40/5 Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review - Senegal

GE.18-22584 (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*

Senegal

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

United Nations A/HRC/40/5

General Assembly Distr.: General 24 December 2018

English

Original: English/French

2 GE.18-22584

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 Senegal was held at the 2nd meeting, on 5 November 2018.

The delegation of Senegal was headed by the Minister of Justice, Ismaïla Madior Fall. At

its 10th meeting, held on 9 November 2018, the Working Group adopted the report on

Senegal.

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

rapporteurs (troika) to facilitate the review of Senegal: Chile, Democratic Republic of the

Congo and Japan.

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 Senegal:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland was

transmitted to Senegal 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. In his introductory statement, Mr. Ismaila Madior Fall, the Minister of Justice,

underlined the commitment of Senegal to the protection and promotion of human rights and

the mandate of the universal periodic review, whose uniqueness lay in the peer evaluation

mechanism. That unwavering commitment had resulted in many gratifying achievements.

They included the re-election of Senegal, for the third time and with the highest number of

votes, to the Human Rights Council and its election to the presidency of the Council for

2019.

6. Recalling that the Senegalese report had been prepared through a participatory

process, the Minister described the considerable efforts expended to implement the

recommendations made during the second cycle of the universal periodic review in 2013.

Highlighting the key measures taken by the Government, he noted that Senegal had

managed to reduce the backlog of reports due for submission to the treaty bodies.

7. The reform of Constitutional Act No. 2016-2010 of 5 April 2018 on the inviolability

of the provisions relating to the method by which the President of the Republic is elected,

the length of the President’s term of office and the number of terms that the President can

serve fell within the scope of efforts to consolidate democracy and the rule of law by

strengthening political rights and the Parliament’s supervisory powers and allocating 15

parliamentary seats to Senegalese citizens living abroad.

8. Capacity had been strengthened substantially in the bodies for the protection and

promotion of human rights, including the Senegalese Human Rights Committee, the

GE.18-22584 3

National Observatory of Places of Deprivation of Liberty, the National Unit to Combat

Trafficking in Persons and the National Observatory on Gender Parity.

9. The Human Rights Directorate of the Ministry of Justice had been restructured into

three offices: the Office for the Promotion and Dissemination of Human Rights, the Office

of Training, Studies and Research and the Office for Follow-Up of International

Commitments and Relations with National Human Rights Organizations.

10. In the same vein, the Minister recalled the importance Senegal attached to its

cooperation with international human rights mechanisms, as reflected in the submission of

11 reports between 2013 and 2018 – including 3 initial reports and 5 periodic reports – as

well as the visit by the Working Group on the issue of discrimination against women in law

and in practice, the acceptance of the visit request by the Special Rapporteur on the rights to

freedom of peaceful assembly and of association and the pending visit by the Subcommittee

on Prevention of Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or

Punishment.

11. When it came to improving the rights of specific groups, on the basis of the

recommendations received and in application of the 2016–2018 action plan, the Children’s

Code had been finalized and gender policy had been strengthened through the prime

ministerial circular of 2013, which called on ministries to mainstream gender and establish

22 gender units, the adoption of the second gender equality strategy for the period 2016–

2026 and the increased representation of women in Parliament, with 69 women elected in

2017 compared to 64 in 2012.

12. Similarly, a gender perspective had been adopted by the Office of the Economic,

Social and Environmental Council, which was headed by a woman and had a gender-

balanced composition of six women and six men. The rights of persons with disabilities had

been strengthened through the Social Framework Act, the equal opportunities card, the

National Community-based Rehabilitation Programme and universal health insurance

coverage.

13. The Minister highlighted the recognition of the rights of minorities in the

Constitution and the Criminal Code; the constitutional guarantee of civil and political

rights, including the right to freedom of expression and of assembly; media pluralism; the

consolidation of lasting peace and development programmes in the Casamance region; and

the strengthening of the independence of the judiciary through Organic Act No. 2017-11 of

17 January 2017.

14. More broadly, the Minister recalled the measures Senegal had taken to combat

torture and ill-treatment; to reduce prison overcrowding – including through collective

pardons granted by the President of the Republic to some detainees; to ensure respect for

economic, social and cultural rights and universal access to health-care services and

drinking water; and to contribute to the work of the international criminal justice system by

hosting the trial of the former President of Chad before the Extraordinary African

Chambers in Dakar.

B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review

15. During the interactive dialogue, 107 delegations made statements.

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

report.

16. Peru acknowledged the increase in the budgetary allocation to the National Anti-

Trafficking Unit and the National Observatory on Gender Parity.

17. Uzbekistan noted with satisfaction the development of major national mechanisms

to defend human rights and welcomed the first national action plan to eliminate gender-

based violence and promote human rights.

18. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela noted the promotion of universal access to

health services by women and children with the universal health coverage programme, the

4 GE.18-22584

expansion of basic health insurance and the strengthening of free health-care services for

children under 5.

19. Viet Nam welcomed the public policies to protect and promote economic, social and

cultural rights, and the efforts made in the area of education and the rights of children,

women and young persons.

20. Yemen took note of the new sustainable development strategy until 2030, and the

measures taken against slavery and human trafficking and the promotion of gender equality.

21. Zimbabwe noted with appreciation the increase in the budget for the Senegalese

Human Rights Committee and the development of a basic health insurance scheme.

22. Afghanistan commended the referendum-based constitutional reform and the Law

on Nationality.

23. Albania praised the fifth francophone seminar on the implementation of

recommendations from the universal periodic review.

24. Pakistan appreciated the efforts made to ensure gender equality and women’s

empowerment, and commended the national action plan adopted in 2017 to eliminate

gender-based violence and promote human rights.

25. Angola encouraged Senegal to continue efforts to achieve the Sustainable

Development Goals, in particular objective three, and commended the measures to

eradicate tuberculosis.

26. Argentina took note of the measures designed to eradicate child marriage and ensure

peace in the Casamance Region.

27. Australia welcomed the adoption of a national strategy on gender equality and non-

discrimination of women. It noted that the national human rights institution lacked the

necessary resources to function independently.

28. Austria welcomed the progress achieved by Senegal, particularly in creating a

Ministry for Children’s Affairs.

29. Azerbaijan observed with interest improvements in the rights of children. It noted

the significance Senegal attached to gender-based violence.

30. Bahrain welcomed the steps taken to strengthen its legal framework for the

protection of women’s rights and gender equality, enabling a considerable number of

women to enter parliament.

31. Bangladesh welcomed the balanced approach in reviewing its existing legal

environment to strengthen democracy and ensure the rule of law. It commended the efforts

made to protect the rights of persons with disabilities, women and children.

32. Belarus noted with satisfaction the efforts to improve national legislation,

particularly concerning the promotion of the rights of women and the achievement of

gender equality.

33. Belgium welcomed the progress of Senegal during the period under review, but

noted that many areas of concern persisted concerning children’s and women’s rights.

34. Benin welcomed the measures and initiatives to ensure the enjoyment of human

rights, bringing the national judicial system into line with international norms.

35. Botswana commended the reforms designed to enhance democracy and encouraged

Senegal to prevent child labour and smuggling of children and to reintegrate street children

into mainstream society.

36. Brazil congratulated Senegal on the progress it had made in the representation of

women in politics. It encouraged Senegal to take steps to prevent and tackle violence

against the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex community and to continue to

make efforts in the area of universal health coverage.

GE.18-22584 5

37. Burkina Faso encouraged the continuation of efforts in the judicial and institutional

sector, especially the implementation of reforms in the business sector to promote and

protect human rights.

38. Burundi welcomed the measures taken to promote and protect the rights of the child

and persons with disabilities. It praised the adoption of the National Action Plan for the

Eradication of Gender-based Violence and the Promotion of Human Rights (2017–2021).

39. Cabo Verde noted the improvements in the judiciary, national institutions and

socioeconomic conditions, and welcomed the referendum-based constitutional reform.

40. Cameroon highlighted its appreciation for the progress made in improving all areas

of human rights, and congratulated Senegal on its public policies aimed at strengthening the

rule of law.

41. Canada congratulated Senegal for the measures taken to address gender parity, the

creation of units to promote gender equality, its law against female genital mutilation and

for putting an end to child, early and forced marriages.

42. Chile valued the efforts made to strengthen the legal framework for the promotion

and protection of human rights, recognizing that important challenges remained.

43. China commended the efforts made to promote socioeconomic developments,

reduce poverty and enhance the protection of vulnerable people, including children,

women, persons with disabilities and minorities.

44. The Comoros stressed that Senegal was on the right path in terms of gender parity,

with practically the same number of male and female elected representatives in its National

Assembly.

45. The Congo noted with satisfaction the increase in the budget of the Senegalese

Human Rights Committee to bring it into line with the principles relating to the status of

national institutions for the promotion and protection of human rights (the Paris Principles),

and welcomed the efforts taken in the areas of health, education and combating poverty.

46. Côte d’Ivoire welcomed the adoption of Constitutional Act No. 2016-10 and

encouraged Senegal to ensure better protection of the rights of women, children and

persons with disabilities.

47. Cuba recognized the updating of the legal framework and highlighted efforts to

improve the quality of and access to health and education, taking into account the principle

of equality.

48. The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea positively noted the implementation of

the Programme for the Improvement of Quality, Equity and Transparency in Education and

Training.

49. The Democratic Republic of the Congo congratulated Senegal on its efforts to take

measures to bring the Senegalese Human Rights Committee into line with the Paris

Principles.

50. Denmark highlighted that indigenous peoples faced discrimination and exploitative

labour conditions violating their human rights, and the importance of full collaboration with

special procedures and mechanisms of the Human Rights Council.

51. Djibouti noted with satisfaction the constitutional reform to improve democracy and

the rule of law by strengthening civil and political rights.

52. Egypt appreciated efforts to promote human rights and basic freedoms, and

commended Senegal on its efforts to promote the rights of women, children and persons

with disabilities, and social and economic rights.

53. Ethiopia commended the progress achieved in implementing recommendations and

enacting new legislation to advance human rights.

54. France welcomed the progress made in combating impunity, early marriage and

gender-based violence, and improving the conditions of detention.

6 GE.18-22584

55. The Senegalese delegation thanked all the States that had taken the floor and

commended the efforts made by Senegal, which had a long tradition of respect for and

promotion of human rights. The delegation was grateful for the recommendations made and

questions raised, of which it had taken good note, and which essentially centred on

combating discrimination, ensuring access to economic, social and cultural rights and

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

Political Rights.

56. On the issue of female genital mutilation, the delegation said that Senegal had

adopted a law prohibiting the practice in 1999 and that the Criminal Code set out penalties

for the offence, as reflected in the available case law on the matter. The multisectoral

approach to dealing with the issue, with the involvement of the health sector and

parliamentarians, among others, had resulted in a reduction in the prevalence rate of female

genital mutilation.

57. With regard to the protection of children’s rights, the Senegalese Government had

taken a series of measures. Measures introduced to remove children from the streets in 2013

had resulted in 1,585 children being taken off the streets, including 278 from Senegal, 107

from Mali, 55 from Guinea and 26 from the Gambia. Other measures included the

modernization of Qur’anic schools (daaras) and the drafting of the Children’s Code, which

was currently being finalized. It should be borne in mind that the majority of talibe children

were from neighbouring countries in West Africa.

58. Regarding the Senegalese Human Rights Committee, the delegation had duly noted

the recommendations concerning the application of the Paris Principles with a view to the

Committee regaining A status.

59. In relation to prison overcrowding, the National Observatory of Places of

Deprivation of Liberty had been established, and its president had been granted

considerable powers. The Government’s efforts had been successful given that, of a total of

10,250 detainees, only 289 cases of prolonged detention had been identified. Furthermore,

the pardons that had been granted had contributed to easing overcrowding in detention

centres.

60. With regard to the issue of acceding to the Second Optional Protocol to the

International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which had been raised by several

delegations, the Minister noted that the death penalty had been abolished in 2004 and that

accession to the Covenant was under consideration.

61. Gabon welcomed the constitutional reforms to corporations aimed at integrating an

environmental dimension in their activities in order to achieve a better distribution of

natural resources.

62. Georgia called on Senegal to continue its efforts to strengthen cooperation with all

international human rights mechanisms.

63. Germany commended the progress made in the modernization of Qur’an schools and

their inclusion in the official education system, and welcomed the awareness-raising

campaigns to reduce child marriage.

64. Ghana welcomed the independence of the Senegalese Human Rights Committee, the

resumption of the drafting process of the Children’s Code to combat child trafficking and

the adoption of the second national strategy for gender equality and equity for the period

from 2016 to 2026.

65. Greece welcomed the actions to combat child labour and the legislative measures

adopted in favour of gender parity, women’s empowerment and the elimination of

discrimination.

66. Haiti welcomed efforts to improve gender equality and the right to health and

education, and encouraged Senegal to continue its cooperation with international human

rights mechanisms.

GE.18-22584 7

67. Honduras welcomed the ratification of the International Labour Organization

Maternity Protection Convention, 2000 (No. 183), and commended the decision to increase

the budget of the national human rights institution.

68. Iceland was pleased to note that Senegal had received a visit from the Working

Group on the issue of discrimination against women in law and in practice.

69. India commended Senegal on it national strategy on the protection of children, the

empowerment of women and the national community-based rehabilitation programme for

upholding the rights of persons with disabilities.

70. Indonesia positively noted the adoption of the second national strategy for gender

equality and equity for the period from 2016 to 2026 and the development of the action

plan for the period from 2017 to 2021 for the eradication of gender-based violence.

71. The Islamic Republic of Iran praised initiatives to protect economic, social and

cultural rights, including the national policy on nutrition, the establishment of specialized

schools for children with disabilities and the national child protection strategy.

72. Iraq welcomed the constitutional reforms, and the strengthening and restructuring of

the human rights organizations within the Ministry of Justice.

73. Ireland was concerned by the reported calls for the reinstatement of the death

penalty and urged the authorities to resist any moves to row back its abolition.

74. Israel commended Senegal for promoting judicial independence through

Organizational Act No. 2017-11 and for the measures taken to improve its response in

combating trafficking in persons.

75. Italy welcomed efforts to promote and protect economic, social and cultural rights,

and the increase in the number of women representatives in the National Assembly.

76. Japan commended the Government’s initiatives to support gender parity and

women’s empowerment as a matter of high priority and welcomed the significant increase

in female representation in parliament and local assemblies.

77. Jordan welcomed the commitment of Senegal in promoting and protecting human

rights and related constitutional, institutional and legislative reforms.

78. Kuwait noted various projects on economic, social and cultural rights, notably to

improve the quality of teaching, education and professional education at all levels.

79. The Lao People’s Democratic Republic commended Senegal for implementing

human rights in cooperation with international human rights mechanisms, including the

promotion of the rights of women and children, and the rights to education, health and

poverty alleviation.

80. Latvia noted the measures taken by the Government and encouraged further efforts

in fulfilling its human rights obligations and commitments.

81. Lebanon commended efforts of Senegal to fulfil its international commitments,

namely in the fields of education, health, justice and combating violence.

82. Lesotho commended Senegal for the collaborative legislative measures it had taken

to revamp its human rights institutions and echoed its call for more technical and financial

assistance.

83. Liechtenstein expressed its concern about the absence of a comprehensive and

explicit prohibition of corporal punishment.

84. Luxembourg congratulated Senegal on the adoption of a revised Constitution and

welcomed its 30-year partnership with the country in the field of development cooperation.

85. Madagascar noted with satisfaction the adoption of a policy to combat violence

against women, and their families and communities, and measures to improve the access of

persons with disabilities to education.

86. Malaysia noted positively the progress in education, health, poverty alleviation and

the rights of women, children and persons with disabilities.

8 GE.18-22584

87. Maldives commended efforts to implement gender policy, protect children from

trafficking, and provide universal health coverage for schoolchildren and safety net

programmes for persons with disabilities.

88. Mali welcomed the constitutional reforms to strengthen political rights, and the

efforts to combat torture and improve the conditions of detainees, including through

bringing public authorities to justice.

89. Mauritania applauded the steps taken to strengthen national human rights

mechanisms and pointed at the progress in the area of human rights, notably the rights of

children, persons with disabilities and persons deprived of liberty.

90. Mauritius acknowledged the legislative and regulatory measures taken to strengthen

human rights, the establishment of the Ministry for Children’s Affairs and assistance to

disadvantaged and street children, while noting the efforts to elaborate the Children’s Code.

91. Mexico recognized the progress made, in particular the elaboration of the national

action plan for the eradication of gender-based violence and the promotion of human rights.

92. Montenegro commended efforts to combat gender inequality and child trafficking,

including the training of law enforcement officers. It was concerned about cases of forced

begging and exploitation among children, and urged Senegal to protect children from

abuse.

93. Morocco applauded the education policy and actions to reduce poverty.

94. Mozambique welcomed cooperation with the treaty bodies and the efforts to adopt

the act on female genital mutilation and to ensure the compliance of the Senegalese Human

Rights Committee with the Paris Principles.

95. Namibia noted with satisfaction a number of positive steps taken since the previous

review cycle, including the 2016 constitutional reforms.

96. The Netherlands complimented actions to improve women’s access to safe abortion

and to align national legislation with the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and

Peoples’ Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa (Maputo Protocol).

97. The Niger welcomed efforts to bolster the financial resources of human rights

institutions, particularly the Senegalese Human Rights Committee, the National

Observatory of Places of Deprivation of Liberty and the National Anti-Trafficking Unit.

98. Nigeria praised Senegal for its continued efforts to protect and promote the human

rights of its people, in particular vulnerable groups, such as women and children.

99. Oman noted the improvements in health care, employment, access to justice, the

efficiency of the judiciary and efforts to impose stricter sanctions in cases of human rights

violations of women and children.

100. Concerning the representation of women, the delegation recalled the prime

ministerial circular, which had resulted in the establishment of 22 gender units, and the

amendment of the Nationality Code to fulfil the Government’s ambitions in that area.

101. In the same vein, the delegation mentioned key achievements in relation to girls’

education. It also recalled that the legal marriage age had been set at 18 years, and

exceptionally 16 in strictly defined cases. Furthermore, access to sexual and reproductive

health-care services had improved, as had contraceptive coverage.

102. Under Senegalese law, there were harsh penalties for rape, and persons convicted of

rape could not receive presidential pardons in any circumstances. The delegation also

recalled the long tradition of democracy in Senegal and the regular organization of

transparent and peaceful elections, which had led to two peaceful changes in power.

103. With regard to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons, the

delegation explained that homosexuality was not prohibited or punishable by law and, as a

result, nobody was detained on that basis. However, unnatural acts committed in public

were criminalized. Senegal was not ready to legalize homosexuality.

GE.18-22584 9

104. Concerning freedom of demonstration, the delegation said that there were no

restrictions on that right, as the country had opted for a system of prior notification.

Decisions denying the right to demonstrate could be appealed before the Senegalese courts.

105. Regarding freedom of the press, the Minister said that that freedom was respected in

practice because, although press offences were covered by law, no journalists had been

detained. All that was required to establish a media outlet was a simple declaration, and the

proliferation of such outlets attested to the freedom enjoyed by journalists in Senegal.

106. In terms of education, Senegal had introduced important incentives with a view to

ensuring quality education that was accessible to all, including the introduction of free

education.

107. As to employment policy, the delegation said that six strategies had been

implemented to promote employment, particularly among young people. The aim was to

better match training with the needs of the labour market and build capacity in employment

services, particularly the Youth Employment Agency. Programmes had also been launched

for young people living in rural areas.

108. Regarding natural resources, Senegal had signed up to the Extractive Industries

Transparency Initiative, adopted the Petroleum Code and set up the Observatory of Human

Rights in the Mining Sector. In that respect, in 2018, Senegal had been the first country

found to have made “satisfactory progress” – the highest ranking – in implementing the

Initiative.

109. Algeria commended the measures to increase school enrolment rates, and establish

specialized institutions for children with disabilities and the Ministry for Children’s Affairs.

110. Paraguay inquired about progress on the adoption of a policy to provide talibe

children with education and to protect them from exploitation and all forms of abuse.

111. Uruguay welcomed the broad accession to human rights instruments. It

acknowledged progress in promoting the rights of women, urging Senegal to continue

taking steps in that regard.

112. The Philippines applauded the approval of an electronic data collection system on

judicial actions regarding trafficking, the programmes to address gender-based violence in

schools and the national action plan for the eradication of gender-based violence.

113. Portugal made recommendations.

114. Qatar welcomed the adoption of the national disability action plan, the national

strategy on gender equality and equity and the progress in women’s representation in

parliament, noting that Senegal had received an award for fighting illiteracy from the

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.

115. The Republic of Korea commended Senegal for empowering its national human

rights bodies, particularly the Senegalese Human Rights Committee, and wished the

country every success in implementing the Emerging Senegal Plan.

116. Romania praised the work of Senegal at the Human Rights Council and encouraged

it to continue its efforts to uphold human rights for all citizens.

117. Rwanda commended the initiatives of Senegal to improve the social and economic

status of people and urged it to enhance efforts to combat gender discrimination and to

consider adopting a sexual and reproductive health policy for adolescents.

118. Saudi Arabia applauded efforts to promote the rights of persons with disabilities, in

particular through the National Community-based Rehabilitation Programme, and their

vocational training.

119. Serbia welcomed the adoption of the national strategy for gender equality and equity

and measures in the field of children’s rights, particularly the establishment of the Ministry

for Children’s Affairs.

10 GE.18-22584

120. Sierra Leone applauded the steps taken to adopt educational and child protection

strategies, particularly on universal health coverage for schoolchildren, and to end child,

early and forced marriages.

121. Singapore commended efforts to adopt the Emerging Senegal Plan, the national

strategy for gender equality and equity, the national action plan for the eradication of

gender-based violence and the national child protection strategy.

122. Slovenia praised the campaign to end child marriage and to combat gender-based

violence in schools, expressing concern about the discriminatory legal provisions on family

and marriage, the lack of assistance for disadvantaged women and the practice of early

marriage.

123. South Africa recognized the efforts made to establish the National Anti-Trafficking

Unit, to reorganize the Human Rights Directorate and to set up gender units in government

departments.

124. Spain acknowledged the efforts to achieve gender equality and adopt the Children’s

Code, the draft water code and the strategic reform on access to drinking water and

sanitation.

125. The State of Palestine welcomed the draft of the Children’s Code and the legislative

measures on the functioning of the Supreme Council of the Judiciary.

126. Sudan appreciated the efforts to increase the financial resources for human rights

institutions and to enhance cooperation with the international human rights mechanisms,

particularly the OHCHR West Africa Regional Office.

127. Sweden praised positive developments regarding the protection of children from

exploitation, noting that it remained concerned about children’s rights.

128. Switzerland applauded the efforts to implement the recommendations from the

previous review cycle and noted with satisfaction that the death penalty had been abolished.

129. Thailand welcomed the national strategy for gender equality and equity, the revised

mandate of the Ministry of Women’s Affairs, Family Affairs and Gender and increased

women’s representation in government. It applauded HIV/AIDS control programmes and

multi-stakeholder partnerships on this matter.

130. Togo noted with satisfaction the political will to protect and promote human rights,

which materialized in the efforts to strengthen the institutional and normative framework.

131. Tunisia welcomed the engagement of civil society in preparing the national report.

132. Turkmenistan made recommendations.

133. Ukraine welcomed cooperation with the international human rights mechanisms and

the budget increase for the human rights framework. It commended the adoption of the

national strategy for gender equality and equity.

134. The United Arab Emirates praised Senegal for the establishment of the Ministry for

Children’s Affairs and inquired about its priorities. It expressed hope that Senegal would

receive technical assistance for its initiatives.

135. The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland applauded the efforts to

introduce a social security allowance. It was concerned about child trafficking and child

begging and urged Senegal to improve access to sexual and reproductive health care.

136. The United States of America commended advances in the area of women’s and

children’s rights, expressing concern over the exploitation of children, limitations on

freedom of expression and violence against the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and

intersex community.

137. The Plurinational State of Bolivia made recommendations.

138. The Minister of Justice reiterated his sincere thanks to all of the delegations for their

valuable comments and recommendations, which had enriched the discussions. He said that

the recommendations would be given careful and detailed consideration.

GE.18-22584 11

139. He also expressed thanks to the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review,

the troika and the secretariat.

140. Returning to the issue of universal education, which had been raised by several

delegations, he said that important steps had been taken, such as the introduction of free

education and the promotion of technical and vocational education and literacy.

141. Furthermore, human rights education programmes were being run in the schools for

the police, gendarmerie and prison guards.

142. On the issue of rape, he stressed that Senegal had a very hard-line policy. Those

found guilty of rape faced prison sentences of between 5 and 10 years and were not eligible

for pardon.

143. In conclusion, the Minister said that Senegal remained firmly committed to the

promotion and protection of human rights and would spare no effort in strengthening its

legal and institutional framework in that field.

II. Conclusions and/or recommendations

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

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

144.1 Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on

Civil and Political Rights (Albania) (Austria) (Portugal) (Switzerland), aiming

at the abolition of the death penalty (Belgium) (Benin) (Montenegro)

(Paraguay) (Rwanda) (Togo);

144.2 Consider ratifying the Second Optional Protocol to the International

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

penalty (Uruguay);

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

Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights

(Iceland);

144.4 Continue to respect its obligations under the International Covenant

on Civil and Political Rights, by holding, in 2019, inclusive, free and

transparent elections, confirming in this way, its great commitment to

democracy and the rule of law, which are already evident in the country

(Angola);

144.5 Ratify the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court and the

Kampala amendments thereto (Liechtenstein);

144.6 Join the code of conduct regarding Security Council action against

genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes, as elaborated by the

Accountability, Coherence and Transparency Group (Liechtenstein);

144.7 Ratify the International Labour Organization Domestic Workers

Convention, 2011 (No. 189) (Paraguay);

144.8 Ratify the Migration for Employment Convention (Revised), 1949

(No. 97) and the Migrant Workers (Supplementary Provisions) Convention,

1975 (No. 143) of the International Labour Organization (Madagascar);

144.9 Respond positively to pending visit requests by the special procedure

mandate holders of the Human Rights Council and consider the extension of a

standing invitation to all mandate holders (Latvia);

144.10 Continue constructive cooperation with the international human

rights mechanisms (Bangladesh);

144.11 Establish a national mechanism for reporting and follow-up, for the

due implementation of recommendations from the universal periodic review

(Mexico);

12 GE.18-22584

144.12 Monitor the implementation of recommendations and submission of

reports (Turkmenistan);

144.13 Participate in international programmes of technical assistance and

capacity-building in the field of human rights (Turkmenistan);

144.14 Continue efforts to develop national laws aligned with international

human rights instruments (Lebanon);

144.15 Continue to intensify its efforts to address the challenges, constraints

and obstacles, as presented in its national report, in the promotion and

protection of human rights (Lao People’s Democratic Republic);

144.16 Continue efforts towards strengthening national human rights

institutions, building the national and human resources in such a way as to

spread the culture of human rights and its protection (Lebanon);

144.17 Establish a national human rights commission (Ukraine);

144.18 Establish a national mechanism for monitoring and reporting, with

the participation of multiple stakeholders, the implementation of

recommendations of different human rights mechanisms, including

recommendations from the universal periodic review (Paraguay);

144.19 Pursue measures to strengthen human rights institutions (Algeria);

144.20 Continue efforts to ensure appropriate financing of institutions that

are part of the national framework for the protection and promotion of human

rights, as well as the complete adoption of a normative framework to guarantee

their independence (Romania);

144.21 Further strengthen the regulatory and institutional framework

(Morocco);

144.22 Redouble efforts and commitment, and seek the necessary support, to

further ensure the enjoyment of human rights by all its people (Nigeria);

144.23 Further expand socially oriented programmes promoting youth

employment (Uzbekistan);

144.24 Continue its efforts to adopt a development policy to achieve the

economic and social objectives that serve to protect and promote human rights

(Yemen);

144.25 Devote more resources to programmes to promote youth and

women’s entrepreneurship (Viet Nam);

144.26 Continue efforts to increase the employment rate, particularly among

the youth (Malaysia);

144.27 Continue efforts to protect the rights of vulnerable groups

(Azerbaijan);

144.28 Maintain the positive dynamics of aligning national legislation with

international instruments (Azerbaijan);

144.29 Adopt strategies within the monitoring and review mechanisms to

ensure that the newly established gender units become effective and are fit for

purpose (Botswana);

144.30 Effectively continue its national nutrition policy aimed at improving

the nutritional status of the population (Azerbaijan);

144.31 Continue the measures to support the national human rights

institutions and strengthen the financial and administrative autonomy of the

Senegalese Human Rights Committee (Pakistan);

144.32 Strengthen the institutional and human capacities of the national

human rights institutions (Ethiopia);

GE.18-22584 13

144.33 Strengthen the stability and endurance of national human rights

institutions (Mali);

144.34 Continue to work towards capacity-building of the national human

rights institutions (Mauritania);

144.35 Consolidate the efforts taken to pursue measures to strengthen

human rights institutions (Cameroon);

144.36 Intensify efforts to regain the A status of the Senegalese Human

Rights Committee by bringing it into line with the Paris Principles (Sierra

Leone);

144.37 Enact legislation to bring the Senegalese Human Rights Committee

into full compliance with the Paris Principles (Australia);

144.38 Ensure that the Senegalese Human Rights Committee complies with

all of the Paris Principles, including by providing it with adequate funding and

ensuring guarantees of independence and pluralism (Canada);

144.39 Continue the efforts to ensure the proper functioning and full

independence of the Senegalese Human Rights Committee, in conformity with

the Paris Principles (Djibouti);

144.40 Bring the Senegalese Human Rights Committee into compliance with

the Paris Principles (France);

144.41 Continue efforts to ensure the conformity of the Senegalese Human

Rights Committee with the Paris Principles (Georgia);

144.42 Continue to strengthen the Senegalese Human Rights Committee in

order to bring it into line with the Paris Principles (Indonesia);

144.43 Bring the Senegalese Human Rights Committee fully into line with

the Paris Principles (Togo);

144.44 Continue the review of the draft law to reform the human rights

institution so as to bring it into line with the Paris Principles (Tunisia);

144.45 Allocate sufficient resources to ensure the effective implementation of

the second national strategy for gender equality and equity (2016–2026) and to

launch the first national action plan for the eradication of gender-based

violence and the promotion of human rights (2017–2021) (Singapore);

144.46 Continue to involve stakeholders (Qatar);

144.47 Continue to engage civil society organizations in the implementation

of recommendations from the universal periodic review (Ghana);

144.48 Intensify further its efforts for the promotion of the rights of

vulnerable persons, especially women, children and persons with disabilities

(Niger);

144.49 Promote the human rights of the most vulnerable groups (Oman);

144.50 Review the Family Code to eliminate discrimination against women

(Republic of Korea);

144.51 Carry out further capacity-building and awareness-raising

programmes to combat stigma and discrimination against persons living with

HIV/AIDS (Thailand);

144.52 Take all necessary measures to achieve the Sustainable Development

Goals (Kuwait);

144.53 Ensure adoption by parliament and swift implementation of the new

water code for integrated water resource management (South Africa);

144.54 Enhance activity in the implementation of the human rights to water

and sanitation (Spain);

14 GE.18-22584

144.55 Develop and implement measures to enable rural women’s access to

land, health care, education, transport, food, water, sanitation, social protection

and inheritance rights (South Africa);

144.56 Redouble its efforts to empower communities at the grass-roots level

in the fight against poverty to ensure the realization of the right to development

of all its citizens (Pakistan);

144.57 Step up efforts to alleviate poverty, including the empowerment of

grass-roots communities, and increase rural infrastructure investments to

improve livelihoods and access to employment opportunities (Philippines);

144.58 Intensify the efforts made within the framework of the emergency

community development programme to facilitate further access to basic social

services and to better fight poverty (Burkina Faso);

144.59 Step up efforts to fight poverty in rural regions (Belarus);

144.60 Promote the right to development and continue the implementation

of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and of poverty reduction

measures, including the standard of living, and strengthen the protection of the

human rights of children and women (China);

144.61 Continue the ongoing poverty alleviation measures, particularly the

campaign against malnutrition (India);

144.62 Continue efforts to bolster poverty eradication (Islamic Republic of

Iran);

144.63 Consolidate efforts made to implement a strategy on reducing

poverty and improving maternal and child health (Cameroon);

144.64 Continue its engagement in the implementation of a strategy to

reduce poverty and improve maternal and child health (Algeria);

144.65 Continue its strategic approach to ensure more effective nutrition

and an improved food supply for the population (Indonesia);

144.66 Continue to implement the national plan with the objective of

improving the nutritional situation of the population (Plurinational State of

Bolivia);

144.67 Proceed to demining former conflict zones (Argentina);

144.68 Take strong, specific and action-oriented measures to modernize the

fisheries sector in a way that benefits Senegalese fishermen, as follow-up to the

recommendations accepted in paragraphs 124.21, 124.92 and 124.115 of the

report of the Working Group from the second review cycle (A/HRC/25/4)

(Haiti);

144.69 Deepen measures to guarantee the progress of judicial investigations

and the punishment of the perpetrators of human rights violations (Argentina);

144.70 Redouble efforts to improve conditions in penitentiary institutions

(Burundi);

144.71 Consolidate efforts made to implement a strategy to reduce prison

overcrowding (Cameroon);

144.72 Continue its measures aimed at improving the living conditions of

detainees in prisons (Côte d’Ivoire);

144.73 Strengthen efforts to ensure that the human rights and fundamental

freedoms of prisoners and detainees are fully respected and guaranteed (Italy);

144.74 Promote the judicial system in order to reduce pretrial detention time

(Lebanon);

GE.18-22584 15

144.75 Continue efforts made to build capacities in the judicial sector

(Jordan);

144.76 Adopt laws that guarantee the independence and budgetary

autonomy of the judiciary and of non-juridical mechanisms responsible for the

promotion and respect of human rights in the country (Mexico);

144.77 Take further measures to guarantee the independence of the

judiciary and guarantee that judicial officials are able to carry out their

functions without interference (State of Palestine);

144.78 Take further measures to continue well-recommended capacity-

building for members of the judiciary, political authorities, public officials and

civil society (Turkmenistan);

144.79 Consolidate efforts made to strengthen the independence of the

judiciary (Cameroon);

144.80 Recruit more women officers in police stations and gendarmeries in

order to handle the cases of girls and women who have been subjected to

violence, and ensure that perpetrators of gender-based violence are prosecuted

and convicted (Serbia);

144.81 Bring national legislation into line with international norms on

freedom of expression, including decriminalization of press offences (France);

144.82 Amend the legal provisions that limit freedom of expression

indefinitely, in accordance with international and regional human rights norms

and commitments accepted by Senegal during the previous review cycle

(Chile);

144.83 Redouble efforts to guarantee the freedom of expression and opinion

(Peru);

144.84 Respect freedom of opinion and expression in accordance with

international law and national law (Sweden);

144.85 Ensure that journalists and media workers can freely exercise their

rights to freedom of expression without fear of reprisals, detention,

intimidation, threats or harassment (Sweden);

144.86 Ensure that journalists are free to exercise their right to freedom of

expression, conduct impartial, thorough and effective investigations into all

cases of assault, harassment and intimidation of journalists and bring to justice

the perpetrators of these offences (Greece);

144.87 Abandon the practice of requiring a compulsory licence to practice

journalism (Greece);

144.88 Strengthen measures to combat trafficking in persons, especially

talibe children (Peru);

144.89 Continue its efforts to combat trafficking in persons by providing the

necessary support to the national body tasked with combating such trafficking

(Pakistan);

144.90 Step up efforts to combat trafficking in persons, especially women

and children, including improving the relevant legislation and law enforcement

practices to prevent child sex tourism, begging and forced child labour

(Belarus);

144.91 Promote efforts to prevent trafficking in women and girls and reduce

the gender wage gap (Iraq);

144.92 Step up efforts to combat trafficking in persons, smuggling, forced

begging and related offences (Lesotho);

16 GE.18-22584

144.93 Scale up its efforts to combat trafficking in children and ensure that

the perpetrators are brought to justice (Nigeria);

144.94 Ensure the implementation and enforcement of Act No. 2005-6

against trafficking in persons, and the protection of victims, in particular

children (Iraq);

144.95 Commit sufficient funding to the ongoing campaign against forced

child begging and investigate, arrest and prosecute all individuals who violate

the anti-trafficking law (United States of America);

144.96 Continue consolidating its successful social health programmes in

favour of the most vulnerable families (Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);

144.97 Continue its efforts to reduce child mortality, including neonatal

mortality, and to realize universal access to health services through sharing

good experiences with other countries (Democratic People’s Republic of

Korea);

144.98 Strengthen programmes to reduce infant and child mortality (Islamic

Republic of Iran);

144.99 Continue its effective implementation of its universal health coverage

programme (Congo);

144.100 Step up its efforts to ensure the right of access to health for all, in

particular access to medical care for children and women (Viet Nam);

144.101 Support the full realization of sexual and reproductive rights and

access to relevant health services for all (Australia);

144.102 Strengthen education on sexual and reproductive health appropriate

to age and improve access to sexual and reproductive health services for

adolescents and young persons, as well as carry out awareness-raising actions

to promote support for parents and local communities (Austria);

144.103 Adopt a comprehensive sexual and reproductive health policy for

adolescents (Botswana);

144.104 Strengthen the training of health personnel on issues concerning

adolescents, young persons and sexual and reproductive health (Iceland);

144.105 Continue working to improve health-care and education services for

a better standard of living of its population (Cuba);

144.106 Continue efforts to integrate poor and vulnerable groups in the

health-care system (Saudi Arabia);

144.107 Continue to develop education and health (China);

144.108 Continue efforts to strengthen the education and health sectors

(Morocco);

144.109 Adopt complementary legislative and policy measures in order to

effectively implement legislation on reproductive health (Honduras);

144.110 Further strengthen its consistent efforts to realize universal access to

education and continue to seek cooperation with other international

stakeholders, such as the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural

Organization, in this regard (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea);

144.111 Make sensitization on women’s rights and gender equality an

essential part of school curricula, starting from primary education (Germany);

144.112 Continue measures to improve the education system and ensure

universal access to quality education (Uzbekistan);

144.113 Continue to strengthen its successful educational programmes in

pursuit of universal primary education (Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);

GE.18-22584 17

144.114 Allocate adequate support to further promote literacy in the country

(Malaysia);

144.115 Continue efforts to improve primary education for all in 2020 (United

Arab Emirates);

144.116 Continue to implement the programme to improve the quality of

education and vocational training (Kuwait);

144.117 Continue efforts to improve the quality of vocational training

(Qatar);

144.118 Continue to pursue a policy to upgrade the quality of teaching and

learning at all levels (Lao People’s Democratic Republic);

144.119 Conclude the process of adopting the draft law to reorganize

Qur’anic schools – the daaras – and make them into modern schools (Togo);

144.120 Consider the adoption of the law that modernizes Qur’anic schools

(daaras) and integrates them into the main education system (Peru);

144.121 Continue to improve the educational environment for pupils

attending primary and secondary schools, including Qur’anic schools (Japan);

144.122 Conduct regular and effective inspections of all public schools,

including religious schools, to ensure that national standards concerning the

content and quality of education, infrastructure and fair treatment are met

(Germany);

144.123 Work towards increasing the school enrolment rate, especially of

girls and children with disabilities (Zimbabwe);

144.124 Introduce education on human rights and gender equality in school

curricula from primary education onwards, and also for training health-care

professionals (Portugal);

144.125 Make further efforts in educational support for children with

disabilities, taking into account the points raised by the Committee on the

Rights of the Child, while welcoming the initiatives to support persons with

disabilities based on the law concerning the promotion and protection of

persons with disabilities (Japan);

144.126 Sustain the high level of investment in the education sector to ensure

more equitable access to quality education for children, including children with

disabilities (Singapore);

144.127 Continue its efforts to ensure the right to quality and inclusive

education with a focus on girls’ access thereto and maintain the steps already

taken to modernize religious schools (Afghanistan);

144.128 Continue the ongoing campaign to combat gender-based violence in

schools to improve the enrolment of girls and their retention (Ghana);

144.129 Continue efforts to realize the right of every child to education, in

particular by providing increased access to primary education for girls

(Pakistan);

144.130 Improve access to education for girls (Ukraine);

144.131 Raise awareness of women’s rights and gender equality by including

them in primary education curricula (Republic of Korea);

144.132 Take the measures necessary to protect girls in educational

establishments from all types of sexual and gender-based violence, through the

investigation and prosecution of the perpetrators, and guarantee assistance to

victims and their families (Argentina);

18 GE.18-22584

144.133 Strengthen effective and confidential mechanisms in schools to report

cases of sexual exploitation, abuse or harassment within and around

educational institutions (Austria);

144.134 Redouble its actions to ensure equal access and representation of girls

and young women at all levels of education, applying a policy of zero tolerance

against sexual violence and harassment (Honduras);

144.135 Continue efforts to promote equality between men and women

(Egypt);

144.136 Take all measures necessary to ensure that the legislation on female

genital mutilation is implemented (Ireland);

144.137 Continue implementation of various measures for the empowerment

of women (India);

144.138 Strengthen its legal framework for the promotion and protection of

women’s rights and gender equality, including by ensuring that its legislation is

in line with the definition of discrimination in article 1 of the Convention on the

Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (Rwanda);

144.139 Consolidate the normative framework and its implementation

relating to women’s and children’s rights (Romania);

144.140 Align its legislation with the Maputo Protocol, ratified by Senegal in

December 2004 (Canada);

144.141 Continue efforts to strengthen women’s rights within the National

Action Plan for the Eradication of Gender-based Violence and the Promotion

of Human Rights (2017–2021) (Tunisia);

144.142 Guarantee the independence of the national mechanism for the

advancement of women, in addition to improving its coordination with other

State entities (Honduras);

144.143 Continue implementing standard operational procedures among the

competent bodies in the fight against gender-based violence and strengthen

regional action plans to provide specific care to victims within the communities

(Plurinational State of Bolivia);

144.144 Implement fully the National Action Plan for the Eradication of

Gender-based Violence and the Promotion of Human Rights (2017–2021)

(Namibia);

144.145 Continue to promote the National Action Plan for the Eradication of

Gender-based Violence and the Promotion of Human Rights (2017–2021)

(Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);

144.146 Adopt a comprehensive strategy to eliminate stereotypes of and

discrimination against women, and harmful practices (Honduras);

144.147 Continue its efforts to address gender-based violence and develop

measures that are responsive to trends in trafficking in persons (Philippines);

144.148 Continue to commit to fighting violence against women and girls, in

particular female genital mutilation, and bring the perpetrators of such acts to

justice (Luxembourg);

144.149 Take all possible measures to eliminate the practice of female genital

mutilation (Switzerland);

144.150 Intensify measures aimed at eliminating harmful traditional practices

that negatively affect the rights of women and girls, including female genital

mutilation and child, early and forced marriages (Namibia);

GE.18-22584 19

144.151 Reinforce measures seeking to eliminate the prejudiced practice of

female genital mutilation and ensure that the perpetrators are prosecuted and

sentenced (Portugal);

144.152 Strictly apply the laws in force on female genital mutilation, in all its

forms (Austria);

144.153 Take additional measures to eliminate the practice of female genital

mutilation and establish protection mechanisms aimed specifically at protecting

girls (Brazil);

144.154 Consider criminalizing any practice of excision on girls in order to

put an end to the persistence of female genital mutilation, in particular in the

Matam Region (Democratic Republic of the Congo);

144.155 Prohibit explicitly all forms of sexual and gender-based violence in

relation to girls and young women (Albania);

144.156 Set up effective mechanisms to identify, report and monitor the

perpetration of sexual and gender-based violence (Israel);

144.157 Continue efforts to increase the participation of women in decision-

making, including by applying provisions for gender parity in appointed

positions and in existing legislation (Maldives);

144.158 Continue and strengthen all initiatives and actions aimed at

generalizing the gender balance provided for in its legislation (Comoros);

144.159 Continue the policy to eliminate inequalities between men and

women, by adopting initiatives aimed at promoting gender balance (Djibouti);

144.160 Ensure the implementation of a comprehensive strategy to eliminate

discriminatory stereotypes against women (Albania);

144.161 Eliminate all legal provisions that discriminate against women (Cabo

Verde);

144.162 Expand efforts to centralize data collection for the elimination of

discrimination against women and migration-related statistics (Bahrain);

144.163 Continue with capacity-building in diverse areas relating to human

rights (India);

144.164 Continue to pursue efforts to realize women’s rights and combat

gender-based violence (Zimbabwe);

144.165 Prevent and combat all forms of discrimination, including by

protecting and promoting gender equality and women’s rights (Italy);

144.166 Maintain and strengthen all measures aimed at eradicating female

genital mutilation (Djibouti);

144.167 Continue to combat all forms of violence against women and girls

(Georgia);

144.168 Adopt legislative measures to prevent and combat domestic servitude

and commercial sexual exploitation (Honduras);

144.169 Increase the proportion of women in decision-making bodies and

relevant training (Bahrain);

144.170 Strengthen and protect the rights of vulnerable persons, in particular

women, children and persons with disabilities (Côte d’Ivoire);

144.171 Continue efforts to align national laws with international human

rights as regards women and children (Oman);

144.172 Continue to strengthen the national human rights bodies, especially

for the advancement of women and children (Lao People’s Democratic

Republic);

20 GE.18-22584

144.173 Continue efforts to promote the rights of the child (Egypt);

144.174 Adopt the draft Children’s Code while ensuring its compliance with

the provisions of international human rights instruments, and take appropriate

measures, including seeking technical assistance from the international

community for its effective implementation (Afghanistan);

144.175 Consolidate the efforts made to include in the legislative process, the

adoption of the draft Children’s Code that has already been validated

(Cameroon);

144.176 Adopt swiftly the draft Children’s Code and ensure its effective

implementation by allocating the necessary financial and human resources

(Belgium);

144.177 Complete the formulation and adoption of the Children’s Code

(Gabon);

144.178 Adopt the Children’s Code aimed at bringing the protection of

children’s rights into line with international and regional obligations on child

rights and thus avoid discrimination between children or parents on the basis

of gender (Germany);

144.179 Urgently adopt the Children’s Code (Greece);

144.180 Take all the measures necessary to restore, as soon as possible, the

Children’s Parliament, which was heralded as a success, and provide it with

sufficient resources, as follow-up to the recommendations accepted in

paragraphs 123.28, 124.15, 124.16 and 124.59 of the report of the Working

Group from the second review cycle (Haiti);

144.181 Repeal article 285 of the Family Code, which tolerates physical

violence against children in the form of reprimand and punishment

(Bangladesh);

144.182 Prioritize the full and effective implementation of the Convention on

the Rights of the Child (Australia);

144.183 Continue the process and initiatives aiming at ratifying the Optional

Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on a communications

procedure (Benin);

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

Child on a communications procedure (Gabon);

144.185 Ensure the effective implementation of child protection legislation, in

particular by giving child protection agencies a clear mandate, authority and

sufficient resources (Albania);

144.186 Strengthen the measures aimed at protecting the rights of vulnerable

children (Cabo Verde);

144.187 Take all measures necessary, under article 19 of the Convention on

the Rights of the Child, to strengthen its commitment to the protection of

children, especially the most vulnerable, subject to abandonment, neglect and

exploitation by those to whom they are entrusted (Angola);

144.188 Systematically prosecute individuals and dismantle the networks that

organize children begging daily on the streets (France);

144.189 Take all measures to better ensure the protection and education of

street children and children who are forced to beg owing to the customary

education practices that violate the basic rights of children (Comoros);

144.190 Take additional steps, including by improving law enforcement

practices, to protect street children and their reintegration into society

(Belarus);

GE.18-22584 21

144.191 Take immediate measures to put an end to the forced labour and

exploitation of children and bring perpetrators to justice (Canada);

144.192 Take the measures necessary to establish, in national legislation, a

minimum age of 18 years to contract marriage for both girls and boys

(Argentina);

144.193 Take measures to implement effectively the national action plan to

eliminate child marriage and increase to 18 years the minimum age of marriage

(Democratic Republic of the Congo);

144.194 Adopt a national action plan to end child marriage and amend the

Family Code and the Criminal Code to raise the minimum age of marriage to

18 years for both boys and girls (Chile);

144.195 Raise the minimum age of marriage of both boys and girls to 18 years

(Sierra Leone);

144.196 Fight against child marriages and female genital mutilation (France);

144.197 Take measures to ensure the prohibition, in law and in practice, of

female genital mutilation and child marriage (Israel);

144.198 Adopt and implement legal measures and undertake awareness-

raising campaigns to protect the rights of the child, in particular by

condemning, prohibiting and prosecuting female genital mutilation and early

and forced marriage (Italy);

144.199 Criminalize child marriage (Argentina);

144.200 Ensure the full implementation of the Convention on the Rights of the

Child, especially in the areas of education, juvenile justice, child trafficking and

child labour (Switzerland);

144.201 Intensify efforts to guarantee that national norms relating to

children’s rights are brought into line with the Convention on the Rights of the

Child, paying special attention to issues such as child labour and early and

forced marriage (Uruguay);

144.202 Finalize the establishment of the children’s ombudsman (Ukraine);

144.203 Remove all barriers to birth registration and improve access to

education and social services for children without birth certificates (Lesotho);

144.204 Enforce national laws that prohibit the use of children for begging,

child trafficking and child abuse (Sweden);

144.205 Continue to strengthen efforts to combat child poverty and address

regional disparities in child poverty (Maldives);

144.206 Invest additional efforts in decreasing poverty among children

(Serbia);

144.207 Establish mechanisms and services to protect children at risk of

becoming subject to child labour (Liechtenstein);

144.208 Adopt measures aimed at the protection of the rights of talibe

children and combat trafficking, exploitation, forced begging and all other

forms of violence and discrimination regarding talibe children, including in the

context of Qur’anic schools, as well as initiating inquiries and pursuing the

perpetrators of such acts (Portugal);

144.209 Implement existing laws on child begging, child trafficking and child,

early and forced marriage, ensuring sufficient funding is made available

(United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland);

144.210 Continue efforts to promote children’s rights (Tunisia);

22 GE.18-22584

144.211 Continue efforts to promote and protect children’s rights, including

the process of drafting the Children’s Code and the plan for the removal of

street children, and ensure that current national laws criminalize forced

begging for economic gain and the physical abuse of children (State of

Palestine);

144.212 Make further efforts to protect children from abuse and exploitation,

including child marriage (Republic of Korea);

144.213 Seek support from the international community to implement the

Children’s Code and to provide technical assistance and capacity-building for

the appropriate training of Senegalese teachers (Mauritius);

144.214 Speed up the adoption of the Children’s Code and implement

national legislation that penalizes forced begging, trafficking in persons, and

sexual and labour exploitation of minors (Spain);

144.215 Complete the elaboration process of the Children’s Code (Mali);

144.216 Finalize and adopt the draft Children’s Code (Namibia);

144.217 Accelerate the adoption of the Children’s Code (Paraguay);

144.218 Complete the drafting of the Children’s Code, taking into

consideration the views of all relevant stakeholders, in particular children and

young persons (Thailand);

144.219 Take the measures necessary to harmonize national legislation so that

the use of talibe children for economic exploitation is categorized as a crime, in

accordance with article 245 of the Criminal Code and Act No. 2005-06

(Paraguay);

144.220 Commit to resolving the issues of mistreatment, begging and

education of talibe children (Luxembourg);

144.221 Ensure that laws on the protection of children are in line with

international and national instruments (Madagascar);

144.222 Eradicate early, child and forced marriages (Montenegro);

144.223 Ensure child-sensitive prevention and reparations protection services

(Sweden);

144.224 Continue to promote the rights of persons with disabilities in all areas

so that such persons can participate in the country’s development (Cuba);

144.225 Continue efforts to ensure the enjoyment of the rights of persons with

disabilities (Jordan);

144.226 Continue efforts to ensure the integration of persons with disabilities

in financial programmes to provide for family security and comprehensive

health insurance (Saudi Arabia);

144.227 Implement fully Law No. 2010-15 on the Promotion and Protection of

the Rights of Persons with Disabilities; in so doing, meeting quotas for the

recruitment of persons with disabilities, raising awareness among the general

population and persons with disabilities about their rights and tackling violence

towards persons with disabilities (United Kingdom of Great Britain and

Northern Ireland);

144.228 Consider reviewing legislation on nationality in order to introduce

guarantees against statelessness at birth for all children (Brazil);

144.229 Continue to strengthen efforts aimed at maintaining peace in the

Casamance Region (Sierra Leone).

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

have been examined by Senegal and have been noted by Senegal:

GE.18-22584 23

145.1 Ratify the International Labour Organization Indigenous and Tribal

Peoples Convention, 1989 (No. 169) (Denmark) (Paraguay);

145.2 Issue a standing invitation to all special procedure mandate holders

(Denmark);

145.3 Ensure that national candidates to human rights treaty body elections

are selected through an open and merit-based process (United Kingdom of

Great Britain and Northern Ireland);

145.4 Fight against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender

identity (France);

145.5 Take effective measures to fight against the persecution and exclusion

of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons (Luxembourg);

145.6 Adopt and implement anti-discrimination legislation that protects

individuals from discrimination, including on the basis of sexual orientation

and gender identity (Iceland);

145.7 Take all necessary steps to combat the persecution of persons on the

basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity, in particular by revising, as

appropriate, article 319 of the Criminal Code, as previously recommended

(Ireland);

145.8 Introduce into legislation a specific definition of discrimination,

including as prohibited grounds sex, gender, sexual orientation or gender

identity or expression (Israel);

145.9 Amend the Criminal Code so as to prohibit all forms of

discrimination and violence, including when motivated by sexual orientation or

gender identity, in order to guarantee respect for the fundamental liberties of

all citizens (Uruguay);

145.10 Repeal all provisions that give rise to discrimination and violence

based on any grounds, including sexual orientation and gender identity, and

guarantee respect for the fundamental freedoms of all citizens, including article

319 of the Criminal Code (Chile);

145.11 Amend article 319 of the Criminal Code so as to no longer

discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation (Netherlands);

145.12 Decriminalize same-sex relationships between consenting adults and

strengthen efforts to address inequality, violence and discrimination based on

sexual orientation and gender identity (Australia);

145.13 Rescind the provisions of the Criminal Code that criminalize

consensual sexual relations between persons of the same sex (Spain);

145.14 Decriminalize consensual same-sex sexual relations between adults,

investigate violence perpetrated against members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual,

transgender and intersex community, and end the arbitrary arrest of

individuals suspected of consensual same-sex activity (United States of

America);

145.15 Prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender

identity and decriminalize consensual sexual relations between adults of the

same sex (Mexico);

145.16 Protect the rights of people from lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender

and intersex communities, train police officers in this regard and put an end to

the arbitrary arrests and detention of these persons (Canada);

145.17 Remove undue restrictions on fundamental freedoms, including bans

on peaceful demonstrations and the criminalization of inflammatory speech

(United States of America);

24 GE.18-22584

145.18 Revise the Criminal Code so that women can access legal, safe and

voluntary terminations of pregnancy; and guarantee the provisions of the

respective medical services (Iceland);

145.19 Revise the Criminal Code to bring it into line with regional and

international law and standards, particularly the Convention on the

Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and the Maputo

Protocol, including by criminalizing marital rape, prohibiting early and forced

marriage and decriminalizing abortion (Slovenia);

145.20 Revise the Criminal Code in line with regional and international laws

and standards, including by criminalizing marital rape and decriminalizing

abortion, and implement the relevant existing laws (Sweden);

145.21 Review the provisions of the Family Code with regard to the marital

authority of the husband and the handing over of the parental authority to the

husband, and include in the Criminal Code marital rape, and early and forced

marriages (Spain);

145.22 Repeal discriminatory provisions in the Family Code and the

Criminal Code (Switzerland);

145.23 Repeal all provisions that authorize corporal punishment, including

article 285 of the Family Code, and raise awareness among the general public

of the negative consequences of corporal punishment against children

(Liechtenstein);

145.24 Review the Family Code to remove discriminatory provisions with

respect to women, in particular article 152, which confers conjugal authority on

the husband, and article 277, which confers parental authority on the father

(Belgium);

145.25 Remove from the Family Code any provisions that allow for the

discrimination of women in law or in practice, including article 152 assigning

marital authority to the husband and article 277 assigning paternal authority to

the father (Germany);

145.26 Criminalize the non-denunciation of female genital mutilation (Cabo

Verde);

145.27 Harmonize its laws on abortion with the provisions of the Maputo

Protocol as soon as possible and legalize medical abortions in cases of rape and

incest (Netherlands);

145.28 Categorize rape as a serious crime and criminalize marital rape

(Honduras).

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

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

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

GE.18-22584 25

Annex

Composition of the delegation

The delegation of Senegal was headed by Ismaïla Madior Fall, Garde des Sceaux,

Ministre de la Justice and composed of the following members:

• Son Excellence Monsieur Coly SECK, Ambassadeur, Représentant permanent, à

Genève;

• Madame Fatou GAYE, Ministre-Conseiller à la Mission Permanente, à Genève;

• Monsieur Serigne DIEYE, Ministre-Conseiller à la Mission Permanente, à Genève;

• Monsieur Falilou MBAYE, Conseiller juridique du Président de la République;

• Monsieur Abdoulaye KHOUMA, Conseiller spécial du Premier Ministre;

• Monsieur Pape SENE, Président du Comité sénégalais des Droits de l’Homme;

• Monsieur Moustapha KA, Directeur des Droits humains au Ministère de la Justice;

• Madame Marie Siby FAYE, Membre du Conseil consultatif national des droits de

l’homme, Représentant du Ministère de l’Education;

• Madame Madina TALL, Deuxième Conseiller à la Mission Permanente, à Genève;

• Monsieur Youssoupha NDIAYE, Premier Secrétaire à la Mission Permanente, à

Genève;

• Monsieur Lamine KA MBAYE, Premier Secrétaire à la Mission Permanente, à

Genève;

• Madame Marie Victorine MENDY, Premier Secrétaire à la Mission Permanente à

Genève;

• Madame Nancy DIATTARA OULARE, Deuxième Secrétaire à la Mission

Permanente, à Genève.