants (Czechia);

155.94 Combat more decisively and contain the rise of racism, in

particular by strongly condemning all racist statements made by political

leaders, authorities and public figures (Cuba);

155.95 Impose strong and dissuasive disciplinary measures against those

who use hate speech and participate in racist activities, including criminal

justice measures (Cuba);

155.96 Implement comprehensive training and awareness-raising on the

elimination of racial discrimination for police, judicial and administrative

authorities (Honduras);

155.97 Establish compulsory training for police officers on their role in

combating racism and racial discrimination (Belgium);

155.98 Ensure that all police and other law enforcement authorities are

trained in combating and protecting everyone against racism and

discrimination (Philippines);

155.99 Continue with actions and initiatives in relation to combating

racism, preventing all forms of extremism and on the protection and

integration of refugees and other migrants (Benin);

155.100 Expedite the implementation of programmes to counter extremist

attitudes and behaviour (South Africa);

155.101 Continue the fight against discrimination, racism and racial

prejudice in rural areas (Plurinational State of Bolivia);

155.102 Intensify efforts to prevent and punish all forms of racial

discrimination, through awareness-raising campaigns in a cross-cutting

manner at all levels of society (Chile);

155.103 Take effective legislative and administrative measures to prevent

and fight against words and deeds constituting racism and xenophobia (China);

155.104 Intensively fight against actions that spread racially discriminatory

or hate speech through the media and the Internet (China);

155.105 Continue to take concrete measures to combat discriminatory

practices, xenophobia and violence with national, racial, ethnic or religious

motivation (Costa Rica);

155.106 Take further steps to prevent the recurrence of neo-Nazism and

criminalize any acts that distort history and instigate racism and xenophobia

(Democratic People’s Republic of Korea);

155.107 Intensify measures to prevent racism against people of African

descent (Botswana);

155.108 Continue to promote preventative measures against extremist

attitudes and behaviour in Germany (Botswana);

155.109 Continue supporting projects to reduce discrimination of lesbian,

gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons and working for the protection

and recognition of sexual diversity (Greece);

155.110 Continue efforts aimed at combating discrimination based on

sexual orientation or gender identity, including by ensuring resources for the

autonomy of the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency and by strengthening

anti-discrimination laws (Netherlands);

155.111 Further enhance the protection of lesbian, gay, bisexual,

transgender and intersex persons from discrimination and violence

domestically by introducing a third gender category for people who do not

identify as either male or female or who are born with an ambiguous sexual

anatomy (Australia);

155.112 Adopt measures for the protection of the fundamental rights of

lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons, and update the care

guide in the health sector, ensuring the inclusion of the rights of trans people

(Uruguay);

155.113 Consider introducing in legislation a third gender option for

intersex and non-binary trans people based on self-determination (Israel);

155.114 Set up a national compensation fund for transsexual persons who

were coerced into sterilization or unwanted gender reassignment treatment in

the years 1981–2011 (Sweden);

155.115 Seek collaboration with countries committed to fight corruption

(Nigeria);

155.116 Continue to strengthen international cooperation in addressing

climate change and its impacts for the promotion and protection of human

rights (Viet Nam);

155.117 Continue to better explore renewable sources of energy (solar, wind

and hydroelectric power) to reduce greenhouse gases emissions (Senegal);

155.118 Review the national reforms on terrorism to ensure their full

adherence to international standards, considering the possibility of inviting the

Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights and

fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism to visit the country

(Mexico);

155.119 Continue efforts to combat terrorism and to prevent all forms of

extremism (Morocco);

155.120 Continue with its efforts in the global fight against terrorism

(Nigeria);

155.121 Continue to ensure that no individuals are exposed to the danger of

torture or cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment when

extradited or deported (Ireland);

155.122 Create an independent mechanism to investigate torture and abuse

by the police (Sudan);

155.123 Continue awareness-raising campaigns on the importance of

reporting of gender-based violence, including domestic violence, and ensure

that all reported cases are effectively investigated and perpetrators duly

prosecuted (Montenegro);

155.124 Provide specialized training to prosecutors and judges and key

actors in the criminal justice system in identifying and characterizing racist

hate crimes and on how to deal with racist offences, in the light of the

amendment to the Penal Code (Bahrain);

155.125 Systemize human rights education and training for professionals,

including judiciary, police and medical staff (Georgia);

155.126 Ensure independent, impartial and effective investigations and

prosecutions in cases of alleged police violence (Islamic Republic of Iran);

155.127 Take further steps to ensure that cases of gender-based violence are

reported and properly prosecuted (Israel);

155.128 Ensure effective access to justice, due process and fair mechanisms

for the reparation for asylum seekers and refugees, in accordance with

international human rights and refugee law (Ecuador);

155.129 Designate an independent and impartial institution to undertake a

comprehensive study on the implementation of recommendations of committees

of inquiry established by the Bundestag and some state parliaments to

investigate the murders committed by the National Socialist Underground

(Turkey);

155.130 Ensure that preventive detention should be used as a measure of

last resort and periodically reviewed by an independent body (Bolivarian

Republic of Venezuela);

155.131 Ensure cooperation between national preventive mechanisms with

the other mechanisms that monitor places of detention in order to ensure

possible synergies, including in the context of monitoring houses for the elderly

(Ghana);

155.132 Prohibit the use of methods of physical and chemical

immobilization and compensate the victims of such practices (Bolivarian

Republic of Venezuela);

155.133 Ensure that freedom of religion or belief is fully respected (Brazil);

155.134 Strengthen measures to prevent any irrational restrictions on the

exercise of freedom of religion or belief (Malaysia);

155.135 Continue to strengthen its efforts to combat intolerance towards

Muslims (Maldives);

155.136 Strengthen measures to ensure the protection of freedom of religion

and eliminate racial discrimination, racial profiling, xenophobia, Islamophobia

and related intolerance in all spheres (Indonesia);

155.137 Intensify its efforts to prevent and effectively combat all

manifestations of intolerance and incitement to hatred with a view of

safeguarding peaceful interfaith and interethnic relations among groups

(Kazakhstan);

155.138 Continue efforts to safeguard interfaith relations and counteract

anti-Semitism and other forms of racial discrimination (Australia);

155.139 Continue further steps to improve relations between the ethnic,

cultural and religious groups in the society and to address race related crimes

at all levels (Sri Lanka);

155.140 Ensure that the same rights persons have offline are also protected

online (United States of America);

155.141 Observe carefully the effects of the Network Enforcement Act to

ensure that the right to freedom of speech is not infringed upon in the process

of combating online hate speech (Netherlands);

155.142 Decriminalize defamation and include it in the Civil Code in

accordance with international standards (Estonia);

155.143 Promote youth participation in political processes by actively

supporting the work of youth organizations and including them as partners in

the process (Portugal);

155.144 Continue to promote youth participation in political processes by

actively supporting the work of youth organizations and including them as a

partner in the process (Greece);

155.145 Continue to promote youth participation in political processes by

actively supporting the work of youth organizations and including them as

partners in policymaking (Republic of Moldova);

155.146 Continue efforts to increase the number of women in political

decision-making positions, particularly at the municipal level, and in leadership

positions in all other spheres (Gabon);

155.147 Lower the voting age to the age of 16 in all voting processes to

ensure political participation of young people (Austria);

155.148 Take further measures to enhance the transparency of the financing

of political parties and election campaigns (Liechtenstein);

155.149 Continue measures to combat human trafficking (India);

155.150 Continue efforts to combat human trafficking (Tunisia);

155.151 Continue efforts to combat human trafficking, ensure the rights of

victims and provide protection and assistance to them (Qatar);

155.152 Continue the endeavours aimed at guaranteeing the adequate

protection and assistance for potential and existing victims of human

trafficking in minors (Romania);

155.153 Reinforce measures combating human trafficking in minors so that

the root causes of child prostitution and child pornography can be identified

and tackled (Poland);

155.154 Invest additional efforts in preventing child pornography and child

prostitution (Serbia);

155.155 Continue efforts to combat human trafficking, especially of women

and children (Morocco);

155.156 Ensure human traffickers are prosecuted for “trafficking” and

sentence those convicted with punishments reflecting the severity of the crime;

and institute a public awareness campaign about forced labour, to include the

protections available for victims (United States of America);

155.157 Further sensitize authorities at all levels — federal, regional and

municipal — with a view to recognizing and identifying cases of trafficking and

exploitation of children, and enhance ways and means to guarantee adequate

protection for, and comprehensive assistance to, the victims (Austria);

155.158 Establish a human rights-based approach to combating human

trafficking, with the rights of victims being the centre of all relevant measures

(Bahrain);

155.159 Establish a human rights-based approach to combating human

trafficking, with the rights of victims being the centre of all relevant measures

(Hungary);

155.160 Establish a human rights-based approach to combating human

trafficking, for instance by providing nationwide support systems especially for

the under-aged by taking measures, which include establishing a national

identification and referral mechanism to enable victims to obtain residence

permits and to access rights attached thereto (Kenya);

155.161 Continue efforts to rehabilitate victims of trafficking (Lebanon);

155.162 Strengthen its policy to counter child trafficking through concrete

measures in the framework of the implementation of concepts developed at the

national level and in international cooperation in this area (Belarus);

155.163 Continue strengthening efforts against trafficking in human beings

and enhancing the protection of its victims (Bulgaria);

155.164 Ensure proportionality in all the cases in which measures on

surveillance and exchange of personal data between the authorities are

undertaken, as well as necessity, in order to always achieve legitimate and legal

objectives (Spain);

155.165 Take further appropriate action to fully end the surveillance of

individuals domestically or in collusion with foreign entities, which violates

particularly the right to privacy (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea);

155.166 Provide protection to the family, as it is the natural and

fundamental group unit of society (Egypt);

155.167 Recognize under family law unmarried couples in established

relationships, both opposite-sex and same-sex (Canada);

155.168 Strengthen the efforts to eliminate the gender wage gap and ensure

that women and men have equal opportunities in the labour market (Zambia);

155.169 End discrimination against women with regard to salaries and

wages (Egypt);

155.170 Reduce the wage gap between men and women (Iraq);

155.171 Continue implementation of the Act to promote “Transparency of

Wage Structures”, through concrete practical steps (Sri Lanka);

155.172 Extend the right to return to full-time employment after maternity

or paternity leave (Sweden);

155.173 Take measures to facilitate access to the labour market for persons

of foreign, non-European Union origin, particularly women (Pakistan);

155.174 Continue to introduce and implement measures to reduce the

gender pay gap and strengthen the representation of women in leadership

positions (Australia);

155.175 Undertake further initiatives to reduce the gender-specific income

gap (Cyprus);

155.176 Accelerate efforts to provide women and men with equal

opportunities in the labour market, for example by improving the availability

and affordability of childcare (Norway);

155.177 Promote protection policies for peasants, mainly young people and

women, taking into account the diversity of rural regions ahead of the

challenges they face (Plurinational State of Bolivia);

155.178 Take further steps to extend welfare services and provide assistance

to all persons with disabilities (Bulgaria);

155.179 Take into consideration the demands of all stakeholders, in order to

establish a national plan to reduce growing wealth inequality (Haiti);

155.180 Further enhance efforts to address the issue of social and economic

disparity between those living in poverty and high-income segments of the

population (Malaysia);

155.181 Strengthen social care for single female-headed households

(Republic of Korea);

155.182 Promote sexual and reproductive health and rights, including by

removing barriers to safe and legal abortion services and post-abortion care

(Canada);

155.183 Prohibit arbitrary resort to the use of physical and chemical

restraints, solitary confinement and other harmful practices on persons with

psychosocial disabilities in institutions and on elderly people in residential care

centres (Portugal);

155.184 Review paragraph 219a of the penal code, prohibiting information

about and advertising on abortion, which, in practice, restricts the prospects

for women to undergo an abortion if she so wishes (Sweden);

155.185 Evaluate the implementation of human rights education in the

Länder (Andorra);

155.186 Continue efforts to make human rights education an educational

goal in the school curriculum (Luxembourg);

155.187 Continue efforts to strengthen awareness-raising programmes,

including for promoting human rights education (Japan);

155.188 Facilitate the integration of disabled pupils in schools, and enact

legislation that would ensure children with disabilities are admitted in schools

(Andorra);

155.189 Take the measures necessary to address the inequalities that are

inherent to the German education system, which, according to the United

Nations, perpetuate social inequalities, in follow-up to the recommendation in

paragraph 76 of the report of the Working Group on its first cycle and

recommendations in paragraphs 124.116 and 124.190 of the report on its

second cycle (Haiti);

155.190 Ensure equal access to education and take effective measures to

eliminate structural obstacles in the education system for students with migrant

backgrounds, taking into account observations and recommendations of the

Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (Turkey);

155.191 Scale down segregated special needs schools to facilitate the

inclusion of persons with disabilities and ensure that the laws and policies

uphold the duty of mainstream schools to enrol children with disabilities

(Hungary);

155.192 Implement additional measures to protect women against violence

and gender-based discrimination, including by promoting security staff

training on gender issues and countering negative images and stereotyped

portrayals of ethnic minority women (Czechia);

155.193 Take concrete measures to sensitize the public and the law

enforcement officers on the necessity to report and follow up on acts of gender

violence, notably female genital mutilation (Belgium);

155.194 Take measures to prevent gender-based violence, female genital

mutilation and other harmful practices, including through awareness-raising

campaigns, to provide services to victims, and to bring perpetrators to justice

(Estonia);

155.195 Continue efforts to strengthen measures for eliminating violence

against women (Japan);

155.196 Grant the right to residence to foreign women independently to that

of their husbands so that victims of domestic violence can report without the

fear of being affected (Paraguay);

155.197 Strengthen efforts to eradicate domestic violence and to support

victims, especially foreign women (Peru);

155.198 Ensure that the Criminal Code protects all children under the age

of 18 from all violations, in accordance with the Convention on the Rights of

the Child (Namibia);

155.199 Continue to implement policies designed to protect the rights of

young people and ensure access to welfare for them and for children, without

exception (Republic of Moldova);

155.200 Establish an independent ombudsman office for children with the

authority to collect and investigate reports of violations and abuses of the rights

of the child (Sweden);

155.201 Undertake extensive efforts in order to ensure that children with

disabilities and children with a migration background have adequate and

unhindered access to education and health-care services (Poland);

155.202 Take additional measures to protect children with disabilities as

well as children from other disadvantaged groups against discrimination

(Slovakia);

155.203 Continue efforts to protect children against sexual exploitation

(Tunisia);

155.204 Review certain provisions of the Penal Code to criminalize child

pornography, with the view to ensuring that children under the age of 18 years

are fully protected (Belgium);

155.205 Continue to strengthen institutional and legal measures to prevent

boys, girls and adolescents from the risk of being victims of sexual abuse and/or

exploitation (Chile);

155.206 Continue efforts to strengthen measures for the protection of

children (Gabon);

155.207 Ensure enrolment of the children of those seeking international

protection takes place as soon as possible at the same level as for all other

children and adolescents living in the country, on an equal footing

(Luxembourg);

155.208 Consider the possibility of revising the German language

translation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in order

to make it more accurately reflect the meaning of the Convention (Austria);

155.209 Continue efforts to eliminate discrimination against persons with

disabilities, particularly in the workplace (Peru);

155.210 Enhance efforts aimed at increasing the participation of people with

disabilities in the job market, including by strengthening the necessary legal

framework (Cyprus);

155.211 Ensure the inclusivity and accessibility to health care, judicial and

educational services for persons with disabilities (Israel);

155.212 Continue efforts to integrate minority communities by enhancing

their access to housing, education, employment and health care (India);

155.213 Intensify measures so that Sinti and Roma communities have equal

access to housing, education, health and employment (Peru);

155.214 Increase intragovernmental coordination in monitoring violence

and discrimination against members of minority groups, including religious

groups (United States of America);

155.215 Implement more efficient measures to combat all kinds of

discrimination towards minority communities, in particular Roma

representatives in the fields of health care and education (Serbia);

155.216 Increase support for the media in the languages of minorities and

implement fully the legislation to promote languages of minorities (Russian

Federation);

155.217 Improve the conditions for the integration of ethnic minorities on

the labour market (Iraq);

155.218 Improve the process of integration of minorities in the labour

market to minimize various discriminations they face (Islamic Republic of

Iran);

155.219 Improve the integration of people of African descent in the labour

market by addressing the structural discriminations they face and in particular

recognizing them as an ethnic minority (Kenya);

155.220 Strengthen existing measures to ensure better integration of ethnic

minorities in the labour market and combat the racism they experience

(Algeria);

155.221 Continue to implement comprehensive measures taken by the

Government to provide access to higher education for national minorities and

to reduce discrimination against them on the labour market (Belarus);

155.222 Recognize in law people of African descent as a minority group, in

order to better take into account their needs (Côte d’Ivoire);

155.223 Further multiply initiatives promoting the integration of migrants

(Viet Nam);

155.224 Promote rights of migrants in line with international laws and

customs (Sudan);

155.225 Promote migrants’ right to health and education by considering

amending relevant legislations to allow undocumented migrants to have more

equal access to the national health-care system and to promote policies to

integrate students with migration backgrounds in educational settings more

evenly across different states (Thailand);

155.226 Strengthen the efforts made to integrate children with migrant

backgrounds into schools (Czechia);

155.227 Continue to strengthen measures to facilitate access to education by

young people with migrant backgrounds to reduce socioeconomic disparity

(Maldives);

155.228 Introduce measures to encourage young people with migrant

backgrounds to continue their higher studies (Portugal);

155.229 Strengthen efforts to encourage young people with migrant

background to continue their studies (Republic of Korea);

155.230 Establish measures to encourage young migrants to further their

studies with the aim to empower and enable them to reduce socioeconomic

inequalities that migrants often face (Malaysia);

155.231 Abandon the policy of imposing unilateral coercive measures

against other countries, and initiate an immediate lifting of measures such as

punitive measures issued by an internal government decision that has exceeded

the boarders of Germany and violated the human rights of citizens of other

countries (Syrian Arab Republic);

155.232 Continue efforts to improve access to health care for asylum seekers

and refugees with disabilities (Maldives);

155.233 Extend access to health care for asylum seekers and refugees, in

particular with disabilities (Republic of Korea);

155.234 Continue to address further integration of refugees and migrants

into society (Japan);

155.235 Continue to support the activities of UNHCR through its voluntary

annual contributions (Angola);

155.236 Review legislation and administrative practices in order to protect

the human rights of migrant workers, including migrants in an irregular

situation (Honduras);

155.237 Improve access to integration services and the job market for

persons who enjoy subsidiary protection; facilitate family reunification;

strengthen the refugee sponsorship programme; and enhance settlement,

integration and inclusion programmes (Canada);

155.238 Develop relevant legislative and normative measures to help

safeguard the human dignity of asylum seekers in reception centres (Senegal);

155.239 Continue to improve the situation of refugees and asylum seekers,

in particular women and girls, and eliminate discrimination in the process of

social inclusion of this category of persons (Serbia);

155.240 Ensure that all necessary human rights measures have been

examined prior to deportation of migrants and failed asylum seekers

(Afghanistan);

155.241 Put an end to the practice of restricting the rights of asylum seekers

and to ensure effective investigation of all cases of violence against them

(Russian Federation);

155.242 Step up efforts to combat discrimination against refugees

(Lebanon);

155.243 Effectively combat discrimination against refugees, migrants and

ethnic minority in order to ensure their rights (China);

155.244 Provide the necessary protection to migrants and refugees, prevent

political speech that stigmatizes refugees on racial grounds, and work towards

integrating them into German society (Egypt);

155.245 Prevent threats and violence against migrants and implement the

Integration Act of 2016 for their better integration through non-discriminatory

measures (India);

155.246 Investigate incidents of hate crimes or attacks against refugees and

asylum seekers, particularly women and girls, and ensure that perpetrators are

held accountable (Afghanistan);

155.247 Take all necessary steps to combat all forms of violence against

asylum seekers and migrants (Luxembourg);

155.248 Investigate promptly any incidents of hate crimes or attacks against

refugee and asylum-seeking women and girls, and ensure that the perpetrators

are duly prosecuted (Iceland);

155.249 Ensure that all crimes against migrants and refugees are

investigated and the perpetrators are held accountable (Brazil);

155.250 Investigate promptly any incidents of hate crimes or attacks against

refugees and asylum seekers, particularly women and girls (Islamic Republic of

Iran);

155.251 Take steps to ensure that incidents of hate crimes or attacks against

refugees and asylum-seeking women and girls are promptly investigated and

the perpetrators brought to justice (Ghana);

155.252 Enhance measures to guarantee the investigation into and

sanctioning of acts of stigmatization, violence and discrimination committed

against migrants, asylum seekers and refugees (Argentina);

155.253 Guarantee access to free and independent advice to asylum seekers

before their hearings, as well as legal assistance after a negative decision is

made (Argentina);

155.254 Adopt legislative and administrative measures to avoid the

detention of migrants and allow the early identification of migrants in

situations of vulnerability, including transsexual persons and victims of torture,

with a view to their being considered in the asylum application processes, as

well as in the terms of appeal before the expulsion (Mexico);

155.255 Take all appropriate measures to further protect asylum seekers

and migrants from any potential violent attacks (Indonesia);

155.256 Ensure that the rights of persons of African origin and asylum

seekers are respected in all spheres (Madagascar);

155.257 Establish a specific procedure to determine statelessness that would

guarantee the protection of the rights provided in the 1954 Convention relating

to the Status of Stateless Persons (Burkina Faso);

155.258 Guarantee birth registration and prenatal care and postnatal care

of new born children regardless of their migration status, in particular through

the dissemination of information on health services and the improvement of

shelters and reception centres for migrants and refugees; in addition, ensure

that the irregular migratory status of newborn children is not a barrier to their

registration (Ecuador);

155.259 Take urgent steps to guarantee the right of every child born on

German territory to be registered, irrespective of the migration status of their

parents (Philippines).

156. 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 Germany was headed by Dr. Bärbel Kofler, MP, Federal

Government Commissioner for Human Rights Policy and Humanitarian Aid Federal

Foreign Office, Berlin, composed of the following members:

• Dr. Ulrich Seidenberger, Ambassador, Deputy Permanent Representative,

Permanent Mission of Germany to the United Nations Office and other international

organizations in Geneva, Chargé d’Affaires a.i;

• Dr. Christophe Eick, Federal Foreign Office Coordinator for Sustainable

Development, Director for Human Rights, International Development and Social

Affairs Federal Foreign Office, Berlin;

• Ms. Susanne Fries-Gaier, Minister Counsellor, Permanent Mission of Germany to

the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva;

• Dr. Florian Rudolph, Deputy Head of Division, Division for Human Rights, Gender

Issues, Foreign Foreign Office, Berlin;

• Mr. Gunnar Schneider, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of Germany to the

United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva;

• Dr. Clemens Recker, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of Germany to the United

Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva;

• Dr. Hannah Rau, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of Germany to the United

Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva;

• Ms. Anja Kersten, Private Secretary to Dr. Kofler. Federal Foreign Office, Berlin;

• Mr. Reinhard Mecke, Second Secretary, Permanent Mission of Germany to the

United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva;

• Ms. Susan Tapella, Third Secretary, Permanent Mission of Germany to the United

Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva;

• Ms. Carmen Esser, Desk Officer Migration, Permanent Mission of Germany to the

United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva;

• Mr. Florian Hildebrandt, Press Officer, Permanent Mission of Germany to the

United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva;

• Mr. Jürgen Merz; Head of Division, Division for European Law, Public

International Law, Constitutional Law with Implications of European and Public

International Law, Federal Ministry of the Interior, Building and Community,

Berlin;

• Mr. Ulrich Weinbrenner, Head of Task Force, Task Force for Social Cohesion and

Integration, Federal Ministry of the Interior, Building and Community, Berlin;

• Mr. Oliver Beer, Desk Officer, Division for Human Rights, Federal Ministry of

Justice and Consumer Protection, Berlin;

• Mr. Torsten Einstmann, Head of Division, Division of the Implementation of the

UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, Focal Point, National

Action Plan, Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, Berlin;

• Mr. Mark Kamperhoff, Head of Division, Division of EU Coordination,

International Affairs, Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women

and Youth, Berlin;

• Ms. Nicole Herzog, Deputy Head of Division, Division for European and

International Gender Equality Policy, Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior

Citizens, Women and Youth, Berlin;

• Ms. Désirée Wittenberg, Desk Officer, European and Multilateral Affairs,

Secretariat of the Standing Conference of the Ministers of Education and Cultural

Affairs of the Lander in the Federal Republic of Germany, Berlin;

• Ms. Annika Schlesiger, Interpreter;

• Ms. Julia Wardetzki, Interpreter;

• Mr. Andreas Stefano, Advisor;

• Mr. Shayan Balali, Advisor, Permanent Mission of Germany to the United Nations

Office and other international organizations in Geneva;

• Ms. Meike Olszak, Advisor, Permanent Mission of Germany to the United Nations

Office and other international organizations in Geneva;

• Mr. Moritz Vorbeck, Advisor, Permanent Mission of Germany to the United Nations

Office and other international organizations in Geneva.