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新闻稿 人权理事会
理事会通过有关多米尼加、朝鲜和文莱达鲁萨兰国的普遍定期审议结果（部分翻译）
2014年9月19日
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2014年9月19日
人权理事会今天上午通过了有关多米尼加、朝鲜和文莱达鲁萨兰国的普遍定期审议结果。
多米尼加常驻联合国纽约总部代表文斯·亨德森（Vince Henderson）表示，在收到的116条建议中，多米尼加接受了其中的79条，并注意到37条。接受的建议包括建立一个国家人权机构、加强打击对残疾人的歧视和保护残疾人方面的努力等。多米尼加将落实有关性别暴力的国家行动计划、加强国内关于暴力问题的现有法律、将最低工作年龄提高到15岁和减贫作为工作重点。多米尼加需要国际社会的持续支持以应对不断面临的挑战。
在讨论中，发言者对多米尼加改善人民教育、医疗保健和社会服务方面的努力表示欢迎，并对该国对侵犯非常规移徙者的零容忍政策表示赞赏。代表团对多米尼加同意加入一系列国际人权文书感到高兴，但对其拒绝有关基于性取向和性别认同的歧视和废除死刑的建议表示遗憾。发言者承认了多米尼加面临的技术和资源挑战，并呼吁国际社会向其提供必要的技术援助。
理事会随后通过了有关多米尼加的普遍定期审议结果。
在讨论中发言的有：摩洛哥、尼日利亚、塞拉利昂、委内瑞拉、阿尔及利亚、亚美尼亚、中国、古巴和牙买加。
下列非政府组织也在讨论中发言：国际男女同性恋者协会、大赦国际以及加拿大人口与发展行动。
朝鲜常驻联合国日内瓦办事处代表徐世平（Se Pyong So）在介绍报告时表示，在收到的268条建议中，朝鲜拒绝了83条，另外185条将进行进一步审议。为了全面实现政治、经济和文化权利，朝鲜已采取包括建立一些促进儿童福利的现代设施、促进妇女参与政府服务等方面的措施。朝鲜在促进和保护人权方面的努力面临着许多障碍和挑战，但无论其本质如何，朝鲜民主主义人民共和国都将取得最后胜利并促进符合该国国情和人民需求的人权机制的运作。
发言者对朝鲜参与普遍定期审议进程表示欢迎，并承认其在促进残疾人权利方面取得的进展，包括加入《残疾人权利公约》和改革国内立法等举措。代表团强调了朝鲜与国际社会展开真正合作以改善其骇人的人权记录的重要性，并对其拒绝包括立即关闭政治集中营、废除死刑、禁止使用酷刑和虐待、设立防止对女性囚徒的性暴力的机制和停止任意拘留和强迫失踪等建议在内的一半以上建议表示担忧。
发言者对朝鲜参与普遍定期审议进程表示欢迎，并承认其在促进残疾人权利方面取得的进展，包括加入《残疾人权利公约》和改革国内立法等举措。代表团强调了朝鲜与国际社会展开真正合作以改善其骇人的人权记录的重要性，并对其拒绝包括立即关闭政治集中营、废除死刑、禁止使用酷刑和虐待、设立防止对女性囚徒的性暴力的机制和停止任意拘留和强迫失踪等建议在内的一半以上建议表示担忧。
理事会随后通过了有关朝鲜民主主义人民共和国的普遍定期审议结果。
在讨论中共发言的有：韩国、俄罗斯、新加坡、苏丹、叙利亚、前南斯拉夫马其顿共和国、英国、美国、委内瑞拉、越南、阿尔及利亚、安哥拉、白俄罗斯、中国、古巴和爱沙尼亚。
大赦国际、联合国观察、欢庆运动（Jubilee Campaign）、人权观察、国际人权联合会和南风发展政策协会也在讨论中发言。
文莱达鲁萨兰国常驻联合国日内瓦办事处代表阿布·苏非安·宾·哈吉·阿里（Abu Sufian Bin Haji Ali）表示，在收到的189条建议中，文莱接受了其中的97条，部分接受了14条并拒绝了违背其宪法的78条建议。文莱正在考虑批准《残疾人权利公约》和《儿童权利公约》有关儿童卷入武装冲突的任择议定书。由于采取了赋予妇女同等受教育机会的政策，文莱妇女目前正积极为国家决策过程贡献力量并担任高级职位，而包括伊斯兰家庭法和已婚妇女法案在内的一些法律为妇女权利提供了法律框架。
发言者对文莱达鲁萨兰国在普遍定期审议第二周期中通过了大量有关加强保护人权国家体系的建议表示欢迎。他们还对该国在国家环境规划中重点关注教育、卫生和融入发展政策表示欢迎。他们对文莱在保护妇女儿童权利和实现性别平等方面的承诺表示赞赏，并表示该国需在与言论和结社自由相关的立法和政策方面取得更多有意义的进步。令人遗憾的是，文莱拒绝了有关废除死刑和批准《禁止酷刑公约》和《罗马规约》的建议。
理事会随后通过了有关文莱达鲁萨兰国的普遍定期审议结果。
新加坡、斯里兰卡、苏丹、泰国、美国、乌兹别克斯坦、委内瑞拉、越南、阿尔及利亚、巴林、白俄罗斯、不但、柬埔寨、中国、吉布提和印度在讨论中发言。
以下非政府组织也在讨论中发言：英国人文主义协会、国际人道与伦理联合会、英联邦人权倡议、大赦国际和南风发展政策协会。
人权理事会今天将举行全日会议。理事会将在午间会议中审议有关哥斯达黎加、赤道几内亚和埃塞俄比亚的普遍定期审议结果。
Consideration of Outcome of Universal Periodic Review of Commonwealth of Dominica
VINCE HENDERSON, Permanent Representative of the Commonwealth of Dominica to the United Nations in New York, highlighted the achievements of Dominica in education, healthcare, social services and rights of persons with disabilities, noting however that changes to social order and expansion of rights needed to reflect collective will. Dominica could not accede to international obligations without such consent. Dominica noted the recommendations emanated from the Universal Periodic Review, some of which it accepted and some it noted. Dominica was ratifying a series of international conventions on racial discrimination, torture, discrimination against women, enforced disappearances, migrant workers' rights, rights of the child and labour.
Dominica had agreed to establish a national human rights institution, promote human rights education, and strengthen cooperation with treaty bodies through technical assistance capacity building. Dominica still required the support of the Office of the High Commissioner to harmonise and integrate its international obligations. Dominica agreed to strengthen its fight against discrimination and continue work to eradicate discrimination and protect the rights of persons with disabilities, as well as of women and children. Dominica was working to protect women, accelerate the national adoption of the plan on gender violence, enforce existing domestic violence laws and raise the minimum age of employment to at least 15 years of age. Dominica prioritised poverty alleviation and social plan strengthening, with particular attention to the most vulnerable, reiterating the need for international assistance. Dominica would strengthen equal access to health services for all and continue improving national healthcare in cooperation with the World Health Organization. It thanked the Office of the High Commissioner for assistance as well as Member States to provide access to education, healthcare, water and sanitation, housing and social services. Due to resource constraints, some countries like Dominica had difficulties meeting international reporting and monitoring obligations.
Morocco welcomed the efforts of Dominica to improve education, health care and social services for its population and the commitment to social justice as enshrined in the Constitution, and called on the international community to provide it with the necessary technical assistance. Nigeria was encouraged by the zero-tolerance policy to combat violations of the human rights of irregular migrants and wished Dominica all success in the implementation of the recommendations it had accepted. Sierra Leone acknowledged the many technical and resource constraints Dominica faced and hoped it would be able to integrate more fully the accepted recommendations into its legal framework. Venezuela said that Dominica had achieved great progress in the promotion and protection of human rights, including the ratification of a number of international human rights instruments, despite the many challenges it faced. Dominica had agreed to most of the recommendations received during its Universal Periodic Review and Algeria was particularly pleased it agreed to strengthen cooperation with human rights treaty bodies. Armenia was pleased that Dominica accepted the recommendations made by Armenia, including acceding to the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide.
China welcomed Dominica’s constructive engagement with the Universal Periodic Review process, and that Dominica accepted China’s recommendation on economic and social development. It called on the international community to respond to Dominica’s urgent need for technical support. Cuba congratulated Dominica on the priority it had assigned to the protection and promotion of human rights, including the adoption of policies promoting gender equality and the right to education and access to health. Jamaica noted that Dominica had accepted most of the recommendations, including several that related to the ratification of international human rights instruments, which was one of the main concerns formulated during the review. Jamaica called on the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and international donors to provide adequate technical assistance to Dominica.
International Lesbian and Gay Association was disappointed with the response given by Dominica on recommendations made on the issue of gender identity and sexual orientation. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons continued to suffer from abuses and the Association encouraged the Government to repeal the necessary laws. Amnesty International regretted that Dominica was unable to provide a report, but acknowledged the difficulty it faced. It regretted that Dominica rejected all recommendations on discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons and criminalization of same-sex relations. Amnesty International called on Dominica to declare a formal moratorium on executions with a view to abolish the death penalty. Action Canada for Population and Development was deeply concerned by the criminalization of same-sex relations in Dominica. Discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons was not only a violation of international human rights law, but also undermined all of Dominica’s efforts to combat HIV/ AIDS.
VINCE HENDERSON, Permanent Representative of the Commonwealth of Dominica to the United Nations in New York, thanked all Member States for their remarks, in particular those familiar with the situation in Dominica and those who actively supported it. From the 116 recommendations received, 69 of them, accounting for 78 per cent, were accepted, however Dominica and its people could not, at this stage, accept the remaining 37 recommendations. There were unfounded accusations and allegations, not in tune with the situation in Dominica, expressed by some organizations on areas such as same-sex relationships. Dominica was not involved in the prosecution of homosexual persons, contrary to allegations made by some organizations. Dominica was a peaceful State with the right to have its own laws, and demonising that would be ineffective.
Out of 116 recommendations made to Dominica, 79 were accepted and 37 noted.
The Council then adopted the outcome of the Universal Periodic Review of Dominica.
Consideration of Outcome of Universal Periodic Review of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea
SE PYONG SO, Permanent Representative of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea to the United Nations Office at Geneva, said that out of 268 recommendations received during the review, 83 had been rejected because they seriously distorted the reality of the country and 185 had been taken up for further review. Most of the 268 recommendations had been accepted as a result of serious consultations held with relevant national institutions and the respect for the opinion of other countries. Measures had been taken for the full realization of the political, economic and cultural rights of the people and a number of modern facilities had been built for the promotion of children’s welfare. Further, measures had been taken to increase the advancement of women in the governmental services. The Democratic People's Republic of Korea took note of the 50 recommendations which contained elements that did not exist in the reality of the country, such as the recommendation to ensure free movement of all citizens and refrain from punishing those returning from abroad.
Ten of the recommendations left for further clarification had been rejected as they went against the principled position on opposing the politicization of human rights and contradicted the legal system of the country. Most had been based on distorted information provided by hostile forces which aimed to dismantle the country’s social system and included the recommendation concerning the penal system which allegedly prohibited people from leaving the country freely, and the cooperation with the “Special Rapporteur” on the situation of human rights in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea rejected the forcible adoption of anti-Democratic People's Republic of Korea “resolutions” every year and the “Special Rapporteur” as they were the outcomes of politicization, selectivity and double standards. The country’s efforts for the promotion and protection of human rights were faced with many obstacles and challenges, but whatever their nature, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea would accomplish ultimate victory and enhance the functions of the human rights mechanisms of their style which met the demands of the reality and the people.
Republic of Korea took note of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s decision to further accept recommendations, but deeply regretted that the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea rejected recommendations to put an end to arbitrary detention, enforced disappearances, and restrictions on freedom of expression and movement. Russian Federation hoped that the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea would enhance its efforts to promote and protect human rights. Singapore took positive note of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s constructive participation in the Universal Periodic Review, and welcomed that it had accepted its recommendations to continue its efforts to strengthen the legal framework for the promotion and protection of human rights and to improve social conditions in the country.
Sudan welcomed the efforts made by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and its cooperation with the Universal Periodic Review process and that it had accepted the recommendation made by Sudan. Syria appreciated the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s constructive engagement during the second cycle of the Universal Periodic Review. Syria commended the acceptance of a large number of recommendations, which reflected the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s commitment to continue its efforts to promote and protect human rights. The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia welcomed the engagement of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea in the Universal Periodic Review process, and that it had accepted three of its recommendations. It called on the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea to collaborate with United Nations Special Procedures and to adopt a moratorium on the use of the death penalty.
United Kingdom noted that the Democratic People's Republic of Korea’s human rights record remained one of the worst in the world as a result of policies carried out at the highest levels of the Government. It recalled issues related to the Commission of Inquiry and political prisoner camps. United States acknowledged progress in providing greater rights to person with disabilities and changing national legislation, encouraging the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea to continue and expand such rights. It was disappointed at the country’s non-cooperation with international human rights mechanisms and expressed concern for abductions and disappearances. Venezuela said the Democratic People's Republic of Korea attached importance to recommendations made during the Universal Periodic Review, nonetheless only through dialogue, not through imposition of mandates on countries, double standards, selectivity and politicisation. Health services and other services were free of charge in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. Venezuela recommended the adoption of its report.
Viet Nam welcomed acceptance by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea of all recommendations made by Viet Nam, and noted that only through dialogue and cooperation could the situation be improved. Viet Nam stood ready to provide assistance in humanitarian matters, including abductions. Algeria congratulated the Democratic People's Republic of Korea on accepting many recommendations, noting its cooperation with international mechanisms and its promulgation of more laws to promote social and cultural rights. Angola commended the Democratic People's Republic of Korea for accepting many recommendations and the progress made in promoting the rights of children with disabilities. It encouraged further resource allocation to enhance the human rights of its people. Belarus said the review showed the systematic commitment of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea to cooperate. Belarus welcomed the new voluntary obligations accepted by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea in its second Universal Periodic Review cycle.
China welcomed the commitment of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea to implement the accepted recommendations, including improving the situation of people in the rural areas, and called on the international community to objectively look at the situation of human rights in the country. Despite the difficult conditions imposed on it, the Government had achieved major progress in human rights, and Cuba stressed the existence of free health care system and the eradication of illiteracy. Estonia welcomed the acceptance of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea to continue to be a party to all main international human rights instruments and was disturbed by the refusal to abolish the death penalty, to prohibit the use of torture and ill-treatment and to establish a system to prevent sexual violence against female prisoners.
Amnesty International said genuine cooperation with the international community was imperative if the appalling human rights record of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea was to be addressed and expressed grave concern that more than half of the received recommendations had been rejected, including to immediately close down political prison camps. United Nations Watch continued to be alarmed by the catastrophic situation of human rights in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. It said that the condemnation of the human rights violations was not enough and called for action.
Jubilee Campaign said that it continued to raise the human rights situation in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea and that there had been negligible change. In addition to the total denial of a range of human rights issues, freedom of religion or belief was non-existent in the country. Human Rights Watch said that the Democratic People's Republic of Korea continued to deny the existence of political prison camps despite overwhelming evidence and clear satellite imagery that showed they existed. It was estimated that today up to 120,000 people were living in such camps, deprived of all basic human rights. International Federation for Human Rights Leagues said that in practice, the death penalty was not only applied on a large scale, but those sentenced to death were also systematically denied fair trial. The use of the death penalty in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea violated all international standards as well as domestic provisions. Verein Sudwind Entwicklungspolitik said that among the recommendations that did not enjoy the Democratic People's Republic of Korea’ support, some were of crucial importance. Concern was expressed that only two countries had not ratified the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, including the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
SE PYONG SO, Permanent Representative of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea to the United Nations Office at Geneva, expressed appreciation for the encouraging remarks made by speakers. Some remarks were however based on false information. The Democratic People's Republic of Korea respected the views of others and would try to address their concerns by accepting recommendations. The Democratic People's Republic of Korea was fully committed to protecting and promoting human rights, as well as to continue to engage in fair dialogue and collaborate with United Nations human rights mechanisms.
Out of 268 recommendations made to it, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea accepted 113 and noted 154.
The Council then adopted the outcome of the Universal Periodic Review of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
Consideration of Outcome of Universal Periodic Review of Brunei Darussalam
ABU SUFIAN BIN HAJI ALI, Permanent Representative of Brunei Darussalam to the United Nations Office at Geneva, in opening remarks, said Brunei Darussalam attached importance to the Universal Periodic Review and its role to improve human rights in Member States. The Government of His Majesty remained people' centred in all aspects. Brunei Darussalam had received 189 recommendations that had been considered through extensive interagency consultations. Brunei Darussalam had accepted 97 recommendations, including those already in practice or implemented. It partially supported 14 recommendations and was unable to accept 78 recommendations that were against its Constitution.
Brunei Darussalam had submitted reports to the Committee on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and to the Committee on the Rights of the Child. It was considering ratifying the Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict. Brunei Darussalam maintained reservations expressed to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and the Committee on the Rights of the Child. It said procedures were available for children of women citizens married to foreign nationals to be accorded Brunei citizenship. It highlighted that women contributed actively to the decision-making processes in the country, reaching senior professions, as a result of Brunei Darussalam's policy to give them equal access to education. The rights of women were protected through legislation such as the Islamic Family Law Act, the Married Women Act and the Women and Girls Protection Act. It thanked delegations participating in Brunei Darussalam's review and welcomed comments from delegations.
Singapore noted the large number of recommendations Brunei Darussalam had accepted and said it would continue to work closely with the Government on the implementation of the Association of the Southeast Asian Nations Charter for Human Rights. Sri Lanka was encouraged that education and health remained priorities, and by the inclusion of development policies in the national plan for the environment. Sudan thanked Brunei Darussalam for accepting the recommendation made by Sudan and wished it all the best in the pursuance of human rights. Thailand welcomed the acceptance by Brunei Darussalam of the recommendations pertaining to the situation of the rights of women and urged the Council to adopt its outcome document. United States appreciated the commitment to protecting the rights of children and women and achieving gender equality and said that meaningful progress needed to be made in the legislation and policies concerning the freedom of expression and association. Uzbekistan noted the participation of Brunei in the Universal Periodic Review process and believed that the implementation of the recommendations would strengthen the national system of protection of human rights.
Venezuela said this review had shed light on achievements in the area of human rights for the people of Brunei Darussalam. Its open participation in the process was proof of its commitment to the human rights of its people and it was wished success in implementing the recommendations made during this cycle. Viet Nam said that Brunei’s thorough and responsible consideration of the Universal Periodic Review recommendations strongly confirmed its commitment to continue its endeavours in the promotion and protection of human rights. Viet Nam strongly recommended the adoption of the report of Brunei. Algeria welcomed that Brunei Darussalam had accepted most of the recommendations, including a recommendation by Algeria on ensuring the effective participation of women in the decision-making process in the country. Brunei was encouraged to continue its efforts in promoting and protecting human rights. Bahrain applauded Brunei Darussalam’s efforts to continue protecting vulnerable groups. It welcomed what was announced by the delegation and its readiness to consider all recommendations presented during the review. It was hoped that recommendations presented by Bahrain were also accepted and would be implemented.
Belarus welcomed the significant progress made by Brunei Darussalam in the field of education, health and women’s rights, as well as in combating human trafficking. Belarus wished Brunei Darussalam every success in implementing the new recommendations and recommended the adoption of the report. Bhutan took note of the additional 14 recommendations which Brunei Darussalam had accepted after further consultations. It recommended the adoption of the Universal Periodic Review outcome report of Brunei Darussalam and wished it every success in implementing accepted recommendations. Cambodia was encouraged by steps taken towards the promotion and protection of the human rights and fundamental freedoms of Brunei Darussalam’s people. Cambodia commended efforts to enhance the welfare of the people, addressing the core issues of education, food and shelter, and welcomed the acceptance of its two recommendations.
China welcomed the constructive participation of Brunei Darussalam in the Universal Periodic Review process, and its acceptance of China’s recommendations to increase access to education and provide assistance to disabled women. Cuba welcomed that Brunei Darussalam had accepted a high number of recommendations, including those made by Cuba. Djibouti welcomed progress achieved in the area of economic, social and cultural rights and development in Brunei Darussalam. India commended the achievement of Brunei Darussalam for the realisation of the Millennium Development Goals and access to health. It was encouraging to note that Brunei Darussalam had accepted many recommendations, including the one made by India to ratify the International Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
British Humanist Association said that Brunei Darussalam accepted, during its first cycle of the Universal Periodic Review, the recommendation to put its domestic legislation in line with international human rights law, which it had unfortunately failed to do. Brunei Darussalam’s courts had set legal precedents that could be interpreted to allow corporal punishment for children and marital rape in practice. International Humanist and Ethical Union said that the Sharia penal code of Brunei Darussalam threatened the right to freedom of expression as well as women’s rights. Marital rape was legal. Children were considered criminally responsible at the age of 7. It deeply regret that Brunei Darussalam had rejected recommendations to suspend the code. Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative was concerned that the implementation of recommendations would not be possible with a comprehensive review of Brunei Darussalam’s legislation. Current legislation on freedom of expression was not in line with international standards, and there were disproportionate restrictions on the activities of journalists and on freedom of association. The situation of sexual minorities was also not compatible with international human rights law.
Amnesty International said concerns had been raised with regard to revisions to the Penal Code as its provisions violated key human rights. It was disappointed that all recommendations to ratify the Convention against Torture had been rejected. Laws introduced also discriminated against women and girls. Verein Verein Sudwind Entwicklungspolitik expressed concern that like many other countries, Brunei Darussalam also held back until the last minute to express the State’s views on recommendations received, which left very little chance for the non-governmental organizations to prepare their interventions and objections.
ABU SUFIAN HAJI ALI, Permanent Representative of Brunei Darussalam to the United Nations Office at Geneva, in concluding remarks said that Brunei Darussalam remained committed to the promotion and protection of human rights. Although its review ended today, its efforts did not. It would continue to work towards the betterment of human rights and face the challenges ahead. It reaffirmed its commitment to exchange views and experiences towards the fulfilment of the promotion and protection of human rights. As a small State of 400,000 people, Brunei Darussalam had limited human resources and would welcome any capacity building assistance.
Out 189 recommendations received, 97 were supported and the rest had been noted.
The Council then adopted the outcome of the Universal Periodic Review of Brunei Darussalam.
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Consideration of Outcome of Universal Periodic Review of Commonwealth of Dominica
VINCE HENDERSON, Permanent Representative of the Commonwealth of Dominica to the United Nations in New York, highlighted the achievements of Dominica in education, healthcare, social services and rights of persons with disabilities, noting however that changes to social order and expansion of rights needed to reflect collective will. Dominica could not accede to international obligations without such consent. Dominica noted the recommendations emanated from the Universal Periodic Review, some of which it accepted and some it noted. Dominica was ratifying a series of international conventions on racial discrimination, torture, discrimination against women, enforced disappearances, migrant workers' rights, rights of the child and labour.
Dominica had agreed to establish a national human rights institution, promote human rights education, and strengthen cooperation with treaty bodies through technical assistance capacity building. Dominica still required the support of the Office of the High Commissioner to harmonise and integrate its international obligations. Dominica agreed to strengthen its fight against discrimination and continue work to eradicate discrimination and protect the rights of persons with disabilities, as well as of women and children. Dominica was working to protect women, accelerate the national adoption of the plan on gender violence, enforce existing domestic violence laws and raise the minimum age of employment to at least 15 years of age. Dominica prioritised poverty alleviation and social plan strengthening, with particular attention to the most vulnerable, reiterating the need for international assistance. Dominica would strengthen equal access to health services for all and continue improving national healthcare in cooperation with the World Health Organization. It thanked the Office of the High Commissioner for assistance as well as Member States to provide access to education, healthcare, water and sanitation, housing and social services. Due to resource constraints, some countries like Dominica had difficulties meeting international reporting and monitoring obligations.
Morocco welcomed the efforts of Dominica to improve education, health care and social services for its population and the commitment to social justice as enshrined in the Constitution, and called on the international community to provide it with the necessary technical assistance. Nigeria was encouraged by the zero-tolerance policy to combat violations of the human rights of irregular migrants and wished Dominica all success in the implementation of the recommendations it had accepted. Sierra Leone acknowledged the many technical and resource constraints Dominica faced and hoped it would be able to integrate more fully the accepted recommendations into its legal framework. Venezuela said that Dominica had achieved great progress in the promotion and protection of human rights, including the ratification of a number of international human rights instruments, despite the many challenges it faced. Dominica had agreed to most of the recommendations received during its Universal Periodic Review and Algeria was particularly pleased it agreed to strengthen cooperation with human rights treaty bodies. Armenia was pleased that Dominica accepted the recommendations made by Armenia, including acceding to the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide.
China welcomed Dominica’s constructive engagement with the Universal Periodic Review process, and that Dominica accepted China’s recommendation on economic and social development. It called on the international community to respond to Dominica’s urgent need for technical support. Cuba congratulated Dominica on the priority it had assigned to the protection and promotion of human rights, including the adoption of policies promoting gender equality and the right to education and access to health. Jamaica noted that Dominica had accepted most of the recommendations, including several that related to the ratification of international human rights instruments, which was one of the main concerns formulated during the review. Jamaica called on the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and international donors to provide adequate technical assistance to Dominica.
International Lesbian and Gay Association was disappointed with the response given by Dominica on recommendations made on the issue of gender identity and sexual orientation. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons continued to suffer from abuses and the Association encouraged the Government to repeal the necessary laws. Amnesty International regretted that Dominica was unable to provide a report, but acknowledged the difficulty it faced. It regretted that Dominica rejected all recommendations on discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons and criminalization of same-sex relations. Amnesty International called on Dominica to declare a formal moratorium on executions with a view to abolish the death penalty. Action Canada for Population and Development was deeply concerned by the criminalization of same-sex relations in Dominica. Discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons was not only a violation of international human rights law, but also undermined all of Dominica’s efforts to combat HIV/ AIDS.
VINCE HENDERSON, Permanent Representative of the Commonwealth of Dominica to the United Nations in New York, thanked all Member States for their remarks, in particular those familiar with the situation in Dominica and those who actively supported it. From the 116 recommendations received, 69 of them, accounting for 78 per cent, were accepted, however Dominica and its people could not, at this stage, accept the remaining 37 recommendations. There were unfounded accusations and allegations, not in tune with the situation in Dominica, expressed by some organizations on areas such as same-sex relationships. Dominica was not involved in the prosecution of homosexual persons, contrary to allegations made by some organizations. Dominica was a peaceful State with the right to have its own laws, and demonising that would be ineffective.
Out of 116 recommendations made to Dominica, 79 were accepted and 37 noted.
The Council then adopted the outcome of the Universal Periodic Review of Dominica.
Consideration of Outcome of Universal Periodic Review of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea
SE PYONG SO, Permanent Representative of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea to the United Nations Office at Geneva, said that out of 268 recommendations received during the review, 83 had been rejected because they seriously distorted the reality of the country and 185 had been taken up for further review. Most of the 268 recommendations had been accepted as a result of serious consultations held with relevant national institutions and the respect for the opinion of other countries. Measures had been taken for the full realization of the political, economic and cultural rights of the people and a number of modern facilities had been built for the promotion of children’s welfare. Further, measures had been taken to increase the advancement of women in the governmental services. The Democratic People's Republic of Korea took note of the 50 recommendations which contained elements that did not exist in the reality of the country, such as the recommendation to ensure free movement of all citizens and refrain from punishing those returning from abroad.
Ten of the recommendations left for further clarification had been rejected as they went against the principled position on opposing the politicization of human rights and contradicted the legal system of the country. Most had been based on distorted information provided by hostile forces which aimed to dismantle the country’s social system and included the recommendation concerning the penal system which allegedly prohibited people from leaving the country freely, and the cooperation with the “Special Rapporteur” on the situation of human rights in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea rejected the forcible adoption of anti-Democratic People's Republic of Korea “resolutions” every year and the “Special Rapporteur” as they were the outcomes of politicization, selectivity and double standards. The country’s efforts for the promotion and protection of human rights were faced with many obstacles and challenges, but whatever their nature, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea would accomplish ultimate victory and enhance the functions of the human rights mechanisms of their style which met the demands of the reality and the people.
Republic of Korea took note of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s decision to further accept recommendations, but deeply regretted that the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea rejected recommendations to put an end to arbitrary detention, enforced disappearances, and restrictions on freedom of expression and movement. Russian Federation hoped that the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea would enhance its efforts to promote and protect human rights. Singapore took positive note of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s constructive participation in the Universal Periodic Review, and welcomed that it had accepted its recommendations to continue its efforts to strengthen the legal framework for the promotion and protection of human rights and to improve social conditions in the country.
Sudan welcomed the efforts made by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and its cooperation with the Universal Periodic Review process and that it had accepted the recommendation made by Sudan. Syria appreciated the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s constructive engagement during the second cycle of the Universal Periodic Review. Syria commended the acceptance of a large number of recommendations, which reflected the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s commitment to continue its efforts to promote and protect human rights. The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia welcomed the engagement of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea in the Universal Periodic Review process, and that it had accepted three of its recommendations. It called on the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea to collaborate with United Nations Special Procedures and to adopt a moratorium on the use of the death penalty.
United Kingdom noted that the Democratic People's Republic of Korea’s human rights record remained one of the worst in the world as a result of policies carried out at the highest levels of the Government. It recalled issues related to the Commission of Inquiry and political prisoner camps. United States acknowledged progress in providing greater rights to person with disabilities and changing national legislation, encouraging the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea to continue and expand such rights. It was disappointed at the country’s non-cooperation with international human rights mechanisms and expressed concern for abductions and disappearances. Venezuela said the Democratic People's Republic of Korea attached importance to recommendations made during the Universal Periodic Review, nonetheless only through dialogue, not through imposition of mandates on countries, double standards, selectivity and politicisation. Health services and other services were free of charge in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. Venezuela recommended the adoption of its report.
Viet Nam welcomed acceptance by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea of all recommendations made by Viet Nam, and noted that only through dialogue and cooperation could the situation be improved. Viet Nam stood ready to provide assistance in humanitarian matters, including abductions. Algeria congratulated the Democratic People's Republic of Korea on accepting many recommendations, noting its cooperation with international mechanisms and its promulgation of more laws to promote social and cultural rights. Angola commended the Democratic People's Republic of Korea for accepting many recommendations and the progress made in promoting the rights of children with disabilities. It encouraged further resource allocation to enhance the human rights of its people. Belarus said the review showed the systematic commitment of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea to cooperate. Belarus welcomed the new voluntary obligations accepted by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea in its second Universal Periodic Review cycle.
China welcomed the commitment of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea to implement the accepted recommendations, including improving the situation of people in the rural areas, and called on the international community to objectively look at the situation of human rights in the country. Despite the difficult conditions imposed on it, the Government had achieved major progress in human rights, and Cuba stressed the existence of free health care system and the eradication of illiteracy. Estonia welcomed the acceptance of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea to continue to be a party to all main international human rights instruments and was disturbed by the refusal to abolish the death penalty, to prohibit the use of torture and ill-treatment and to establish a system to prevent sexual violence against female prisoners.
Amnesty International said genuine cooperation with the international community was imperative if the appalling human rights record of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea was to be addressed and expressed grave concern that more than half of the received recommendations had been rejected, including to immediately close down political prison camps. United Nations Watch continued to be alarmed by the catastrophic situation of human rights in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. It said that the condemnation of the human rights violations was not enough and called for action.
Jubilee Campaign said that it continued to raise the human rights situation in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea and that there had been negligible change. In addition to the total denial of a range of human rights issues, freedom of religion or belief was non-existent in the country. Human Rights Watch said that the Democratic People's Republic of Korea continued to deny the existence of political prison camps despite overwhelming evidence and clear satellite imagery that showed they existed. It was estimated that today up to 120,000 people were living in such camps, deprived of all basic human rights. International Federation for Human Rights Leagues said that in practice, the death penalty was not only applied on a large scale, but those sentenced to death were also systematically denied fair trial. The use of the death penalty in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea violated all international standards as well as domestic provisions. Verein Sudwind Entwicklungspolitik said that among the recommendations that did not enjoy the Democratic People's Republic of Korea’ support, some were of crucial importance. Concern was expressed that only two countries had not ratified the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, including the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
SE PYONG SO, Permanent Representative of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea to the United Nations Office at Geneva, expressed appreciation for the encouraging remarks made by speakers. Some remarks were however based on false information. The Democratic People's Republic of Korea respected the views of others and would try to address their concerns by accepting recommendations. The Democratic People's Republic of Korea was fully committed to protecting and promoting human rights, as well as to continue to engage in fair dialogue and collaborate with United Nations human rights mechanisms.
Out of 268 recommendations made to it, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea accepted 113 and noted 154.
The Council then adopted the outcome of the Universal Periodic Review of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
Consideration of Outcome of Universal Periodic Review of Brunei Darussalam
ABU SUFIAN BIN HAJI ALI, Permanent Representative of Brunei Darussalam to the United Nations Office at Geneva, in opening remarks, said Brunei Darussalam attached importance to the Universal Periodic Review and its role to improve human rights in Member States. The Government of His Majesty remained people' centred in all aspects. Brunei Darussalam had received 189 recommendations that had been considered through extensive interagency consultations. Brunei Darussalam had accepted 97 recommendations, including those already in practice or implemented. It partially supported 14 recommendations and was unable to accept 78 recommendations that were against its Constitution.
Brunei Darussalam had submitted reports to the Committee on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and to the Committee on the Rights of the Child. It was considering ratifying the Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict. Brunei Darussalam maintained reservations expressed to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and the Committee on the Rights of the Child. It said procedures were available for children of women citizens married to foreign nationals to be accorded Brunei citizenship. It highlighted that women contributed actively to the decision-making processes in the country, reaching senior professions, as a result of Brunei Darussalam's policy to give them equal access to education. The rights of women were protected through legislation such as the Islamic Family Law Act, the Married Women Act and the Women and Girls Protection Act. It thanked delegations participating in Brunei Darussalam's review and welcomed comments from delegations.
Singapore noted the large number of recommendations Brunei Darussalam had accepted and said it would continue to work closely with the Government on the implementation of the Association of the Southeast Asian Nations Charter for Human Rights. Sri Lanka was encouraged that education and health remained priorities, and by the inclusion of development policies in the national plan for the environment. Sudan thanked Brunei Darussalam for accepting the recommendation made by Sudan and wished it all the best in the pursuance of human rights. Thailand welcomed the acceptance by Brunei Darussalam of the recommendations pertaining to the situation of the rights of women and urged the Council to adopt its outcome document. United States appreciated the commitment to protecting the rights of children and women and achieving gender equality and said that meaningful progress needed to be made in the legislation and policies concerning the freedom of expression and association. Uzbekistan noted the participation of Brunei in the Universal Periodic Review process and believed that the implementation of the recommendations would strengthen the national system of protection of human rights.
Venezuela said this review had shed light on achievements in the area of human rights for the people of Brunei Darussalam. Its open participation in the process was proof of its commitment to the human rights of its people and it was wished success in implementing the recommendations made during this cycle. Viet Nam said that Brunei’s thorough and responsible consideration of the Universal Periodic Review recommendations strongly confirmed its commitment to continue its endeavours in the promotion and protection of human rights. Viet Nam strongly recommended the adoption of the report of Brunei. Algeria welcomed that Brunei Darussalam had accepted most of the recommendations, including a recommendation by Algeria on ensuring the effective participation of women in the decision-making process in the country. Brunei was encouraged to continue its efforts in promoting and protecting human rights. Bahrain applauded Brunei Darussalam’s efforts to continue protecting vulnerable groups. It welcomed what was announced by the delegation and its readiness to consider all recommendations presented during the review. It was hoped that recommendations presented by Bahrain were also accepted and would be implemented.
Belarus welcomed the significant progress made by Brunei Darussalam in the field of education, health and women’s rights, as well as in combating human trafficking. Belarus wished Brunei Darussalam every success in implementing the new recommendations and recommended the adoption of the report. Bhutan took note of the additional 14 recommendations which Brunei Darussalam had accepted after further consultations. It recommended the adoption of the Universal Periodic Review outcome report of Brunei Darussalam and wished it every success in implementing accepted recommendations. Cambodia was encouraged by steps taken towards the promotion and protection of the human rights and fundamental freedoms of Brunei Darussalam’s people. Cambodia commended efforts to enhance the welfare of the people, addressing the core issues of education, food and shelter, and welcomed the acceptance of its two recommendations.
China welcomed the constructive participation of Brunei Darussalam in the Universal Periodic Review process, and its acceptance of China’s recommendations to increase access to education and provide assistance to disabled women. Cuba welcomed that Brunei Darussalam had accepted a high number of recommendations, including those made by Cuba. Djibouti welcomed progress achieved in the area of economic, social and cultural rights and development in Brunei Darussalam. India commended the achievement of Brunei Darussalam for the realisation of the Millennium Development Goals and access to health. It was encouraging to note that Brunei Darussalam had accepted many recommendations, including the one made by India to ratify the International Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
British Humanist Association said that Brunei Darussalam accepted, during its first cycle of the Universal Periodic Review, the recommendation to put its domestic legislation in line with international human rights law, which it had unfortunately failed to do. Brunei Darussalam’s courts had set legal precedents that could be interpreted to allow corporal punishment for children and marital rape in practice. International Humanist and Ethical Union said that the Sharia penal code of Brunei Darussalam threatened the right to freedom of expression as well as women’s rights. Marital rape was legal. Children were considered criminally responsible at the age of 7. It deeply regret that Brunei Darussalam had rejected recommendations to suspend the code. Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative was concerned that the implementation of recommendations would not be possible with a comprehensive review of Brunei Darussalam’s legislation. Current legislation on freedom of expression was not in line with international standards, and there were disproportionate restrictions on the activities of journalists and on freedom of association. The situation of sexual minorities was also not compatible with international human rights law.
Amnesty International said concerns had been raised with regard to revisions to the Penal Code as its provisions violated key human rights. It was disappointed that all recommendations to ratify the Convention against Torture had been rejected. Laws introduced also discriminated against women and girls. Verein Verein Sudwind Entwicklungspolitik expressed concern that like many other countries, Brunei Darussalam also held back until the last minute to express the State’s views on recommendations received, which left very little chance for the non-governmental organizations to prepare their interventions and objections.
ABU SUFIAN HAJI ALI, Permanent Representative of Brunei Darussalam to the United Nations Office at Geneva, in concluding remarks said that Brunei Darussalam remained committed to the promotion and protection of human rights. Although its review ended today, its efforts did not. It would continue to work towards the betterment of human rights and face the challenges ahead. It reaffirmed its commitment to exchange views and experiences towards the fulfilment of the promotion and protection of human rights. As a small State of 400,000 people, Brunei Darussalam had limited human resources and would welcome any capacity building assistance.
Out 189 recommendations received, 97 were supported and the rest had been noted.
The Council then adopted the outcome of the Universal Periodic Review of Brunei Darussalam.
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