40/16 Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review - Congo

GE.18-22821 (E) 180119 180119



Human Rights Council Fortieth session

25 February–22 March 2019

Agenda item 6

Universal periodic review

Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review*

Congo

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

United Nations A/HRC/40/16

General Assembly Distr.: General 28 December 2018

English

Original: English/French

2 GE.18-22821

Introduction

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

with Human Rights Council resolution 5/1, held its thirty-first session from 5 to 16

November 2018. The review of the Congo was held at the 15th meeting, on 14 November

2018. The delegation of the Congo was headed by Jean-Claude Gakosso, Minister of

Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Congolese Abroad. At its 18th meeting, held on 16

November 2018, the Working Group adopted the report on the Congo.

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

rapporteurs (troika) to facilitate the review of the Congo: Côte d’Ivoire, Spain and Ukraine.

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

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

were issued for the review of the Congo:

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

paragraph 15 (a) (A/HRC/WG.6/31/COG/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.6/31/COG/2);

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

(A/HRC/WG.6/31/COG/3).

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

on behalf of the Group of Friends on national implementation, reporting and follow-up,

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

transmitted to the Congo 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 head of the Congolese delegation said that the national report to the third cycle

of the universal periodic review had been prepared in accordance with the OHCHR

guidance note. It described the implementation of the recommendations accepted during the

second cycle and presented the measures taken and progress made in that regard. A

validation workshop had been held with all State stakeholders and with civil society, which

had been involved from the beginning of the process.

6. Since the second cycle of the universal periodic review, the Congo had improved its

normative framework by ratifying the following instruments: the International Convention

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

Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and its Optional Protocol. The

ratification processes for the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Cooperation

in respect of Intercountry Adoption and the Optional Protocol to the Convention against

Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment were ongoing.

7. Since 2014, the following reports had been presented: a report on implementation of

the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or

Punishment, three reports on implementation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child

and the seventh report on implementation of the Convention on the Elimination of All

Forms of Discrimination against Women.

8. On a regional level, the Congo enjoyed cooperation and technical support from the

Subregional Centre for Human Rights and Democracy in Central Africa.

9. The Congo had launched an extensive project to amend a number of codes in order

to harmonize its national legislation with duly ratified international legal instruments on

GE.18-22821 3

human rights. In particular, this concerned the Criminal Code, the Code of Criminal

Procedure and the Family Code. Thus, the recommendations on establishing torture, human

trafficking, slavery, forced marriage and forced labour as criminal offences were fully

reflected in the various codes under review.

10. Abolition of the death penalty had been explicitly included in the Congolese

Constitution adopted by referendum in 2015, which represented a step towards ratification

of the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights,

aiming at the abolition of the death penalty.

11. The Constitution had established the following bodies: a National Dialogue Council,

a Women’s Advisory Council, an Advisory Council on Youth Affairs, a National Council

of Elders and an Advisory Council for Persons with Disabilities.

12. The Congo had also committed to revitalizing the National Human Rights

Commission by drafting a new law, Act No. 30-2018 of 7 August 2018.

13. With support from specialized United Nations institutions, the Congo was working

to implement a policy of promoting and protecting human rights based on principles such

as gender equality, non-discrimination and the elimination of violence against women.

Cooperation with international organizations had already taken shape through the signing of

frameworks and partnership agreements to combat gender-based violence and the

establishment of sectoral projects for women.

14. Gender-based violence, including domestic violence, was a regular topic of

awareness-raising campaigns and training workshops, including workshops for police

officers and gendarmes. In its efforts to empower women, the Government ensured

continuous support for income-generating activities through numerous actions conducted

throughout the national territory.

15. The draft family code, to be called the Family and Personal Code, had abolished all

provisions which discriminated against women with regard to inheritance and traditional

rites.

16. The State protected children against economic and social exploitation. Article 40 of

the Constitution, the Act of 14 June 2010 on child protection in the Republic of the Congo

and the Labour Code all strictly prohibited children under 16 from working.

17. Pending adoption of the bill on combating trafficking in persons, the Government,

specialized United Nations institutions and non-governmental organizations were taking

action to combat the scourge of trafficking in children through prevention, identification of

victims, reception and care, repatriation and reintegration.

18. Schooling was compulsory up to the age of 16. The right to education and equal

access to instruction and training were ensured for all Congolese children.

19. Vulnerable groups received a great deal of attention from the Government. Several

initiatives taken by the public authorities had resulted in action plans to promote and protect

persons with disabilities.

20. In addition to its efforts devoted to hosting refugees, the Congo had been faced in

the past few years with the internal displacement of populations in Pool department. The

Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees had put in place a

humanitarian response plan in 2017 in order to support the efforts of the Government.

21. An agreement on a ceasefire and the cessation of hostilities in Pool department had

been signed. In March 2018, a further humanitarian response plan had been launched. For

almost one year, peace had gradually been returning to the department and a disarmament,

demobilization and reintegration programme was under way.

22. Pursuant to the Act of 25 February 2011, the new Constitution had consolidated the

legal framework for the promotion and protection of the rights of indigenous peoples. In

order to reduce the inequalities and discrimination that threatened them, the Government

and its partners, including the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural

Organization (UNESCO), had already signed a Convention and developed action plans

aimed at improving the quality of life of indigenous peoples.

4 GE.18-22821

23. The Government remained convinced that economic development was a decisive

factor in safeguarding human rights. The vision for society outlined by President Denis

Sassou Nguesso, called “The Path to Development”, was part of a trend for strengthening

the promotion and protection of economic, social and cultural rights for the benefit of the

greatest number. The National Development Plan 2012–2016 and the National

Development Plan 2018–2022 faithfully reflected that agenda.

24. As part of its plan to foster employment and reduce poverty, the Government had

increased civil servants’ salaries between 2014 and 2017.

25. In the area of health, the Congo was in the process of developing universal health

coverage, a policy which had been established by Act No. 37-2014 of 27 June 2014 on a

universal health insurance system.

26. Since 2012, the Congo had acquired telecommunications infrastructure to connect

the country with information and communication technologies, via broadband Internet. In

the field of energy infrastructure, implementing the capacity-building programme for the

production, transport and distribution of electrical power had improved electricity provision.

27. Respect for human rights in the administration of justice and the prison system and

the independence of the judiciary had been considerably strengthened by the adoption of

Organic Act No. 29-2018 of 7 August 2018 on the organization, composition and

functioning of the Supreme Council of Justice. To speed up the process for training judges

and contribute to the proper administration of justice, the Congo had renewed its judicial

cooperation agreements with other countries.

28. Protection for witnesses to acts of torture was covered by the general provisions of

the draft code of criminal procedure.

29. The Congo had also undertaken a renovation and construction programme for prison

facilities as part of the National Development Plan 2012–2016.

30. The Congo would mobilize material and intellectual resources, particularly under the

new National Development Plan 2018–2022, as required for the effective implementation

of the recommendations that would be accepted under the third cycle of the universal

periodic review. The Congolese Parliament would be fully involved in that process. To that

end, the Government would request technical assistance from its partners to further promote

and consolidate human rights in the Congo.

B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review

31. During the interactive dialogue, 83 delegations made statements. Recommendations

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

32. Togo noted the adoption of a new constitution, which incorporated provisions from

international human rights instruments and abolished the death penalty. It welcomed

policies to facilitate access to health care and education.

33. Tunisia noted the adoption of the Constitution, the ratification of the Optional

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

Treatment or Punishment, and the steps taken to combat gender-based violence.

34. Turkey noted the signing of the ceasefire agreement and the adoption of the

Constitution. It hoped for the adoption and implementation of the draft Criminal Code.

35. Ukraine was concerned by the alleged detention of political opponents, the existence

of prisoners of conscience, the reported cases of torture, the continuation of the armed

conflict, and the fact that HIV/AIDS was the main cause of death.

36. The United Arab Emirates noted the efforts to protect the rights of the child. It also

noted the measures taken to increase access to education and health care, and to combat

child trafficking.

37. The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland expressed concern that

since 2015, the human rights situation had deteriorated. The Congo was encouraged to

GE.18-22821 5

ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political

Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty.

38. The United States of America was concerned by reports of cruel treatment by

security forces, arbitrary arrests and the holding of prisoners of conscience, the restrictions

on the freedoms of association and of peaceful assembly, and the inadequate anti-

trafficking legislation and enforcement efforts.

39. Paraguay welcomed the work done by institutions within the national framework for

the promotion and protection of human rights and expressed hope for the quick adoption of

the new penal code that would criminalize torture.

40. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela noted that the Constitution reaffirmed the

commitment to the values of peace and social cohesion, and expressed the need to build a

republic based on, inter alia, respect for human rights. It noted the ratification of several

international human rights instruments.

41. Viet Nam noted the implementation of several action plans on access to quality

education, poverty reduction and the rights of women and children. It also welcomed the

ratification of several international human rights instruments.

42. Mozambique commended the Congo on the ratification of some regional and

international human rights-related instruments, including the Convention on the Rights of

Persons with Disabilities. It welcomed the constitutional reform.

43. Afghanistan noted the ratification of several core international human rights

instruments, as well as the adoption of the national action plan to implement Security

Council resolution 1325 (2000) on women, peace and security.

44. Algeria commended the Congo for the efforts made to implement supported

recommendations from the previous review. It welcomed the strategies to reduce high rates

of maternal and infant mortality, improve the treatment of malnutrition and prevent malaria

infections.

45. Angola welcomed the initiatives taken to improve the quality of life of the people

and the measures taken for freedom of the press.

46. Argentina congratulated the Congo on abolishing the death penalty, as stipulated in

the Constitution. It noted efforts to improve women’s rights at the national level.

47. Armenia welcomed the abolition of the death penalty. It was concerned by the high

number of unregistered children and encouraged the Congo to facilitate birth registration.

48. Australia commended the abolition of the death penalty and acknowledged the

significant steps taken to end the conflict in the Pool region. It also noted that violence

against women and human trafficking remained significant challenges.

49. Belarus noted the efforts to improve legislation to protect human rights, including

the adoption of a new constitution and the proposed amendments to the Criminal Code. It

also noted the engagement by the Congo with the human rights treaty bodies and the United

Nations system.

50. Belgium congratulated the Congo on its follow-up to a group of recommendations

accepted during the second cycle, in particular the abolition of the death penalty.

51. Benin noted with satisfaction the ratification by the Congo of various international

human rights instruments, as well as different legislative and institutional reforms aimed at

protecting vulnerable groups.

52. The Plurinational State of Bolivia commended the Congo for ratifying several

international human rights treaties. It took note of the National Development Plan aimed at

supporting the activity of agricultural groups.

53. Botswana commended the Congo for ratifying international human rights

instruments and reforming its constitutional framework.

54. Brazil congratulated the Congo for its strategies aimed at reducing maternal and

child mortality, combating diseases and improving the treatment of malnutrition.

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55. Bulgaria highlighted the adoption by referendum of the new Constitution of the

Congo, and praised the legislation aimed at strengthening the National Human Rights

Commission.

56. Burkina Faso congratulated the Congo on the ratification of various international

human rights treaties and the good cooperation with the human rights mechanisms.

57. Burundi commended the Congo for reinforcing its normative and institutional

human rights framework, for the new Constitution and for the abolition of the death penalty.

58. Cameroon congratulated the Congo on the progress made in its normative and

institutional human rights framework and on the country’s willingness to promote human

rights.

59. Canada congratulated the Congo on the December 2017 accord ending the conflict

in the department of Pool and expressed its wish that the channels of political dialogue

would endure in order to achieve a wider democratic space.

60. The Central African Republic noted with satisfaction the participatory process of

elaboration of the national report of the Congo, which could presage the successful

implementation of the recommendations.

61. Chile commended the Congo for its constitutional and legislative reforms aimed at

protecting human rights and for its ratification of various international human rights treaties.

Chile was concerned about cases of torture, extrajudicial executions, and cases of arbitrary

detention.

62. China welcomed the National Development Plan 2018–2022 aimed at eradicating

poverty, and different plans for the promotion of gender equality and the rights of children

and persons with disabilities.

63. Côte d’Ivoire commended the Congo for the ratification of several international

human rights treaties, the new Constitution and the measures adopted aimed at improving

its normative and institutional framework.

64. Cuba recognized the efforts made by the Congo aimed at improving its institutional

framework, particularly in the areas of the rights of women, youth and persons with

disabilities.

65. The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea highlighted the importance given by the

Congo to the universal periodic review process, with a delegation of several ministers

related to justice, social affairs and women for its review.

66. The Democratic Republic of the Congo congratulated the Congo on the ratification

of different international human rights treaties and on its cooperation with the international

human rights mechanisms.

67. Denmark noted with satisfaction that the Congo had accepted recommendations to

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

Degrading Treatment or Punishment during its second universal periodic review cycle.

68. Djibouti welcomed the ratification by the Congo of international human rights

treaties, and efforts to strengthen its legal and institutional framework, in particular the

2015 Constitution which aimed at improving the rule of law.

69. Egypt commended the legislative reform, efforts to redress violence against women

and to promote gender equality and the rights of children and persons with disabilities, the

adoption of the National Development Plan 2018–2022, the ratification of treaties and the

cooperation by the Congo with human rights mechanisms.

70. Estonia encouraged the adoption of legislation to promote indigenous peoples’ rights,

and called upon the Congo to promote education on sexual and reproductive health and to

ensure access by women to health-care services. Estonia further encouraged the ratification

of the Agreement on the Privileges and Immunities of the International Criminal Court.

71. Ethiopia commended the progress made by the Congo in ratifying international

human rights treaties and strengthening legislation, including the Constitution of 2015.

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72. France acknowledged the ratification of human rights treaties and the abolition of

the death penalty in the 2015 Constitution. It noted, however, that additional efforts were

needed to improve economic and social rights.

73. The Congolese delegation provided additional information. There were currently no

hostilities on the territory of the Congo. The Pool region was at peace and the disarmament

and reintegration into society of the militias was under way. The humanitarian response

programme, which included recovery for persons returning to their places of origin, had

been launched. Displaced persons had been returning since the signing of the cessation of

hostilities agreement. Infrastructure and housing, social services and education and health

facilities were included in the Programme and their regeneration had begun.

74. The Congolese Government was working to improve detention conditions by

building prison facilities, and they would be still further improved by the ongoing

legislative reform process.

75. Following the adoption of the 2015 Constitution, the Government had committed

itself to overhauling the system for human rights protection and promotion on a national

level.

76. The rights of indigenous peoples were addressed under a policy of positive

discrimination. The Government had embarked upon a wide-ranging reform and had issued

many decrees to improve their status.

77. The death penalty had been abolished by the 2015 Constitution. The Government

had adopted an act that would enshrine the abolition in law and would enable ratification of

the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights,

aiming at the abolition of the death penalty.

78. The current Criminal Code guaranteed the independence of the justice system,

progress towards fair trials and due process. The Government had presented a bill on

establishing a completely independent and separate high authority to combat corruption.

79. Efforts in awareness-raising, identification, repatriation and care for child victims of

trafficking had been stepped up. Tripartite meetings with the other countries affected had

been held, since the issue involved nationals of other countries who were resident in the

Congo.

80. Despite the current financial difficulties, a social security safety net was in place to

improve living conditions for people living in extreme poverty and to put an end to its

intergenerational transmission. Under a pilot programme, a cash grant had begun to be

distributed to identified families, to support schooling for children, health care and food

consumption.

81. The Congo had launched a project to build rehabilitation centres for victims of

violence, including women living with HIV. The bill on sexual violence was in the process

of adoption. The draft family and personal code covered discrimination and stigmatization,

the situation of widows and the recognition of customary marriage to ensure inheritance

rights for widows.

82. Regarding violence during periods of conflict, the Congo had hosted a meeting of

the United Nations Regional Office for Central Africa on the subject of drafting a regional

action plan for the implementation of Security Council resolution 1325 (2000).

83. Gabon commended the Congo for the reforms to promote and protect the rights of

women, children and persons with disabilities, and welcomed measures for the protection

of the environment. Gabon also welcomed the reform of the Penal Code, in particular the

special protection granted to widows and widowers.

84. Georgia welcomed the ratification by the Congo of human rights treaties, and efforts

deployed to strengthen its legal framework to promote and protect human rights, notably

the introduction of article 8, paragraph 4, in the Constitution, abolishing the death penalty.

85. Germany commended the Congo for abolishing the death penalty in its 2015

Constitution, and for the judicial sector dialogue held between the European Union and the

Congo in April 2018, which Germany hoped would be followed by further dialogues.

8 GE.18-22821

86. Ghana commended the Congo for prioritizing the mainstreaming of human rights

into its legislative framework and development agenda, as well as for the progress made to

promote and protect the rights of women, children, migrant workers and persons with

disabilities.

87. Honduras welcomed the ceasefire agreement to put an end to the crisis in the Pool

region, the establishment of the Directorate General for the Promotion of Indigenous

Peoples, political actions to redress violence against women, and the national action plan to

implement Security Council resolution 1325 (2000).

88. Iceland welcomed the ceasefire agreement to end the crisis in the Pool region. It

regretted that the Constitution did not include a general prohibition of discrimination,

including for the protection of the human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and

intersex persons.

89. India appreciated the introduction of universal health coverage in the Congo,

particularly the initiative to secure universal access to emergency health care. India

encouraged the Congo to combat child labour effectively.

90. Indonesia acknowledged the ratification by the Congo of the International

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

Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and the country’s commitment to

initiate the new National Development Plan 2018–2022 to improve economic, social and

cultural rights.

91. The Islamic Republic of Iran welcomed the ratification of human rights treaties,

including the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. It noted that, despite

challenges, the Congo continued to strengthen its policies to promote and protect children’s

rights.

92. Iraq appreciated the inclusive approach taken in the preparation of the report, the

ratification of human rights treaties, steps taken to reform institutions and legislation, and

the actions plans developed with the assistance of the United Nations.

93. Ireland commended the abolition of the death penalty and urged the Government to

reinforce the mandate of the National Human Rights Commission in conformity with the

principles relating to the status of national institutions for the promotion and protection of

human rights (the Paris Principles). Ireland remained concerned by reports of a crackdown

on civil society space.

94. Italy welcomed the abolition of the death penalty in the Constitution and the

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

95. Jordan welcomed the adoption in 2015 of a new constitution, the ratification of

international human rights treaties, and efforts to promote international cooperation. Jordan

also welcomed the commitment by the Congo to improve human rights and fundamental

freedoms.

96. The Lao People’s Democratic Republic commended the progress made in

implementing the recommendations accepted in the second universal periodic review cycle,

including the promotion and protection of children’s rights and the rights of persons with

disabilities.

97. Latvia encouraged the Government to make further efforts to fulfil its human rights

commitments and obligations.

98. Lebanon noted the constructive dialogue with civil society organizations, and the

incorporation of international instruments into domestic legislation, confirmed by the

adoption of the 2015 Constitution and the 2018–2022 action plan.

99. Lesotho commended the participatory and inclusive approach to preparing the

national report and noted with satisfaction that the Congo had ratified a number of core

international human rights instruments.

GE.18-22821 9

100. Libya commended developments in the administration of justice, and in supporting

citizens’ freedoms and rights, cooperating with international and regional human rights

mechanisms and ratifying treaties.

101. Madagascar noted progress achieved, despite difficulties, such as the promulgation

of the 2015 Constitution, guaranteeing the rights of all children to education, and equal

access to teaching and training without discrimination.

102. Maldives welcomed the strategies of the Congo to reduce the high maternal and

child mortality rates, and efforts made to improve the treatment of malnutrition and to

reduce malaria.

103. Mali noted the remarkable progress that the Congo had made regarding the

participation of women in political and public life and the strengthening of their

representation in decision-making positions.

104. Mauritania welcomed the ratification by the Congo of several international human

rights instruments and noted the progress achieved in the protection of persons with

disabilities.

105. Mauritius congratulated the Congo for its close cooperation with international and

regional human rights mechanisms and noted the ratification of the Convention on the

Rights of Persons with Disabilities and its Optional Protocol.

106. Mexico was concerned about the persistence of exploitation and sexual violence

affecting children, the lack of systematic investigation of such cases, and the persistence of

some forms of slavery and trafficking.

107. Montenegro urged the Congo to take effective measures to investigate all acts of

torture, and prosecute and punish those responsible, and to work decisively to prevent such

acts.

108. Zimbabwe noted the reform of the Constitution in 2015, the creation of national

bodies which contributed to a strong institutional framework to protect human rights, and

the adoption of the National Development Plan 2018–2022.

109. The Netherlands was concerned about the lack of implementation of several gender-

related universal periodic review recommendations accepted in 2013, in particular those

relating to female genital mutilation.

110. The Niger noted the ratification of international human rights instruments, and

welcomed the establishment of several institutions in charge of protecting the rights of

vulnerable persons.

111. Nigeria commended the Congo for its concerted efforts to ensure the protection of

the rights of vulnerable groups, especially women and children, as well as persons with

disabilities.

112. Uruguay encouraged the Congo to continue with the ratification of human rights

conventions, particularly the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and Other

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

for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance.

113. The Philippines welcomed the approval of a national action plan to implement

Security Council resolution 1325 (2000) on women, peace and security, and Government’s

efforts in developing curricula and manuals for teaching civic education at primary and

secondary school.

114. Portugal expressed satisfaction in regard to the ceasefire between the Government

and armed groups which was aimed at ending the crisis in the Pool region, and encouraged

the Congo to find a remedy for all those individuals illegally detained.

115. Rwanda encouraged the Congo to strengthen measures to combat domestic violence

and violence against women, including through the implementation of relevant legislation

to ensure justice for the victims.

10 GE.18-22821

116. Senegal welcomed the establishment of a committee for coordination, evaluation

and follow-up in respect of the national plan of action on persons with disabilities,

especially the schooling of children with disabilities.

117. Serbia welcomed the important role that the National Human Rights Commission

and other human rights bodies were entrusted with by the new Constitution.

118. Sierra Leone noted the implementation of Security Council resolution 1325 (2000)

on women, peace and security, and encouraged the Government to consider reforming its

Code of Criminal Procedure to raise the minimum age of criminal responsibility.

119. Slovenia commended the reform of the National Human Rights Commission, but

remained concerned about the lack of implementation of recommendations on the rights of

vulnerable groups.

120. South Africa welcomed the efforts to reform the national regulatory framework,

including reform of the Constitution, and commended the efforts to reduce the high

maternal and child mortality rates.

121. Spain noted efforts to improve the human rights situation, but remained concerned

by violence against women and domestic violence, as well as violations of children’s rights,

particularly those related to children in street situations.

122. The State of Palestine noted policies aimed at strengthening the rights of children,

including the right to education, and encouraged the Congo to take further steps regarding

the rights of indigenous peoples.

123. The Sudan commended the efforts for national legislative reforms, such as the new

Constitution, as well as the implementation of recommendations from the previous cycle of

the universal periodic review.

124. Haiti welcomed efforts made by the Government to improve the economic, social

and cultural rights of the Congolese.

125. The Congolese delegation stressed that article 25 of the Constitution reaffirmed as a

fundamental freedom the right to disseminate any information or opinion and the necessity

for the State to ensure that information was provided to the public through legal

mechanisms. No journalist had been imprisoned or harassed merely for doing his or her job

for more than 20 years.

126. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons regularly participated in all sex

education activities and had contributed to drafting the National Strategic Plan to combat

HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases for the period 2018–2022.

127. All criminal acts committed by Congolese citizens on peacekeeping missions

outside the country were subject to sanctions.

128. The Congo had had an interactive dialogue with European Union member States on

compliance with time limits for detention and prison conditions. That dialogue had also

been extended to civil society, which was free and regularly worked with public authorities.

129. Since 2015, the Congo had seen a dramatic transformation in its domestic legislation

with the adoption of its new Constitution, which had abolished the death penalty and had

established gender parity and consultative bodies aimed at achieving social peace. It was

also reinforcing checks and balances and reaffirming fundamental freedoms, particularly

freedom of belief.

II. Conclusions and/or recommendations

130. The response of the Congo to these recommendations will be included in the

outcome report adopted by the Human Rights Council at its fortieth session:

130.1 Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on

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

(Estonia) (France) (Portugal) (Togo);

GE.18-22821 11

130.2 Proceed to the ratification of the Second Optional Protocol to the

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

the death penalty (Georgia);

130.3 Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on

Civil and Political Rights and work to eliminate references to the death penalty

in the Criminal Code (Paraguay);

130.4 Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on

Civil and Political Rights, bearing in mind that Congo stopped applying the

death penalty (Chile);

130.5 Speed up the process of ratifying the Optional Protocol to the

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

the death penalty (Montenegro);

130.6 Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on

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

consequent to the abolishment of the death penalty in the Constitution

(Germany);

130.7 Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on

Civil and Political Rights, and introduce a bill on the abolition of the death

penalty in Congo to the National Assembly and pursue awareness-raising

activities among the Congolese population (Slovenia);

130.8 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and

other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Denmark);

130.9 Speed up the process for depositing the instrument of ratification of

the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel,

Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Georgia);

130.10 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and

Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment; and establish a

national mechanism for the prevention of torture and improve its system for

registering persons deprived of their liberty (Paraguay);

130.11 Ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons

from Enforced Disappearance (Argentina) (France) (Sierra Leone);

130.12 Consider ratification of the International Convention for the

Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (Tunisia);

130.13 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of

All Forms of Discrimination against Women (Denmark) (Montenegro);

130.14 Consider acceding to the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the

Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (Côte d’Ivoire)/

Consider acceding to the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on

Economic, Social and Cultural Rights at the earliest convenience (Ghana);

130.15 Ratify the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the

Crime of Genocide (Armenia);

130.16 Consider ratifying the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment

of the Crime of Genocide (Rwanda);

130.17 Accede to the United Nations Convention against Transnational

Organized Crime and its 2000 protocol on trafficking in persons (United

Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland);

130.18 Consider the possibility of ratifying the Protocol to Prevent, Suppress

and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children,

supplementing the United Nations Convention against Transnational

Organized Crime (Belarus);

12 GE.18-22821

130.19 Ratify the Convention of the International Labour Organization

concerning decent work for domestic workers (No. 189) (Benin);

130.20 Study the possibility of adhering to the International Labour

Organization (ILO) Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention (No. 169)

(Plurinational State of Bolivia);

130.21 Expedite their ratification of the 1954 Convention relating to the

Status of Stateless Persons, and the 1961 Convention on the Reduction of

Statelessness (Sierra Leone);

130.22 Consider ratifying the 1954 Convention relating to the Status of

Stateless Persons (Mozambique);

130.23 Complete the process of ratification of international instruments

(Egypt);

130.24 Accelerate the process of ratification of the Optional Protocol to the

Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading

Treatment or Punishment, of the International Convention for the Protection

of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance, and of the Optional Protocol to

the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against

Women and the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic,

Social and Cultural Rights (Portugal);

130.25 Ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons

from Enforced Disappearance; the Convention on the Prevention and

Punishment of the Crime of Genocide; the 1954 Convention relating to the

Status of Stateless Persons; the ILO Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention,

1989 (No. 169); the Protocol to Prevent, Supress and Punish Trafficking in

Persons, Especially Women and Children, supplementing the United Nations

Convention against Transnational Organized Crime; and the multilateral

agreement on regional cooperation in the fight against trafficking in persons,

especially women and children (Honduras);

130.26 Comply with the recommendations of its second universal periodic

review and accelerate the ratification process of the recommended conventions

(Democratic Republic of the Congo);

130.27 Consider the extension of a standing invitation to all special

procedure mandate holders of the Human Rights Council, as previously

recommended (Latvia);

130.28 Strengthen its cooperation with treaty bodies (Niger);

130.29 Ensure that national candidates to United Nations human rights

treaty body elections are selected through an open and merit-based process

(United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland);

130.30 Keep mobilizing resources and seek necessary international support

to enhance its capacity to protect and promote human rights (Nigeria);

130.31 Continue the reform of its national legal framework for ensuring its

compliance with the provisions of the international and regional human rights

instruments (Afghanistan);

130.32 Continue to strengthen its legal and institutional frameworks for the

promotion and protection of human rights (Nigeria);

130.33 Finalize the reform process of its internal normative framework

(Democratic Republic of the Congo);

130.34 Step up the efforts of revising and drafting legal codes to strengthen

the rule of law and associations (Ethiopia);

130.35 Continue measures to strengthen human rights institutions

(Cameroon);

GE.18-22821 13

130.36 Continue to strengthen the existing National Commission for Human

Rights (Indonesia);

130.37 Provide the Human Rights Commission with sufficient financial

resources, autonomy and independence to be able to align with the Paris

Principles (Chile);

130.38 Strengthen the capacities of the National Human Rights Commission

so that it complies with the Paris Principles (Niger);

130.39 Allow the National Commission for Human Rights and Fundamental

Freedoms to function effectively (Senegal);

130.40 Bring the National Human Rights Commission into conformity with

the Paris Principles, provide for a sufficient budget for its operation, guarantee

the institutional independence of that body and give it competence to bring

cases before the courts (Portugal);

130.41 Speed up the reform of the National Human Rights Commission with

a view to ensuring its good functioning and full independence, in line with the

Paris Principles (Djibouti);

130.42 Ensure the effective functioning of dialogue forums with civil society,

such as the National Human Rights Commission (France);

130.43 Take the necessary measures to strengthen the protection component

of the new law on the National Human Rights Commission and bring it into

compliance with the Paris Principles (Georgia);

130.44 Ensure the accreditation of the National Human Rights Commission

with A status to the United Nations (Mali);

130.45 Harmonize the National Human Rights Commission in accordance

with the Paris Principles (Mexico);

130.46 Take steps to establish a mechanism for monitoring children’s rights

with the capacity to receive, investigate and address complaints by children in a

child-sensitive manner (Ghana);

130.47 Consider the establishment of an independent child rights oversight

mechanism, and take additional measures to reduce disparities in access to

school and other public goods related to gender or socioeconomic, ethnic or

regional reasons, paying particular attention to refugee children (Brazil);

130.48 Consider establishing a specific human rights mechanism,

independent and in full compliance with the Paris Principles, to protect the

rights of the child, potentially within the framework of the national human

rights institution (Netherlands);

130.49 Establish a specific mechanism for supervising the rights of the child,

able to receive, investigate and handle complaints in a child-sensitive manner

and to make systematic, adequate and effective efforts to remedy

discrimination against children living in rural areas (Portugal);

130.50 Strengthen the national system for the promotion and protection of

human rights, including by intensifying efforts to prevent and combat arbitrary

detention and torture (Italy);

130.51 Continue to implement measures aimed at strengthening democracy,

the rule of law and good governance, with a view to improving the quality of

public services and combating corruption more effectively (Angola);

130.52 Strengthen institutional capacities to detect, investigate and prosecute

corruption effectively (Botswana);

130.53 Investigate, prosecute and sentence, as appropriate, Congolese staff

members who have been or are involved in allegations of abuse and criminality,

including sexual exploitation, as part of peacekeeping operations (Haiti);

14 GE.18-22821

130.54 Advance the implementation of the Pool pacification agreement,

strengthen measures to support the population and facilitate the reintegration

of ex-combatants (Spain);

130.55 Continue the implementation of initiatives on human rights

awareness-raising, education and training (Philippines);

130.56 Provide human rights training to law enforcement officials to ensure

that police operations are conducted in accordance with human rights

standards and international commitments undertaken by Congo (Central

African Republic);

130.57 Continue providing human rights training for security apparatus and

law enforcement officers to better promote and protect human rights

(Indonesia);

130.58 Provide human rights training to law enforcement personnel and

ensure that police operations are conducted in accordance with human rights

principles and standards and the international commitments of the country

(Portugal);

130.59 Provide the necessary training to judges and strengthen institutional

capacities (Jordan);

130.60 Pursue efforts to achieve gender equality (Tunisia);

130.61 Fight against forms of discrimination on the ground of sexual

orientation and gender identity (France);

130.62 Criminalize acts of violence and discrimination on the basis of sexual

orientation and gender identity (Iceland);

130.63 Strengthen measures to further protect persons with albinism and

eliminate all forms of discrimination they face (Sierra Leone);

130.64 Continue to improve the basic infrastructure to fully support the

enjoyment of human rights in line with the implementation of the National

Development Plan (Indonesia);

130.65 Continue to promote economic, social and cultural rights through the

implementation of its National Development Plan (Lao People’s Democratic

Republic);

130.66 Continue to implement the National Development Plan 2018–2022, in

order to reduce poverty, promote employment, and enhance economic and

social development, so as to provide a solid basis for the enjoyment of all

human rights by the people (China);

130.67 Continue to consolidate its social and human rights policies through

the National Development Plan 2018–2022, in order to increase the quality of

life of its people, particularly of the most vulnerable sectors of the population

(Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);

130.68 Continue efforts to implement the National Development Plan 2018–

2022 (Sudan);

130.69 Establish mechanisms as soon as possible to ensure transparent and

accountable management in the extractive industries sector (Haiti);

130.70 Revise the Penal Code in order to harmonize it with the provisions of

the Constitution abolishing the death penalty (Belgium);

130.71 Abolish legally the death penalty, establish a de jure moratorium on

its application, and ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International

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

penalty (Ukraine);

GE.18-22821 15

130.72 Amend its Criminal Code to align it with the constitutional abolition

of the death penalty, and ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the

International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Australia);

130.73 Abolish the death penalty for all crimes and accede to the Second

Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights,

aiming at the abolition of the death penalty (Iceland);

130.74 Adopt the necessary laws to enforce the abolition of the death penalty,

and ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil

and Political Rights (Spain);

130.75 Introduce legislation to remove any reference to the death penalty in

the Penal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure and ratify as soon as

possible the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil

and Political Right, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty (Ireland);

130.76 Take concrete measures to introduce a moratorium on the use of the

death penalty, with a view towards its total abolition (Rwanda);

130.77 Take appropriate measures to ensure that all allegations of enforced

disappearance, torture, ill-treatment and death in prison are promptly,

thoroughly and impartially investigated and that the perpetrators are convicted,

while guaranteeing the rights of victims and their families to justice, reparation

and guarantees of non-repetition (Brazil);

130.78 Investigate fully the death of 13 juveniles in a police station in

Brazzaville in July 2018 and prosecute the persons responsible (Germany);

130.79 Take effective measures to ensure that fundamental legal safeguards

to protect persons arrested by law enforcement officials are respected

(Portugal);

130.80 Adopt measures to eradicate human rights violations committed by

security forces, especially extrajudicial executions, arbitrary detention and

torture (Canada);

130.81 Take effective measures to investigate all alleged acts of torture, and

ensure that perpetrators are brought to account (Ghana);

130.82 Take the necessary steps to ensure that all cases of enforced

disappearance and torture are investigated and that those responsible for these

human rights violations are brought to justice (Belgium);

130.83 Investigate cases of enforced disappearance and punish their

perpetrators (Argentina);

130.84 Continue efforts to improve human rights conditions in prisons and

places of detention through institutional reform and international cooperation

(Lebanon);

130.85 Continue the implementation of a strategy to reduce prison

overcrowding and improve living conditions in prisons (Cameroon);

130.86 Continue the efforts begun to reduce prison overcrowding and

strengthen the resources available to penitentiary institutions (Senegal);

130.87 Redouble efforts to relieve prison pressure and generally improve

detention conditions in places of detention (Burundi);

130.88 Ensure that the police, the army or the Directorate General of

Territory Surveillance and the gendarmerie refrain from imprisoning detainees

longer than the 72-hour limit stipulated in article 48 of the Criminal Code of

Procedure and grant human rights monitors access to detention centres

(Germany);

130.89 Ensure effective respect for the right to a fair trial, in particular

respect for the rights of the defence (France);

16 GE.18-22821

130.90 Continue strengthening the independence of the judiciary

(Cameroon);

130.91 Take action to investigate and prosecute perpetrators of human

rights abuses during the conflict, with a view to ensuring full accountability

(Australia);

130.92 Set up an independent commission of justice, truth and reconciliation

to shed light on the events that took place in Pool from April 2016 to December

2017 (Canada);

130.93 Adopt concrete measures to ensure access to a fair trial for all within

a reasonable time, strengthen the independence of the judiciary and strengthen

mechanisms to combat impunity (Canada);

130.94 Repeal laws that criminalize adultery and enact comprehensive

legislation making domestic violence and all forms of human trafficking illegal

(Australia);

130.95 Include a definition of torture in the Criminal Code, which fully

incorporates article 1 of the Convention against Torture, within this universal

periodic review cycle (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland);

130.96 Include a concrete definition of torture according to the Convention

against Torture in the Criminal Code and take effective measures to ensure the

prosecution of all perpetrators of any form of ill-treatment (Germany);

130.97 Release all remaining prisoners of conscience, investigate reports of

abuses by security forces and deaths of persons in detention, and take effective

measures to ensure fair trial guarantees for all individuals (United States of

America);

130.98 Take all necessary measures to promote and protect a safe and

enabling environment in which both civil society and human rights defenders

can operate free from fear, hindrance and insecurity (Ireland);

130.99 Guarantee the exercise of the rights to freedom of expression,

association and peaceful assembly, in compliance with international law (Italy);

130.100 Continue dialogue with national institutions, civil society, partners

and all relevant stakeholders in the field of human rights in order to promote

participation (Jordan);

130.101 Revise laws regarding freedom of association and peaceful assembly

to ensure they are consistent with your international obligations and

commitments (United States of America);

130.102 Refrain from imposing restrictions on telecommunication networks

and restricting access to the Internet, including social networks and email sites,

to guarantee the rights to freedom of expression and access to information

(Belgium);

130.103 Continue improving the infrastructure of communication networks

(Cameroon);

130.104 Strengthen efforts to combat trafficking in persons, especially women

and children, including by improving national legislation and law enforcement

practices (Belarus);

130.105 Continue efforts to combat trafficking in persons, including the

examination of the draft law on trafficking in persons (Tunisia);

130.106 Enact comprehensive anti-trafficking legislation that criminalizes all

forms of trafficking and prescribes sufficiently stringent penalties (United

States of America);

130.107 Continue the adoption process of the bill against trafficking in

persons (Gabon);

GE.18-22821 17

130.108 Strengthen efforts to combat trafficking in persons (Iraq);

130.109 Continue to strengthen national mechanisms, with a focus on

eliminating human trafficking (Maldives);

130.110 Take all necessary measures to eradicate all forms of slavery and

human trafficking (Central African Republic);

130.111 Continue the adoption process of the draft persons and family code

(Gabon);

130.112 Pursue the implementation of the plan for the promotion of

employment and poverty reduction (Sudan);

130.113 Continue the necessary measures to reduce poverty (Viet Nam);

130.114 Continue the implementation of the poverty reduction strategy and

maternal and infant mortality programmes (Cameroon);

130.115 Continue efforts to reduce poverty, and to improve the health system

to improve indicators such as infant and maternal mortality and the incidence

of communicable diseases (Cuba);

130.116 Better fight against extreme poverty and improve the functioning of

the basic social services (France);

130.117 Strengthen its education and health system, especially in isolated

localities (Côte d’Ivoire);

130.118 Increase the resources devoted to the health and education sectors

(Togo);

130.119 Continue its efforts to support the health and education sectors,

eliminate violence against women and support persons with disabilities (Libya);

130.120 Continue efforts to establish universal health coverage (Viet Nam);

130.121 Continue to develop medical and health services to better safeguard

the right to health by the people (China);

130.122 Improve its efforts in the public health service, namely for women

and children (Islamic Republic of Iran);

130.123 Continue efforts aimed at introducing universal health coverage in

the country (South Africa);

130.124 Step up its efforts to realize universal health coverage and engage in

experience-sharing with other countries on prevention of epidemic diseases

(Democratic People’s Republic of Korea);

130.125 Improve health-care facilities and follow-up treatment for infected

mothers and infants to reduce the number of HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis cases

(India);

130.126 Take further measures to ensure access to treatment for people living

with HIV/AIDS (Lesotho);

130.127 Improve treatment for HIV/AIDS infected persons, and ensure early

diagnosis and the immediate initiation of treatment, particularly for

adolescents (Ukraine);

130.128 Intensify efforts to combat HIV/AIDS, including through the possible

development and implementation of a comprehensive national programme

(Belarus);

130.129 Strengthen its efforts for ensuring access to inclusive education for all

children, particularly for vulnerable groups including indigenous and poor

children, girls and children with disabilities (Afghanistan);

18 GE.18-22821

130.130 Continue its efforts to provide equitable and quality education for all

children while consolidating the compulsory education system (Democratic

People’s Republic of Korea);

130.131 Explicitly guarantee equitable and inclusive access to education for

all and prohibit discrimination in the education sector (Armenia);

130.132 Continue its efforts in strengthening the constitutional provisions

relating to education and ensure equitable and inclusive access to education for

all without discrimination (State of Palestine);

130.133 Continue improving the school enrolment rate (Cameroon);

130.134 Continue working to improve the education system, in particular to

expand access in rural areas and the continuity of girls’ studies (Cuba);

130.135 Maintain and reinforce all measures aimed at strengthening the right

to education for all and promote increased access of girls to primary school

(Djibouti);

130.136 Continue to revise national legislation to enhance women’s rights

(Egypt);

130.137 Complete the drafting and adoption of the bill on violence against

women (Gabon);

130.138 Enact additional legislation aimed at eliminating violence against

women (Iraq);

130.139 Further strengthen efforts in preventing and combating gender-based

violence (Philippines);

130.140 Give continuity to the processing of the draft bill to combat violence

against women (Plurinational State of Bolivia);

130.141 Implement all necessary measures to reinforce gender equality,

revoking all legislation that contravenes the promotion of women (Angola);

130.142 Adopt measures that fully enforce legal provisions for the protection

of women and girls, and provide adequate services to victims (Spain);

130.143 Continue legislative guarantees to ensure the protection and

promotion of the rights of women (Philippines);

130.144 Reinforce the equality of men and women by modernizing the divorce

law and penalizing rape in marriage (Germany);

130.145 Continue its policy of eliminating inequalities among men and women,

taking the necessary measures to increase the participation of women in

political and public life (Djibouti);

130.146 Strengthen the participation of women in political and public life and

their representation in decision-making bodies (Ethiopia);

130.147 Work on increasing the participation of women in public life and

representation in decision-making bodies (Zimbabwe);

130.148 Strengthen efforts on the empowerment of women, including their

representation in decision-making bodies, and provide enhanced support to

rural women (South Africa);

130.149 Continue efforts to combat violence against women including the

examination of the draft law prohibiting such violence (Tunisia);

130.150 Adopt a comprehensive law punishing all forms of violence against

women, including marital rape, female genital mutilation, and sexual abuse and

exploitation of women in prison and in conflict areas (Iceland);

GE.18-22821 19

130.151 Take the necessary measures to establish a prohibition of female

genital mutilation, and guarantee adequate and effective protection against all

forms of discrimination against women (Argentina);

130.152 Adopt a comprehensive law to prosecute all forms of violence against

women, including marital rape, female genital mutilation, and sexual abuse and

exploitation of women in prison and in conflict areas (Ukraine);

130.153 Combat gender-based discrimination and violence, including marital

rape and female genital mutilation (Estonia);

130.154 Adopt and implement a comprehensive law addressing and outlining

punishment for all forms of violence against women, including early and forced

marriage, female genital mutilation, marital rape and sexual abuse

(Netherlands);

130.155 Quickly adopt the new national codes setting out important

provisions in the areas of equality among women and men and the fight against

torture (France);

130.156 Approve a general law to combat and eliminate all forms of violence

against women, including spousal rape and female genital mutilation

(Paraguay);

130.157 Continue the fight against all forms of discrimination and violence

against women, including marital rape and female genital mutilation (Algeria);

130.158 Strengthen the implementation of existing measures to prevent and

eliminate all forms of discrimination and sexual violence against women and

girls (Canada);

130.159 Undertake steps to eliminate widespread violence against women and

children (Armenia);

130.160 Take steps to eradicate all forms of discrimination and violence

against women and children (Italy);

130.161 Continue implementation of policies to encourage the sustainable

economic empowerment of women, in particular in rural areas (Bulgaria);

130.162 Continue efforts to improve the education system, ensuring quality

education for all and especially persons with special needs and indigenous

people (Lebanon);

130.163 Continue efforts to promote children’s rights without discrimination

(Tunisia);

130.164 Intensify efforts to eliminate discrimination against children (Iraq);

130.165 Strengthen existing policies designed to promote and protect

children’s rights (Zimbabwe);

130.166 Take effective measures to protect children from torture and other

cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment, investigate all reported cases and

prosecute those responsible (Algeria);

130.167 Take additional steps to protect the rights of children, including birth

registration, and ensure increased access to education and health-care services

(Belarus);

130.168 Intensify child registration, increase the number of schools and

promote education programmes in rural areas that are difficult to reach

(United Arab Emirates);

130.169 Redouble efforts to strengthen the birth registration system so that it

is universal, efficient and accessible and promotes immediate registration

without discrimination due to gender, ethnic or national origin, and disability,

among others (Mexico);

20 GE.18-22821

130.170 Protect vulnerable children from discrimination, especially children

with albinism (Botswana);

130.171 Develop a comprehensive national strategy to prevent and address all

forms of violence against children (Bulgaria);

130.172 Adopt a national strategy to prevent and combat all forms of violence

and exploitation against children, including campaigns to raise awareness of

children’s rights at all levels of society (Chile);

130.173 Prevent and address violence against children, including ensuring

protection of children from corporal punishment in all settings, including in the

home (Estonia);

130.174 Adopt measures to combat violations of children’s rights, particularly

with regard to street children, who suffer abuse, including sexual abuse, and

eliminate all discrimination against them (Spain);

130.175 Set up a strategy to fight sexual exploitation and violence towards

children, in particular girls (Madagascar);

130.176 Take necessary measures to protect children against torture and

other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment (Madagascar);

130.177 Formulate long-term universal public policies to guarantee free

access for all children to schools and health services, with strategies to prevent

the school dropout of girls throughout the country (Mexico);

130.178 Develop outreach campaigns, carry out monitoring actions and

ensure access to justice so that the law relating to the protection of children,

which prohibits corporal punishment, is effective in putting an end to all forms

of physical, verbal or psychological violence exercised against girls and boys

(Uruguay);

130.179 Adopt specific measures to prevent and combat the sexual

exploitation of children and adolescents, the early marriage of girls and forced

labour throughout the national territory, with special emphasis on the regions

of the country where these phenomena prevail (Uruguay);

130.180 Continue taking adequate measures to reduce poverty and

deprivation levels so that children could enjoy an adequate standard of living,

particularly with respect to access to safe drinking water and sanitation,

housing and education (Serbia);

130.181 Continue to strengthen its national policies to further promote and

protect children’s rights and the rights of persons with disabilities (Lao

People’s Democratic Republic);

130.182 Adopt appropriate assistance programmes with regard to the

rehabilitation and social integration of child soldiers (Paraguay);

130.183 Continue its endeavours to improve economic, social and cultural

rights, particularly on child rights protection (Islamic Republic of Iran);

130.184 Take practical measures to encourage the inclusion of children with

disabilities in the mainstream education system (Maldives);

130.185 Continue measures to promote the inclusion of children with

disabilities in the mainstream education system and in society (Côte d’Ivoire);

130.186 Redouble its efforts to put in place appropriate support measures for

children with disabilities and measures to facilitate access to public buildings

for persons with disabilities (Mauritius);

130.187 Implement programmes to raise public awareness on the rights of

persons with disabilities, and increase financial and material support to

specialized institutions (Angola);

GE.18-22821 21

130.188 Conduct public awareness campaigns and take further steps to

implement the National Action Plan for Persons with Disabilities (Bulgaria);

130.189 In follow-up to the recommendations in paragraphs 112.19 and

112.20 of the report of the Working Group, accepted in the second cycle

(A/HRC/25/16), implement the National Plan of Action for Persons with

Disabilities, of 2009, as soon as possible, with adequate human and financial

resources (Haiti);

130.190 Finalize the adoption of the draft decrees on the national strategy on

indigenous issues (South Africa);

130.191 Take further steps to combat discrimination, and stereotypes of

which indigenous people are victims, and promote a climate of respect and

tolerance among all (State of Palestine);

130.192 Step up efforts in updating the protection framework for refugees

and asylum seekers (Lesotho);

130.193 Continue its implementation of the cessation clause for Rwandan

refugees (Rwanda);

130.194 Continue to take measures promoting women’s rights and ensuring

gender equality (Lebanon).

131. 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.

22 GE.18-22821

Annex

Composition of the delegation

The delegation of the Republic of the Congo was headed by His Excellency Mr.

Jean-Claude Gakosso, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Congolese Abroad and

composed of the following members:

• Monsieur Thierry Lezin MOUNGALLA, Ministre de la Communication et des Médias;

• Monsieur Ange Aimé BININGA, Ministre de la Justice, des Droits Humains et de la Promotion des Peuples Autochtones;

• Madame Antoinette DINGA DZONDO, Ministre des Affaires Sociales et de l’Action Humanitaire;

• Madame Inès Nefer Bertille INGANI, Ministre de la Promotion de la Femme et de l’Intégration de la Femme au Développement;

• Monsieur Jean Rodrigues MVOUMA, Sénateur;

• Monsieur Accel NDINGA MAKANDA, Député;

• Monsieur Fernand SABAYE, Député;

• Monsieur Mathurin MFALI, Député;

• Monsieur Cyprien Sylvestre MAMINA, Secrétaire Général du Ministère des Affaires Etrangères, de la Coopération et des Congolais de l’Etranger;

• Son Excellence Monsieur Aimé Clovis GUILLOND, Ambassadeur, Représentant Permanent de la République du Congo auprès de l’Office des Nations Unies à Genève et des autres organisations internationales en Suisse;

• Monsieur Juste Désiré MONDELE, Conseiller Spécial du Président de la République, Chef du Département Politique à la Présidence de la République;

• Monsieur Pierre NGAKA, Conseiller Spécial du Premier Ministre;

• Monsieur Magloire Wilfrid OBILI, Conseiller Juridique du Président de la République;

• Monsieur Jean Didier Clovis NGOULOU, Secrétaire Général Adjoint, Chef du Département des Affaires Multilatérales;

• Monsieur Casimir NDOMBA, Directeur de Cabinet du Ministre de la Justice, des Droits Humains et de la Promotion des Peuples Autochtones;

• Monsieur Jules César BOTOKOU EBOKO, Ministre Conseiller à la Mission permanente du Congo à Genève;

• Monsieur Philippe ONGAGNA, Directeur Général des Droits Humains;

• Monsieur Christian Rock MABIALA, Directeur Général des Affaires Sociales, par intérim;

• Monsieur Justin ASSOMOYI, Directeur Général de la Promotion des Peuples Autochtones;

• Madame Virginie Nicole Sheryl NDESSABEKA, Directrice Générale du Centre de Recherche, d’Information et de la Documentation sur la Femme au Ministère de la promotion de la Femme et de l’Intégration de la Femme au Développement;

• Monsieur Jean Clotaire TOMBY, Inspecteur Général par Intérim des Affaires sociales et de l’Action Humanitaire;

• Monsieur Alain Michel OTIELI, Conseiller à la Communication et à la Presse du Ministre de la Justice, des Droits Humains et de la Promotion des Peuples

Autochtones;

GE.18-22821 23

• Monsieur Hiver Thomas LEMAMY ATSOUTSOULA, Conseiller chargé du suivi des projets du Ministre de la Justice, des Droits Humains et de la Promotion des

Peuples Autochtones;

• Monsieur Ghislain Urbain OFAMALEKOU, Directeur de la Coopération au Ministère de la Communication et des Médias;

• Monsieur Gérard ONDONGO, Conseiller à la Mission permanente du Congo à Genève;

• Monsieur MASSAMBA, Attaché au Cabinet du Président de la République;

• Madame INGANI née Laurence Marie PEYA NGAKOSSO, Chargé de mission au Cabinet de la Ministre de la promotion de la Femme et de l’Intégration de la Femme au Développement;

• Monsieur Jean Paul NGANONGO, Attaché de Presse du Ministre des Affaires Etrangères, de la Coopération et des Congolais de l’Etranger;

• Monsieur Jean Paul NGONO, Attaché au Cabinet du Ministre de la Communication et des Médias;

• Monsieur Brice Nazaire ELLENGA HIBARA, Attaché au Cabinet du Ministre des Affaires Etrangères, de la Coopération et des Congolais de l’Etranger.