IV. CONCLUDING OBSERVATIONS, CONTINUED

CERD

•          Belgium, CERD, A/57/18 (2002) 17 at paras. 42 and 51.

42. With regard to article 4 of the Convention the Committee... welcomes the imposition of financial sanctions on anti-democratic political parties that disseminate racism and xenophobia.

...

51. The Committee is concerned that there is no legislation prohibiting racist organizations and propaganda activities. It is also concerned about the increasing influence of xenophobic ideology on political parties, especially in Flanders...Taking into account the mandatory nature of article 4 of the Convention, the Committee...recommends that the State party enact legislation that declares illegal and prohibits any organization which promotes or incites to racism and racial discrimination and consider withdrawing its reservation to this article. In this context, the Committee draws the attention of the State party to its general recommendation XV.

•          Costa Rica, CERD, A/57/18 (2002) 21 at paras. 76 and 81.

76. The Committee notes with concern the shortcomings of the State party in its activities on behalf of indigenous peoples, as reported by the Office of the Ombudsman, in particular the failure on the part of the authorities to maintain communication with the indigenous population and the absence of specific government plans for them. In this context, the Committee wishes to refer to its general recommendation XXIII, in which it calls upon States parties to ensure that members of indigenous peoples have equal rights in respect of effective participation in public life and that no decisions directly relating to their rights and interests are taken without their informed consent.

...

81. The Committee is also concerned about the lack of representation of minorities at the judicial and governmental levels. The Committee recommends that the State party undertake affirmative action to ensure such minority representation.

•          Croatia, CERD, A/57/18 (2002) 24 at paras. 95-97.

95. It is noted that statistical data provided in the State party report are based on the 1991 census and that the results of the census of 2001 are still pending. The Committee is concerned that the delay in the publication of the results may create distrust among communities and has presented some difficulties for the Committee in undertaking effective analysis of issues affecting minorities. The Committee strongly encourages the State party to finalize and publish the general population census conducted in 2001 in order inter alia, to implement provisions of the law affecting political representation as well as to ensure, as necessary, special protection and benefits for ethnic minorities...

96. With respect to article 2 of the Convention, the Committee remains concerned about the limited representation of minorities in the Croatian Parliament. While it is noted that the Act on Election of Representatives to the Croatian State Parliament provides for proportional representation of minorities, the Committee is concerned that not all minority groups are included in this process while others are underrepresented. In particular, it is noted that Bosnians are not included in the list of minorities who may exercise the right to be represented in Parliament. It is recommended that the State party take further measures to ensure fair and adequate representation of all groups of minorities in the Croatian Parliament and to include in its forthcoming report information concerning the measures taken in this regard.

97. The Committee expresses concern at the continued practice of segregation of Roma children within the educational system and at the reports of discrimination against the Roma regarding access to employment, health, political representation and citizenship rights...The Committee...encourages the State party to reinforce its efforts to train and recruit Roma teachers and to prevent discrimination against the Roma in access to employment, health, political representation and citizenship rights.

•          Liechtenstein, CERD, A/57/18 (2002) 33 at para. 149.

149. The Committee notes with appreciation that civil servants in Liechtenstein are not necessarily required to have Liechtenstein citizenship.

•          Lithuania, CERD, A/57/18 (2002) 35 at para. 167.

167. The Committee welcomes the initiative taken by the Parliament (Seimas) to amend article 119 of the Constitution of Lithuania and to grant the right of Foreign permanent residents to elect and to be elected to local self-government bodies (municipal councils).

•          Qatar, CERD, A/57/18 (2002) 38 at paras. 186 and 194.

186. The Committee welcomes the political reforms on which the State party has embarked, and notes in particular the review of legislation on civil liberties, the lifting of censorship on the printed media, the first elections to the Central Municipal Council, conducted with universal and equal suffrage in 1999, and the announcement of the forthcoming establishment of an elected parliament.

...

194. The Committee notes with concern the distinction drawn between citizens by birth and naturalized citizens as regards access to public office and other kinds of employment, as well as the right to vote and to stand for election. The Committee believes that the supplementary conditions attached to the exercise of these rights by naturalized citizens are not consistent with article 5 (c) and (e) (i) of the Convention. It recommends that the State party bring its legislation into line with article 5 of the Convention...

•          Armenia, CERD, A/57/18 (2002) 50 at para. 278.

278. The Committee expresses its concern at the lack of representation of ethnic and national minorities in the National Assembly. It recommends that the State party take the necessary steps to secure their due representation of minorities in the National Assembly...

•          Botswana, CERD, A/57/18 (2002) 53 at paras. 301 and 304.

301. The Committee is concerned by the discriminatory character of certain domestic laws, such as the Chieftainship Act and the Tribal Territories Act, which only recognize the Tswana-speaking tribes. Other tribes, especially the Basarwa/San peoples, are reported to suffer from cultural, social, economic and political exclusion, do not enjoy group rights to land, and do not participate in the House of Chiefs. Noting that the amendment of sections 77 to 79 of the Constitution is currently in process, the Committee recommends that recognition and representation of all tribes in Botswana on an equal basis be ensured in the Constitution, and that the Chieftainship Act and the Tribal Territories Act be amended accordingly.

...

304. The Committee expresses concern that the ongoing dispossession of Basarwa/San people from their land and about reports stating that their resettlement outside the Central Kalahari Game Reserve does not respect their political, economic, social and cultural rights. The Committee draws the attention of the State party to its general recommendation XXIII on indigenous peoples, and recommends that no decisions directly relating to the rights and interests of members of indigenous peoples be taken without their informed consent. The Committee recommends that negotiations with the Basarwa/San and non-governmental organizations on this issue be resumed, and that a rights-based approach to development be adopted.

•          Canada, CERD, A/57/18 (2002) 56 at para. 323.

323. The Committee welcomes the extension of the scope of the Employment Equity Act to the federal public service and the Canadian Forces, and notes with satisfaction the progress achieved regarding the representation of Aboriginals and minorities in the federal public service.

•          Estonia, CERD, A/57/18 (2002) 60 at para. 359.

359. Although it welcomes the elimination of the language requirements from the Election Act and the Local Government Council Election Act, the Committee expresses concern that, according to article 48 of the Estonian Constitution, only citizens can be members of political parties. Furthermore, the Committee considers it important that political bodies of towns with a majority of Russian-speaking inhabitants are offered the possibility of conducting their work also in Russian, as stipulated in the Law on Languages and in the Local Government Organization Act...

•          Hungary, CERD, A/57/18 (2002) 63 at paras. 370 and 381.

370. The Committee reiterates, in particular, its satisfaction with the promulgation and implementation of Act LXXVII of 1993 on the Rights of National and Ethnic Minorities, which recognizes 13 minorities and provides them with a degree of cultural autonomy, as well as a wide range of educational and linguistic rights, and sets up a system of minority self-governments.

...

381. The Committee expresses concern at the fact that minorities are under-represented in Parliament. The Committee appreciates the fact that the State party is considering amending existing legislation so as to ensure better parliamentary representation of minorities and encourages it to proceed in this direction.

•          New Zealand, CERD, A/57/18 (2002) 69 at para. 419.

419. The Committee welcomes the introduction of amendments to the electoral roll system, in particular the Maori electoral option, which have contributed to an appreciable increase in the representation of Maori in Parliament.

•          Senegal, CERD, A/57/18 (2002) 72 at paras. 440 and 441.

440. The Committee notes with satisfaction the State party's efforts to establish institutions for the protection of human rights, such as the Human Rights Committee, the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Human Rights and the Human Rights and Humanitarian Law Office, and notes the enhanced presence of women in public bodies, their access to ownership of property and the banning of genital mutilation...

441. The Committee regrets the lack of statistics relating to the ethnic breakdown of the population and the representation of the various ethnic groups in Senegal's political institutions, as well as their participation in public bodies entrusted with ensuring respect for human rights. The Committee reminds the State party of general recommendations IV and XXIV, dated 25 August 1973 and 28 August 1999, respectively...

•          Yemen, CERD, A/57/18 (2002) 74 at para. 455.

455. Noting with satisfaction the appointment of a Minister of State for Human Rights in Yemen, the Committee welcomes the General Electoral Act No.27 of 1996, including its amendments of 1999, and the Political Parties and Organisations Act recognizing fundamental freedoms, including political and party pluralism.

•          Côte d’Ivoire, CERD, A/58/18 (2003) 19 at para. 32.

32. The Committee notes with concern that the misinterpretation of election laws has given rise to tensions between ethnic and religious groups and recommends that these laws be reviewed in the light of the provisions of the Convention relating to the right of all citizens to take part in the country’s political life.

•          Ecuador, CERD, A/58/18 (2003) 22 at paras. 58 and 61.

58. Serious concern is expressed about reported instances of excessive use of force by the police and armed forces against indigenous people, particularly in the context of political demonstrations and civil unrest. The Committee recommends that the State party ensure that such acts are avoided and, in this connection, recommends that the State party include human rights education in the professional training of police and armed forces, as well as prison staff, and requests it to report on any measures taken in this regard.

...

61. The Committee notes that women belonging to ethnic minorities are subject to double discrimination, based on their ethnic origin as well as their gender... In formulating the action plan on the rights of women, the State party should address the problem of double discrimination against women belonging to ethnic minorities as well as their lack of political representation in Ecuador, in line with the Committee’s General Recommendation XXV on gender-related dimensions of racial discrimination.

•          Fiji, CERD, A/58/18 (2003) 25 at paras. 77, 83 and 87.

77. The Committee expresses its appreciation for the inclusion, in the 1997 Constitution of Fiji, of a Social Justice Chapter (sect. 44), calling for the elaboration of programmes designed to achieve, for all groups or categories of persons who are disadvantaged, effective equality of access to education and training, land and housing, and participation in commerce and all levels and branches of State public services.

...

83. The Committee is deeply concerned that section 99 of the 1997 Constitution, which ensures power-sharing between ethnic communities through the creation of a multiparty Cabinet, is not currently being implemented. The Committee welcomes, however, the assurances given by the State party that it will comply with the Supreme Court ruling to be issued later this year on this matter.

...

87. The Committee expresses concern about the underrepresentation of Indo-Fijians and other ethnic minorities in the police, the army and other public services in general, and recommends that specific programmes be adopted to ensure appropriate representation of all ethnic communities in these services...

•          Russian Federation, CERD, A/58/18 (2003) 38 at paras. 177, 182, 190 and 194.

177. The Committee notes with satisfaction the assurances given by the delegation of the State party that displaced persons from Chechnya living in neighbouring regions will be allowed to vote in the referendum in Chechnya on a new constitution.

...

182. The Committee is concerned about numerous reports that residence registration is used as a means of discriminating against certain ethnic groups, and that the lack of residence registration is used to deny a number of political, economic and social rights. While welcoming the fact that courts in the State party have declared such practices unconstitutional, the Committee recommends that the State party ensure that, in the implementation of the residence registration system, the standards laid down in federal law and supported by decisions of the Constitutional and Supreme Courts are strictly applied.

...

190. While welcoming the steps taken to implement article 4 of the Convention, the Committee is concerned about the lack of a clear definition of the concept of political extremism in the federal law of 2002 “On Counteracting Extremist Activities”. The Committee encourages the State party to review the law with a view to defining its scope more clearly.

...

194. With regard to the upcoming referendum in Chechnya, the Committee recommends that the State party support public debate on the constitution of the Chechen Republic and make every effort to ensure that the referendum will serve as a step towards bringing peace back to the region.

•          Slovenia, CERD, A/58/18 (2003) 45 at para. 236.

236. With respect to article 2 of the Convention, the Committee, while noting that the Constitution of Slovenia provides for representation in Parliament of the Italian and Hungarian minorities, observes that the issue of the representation of other minorities in the Slovenian Parliament has not been addressed. The Committee therefore recommends that the State party consider taking further measures to ensure that all groups of minorities are represented in Parliament...

•          Cape Verde, CERD, A/58/18 (2003) 62 at para. 365.

365. While the Committee welcomes the efforts made by the State party to ensure the implementation of the Convention with respect to women and the existence of civil society organizations working in the field of promotion and protection of women’s rights, it is concerned about the stereotyping of women in particular those of foreign origin in Cape Verde, as well as the insufficient representation of women at high political level in the labour market and in cultural affairs.

The Committee recommends that the State party take all appropriate measures to guarantee the equal enjoyment by women, free from racial discrimination, of the rights under the Convention and draws the attention of the State party to its general recommendation XXV on gender-related dimensions of racial discrimination.

•          Islamic Republic of Iran, CERD, A/58/18 (2003) 72 at para. 420.

420. The Committee takes note with satisfaction of the broad participation of people from provinces inhabited by ethnic groups in the council, presidential and parliamentary elections of 1998, 1999 and 2000, respectively.

•          Latvia, CERD, A/58/18 (2003) 75 at para. 448.

448. The Committee recognizes that political rights can be legitimately limited to citizens. Nevertheless, noting that most non-citizens have been residing in Latvia for many years, if not for their whole lives, the Committee strongly recommends that the State party consider facilitating the integration process by making it possible for all non-citizens who are long-time permanent residents to participate in local elections.

•          Brazil, CERD, A/59/18 (2004) 14 at para. 65.

65. The Committee reiterates the concern expressed in its previous concluding observations over the fact that illiterate citizens, who are found especially among the indigenous, black or mestizo groups, do not have the right to be elected to public office.

In light of article 5 (c) of the Convention, the Committee recommends that the State party adopt adequate measures to combat illiteracy and allow all citizens the enjoyment of all political rights, in particular the right to be elected to public office.

•          Lebanon, CERD, A/59/18 (2004) 18 at para. 82.

82. While acknowledging the historical and political background of the system of confessionalism, as well as some steps taken towards its gradual elimination in accordance with the Taif agreement of 22 October 1989 and article 95 of the Constitution, the Committee notes the overall resistance and lack of progress in this regard. While recognizing the need to balance any steps with the maintenance of peace, the Committee remains concerned at the possible impact of this system on the full implementation of the Convention in the State party.

The Committee recommends that the State party undertake a continued effort to monitor and review the situation and to take appropriate measures, including educational and legal measures, towards the gradual elimination of the system of political confessionalism in the spirit of the Taif agreement and the constitutional amendments, taking into account public views and feelings.

•          Nepal, CERD, A/59/18 (2004) 24 at para. 132.

132. While welcoming the State party’s efforts to implement special measures to advance and protect persons subjected to discrimination, the Committee remains concerned over the underrepresentation of disadvantaged groups in government, legislative bodies and the judiciary.

The Committee urges the State party to engage in efforts to promote awareness among the general public, as well as among members of disadvantaged communities, of the importance of their active participation in public and political life. The Committee recommends that the State party continue to enforce special measures to guarantee to members of disadvantaged groups the right to participate in elections, to vote and stand for election, and to have due representation in government, legislative bodies and the judiciary.

•          The Netherlands, CERD, A/59/18 (2004) 29 at para. 147.

147. The Committee commends the fact that foreigners who have been legally resident in the Netherlands for five years are entitled to vote and to stand for local election.

•          Mauritania, CERD, A/59/18 (2004) 61 at paras. 340 and 341.

340. The Committee regrets the lack of information on the implementation of Order No. 091-024 of 25 July 1991, which prohibits political parties from identifying with a race, an ethnic group, a region, a tribe, or a brotherhood. It is concerned at reports that the Order has sometimes been improperly applied to certain political parties.

The Committee recommends that the State party guarantee respect for the freedoms of expression and association in its implementation of article 4 (a) and (b) of the Convention...

341. The Committee remains concerned about allegations concerning the very low proportions of black Moors and black Africans in the army, the police, the administration, Government and other State institutions.

The State party...should in any case ensure that the various sectors of the Mauritanian population are effectively represented in State institutions and that they have equal access to public service.

•          Slovakia, CERD, A/59/18 (2004) 70 at para. 380.

380. The Committee notes with appreciation that the Hungarian minority - the largest national minority in Slovakia - is well integrated in mainstream society and that it is adequately represented, including among high-level civil servants and politicians.

•          Saint Lucia, CERD, A/59/18 (2004) 86 at para. 446.

446. The Committee notes the information received indicating the alleged absence of indigenous representatives in senior government posts. It notes that the requirement to speak and read English, provided for under article 25 of the Constitution, curtails the right of the indigenous population, the majority of whom are fluent only in Kweyol, to participate in political elections.

The Committee recommends that the State party bring the relevant legislation into line with the provisions of articles 2 (c) and 5 (c) of the Convention.

•          Ireland, CERD, A/60/18 (2005) 30 at para. 146.

146. The Committee notes that members of the Traveller community are not adequately represented in the State party’s political institutions and do not effectively participate in the conduct of public affairs (art. 5 (c)).

The Committee invites the State party to consider adopting affirmative action programmes to improve the political representation of Travellers, particularly at the level of Dáil Eireann (Lower House of Parliament) and/or Seanad Eireann (Upper House of Parliament (Senate)).

•          Georgia, CERD, A/60/18 (2005) 46 at paras. 237 and 242.

237. The Committee...expresses its satisfaction at recent measures taken by the State party to strengthen the participation of ethnic minorities in its political institutions.

...

242. The Committee notes that the representation of the different ethnic communities of the population of the State party in State institutions and in the public administration is disproportionately low, which leads to their reduced participation in public life (art. 5).

The Committee recommends that the State party...adopt practical measures to ensure that ethnic minorities are represented in the public administration and in those institutions, and to enhance their participation in public life, including the elaboration of cultural and educational policies relating to them.

•          Iceland, CERD, A/60/18 (2005) 51 at para. 259.

259. The Committee notes with satisfaction that recent legislative changes enhance the legal status of foreign nationals, such as the Act on the Employment Rights of Foreign Nationals in 2002, the amendment in 2002 of the Municipal Elections Act extending the right to vote in municipal elections and eligibility for municipal office to foreign nationals, as well as the application for the first time of this amendment in the municipal elections of 2002, when some 1,000 foreign nationals availed themselves of their right to vote.

•          Nigeria, CERD, A/60/18 (2005) 54 at para. 293.

293. The Committee is concerned about the persistence of discrimination against persons belonging to various ethnic groups in the fields of employment, housing and education, including discriminatory practices by people who consider themselves to be the original inhabitants of their region against settlers from other states. While noting the efforts taken by the State party to improve the representation of different ethnic groups in the public service, most notably by the Federal Character Commission, the Committee remains concerned about the reports of continuing practices of patronage and traditional linkages based on ethnic origin, leading to the marginalization of certain ethnic groups in Government, legislative bodies and the judiciary (arts. 2 and 5).

The Committee recommends that the State party continue to promote equal opportunities for all persons without discrimination in order to ensure their full enjoyment of their rights, in accordance with article 2, paragraph 2, and article 5 of the Convention. In this connection, the Committee urges the State party to strengthen its Affirmative Action Plans in favour of underrepresented or marginalized groups, including women, in its employment policies with regard to the public service...

•          Turkmenistan, CERD, A/60/18 (2005) 61 at para. 318.

318. The Committee is deeply concerned by consistent information relating to the policy of “Turkmenization” conducted by the State party, and implemented through various measures in the field of employment, education and political life (arts. 2 and 5).

The Committee recalls that policies of forced assimilation amount to racial discrimination and constitute grave violations of the Convention. It urges the State party to respect and protect the existence and cultural identity of all national and ethnic minorities within its territory...

•          Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of), CERD, A/60/18 (2005) 71 at paras. 366 and 369.

366. The Committee welcomes with satisfaction the rights and principles contained in the Constitution of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela of 1999, in particular the preamble, which establishes the multi-ethnic and multicultural nature of Venezuelan society, as well as article 21 and chapter VIII which guarantees the rights of indigenous peoples, such as the right to intercultural bilingual education, the right to traditional medicine and the right to participate in political life.

...

369. The Committee notes with satisfaction that indigenous peoples are represented in the National Assembly, which has at least three indigenous deputies with their respective alternates, elected by indigenous peoples in keeping with their traditions and customs.

•          Zambia, CERD, A/60/18 (2005) 75 at para. 400.

400. The Committee notes the 1996 amendment to the Constitution, which requires that a presidential candidate be a second-generation Zambian.

The Committee recommends to the State party that it review this provision so as to ensure full compliance with article 5 (c) of the Convention.

ICCPR

•          Ukraine, ICCPR, A/57/40 vol. I (2002) 32 at para. 74(9).

(9) While recognizing that there has been some progress in achieving equality for women in political and public life, the Committee remains concerned that the level of representation of women in Parliament and in senior positions in both the public and private sectors remains low.

The State party should undertake appropriate measures to give effect to its obligations under articles 3 and 26 so as to improve the representation of women in Parliament and in senior positions, in both the public and private sectors. The State party should consider the adoption of positive measures, including educational measures, to improve the status of women within the society.

See also:

•          Georgia, ICCPR, A/57/40 vol. I (2002) 53 at para. 78(13).

•          United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, ICCPR, A/57/40 vol. I (2002) 36 at paras. 75(10), 75(13) and 75(15).

(10) The Committee is concerned at the State party's maintenance of an old law that convicted prisoners may not exercise their right to vote. The Committee fails to discern the justification for such a practice in modern times, considering that it amounts to an additional punishment and that it does not contribute towards the prisoner's reformation and social rehabilitation, contrary to article 10, paragraph 3, in conjunction with article 25 of the Covenant.

The State party should reconsider its law depriving convicted prisoners of the right to vote.

...

(13) Although the Committee appreciates that a number of improvements over the reporting period in the representation of ethnic minorities in various walks of public life, as well as the extension in the Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000 of a positive duty to certain public bodies to promote racial equality, the Committee remains concerned at the disproportionately low levels of participation by members of minority groups in government and the civil service, particularly the police and prison service.

The State party should take appropriate measures to ensure that its public life better reflects the diversity of its population.

...

(15) The Committee notes that, despite recent improvements, the proportions of women participating in public life, particularly at senior levels of the executive and judiciary and in Parliament, and also in the private sector, remain at low levels.

The State party should take the necessary steps towards achieving an appropriate representation of women in these fields.

•          Switzerland, ICCPR, A/57/40 vol. I (2002) 44 at para. 76(4).

(4) The Committee welcomes the repeal in March 1998, following its previous recommendations (see CCPR/C/79/Add.70, para. 28), of the Federal Decree on Political Speeches by Foreigners, which restricted the freedom of expression of foreigners without a permanent residence permit.

•          Azerbaijan, ICCPR, A/57/40 vol. I (2002) 47 at paras. 77(19) and 77(22)-77(24).

(19) The Committee notes that, despite recent improvements, the proportion of women participating in public life and the private sector workforce, particularly at senior levels of the executive and in Parliament, remain at unacceptably low levels (article 3 of the Covenant).

The State party should take appropriate steps towards achieving a balanced representation of women in these fields.

...

(22) The Committee is concerned at the extensive limitations on the right to freedom of expression of the media. While noting the explanations given by the delegation with regard to this issue, the Committee remains concerned at reports of harassment and criminal libel suits used to seek to silence journalists critical of the Government or public officials, as well as the closure of print media outlets and the imposition of heavy fines, aimed at undermining freedom of expression (article 19 of the Covenant).

The Committee urges the State party to take the necessary measures to put an end to direct and indirect restrictions on freedom of expression. Criminal defamation legislation should be brought into line with article 19 by ensuring a proper balance between the protection of a person's reputation and freedom of expression.

(23) The Committee is concerned at reported obstacles imposed on the registration and free operation of non-governmental human rights organizations and political parties (articles 19, 22 and 25 of the Covenant).

...With regard to political parties, the Committee urges the State party to take all necessary measures to ensure that registration is not used to silence political movements opposed to the Government and to limit the rights of association guaranteed by the Covenant. In particular, legislation should clarify the status of associations, non-governmental organizations and political parties in the period between the request for registration and the final decision; such status should be consistent with articles 19, 22 and 25.

(24) The Committee is concerned at the serious interference in the electoral process, whilst noting the delegation's statement with respect to the punishment and dismissal of those responsible and the cancellation of the results of elections in 11 districts where serious violations had been found and the holding of new elections in those districts.

The State party should take all necessary measures to ensure that the electoral process is conducted in accordance with article 25 of the Covenant.

•          Sweden, ICCPR, A/57/40 vol. I (2002) 57 at para. 79(15).

(15) The Committee is concerned at the limited extent to which the Sami Parliament can have a significant role in the decision-making process on issues affecting the traditional lands and economic activities of the indigenous Sami people, such as projects in the fields of hydroelectricity, mining and forestry, as well as the privatization of land (articles 1, 25 and 27 of the Covenant).

The State party should take steps to involve the Sami by giving them greater influence in decision-making affecting their natural environment and their means of subsistence.

•          Hungary, ICCPR, A/57/40 vol. I (2002) 60 at paras. 80(7) and 80(9).

(7) The Committee is deeply concerned at the situation of the Roma people who, despite various steps taken by the State party, remain disadvantaged in almost all aspects of life covered by the Covenant. The Committee particularly regrets ongoing discrimination against Roma with regard to employment, housing, education, social security and participation in public life...

The State party should strengthen measures for improving the situation of the Roma people. In addition to further legislative steps, the training of officials, in particular the police, is strongly recommended, as is a vigorous campaign to alter public attitudes vis-à-vis the Roma people...

...

(9) The Committee is concerned at the low participation of women in political life and at their segregation in the labour market, as well as their low representation in senior levels of government and in the private sector.

The State party should implement positive measures in order to give effect to its Covenant obligations to ensure the equal participation of women in both the public and private sectors (article 3 of the Covenant).

•          Viet Nam, ICCPR, A/57/40 vol. I (2002) 67 at para. 82(20).

20. While noting the explanations provided by the delegation regarding the exercise of the right to freedom of association, the Committee is concerned at the absence of specific legislation on political parties and at the fact that only the Communist Party is permitted. The Committee is concerned at reported obstacles imposed on the registration and free operation of non-governmental human rights organizations and political parties (arts. 19, 22 and 25)...

The State party should take all the necessary steps to enable national and international non-governmental human rights organizations and political parties to function without hindrance.

•          Republic of Moldova, ICCPR, A/57/40 vol. I (2002) 76 at paras. 84(14), 84(16) and 84(17).

(14) The Committee is concerned that, contrary to articles 19 and 26 of the Covenant, the State television and radio broadcasting service (Tele-Radio Moldova) has been subject to directives inconsistent with the requirements of impartiality and non-discrimination with respect to political opinion.

The State party should take the necessary steps, including legislative measures, to ensure that the State broadcaster enjoys broad discretion as to programming content, and that competing views, including those of political parties opposed to government policy, are appropriately reflected in the broadcaster's transmissions.

...

(16) The Committee is concerned that certain requirements that the State party places upon the registration of political parties, such as conditions with respect to the extent of their territorial representation, may violate article 25 of the Covenant by restricting the right of individuals to full expression of their political freedoms.

The State party should review its law and policy concerning the registration of political parties, removing those elements which are inimical to the full exercise of Covenant rights, in particular article 25.

(17) While welcoming gradual improvements in the representation of women in Parliament and the executive, the Committee remains concerned that they continue to have a disproportionately low level of participation in the political and economic life of the State party, particularly in senior positions in the public sector and in business.

The State party should take appropriate measures to ensure that the participation of women in political, public and other sectors of Moldovan life is on a fair and equal footing with that of men, consistent with the requirements of articles 3 and 26 of the Covenant.

•          Egypt, ICCPR, A/58/40 vol. I (2002) 31 at paras. 77(7) and 77(22).

(7) While welcoming the steps taken by the authorities in recent years to encourage participation by women in public life (in the diplomatic service, for example), the Committee notes that women are underrepresented in most areas of the public sector (for instance, the magistrature) and in the private sector (articles 3 and 26 of the Covenant).

The State party is encouraged to step up its efforts to secure greater participation by women at all levels of society and the State, including decision-making positions, inter alia by ensuring that women in rural areas learn to read and write.

...

(22) The Committee notes the de jure and de facto impediments to the establishment and functioning of political parties, primarily created by the committee set up under the Political Parties Act No. 40 of 1977, without full guarantees of independence (articles 22 and 25 of the Covenant).

The State party should permit the democratic expression of political pluralism and thus abide by its obligations under the Covenant, taking into account the Committee's general comment No. 25...

•          Togo, ICCPR, A/58/40 vol. I (2002) 36 at paras. 78(11), 78(13), 78(17), 78(20) and 78(22).

(11) The Committee expresses its concern at the consistent information that law enforcement personnel make excessive use of force in student demonstrations and various gatherings organized by the opposition. The Committee is surprised at the State party’s reply in this regard, to the effect that the security forces never make excessive use of force and that the demonstrators are principally the victims of movements within the crowd. The Committee regrets that the State party has made no mention of any inquiry having been opened following these allegations.

The State party should open impartial inquiries following any allegation relating to the excessive use of force by the security forces. In particular, such inquiries should be carried out into the December 1999 demonstrations by students and teachers, and the demonstrations organized by non-governmental human rights organizations and political parties which were reported to have been violently broken up during 2001 and 2002.

...

(13) The Committee, taking note of the State party’s acknowledgement that arbitrary arrests sometimes take place, is concerned at the many reports of the arbitrary arrest of members of the opposition and civil society, human rights defenders and journalists, in violation of article 9 of the Covenant.

The State party should identify the prisoners who have allegedly been detained for political reasons in Togo, and review their situation. The State party should also ensure that persons who have been arbitrarily arrested are released as soon as possible, and that judicial proceedings are instituted against the perpetrators of such violations.

...

(17) The Committee is concerned at reports that opposition political parties lack practical access to public audio-visual and sound media and that the members of such parties are the target of continuous public slander campaigns in the media (articles 19 and 26 of the Covenant).

The State party should guarantee the fair access of political parties to public and private media and ensure that their members are protected against slander...

...

(20) The Committee takes note of the State party’s decision to dissolve, in June 2002, on the basis of article 40 of the Electoral Code, the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) that was the outcome of the Lomé Framework Agreement and was composed of representatives of various political parties. The Committee also takes note of the delegation’s explanations in that regard, as well as of other reports that the State party has not made all the necessary efforts to ensure the smooth operation of CENI. In such conditions, the legislative elections of 27 October 2002, in which part of the opposition again refused to participate, might not have been sufficiently in keeping with the requirements of transparency and honesty under article 25 of the Covenant.

The State party should do everything in its power to ensure that the spirit and letter of the Lomé Framework Agreement are respected. The Committee also requests the State party to ensure the safety of all members of civil society, particularly the members of the opposition, during the forthcoming elections.

...

(22) The Committee is worried about continuing discrimination against women and girls with respect to access to education, employment, inheritance and political representation in Togo. Moreover, as the State party itself has acknowledged, certain cultural practices, as well as women’s unawareness of their rights, give rise to many violations of women’s rights.

The State party should eliminate all forms of discrimination against women, increase its efforts to educate girls and make the population more aware of women’s rights, and carry out new programmes with a view to giving women access to employment and political posts.

•          Estonia, ICCPR, A/58/40 vol. I (2003) 41 at para. 79(17).

(17) Taking into account the considerable number of non-citizens residing in the State party, the Committee is concerned about legislation prohibiting non-citizens from being members of political parties.

The State party should give due consideration to the possibility for non-citizens to become members of political parties (article 22 of the Covenant).

•          Luxembourg, ICCPR, A/58/40 vol. I (2003) 45 at para. 80(8).

(8) The Committee remains concerned that, for a large number of offences, the systematic deprivation of the right to vote is an additional penalty in criminal cases (article 25 of the Covenant).

The State party should take steps to bring its legislation into line with paragraph 14 of general comment No. 25.

•          Mali, ICCPR, A/58/40 vol. I (2003) 47 at para. 81(13).

(13) The Committee states its concern about reports that women do not enjoy rights on an equal basis with men as regards political participation and access to education and employment.

The State party should strengthen its efforts to promote the situation of women in the areas of political participation, access to education and access to employment...

•          Portugal, ICCPR, A/58/40 vol. I (2003) 56 at para. 82(6).

(6) The Committee welcomes the granting to foreigners of the rights to vote and to be elected in local elections, as well as the recognition of broader political rights for citizens of Portuguese-speaking countries, under condition of reciprocity.

•          Israel, ICCPR, A/58/40 vol. I (2003) 64 at para. 85(23).

(23) ...The Committee notes with concern that the percentage of Arab Israelis in the civil service and public sector remains very low and that progress towards improving their participation, especially of Arab Israeli women, has been slow (arts. 3, 25 and 26).

The State party should adopt targeted measures with a view to improving the participation of Arab Israeli women in the public sector and accelerating progress towards equality.

•          Russian Federation, ICCPR, A/59/40 vol. I (2003) 20 at para. 64(23).

(23) While acknowledging the difficult circumstances under which presidential elections were held in the Republic of Chechnya on 5 October 2003, the Committee expresses concern at reports that these elections did not meet all the requirements of article 25 of the Covenant.

The State party should ensure full compliance with article 25 in its efforts to restore the rule of law and political legitimacy in the Republic of Chechnya.

•          Latvia, ICCPR, A/59/40 vol. I (2003) 25 at paras. 65(4) and 65(18).

(4) The Committee welcomes the significant progress in legislative and institutional reform since the review of the first periodic report in 1995...[P]ositive legislative reforms include in particular the adoption and entry into force of a new Asylum Law, dealing with the question of non-refoulement; the labour law; amendments to the election law, removing the language requirement to stand for election; and to legislation on trafficking in human beings...

...

(18) With regard to the status of non-citizens, the Committee notes the policy of the Government to further social integration through naturalization. However, the Committee is concerned about the large proportion of non-citizens in the State party, who by law are treated neither as foreigners nor as stateless persons but as distinct category of persons with long-lasting and effective ties to Latvia, in many respects comparable to citizens but in other respects without the rights that come with full citizenship. The Committee expresses its concern over the perpetuation of a situation of exclusion, resulting in lack of effective enjoyment of many Covenant rights by the non-citizen segment of the population, including political rights, the possibility to occupy certain State and public positions, the possibility to exercise certain professions in the private sector, restrictions in the area of ownership of agricultural land, as well as social benefits (art. 26).

The State party should prevent the perpetuation of a situation where a considerable part of the population is classified as "non-citizens". In the interim, the State party should facilitate the integration process by enabling non-citizens who are long-term residents of Latvia to participate in local elections and to limit the number of other restrictions on non-citizens in order to facilitate the participation of non-citizens in public life in Latvia.

•          Colombia, ICCPR, A/59/40 vol. I (2004) 35 at paras. 67(6), 67(11) and 67(19).

(6) The Committee notes with satisfaction the efforts of the State party to maintain democratic institutions through free elections in 2002 and 2003.

...

(11) The Committee is concerned about the fact that a significant number of arbitrary detentions, abductions, forced disappearances, cases of torture, extrajudicial executions and murders continue to occur in the State party. The Committee is also concerned that such practices as the arrest of election candidates continue, and that murders of legislators dating from earlier years remain unpunished. Human rights defenders, political and trade union leaders, judges and journalists continue to be targets of such actions. The abduction of presidential candidate Ingrid Betancourt in February 2002 continues to be of concern to the Committee, as do the other abductions. The Committee is also disturbed about the participation of agents of the State party in the commission of such acts, and the apparent impunity enjoyed by their perpetrators.

The State party should take immediate and effective steps to investigate these incidents, punish and dismiss those found responsible and compensate the victims, so as to ensure compliance with the guarantees set forth in articles 2 (3), 6, 7 and 9 of the Covenant.

...

(19) ...The Committee...expresses its concern regarding the difficulties experienced by internally displaced persons in exercising their civic rights, especially the right to vote.

The State party should ... take the necessary steps to ensure that displaced persons are able to exercise the rights guaranteed in article 25.

•          Germany, ICCPR, A/59/40 vol. I (2004) 39 at paras. 68(13) and 68(19).

(13) While the Committee appreciates progress made in practice in the area of equality for men and women in the public service, it notes with concern that the number of women in senior positions is still very low...

The State party should ensure equal treatment of men and women at all levels of the public service...

...

(19) The Committee reiterates its concern that adherence to certain religious organizations or beliefs constitutes one of the main grounds for disqualifying individuals from obtaining employment in the public service and that this may in certain circumstances violate the rights guaranteed in articles 18 and 25 of the Covenant.

The State party should comply fully with its obligations under the Covenant in this respect.

•          Suriname, ICCPR, A/59/40 vol. I (2004) 43 at para. 69(20).

(20) While the Committee welcomes the State party’s Gender Policy Programme, including a timetable for reviewing several provisions in domestic laws that are discriminatory against women, it remains concerned that discriminatory legislation in relation to gender still exists, including in the Personnel Act, the Identity Act, the Nationality and Residence Act and the Elections Act (arts. 3 and 26).

The State party is invited to eliminate any existing legislation that discriminates in relation to gender.

•          Uganda, ICCPR, A/59/40 vol. I (2004) 47 at para. 70(22).

(22) The Committee is concerned that peaceful demonstrations organized by opposition political parties have been forcibly dispersed by the police and that freedom of movement of political opponents has also been restricted in certain cases. It remains concerned at the constraints which limit the right of political parties to participate in periodic elections, to criticize the Government and to take part in the decision-making process. Notwithstanding the fact that the delegation referred to the State party’s wish to organize multiparty elections in 2006, the Committee remains concerned that no specific information has been provided about the practical measures envisaged to attain this goal (arts. 22 and 25).

The State party should ensure the full enjoyment of the right to freedom of association, in particular in its political dimension. The Committee considers that the State party should ensure that the general elections scheduled for 2006 effectively allow for multiparty participation.

•          Belgium, ICCPR, A/59/40 vol. I (2004) 56 at paras. 72(5) and 72(27).

(5) The Committee welcomes the adoption of the Act of 19 March 2004 granting the right to vote in local elections to foreigners from countries other than those of the European Union.

...

(27) The Committee notes with concern that a number of racist, xenophobic, anti-Semitic and anti-Muslim acts have taken place in Belgium. It is concerned that political parties urging racial hatred can still benefit from the public financing system, and observes that a bill designed to put an end to that situation is still being considered by the Senate (art. 20).

The State party should take all necessary steps to protect communities resident in Belgium against racist, xenophobic, anti-Semitic and anti-Muslim acts. It should have the above-mentioned bill passed as soon as possible, and consider sterner measures to prevent individuals and groups from seeking to arouse racial hatred and xenophobia, in pursuance of article 20, paragraph 2, of the Covenant.

•          Liechtenstein, ICCPR, A/59/40 vol. I (2004) 61 at para. 73(7).

(7) While noting the numerous measures taken by the State party to address the problem of inequality between men and women, the Committee notes the persistence of a passive attitude in society towards the role of women in many areas, especially in public affairs. The Committee is also concerned about the compatibility with the Covenant of laws governing the succession to the throne (arts. 2, 3, 25 and 26).

The State party should continue to take effective measures, including by legislative amendments, to address inequality between men and women. It is encouraged to take measures designed to enhance the participation of women in Government and decision-making processes, and to further promote equality of men and women in non-public areas. While noting Liechtenstein’s interpretive declaration concerning article 3 of the Covenant, the State party may wish to consider the compatibility of the State party’s exclusion of women from succession to the throne with articles 25 and 26 of the Covenant.

•          Namibia, ICCPR, A/59/40 vol. I (2004) 64 at paras. 74(3) and 74(21).

(3) The Committee notes the efforts made by the State party in establishing and developing democratic institutions since independence in 1990. The Committee commends the State party for doing so in a spirit of cooperation with non-governmental organizations and international bodies.

...

(21) While the Committee notes the reason why the State party recognizes only one official language, it is concerned that those persons who do not speak the official language may be discriminated against in the administration of public affairs and in the administration of justice.

The State party should take measures to ensure, to the extent possible, that persons who only speak non-official languages used widely by the population are not denied access to public service. It should undertake measures to protect the use of such languages.

•          Serbia and Montenegro, ICCPR, A/59/40 vol. I (2004) 68 at paras. 75(18) and 75(22).

(18) The Committee is concerned about the lack of full protection of the rights of internally displaced persons in Serbia and Montenegro... It expresses its concern with regard to high levels of unemployment and lack of adequate housing, as well as with regard to the full enjoyment of political rights...

The State party should take effective measures to ensure that all policies, strategies, programmes and funding support have as their principal objective the enjoyment by all displaced persons of the full spectrum of Covenant rights...

...

(22) The Committee is concerned at the high number of proceedings initiated against journalists for media-related offences, in particular as a result of complaints filed by political personalities who feel that they have been subject to defamation because of their functions.

The State party, in its application of the law on criminal defamation, should take into consideration on the one hand the principle that the limits for acceptable criticism for public figures are wider than for private individuals, and on the other hand the provisions of article 19 (3), which do not allow restrictions to freedom of expression for political purposes.

•          Albania, ICCPR, A/60/40 vol. I (2004) 25 at paras. 82(11) and 82(22).

(11) The Committee is troubled by the explanation provided in paragraph 196 of the report. It is concerned about the low level of participation of women in public affairs, and that women continue to have a disproportionately low presence in the political and economic life of the State party, particularly in senior positions of public administration (arts. 2, 3 and 26).

The State party should take immediate steps to change public attitude towards the suitability of women for positions in public affairs and consider adopting a policy of positive action. The State party should take appropriate measures to ensure the effective participation of women in political, public and other sectors of the State party.

...

(22) While noting the adoption of institutional measures to improve the rights of minorities, the Committee remains concerned that the practical enjoyment of the Covenant rights by members of ethnic and linguistic minorities is imperilled by a variety of factors and discriminatory practices (arts. 2, 26 and 27).

The State party is urged to ensure that all members of ethnic and linguistic minorities, whether or not they are recognized as national minorities, are effectively protected against discrimination and may enjoy their own culture and use their own language, have access to all social rights, participate in public affairs, and are provided with effective remedies against discrimination.

•          Poland, ICCPR, A/60/40 vol. I (2004) 40 at para. 85(10).

(10) While the Committee appreciates progress made in the area of equality between men and women in the public service, it notes with concern that the number of women in senior positions is still low...

The State party should ensure equal treatment of men and women at all levels of public service...

•          Kenya, ICCPR, A/60/40 vol. I (2005) 44 at paras. 86(10) and 86(23).

(10) The Committee notes with concern that systemic discrimination against women persists in Kenya, both in law and practice. This includes a low level of representation of women in Parliament and in public office, despite recent progress in this area...

The State party should take urgent measures to address the absence of constitutional protection against discrimination in relation to women and gender disparities, and intensify its efforts to ensure their protection, whether through the National Commission on Gender and Development or otherwise...

...

(23) The Committee notes with concern that large public political meetings are subject to a prior notification requirement of at least three days under section 5 of the Public Order Act, and that public demonstrations have not been authorized for reasons that appear to have nothing to do with the justifications listed in article 21 of the Covenant. Additional matters of concern are that no remedy appears to be available for the denial of an authorization, and that unauthorized meetings are at times broken up with violence (article 21, paragraph 2, of the Covenant).

The State party should guarantee the right of peaceful assembly and impose only those restrictions that are necessary in a democratic society.

•          Mauritius, ICCPR, A/60/40 vol. I (2005) 52 at para. 88(8).

(8) ...[T]he participation of women in political life remains inadequate (Covenant, arts. 3 and 26).

...Women’s participation in political life should also be enhanced through effectively applied positive measures.

•          Uzbekistan, ICCPR, A/60/40 vol. I (2005) 56 at para. 89(21).

(21) The Committee remains concerned about the legal provisions and their application that restrict the registration of political parties and public associations by the Ministry of Justice (Covenant, articles 19, 22 and 25; see also paragraph 23 of the concluding observations on the initial report).

The State party is requested to bring its law, regulations and practice governing the registration of political parties into line with the provisions of articles 19, 22 and 25 of the Covenant.

•          Yemen, ICCPR, A/60/40 vol. I (2005) 65 at para. 91(10).

(10) While noting the efforts developed by the State party, the Committee remains concerned at the low level of participation of women in political life, in particular in the House of Representatives, local councils, the leadership structures of political parties, as well as in the judiciary (arts. 3 and 26).

The State party should increase its efforts to promote the participation of women in all spheres of public life, appoint more women to the judiciary and higher positions in the executive branch...

•          Tajikistan, ICCPR, A/60/40 vol. I (2005) 70 at paras. 92(7) and 92(25).

(7) Whilst noting the efforts made by the State party to decrease the gender imbalance in government positions and to improve the status and rights of women in society, the Committee considers that much more needs to be done (arts. 3 and 26).

The State party should take more positive measures to ensure higher representation of women in public life.

...

(25) The Committee is concerned about the possibility, in the State party’s law, to refuse to register as candidates for election individuals against whom criminal proceedings are pending, notwithstanding the fact that their guilt has not been established (arts. 25 and 14, para. 2).

The State party should amend its legislation and practice in line with the requirements of 25 and 14, paragraph 2, of the Covenant, so as to ensure that persons merely charged with an offence are presumed innocent and retain their right to stand for elections.

•          Slovenia, ICCPR, A/60/40 vol. I (2005) 74 at para. 93(8).

(8) The Committee is concerned about the level of participation of women in public affairs. The Committee is also concerned that women continue to be disproportionately poorly represented in the political and economic life of the State party, particularly in senior positions of the public administration (arts. 3 and 26).

The State party should take the necessary legal and practical measures to increase the effective participation of women in public affairs and in the political and economic sectors.

•          Syrian Arab Republic, ICCPR, A/60/40 vol. I (2005) 78 at paras. 94(13) and 94(17).

(13) ...[T]he Committee is concerned at allegations that the Government has blocked access to some Internet sites used by human rights defenders or political activists (art. 19).

The State party should revise its legislation to ensure that any limitations on the right to freedom of opinion and expression are in strict compliance with article 19 of the Covenant.

...

(17) While noting the statement by the delegation that a national strategy for women has been initiated, the Committee notes that the participation of women in public life remains low (art. 3).

The State party should take appropriate steps towards achieving balanced representation of women in public life.

ICESCR

•          Croatia, ICESCR, E/2002/22 (2001) 125 at paras. 888, 896 and 907.

888. The Committee notes with satisfaction that many of the pre-independence laws and post-independence transitional measures are being amended or superseded by new laws that better conform to international human rights principles. Laws have been enacted or amended to make a number of specific types of violence against women an offence prosecutable by the public prosecutor ex officio, and the National Policy for the Promotion of Gender Equality 2001-2005 and the proposed amendments to the laws governing elections have among their aims the promotion of political participation by women...

...

896. The Committee expresses concern that women are generally employed in lower-paying and lower status jobs and are poorly represented in public service and office...

...

907. The Committee strongly recommends that the State party undertake a comprehensive review of the situation of women in all aspects of life, as members of the family, in the workforce and as public servants, in order to assess those situations in which women are at a disadvantage and to develop appropriate laws and policies to address their inequality.

•          Brazil, ICESCR, E/2004/22 (2003) 28 at para. 115.

115. The Committee...welcomes the progress made in combating racial prejudices and barriers, which is illustrated by the appointment of persons of Afro-Brazilian origin to positions of high public office, on the basis of their professional merits and qualifications.

•          Yemen, ICESCR, E/2004/22 (2003) 55 at paras. 352 and 371.

352. Despite the measures taken by the State party to advance the status of women in Yemen, the Committee is concerned about the existence of certain customs, traditions and cultural practices which lead to substantial discrimination against women and girls and that there are still persisting patterns of discrimination, particularly in family and personal status law, as well as inheritance law. The Committee is also concerned about the widespread discrimination faced by women in their access to an adequate representation at all levels of decision-making bodies in the State party.

...

371. The Committee strongly recommends that the State party amend existing legislation to bring it in line with the provisions of article 3 of the Covenant...

•          Russian Federation, ICESCR, E/2004/22 (2003) 64 at paras. 448, 456 and 484.

448. The Committee welcomes the adoption of the federal Political Parties Act which contains provisions aiming at enhancing women’s participation in political life.

...

456. The Committee remains concerned about gender inequality in the State party, particularly with regard to discrimination in employment, in the family and in political representation.

...

484. The Committee recommends that the State party strengthen its efforts to promote gender equality and encourages the adoption of the draft federal law on State guarantees of equal rights, freedoms and opportunities for men and women in the Russian Federation currently before the Duma.

•          Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, ICESCR, E/2004/22 (2003) 71 at paras. 522 and 542.

522. The Committee expresses its concern about the persistence of traditional societal attitudes and practices prevailing in the State party with regard to women that negatively affect the enjoyment of their economic, social and cultural rights. The Committee is concerned about the lack of domestic legislation on non-discrimination against women and about the persistence of de facto inequality between men and women in decision-making positions, both in political and administration bodies, as well as in the industrial sector as a whole.

...

542. The Committee suggests that domestic legislation be reviewed with the aim of giving full effect to the principle of non-discrimination against women and that the State party adopt and implement a programme containing specific measures for awareness-raising, aimed at promoting the rights of women and their advancement in all fields of political, economic and social life.

•          Kuwait, ICESCR, E/2005/22 (2004) 29 at paras. 187 and 206.

187. Despite the various measures taken by the State party to improve the situation of women, the Committee is concerned about the persistence of de jure and de facto discrimination against women, particularly with regard to their participation in the political decision-making process, especially in the Parliament, as well as in their enjoyment of economic, social and cultural rights.

...

206. The Committee urges the State party to continue to take all necessary measures to grant women the right to vote. The Committee also urges that the State party harmonize its domestic legislation with the principles and provisions of the Covenant with regard to the law on personal status and the Civil Code so as to abolish differences with regard to rights and responsibilities between women and men and to achieve full gender equality.

•          Ecuador, ICESCR, E/2005/22 (2004) 39 at paras. 281 and 304.

281. The Committee expresses its concern about the de facto inequality that exists between men and women in Ecuadorian society despite legislative guarantees of equality, owing to the perpetuation of traditional stereotypes and the lack of implementation of legislative guarantees of equality. Such inequality is reflected in unequal wages for equal work, the high percentage of illiteracy amongst women particularly in rural areas, the low level of representation of women in public service and administration, and limited access to credit, professional work and skilled trades. The Committee is also concerned that insufficient resources are allocated to programmes that aim at eliminating gender-based discrimination.

...

304. The Committee urges the State party to adopt all effective measures to ensure equality between men and women in all fields of life as provided for in article 2, paragraph 2 and article 3 of the Covenant, including through implementing the principle of equal pay for work of equal value as provided for in the Covenant, increasing the level or representation of women in public services and reducing the wage gap between men and women...

•          Malta, ICESCR, E/2005/22 (2004) 45 at paras. 340 and 358.

340. The Committee is concerned that persistent cultural stereotypes of the role of women negatively affect the equal enjoyment of rights by both men and women. The Committee notes with concern in this regard that women remain largely underrepresented in public service and that there are no female judges in the State party.

...

358. The Committee recommends that the State party further strengthen efforts to raise public awareness about gender equality, including by providing the National Commission for the Promotion of Equality for Men and Women with adequate support...

•          Zambia, ICESCR, E/2006/22 (2005) 19 at paras. 85 and 108.

85. While welcoming the efforts made by the State party to promote shared responsibilities between men and women and the fact that it regards equitable access to decision-making positions and processes as crucial to women’s enjoyment of economic, social and cultural rights, the Committee remains concerned, however, about the persistent inadequate representation of women at all levels of decision-making bodies of the State party.

...

108. The Committee strongly recommends that the State party adopt effective measures to ensure equality between men and women in all walks of life as provided for in articles 2 (2) and 3 of the Covenant...

•          Serbia and Montenegro, ICESCR, E/2006/22 (2005) 41 at paras. 275 and 303.

275. The Committee regrets the absence of a law on gender equality as well as the low representation of women in government offices and in the parliaments of both Republics and of the State Union.

...

303. The Committee recommends that, in addition to the establishment of a Council on Gender Equality in Serbia and of the Office for Gender Equality in Montenegro, the State party expedite the adoption of a law on gender equality with a view to ensuring greater access for women to positions of responsibility in the Government and public employment sectors.

CEDAW

•          Fiji, CEDAW, A/57/38 part I (2002) 9 at paras. 50 and 51.

50. The Committee is concerned that, despite significant gains in education, some equal employment opportunities policies and an accessible database on qualified women professionals, women's political participation and access to decision-making positions remain limited.

51. The Committee recommends the introduction of temporary special measures in accordance with article 4.1 of the Convention to increase the representation of women in national and local assemblies, and in decision-making positions at all levels.

•          Estonia, CEDAW, A/57/38 part I (2002) 13 at paras. 93, 94, 103 and 104.

93. The Committee is concerned that a clear understanding of temporary special measures according to article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention, as well as the reason for their application, seems to be lacking in large parts of Estonian society and in public administration.

94. The Committee recommends that the State party raise public awareness about the importance of such measures in accelerating the process of gender equality. It also recommends that the State party introduce temporary special measures, inter alia, in the educational, employment, professional and political fields, including through encouragement to pursue disciplines and areas of work and of political intervention in which one sex is underrepresented. Such provisions should be designed with measurable goals, targets or quotas and time lines to allow their effective monitoring.

...

103. While welcoming the information that the new Government will have 5 women ministers out of 14 Cabinet posts, including in portfolios traditionally held by men, the Committee expresses its concern at the low representation of women in decision-making bodies in the various areas and levels of political and public life.

104. The Committee recommends that the State party utilize temporary special measures in accordance with article 4.1 of the Convention to increase the number of women in decision-making levels in governmental bodies, and State-owned enterprises. It also recommends that the State party strengthen its efforts in offering or supporting special training programmes for current and future women leaders and conduct, on a regular basis, awareness-raising campaigns regarding the importance of women's participation in political decision-making.

•          Trinidad and Tobago, CEDAW, A/57/38 part I (2002) 19 at paras. 149 and 150.

149. The Committee is concerned about women’s underrepresentation in politics and economic leadership. It is concerned that factors impeding women’s participation in these areas include stereotypical attitudes, women’s disproportionate share of household and family responsibilities, as well as structural and cultural barriers, such as the lack of maternity leave for women parliamentarians, which reinforce the idea that politics is a male sphere.

150. The Committee recommends the introduction of strategies to increase the number of women in decision-making bodies at all levels and in all areas. To this end, the Committee recommends that the State party utilize temporary special measures in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention to increase the number of women in decision-making levels in government, governmental bodies, public administration and State-owned enterprises. It also recommends that the State party strengthen its efforts to organize special training programmes for women and to conduct on a regular basis, awareness-raising campaigns in this regard.

•          Uruguay, CEDAW, A/57/38 part I (2002) 23 at paras. 200 and 201.

200. The Committee is concerned at the low participation of women in politics and government administration, particularly as regards decision-making.

201. The Committee urges the State party to take appropriate action and implement broad strategies, including temporary special measures under article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention, with a view to promoting greater participation by women in public life, particularly decision-making and promoting changes in attitudes and perceptions, held by both women and men, as regards their respective roles in the household, the family, at work and in society as a whole. In particular, the Committee recommends that the State party take account of general recommendations 21 concerning equality in marriage and family relations, and 23 concerning women in public life, that it should strengthen and step up action to promote awareness of the importance of the role, activities and many contributions of women in the community and in the family, and that it should in general promote equality of men and women with respect to rights and opportunities.

•          Iceland, CEDAW, A/57/38 part I (2002) 27 at paras. 243 and 244.

243. The Committee notes that, although progress was made with regard to women's political representation, women are still underrepresented in elected office, senior positions and the diplomatic service. The Committee is also concerned that despite their high educational achievement, very few women are university professors.

244. The Committee encourages the State party to take further temporary special measures in accordance with article 4.1 of the Convention to increase the representation of women in decision-making positions in all sectors, inter alia, on all public committees. It also recommends that the State party take measures to increase the number of women in senior positions at universities.

•          Sri Lanka, CEDAW, A/57/38 part I (2002) 31 at paras. 278 and 279.

278. Despite the fact that women have occupied the position of head of Government of Sri Lanka, the Committee is concerned that, on the whole there is a very low level of representation of women in politics and public life.

279. The Committee urges the State party to take all necessary measures to increase the representation of women in politics and public life at local, provincial and national levels, including through the implementation of temporary special measures, in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention.

•          Portugal, CEDAW, A/57/38 part I (2002) 35 at paras. 337 and 338.

337. The Committee is concerned about the low participation of women in elected and appointed bodies, including as members of parliament and local assemblies, government ministers and secretaries of state, mayors, and high-ranking judges and diplomats.

338. The Committee urges the State party to take measures to increase the representation of women in elected and appointed bodies through, inter alia, the implementation of temporary special measures, in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention in order to realize women's right to participation in all areas of public life and, particularly, at high levels of decision-making.

•          Russian Federation, CEDAW, A/57/38 part I (2002) 40 at paras. 381 and 382.

381. The Committee is concerned that the representation of women in the political arena at all levels has been decreasing steadily.

382. While acknowledging the Federal Act on Political Parties of July 2001, the Committee recommends that the State party take further measures to give practical and concrete effect to the Act. It requests the State party to adopt additional temporary special measures in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1 of the Convention, in order to increase the number of women at all levels of political decision-making.

•          Suriname, CEDAW, A/57/38 part II (2002) 82 at paras. 41, 42, 47, 48, 55, 56, 65 and 66.

41. The Committee notes with concern that a number of provisions exist in domestic law, including the Personnel Act, the Identity Act, the Nationality and Residence Act and the Elections Act, which allow for discrimination against women...

42. The Committee recommends that the State party review existing laws and amend discriminatory provisions to bring them into line with the Convention and the Constitution and to ensure compatibility between all national legislation and international conventions.

...

47. The Committee is concerned about the deep-rooted stereotypical attitudes that undermine the human rights of women and girls and the State party’s apparent acceptance of the limited participation of women in public and political life as a result of these attitudes.

48. The Committee calls upon the State party to take urgent measures aimed at changing stereotypical attitudes about the roles and responsibilities of women and men, including through awareness-raising and educational campaigns directed at both women and men and at the media. The Committee emphasizes that a policy of gender equality in compliance with the Convention will require the recognition that women can have various roles in society, not only the important role of mother and wife, exclusively responsible for children and the family, but also as an individual person and actor in her community and in the society in general.

...

55. Noting the importance of ensuring the broadest possible participation of women to achieve adequate representation at all levels in Suriname, the Committee is concerned about women’s underrepresentation in decision-making bodies in political and economic structures. The Committee notes that, although there are numerous women participating in training programmes, with respect to diplomatic careers the participation of women at the higher levels of the diplomatic service is low.

56. The Committee recommends the adoption of strategies to increase the number of women in decision-making bodies at all levels and in all areas. The Committee recommends that the State party adopt temporary special measures in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention to increase the number of women in decision-making levels in government, governmental bodies, public administration and diplomatic missions. It also recommends that the State party strengthen its efforts to organize special training programmes for women and to conduct, on a regular basis, awareness-raising campaigns in this regard.

...

65. ...The Committee is...concerned that women’s work in rural areas is not considered productive labour and that they are hardly represented at all in local government bodies.

66. The Committee urges the State party to give full attention to the needs of rural women, including older women, particularly Amerindian and Maroon women, to ensure that they benefit from policies and programmes in all areas, in particular access to health, education, social services and decision-making...

•          Saint Kitts and Nevis, CEDAW, A/57/38 part II (2002) 90 at paras. 95-98.

95. The Committee expresses concern about the underrepresentation of women in decision-making posts and in political bodies, particularly Parliament.

96. The Committee urges the State party to introduce a range of legal, political and administrative options, in line with, temporary special measures, in accordance with the provisions of article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention, in order to improve the access of women to decision-making. The Committee recommends the adoption of programmes to change the tenor of the political discourse in campaigns in order to achieve greater female participation in them.

97. The Committee expresses concern at the low number of women in the diplomatic service, particularly in higher posts.

98. The Committee recommends that the State party take measures, including in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1 of the Convention, to encourage women to enter into diplomatic careers.

•          Belgium, CEDAW, A/57/38 part II (2002) 95 at paras. 147-150.

147. While recognizing the impressive gains achieved in the participation of women in public life resulting from the implementation of the 1994 law to promote balanced representation of men and women in electoral candidate lists, the Committee is concerned that, in some cases, the quotas for candidate lists have not necessarily led to the expected results.

148. The Committee urges the State party to analyse the challenges that it has encountered in achieving the goals set in the 1994 law and to evaluate achievements on the basis of final results. It calls on the State party to ensure that women and men participate on an equal footing in the political sphere.

149. The Committee is concerned about the significant decline, in recent years, in women’s participation in the entrance examinations for the diplomatic service.

150. The Committee urges the State party to accelerate its efforts to increase the female presence in the diplomatic service.

•          Tunisia, CEDAW, A/57/38 part II (2002) 102 at paras. 198 and 199.

198. While noting the measures taken to increase women’s political participation, the Committee is concerned about the low representation of women in high-level decision-making positions, including as members of the Chamber of Deputies, in government positions, in the central council and executive committee of the Tunisian Union for Agriculture and Fisheries, as high-ranking diplomats and as full professors in the universities.

199. The Committee urges the State party to take measures to increase the representation of women in high-level decision-making positions through, inter alia, the implementation of temporary special measures, in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention in order to realize women’s right to participate in all areas of public life and, particularly, at high levels of decision-making.

•          Zambia, CEDAW, A/57/38 part II (2002) 107 at paras. 240 and 241.

240. While welcoming the State parties commitment to achieving 30 per cent participation by women in politics by 2005, the Committee notes with concern that the participation of women in political and public life is limited, and that women are underrepresented at all levels of decision-making in Government, parliament, political parties, the private sector, special public service committees and other institutions in the community.

241. The Committee recommends that the State party take measures to increase the number of women in decision-making positions at all levels and in all areas. It also recommends that the State party introduce temporary special measures, in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention, to strengthen its efforts to promote women to positions of power, supported by special training programmes and awareness-raising campaigns aimed at underlining the importance of women’s participation in decision-making at all levels.

•          Ukraine, CEDAW, A/57/38 part II (2002) 114 at paras. 275, 285, 286 and 296.

275. The Committee expresses its satisfaction with the presence of an increasingly active civil society on women’s issues in Ukraine, including many women’s political parties...

...

285. While recognizing that the number of women in elected office in local government has increased in some regions, the Committee is concerned about the low representation of women in high-level elected and appointed bodies, including as members of Parliament, of which only 5 per cent are women, as high-ranking officials within the executive branch, where women occupy only 6 per cent of posts, and within the state administrations and civil and diplomatic service.

286. The Committee urges the State party to take measures to increase the representation of women in elected and appointed bodies through, inter alia, the implementation of temporary special measures, in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention, in order to realize women’s right to participation in all areas of public life and, particularly, at high levels of decision-making. The Committee recommends that the State party increase its efforts in offering or supporting training programmes for current and future women leaders and carry out awareness-raising campaigns regarding the importance of women’s participation in political decision-making.

...

296. The Committee urges the State party to design and implement comprehensive programmes in the educational system and to encourage the mass media to promote cultural changes with regard to the roles and tasks attributed to women and men, as required by article 5 of the Convention. It recommends that policies be developed and programmes implemented to ensure the eradication of traditional sex role stereotypes in the family, in employment, in politics and in society.

•          Denmark, CEDAW, A/57/38 part II (2002) 120 at paras. 314 and 327-330.

314. The Committee commends the State party for appointing a Minister for Gender Equality, thereby making gender equality policy a part of the Government’s politics and affording a greater potential to directly influence the political decision-making process...

...

327. While commending the State party for having surpassed the critical 30 to 35 per cent threshold in terms of representation of women in decision-making in Parliament, the Committee expresses concern that women’s representation remains low in executive and decision-making positions in municipalities and counties as well as in the private economic sector.

328. The Committee urges the State party to take additional measures to increase the representation of women in decision-making positions in all sectors, including in the municipalities and counties as well as in the private economic sector... It also recommends that the State party improve the design of the temporary special measures in accordance with article 4 paragraph 1, of the Convention and monitor their application.

329. Noting the high number of women in the lower ranks of the Foreign Service, the Committee expresses concern about the low level of representation of women in the higher levels of the service, in particular in ambassadorial posts.

330. The Committee recommends that the State party introduce special temporary measures in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention to increase the representation of women at higher levels in the Foreign Service, particularly as ambassadors.

•          Armenia, CEDAW, A/57/38 part III (2002) 150 at paras. 42 and 43.

42. The Committee is concerned that women are underrepresented in decision-making and political bodies, in particular in the National Assembly where they hold only 4 out of 131 seats. The Committee is concerned that women’s skills and potential are not sufficiently utilized in Armenia’s efforts to battle the serious economic and social challenges the State party is facing, including the refugee problem. The Committee is also concerned that, despite their participation in the NGO sector, women are not active in politics generally, and that their level of participation in political parties is less than 20 per cent.

43. The Committee recommends the adoption and implementation of measures to increase women’s participation in the political sphere and to consider applying temporary special measures set forth in article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention, such as quotas. The Committee recommends that the State party offer support training programmes for current and future women leaders and carry out awareness-raising campaigns on the importance of women’s participation in political decision-making.

•          Czech Republic, CEDAW, A/57/38 part III (2002) 157 at paras. 91 and 92.

91. While recognizing that the number of women in the Chamber of Deputies has increased and that there are currently two women ministers in the Government, the Committee is concerned about the low representation of women in high-level elected and appointed bodies, including Parliament, and as high-ranking officials within the executive bodies, the judiciary, the civil and diplomatic services and international organizations.

92. The Committee urges the State party to take measures, including improvements in the election law, to increase the representation of women in elected and appointed bodies through, inter alia, the implementation of temporary special measures, in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention, in order to realize women’s right to participation in all areas of public life and, particularly, at high levels of decision-making. The Committee recommends that the State party increase its efforts in offering or supporting training programmes for current and future women leaders and carry out awareness-raising campaigns regarding the importance of women’s participation in political decision-making. The Committee also recommends that, parallel to efforts at the local level, efforts at promoting gender balance in the public sector at the national level be introduced.

•          Uganda, CEDAW, A/57/38 part III (2002) 164 at paras. 137-140.

137. While noting the increasing number of women in decision-making positions as a result, inter alia, of temporary special measures in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention, the Committee expresses concern that this number remains low. It is also concerned that the persistence of patriarchal attitudes that view men as natural leaders may preclude women from seeking positions of leadership.

138. The Committee urges the State party to intensify its efforts to encourage women to take up leadership positions through further temporary special measures in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention. The Committee recommends that the State party offer or support programmes for current and future women leaders and undertake awareness-raising campaigns on the importance of women’s participation in decision-making.

139. The Committee is concerned at the low number of women in the diplomatic service, particularly in postings outside Uganda, and the fact that few Ugandan women work in international organizations.

140. The Committee recommends that the State party take measures, including in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention, to encourage women to enter the diplomatic service. It also recommends the introduction of measures to encourage women to seek employment in international organizations.

•          Guatemala, CEDAW, A/57/38 part III (2002) 171 at paras. 190 and 191.

190. Although recognizing the introduction of temporary special measures for the advancement of women in the area of education, the Committee notes the reduced participation of women in political activities, in particular the minimum participation in the Congress and at decision-making levels in both the public and the private sectors.

191. The Committee recommends that the State party strengthen current measures and adopt and implement further measures in accordance with article 4.1 of the Convention to promote women’s participation in public and political life in Guatemala, in particular by promoting the adoption of the proposed quota system for women candidates in the next five federal elections, offering or supporting training programmes for current and future women leaders and undertaking awareness-raising campaigns on the importance of women’s participation in decision-making aimed at decision makers in both the public and private sectors.

•          Barbados, CEDAW, A/57/38 part III (2002) 177 at paras. 241 and 242.

241. The Committee is concerned that, despite the fact that the State party has identified women’s participation in decision-making as one of its five priorities and despite the high level of education of Barbadian women, little has been achieved in terms of women’s representation in decision-making positions in the political sphere. In this context, the Committee expresses concern that the State party lacks a clear understanding of the application of temporary special measures, according to article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention.

242. The Committee recommends the adoption of strategies to increase the number of women in decision-making positions, both in appointed and elected government bodies. The Committee recommends that the State party adopt temporary special measures in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention to increase women’s representation. It also recommends that the State party organize special training programmes for women and to conduct, on a regular basis, awareness-raising campaigns in this regard. It recommends that the State party sensitize political parties and social partners about the importance of these measures.

•          Greece, CEDAW, A/57/38 part III (2002) 184 at paras. 287-290.

287. While noting the high rate of women acquiring degrees, the Committee is concerned about the underrepresentation of women in decision-making and political bodies, particularly in Parliament, the economic sector and academia.

288. The Committee recommends that the State party take measures, inter alia in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention, in order to realize women’s right to participation in all areas of public life and, particularly, at high levels of decision-making...

289. The Committee is concerned at the low number of women in the diplomatic service, particularly in postings abroad, and the fact that few Greek women work in international organizations.

290. The Committee recommends that the State party take measures, including in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention to encourage women to enter the diplomatic service and to provide opportunities to access the highest rank of the diplomatic service. It also recommends the introduction of measures to provide information to women on options for employment in international organizations.

•          Hungary, CEDAW, A/57/38 part III (2002) 189 at paras. 325 and 326.

325. While noting that there has been an increase of three seats occupied by women in Parliament since the latest elections, in May 2002, and that the Speaker of Parliament is a woman and three women are ministers in the Government, the Committee is concerned about the overall low representation of women in high-level elected and appointed bodies and in the diplomatic service.

326. The Committee urges the State party to take measures to increase the representation of women in elected and appointed bodies through, inter alia, the implementation of temporary special measures, in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention, in order to realize women’s right to participation in all areas of public and political life and, particularly, at high levels of decision-making. The Committee recommends that the State party increase its efforts to offer or support programmes for current and future women leaders and to carry out awareness-raising campaigns targeting both women and men regarding the importance of women’s equal participation in political decision-making as a sine qua non of democracy. In this regard, the Committee urges the State party to carry out research into the obstacles to the participation particularly of young women in political decision-making.

•          Argentina, CEDAW, A/57/38 part III (2002) 196 at para. 368.

368. The Committee recommends that the State party should include and involve women in the process of economic, financial, political and social reconstruction of the country.

•          Yemen, CEDAW, A/57/38 part III (2002) 200 at paras. 402 and 403.

402. While welcoming the State party’s plans to ensure women’s participation in the upcoming electoral registration process, the Committee is concerned about the low rate of registration of women as voters and their low representation on electoral lists and in political decision-making bodies.

403. The Committee requests the State party to take measures to increase the political representation of women as voters and as candidates at all levels. It also calls upon the State party to explore the use of temporary special measures in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention, such as quotas, in order to increase women’s access to decision-making positions. The Committee also suggests that the State party offer support and training programmes to women leaders and candidates to future elections and carry out awareness-raising programmes on the importance of women’s participation in political decision-making aimed at both women and men and throughout the society.

•          Mexico, CEDAW, A/57/38 part III (2002) 205 at paras. 443 and 444.

443. The Committee expresses its concern about the small percentage of women in high-level posts in all activities, namely political, legislative, trade union and educational.

444. The Committee recommends the adoption of strategies for increasing the number of women in decision-making posts at all levels, particularly in the municipalities, by taking temporary special measures as specified in article 4, paragraph l, of the Convention; it recommends further that the State party strengthen its efforts to promote women to management positions in the public and private sectors through special training programmes and sensitivity campaigns stressing the importance of women’s participation in decision-making at all levels.

•          Peru, CEDAW, A/57/38 part III (2002) 212 at paras. 468, 480 and 481.

468. The Committee commends the State party for the establishment of norms envisaging a minimum quota of 30 per cent for women on candidate lists for the National Congress, which resulted in an increase in the participation of women in decision-making at the municipal level and in their representation in Congress.

...

480. The Committee is concerned that, although progress is observed in the composition of Congress and in local government, as a result of the provisions adopted, the participation of women in Congress, in the judicial area and at the country’s senior levels of politics and administration still seems inadequate.

481. The Committee recommends that strategies should be adopted to increase the number of women involved in decision-making at all levels, through the adoption of temporary special measures in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention, and that the State party should strengthen its activities to promote women to posts of responsibility in both the public and private sectors, with special training programmes and publicity campaigns on the importance of women’s participation in development planning and decision-making.

•          Albania, CEDAW, A/58/38 part I (2003) 13 at paras. 69 and 76-79.

69. The Committee urges the State party to implement measures to eliminate the practice of customary law and traditional codes of conduct discriminating against women. The Committee further urges the State party to design and implement comprehensive programmes in the educational system to ensure eradication of traditional sex role stereotypes in the family, in employment, in politics and in society. The Committee recommends that the State party encourage the mass media to promote cultural changes with regard to the roles and responsibilities attributed to women and men, as required by article 5 of the Convention.

...

76. ...The Committee is...concerned that rural women are hardly represented in local government bodies.

77. The Committee urges the State party to give full attention to the needs of rural women and to develop comprehensive policies and programmes aimed at their economic empowerment, ensuring their access to productive resources, capital and credit, as well as education, health-care services, social insurance and decision-making...

78. While welcoming the use of minimum targets for women candidates by some political parties in local elections, the Committee is concerned about the low representation of women in high-level elected and appointed bodies, including as members of Parliament, as high-ranking officials within the executive bodies of the Government, the judiciary and civil and diplomatic service, and within local government bodies.

79. The Committee urges the State party to take measures, including improvements in the election law, to increase the representation of women in elected and appointed bodies through, inter alia, the implementation of temporary special measures, in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention, in order to realize women’s right to participation in all areas of public life, particularly at high levels of decision-making. The Committee recommends that the State party increase its efforts in offering or supporting training programmes for current and future women leaders and carry out awareness-raising campaigns regarding the importance of women’s participation in political decision-making.

See also:

•          Japan, CEDAW, A/58/38 part II (2003) 130 at paras. 367 and 368.

•          Switzerland, CEDAW, A/58/38 part I (2003) 20 at paras. 126 and 127.

126. The Committee is concerned that, while women make up 54 per cent of the electorate, they are significantly underrepresented in elected and appointed posts in political decision-making bodies. While acknowledging some positive developments, the Committee is also concerned at women’s low rate of participation in the administration, the judiciary and the diplomatic service as well as their low representation at the international level. The Committee is further concerned that, while regional, linguistic and other quotas are generally accepted, the adoption of quotas in political life that would aim at gender balance has been systematically rejected in the State party.

127. The Committee encourages the State party to take sustained measures to increase the representation of women in elected and appointed bodies, including temporary special measures in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention, in order to realize women’s right to equal participation in public and political life. The Committee also recommends that adequate measures be taken with the aim of achieving balanced participation of women and men in the various areas and levels of public life, particularly in the administration, the judiciary and the diplomatic service.

•          Congo, CEDAW, A/58/38 part I (2003) 29 at paras. 168 and 169.

168. While noting a slight increase in the number of women elected to parliament, the Committee expresses concern that the number of women in decision-making positions remains low in politics, the judiciary and the civil service. The Committee is particularly concerned at the absence of women in decision-making positions in the foreign service.

169. The Committee recommends that the State party take measures to increase the number of women in decision-making positions in all spheres. It also recommends that the State party introduce temporary special measures, in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention, to strengthen and accelerate its efforts to promote and elect women to positions of power, supported by special training programmes and awareness-raising campaigns aimed at underlining the importance of women’s participation in decision-making at all levels.

See also:

•          Kenya, CEDAW, A/58/38 part I (2003) 35 at paras. 215 and 216.

•          El Salvador, CEDAW, A/58/38 part I (2003) 41 at paras. 273 and 274.

273. The Committee is concerned at women’s low level of participation in politics and in high-level posts in all areas.

274. The Committee recommends the adoption of strategies to achieve an increase in the number of women who participate in decision-making at all levels, including the application of temporary special measures in accordance with article 4 of the Convention, and the strengthening of activities to promote women to leadership posts in both the public and private sectors through special training programmes and awareness-raising campaigns on the importance of women’s participation in the political life of the country.

See also:

•          Ecuador, CEDAW, A/58/38 part II (2003) 122 at paras. 327 and 328.

•          Luxembourg, CEDAW, A/58/38 part I (2003) 47 at paras. 310 and 311.

310. The Committee notes that little progress has been made to increase women’s role in decision-making in all sectors.

311. The Committee calls upon the State party to develop further measures to increase women’s role in decision-making in all sectors, including through awareness-raising campaigns targeted at women and men and the use of special measures in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention, with the goal to accelerate de facto equality between women and men. It also recommends that such measures be monitored and evaluated.

•          Canada, CEDAW, A/58/38 part I (2003) 53 at paras. 342, 371 and 372.

342. The Committee notes with appreciation the recruitment and promotion measures taken to increase women’s participation in the Foreign Service.

...

371. While appreciating the progress made as regards increased women’s political representation and the new legal provisions that benefit female candidates for political office in particular, the Committee is concerned that women are still underrepresented in all areas of political and public life.

372. The Committee urges the State party to take additional measures to increase the representation of women in political and public life. It recommends the introduction of temporary special measures with numerical goals and timetables to increase the representation of women in decision-making positions at all levels.

•          Norway, CEDAW, A/58/38 part I (2003) 61 at paras. 411, 412, 427 and 428.

411. The Committee is concerned about the persistence of stereotypical cultural attitudes towards women reflected in the low proportion of women in top leadership positions in the public sector, including in academia, which remains well below 20 per cent.

412. The Committee recommends that the State party take additional measures to eliminate stereotypical cultural attitudes, including through awareness-raising campaigns directed at both women and men, and conduct research into the stereotypical cultural attitudes prevailing in Norway... The Committee furthermore recommends that the State party encourage the media to project a positive image of women and of the equal status and responsibilities of women and men in the private and public spheres.

...

427. The Committee is concerned about the noticeable decline in recent years in women’s representation in Parliament and notes that the increase in women’s participation in municipal and county councils is slow. The Committee is also concerned about the low level of representation of women in the higher levels of the diplomatic service, in particular as ambassadors or as consuls general.

428. The Committee recommends that the State party introduce measures to increase the representation of women in Parliament, in municipal and county councils and at higher levels in the Foreign Service, particularly as ambassadors and consuls general.

•          Costa Rica, CEDAW, A/58/38 part II (2003) 86 at paras. 58 and 59.

58. The Committee notes that the provisions of the Electoral Code establishing minimum 40 per cent quotas for women’s participation have not been fully respected by political parties.

59. The Committee recommends that the State party redouble its efforts and strengthen legislative or procedural measures, as necessary, to ensure proper application of the legislation in force, and that it seek approval of the reforms to articles 5 and 6 of the Act Promoting the Social Equality of Women with the view to ensuring women’s participation both in party structures and in elective posts, including the alternation of men and women in lists of candidates submitted for election by political parties. The Committee also recommends that the State party consider adopting temporary measures, in conformity with article 4.1 of the Convention, to promote the establishment of effective mechanisms designed to secure greater participation by women at the decision-making level in government bodies.

•          Brazil, CEDAW, A/58/38 part II (2003) 93 at paras. 118-121.

118. While commending the recent appointment of five women ministers and noting the significance of the legal provisions adopting quotas for women’s participation in elected bodies, the Committee remains concerned that women are still significantly underrepresented at all levels and instances of political decision-making. It is further concerned that implementation of the quotas is controversial and lacks efficacy.

119. The Committee recommends the adoption of a comprehensive strategy to accelerate the participation of women in decision-making positions in political life, both in appointed and elected bodies, until a balanced representation of women and men was attained. The Committee recommends that non-compliance with the existing provisions aiming at a minimum and maximum percentage of each sex be duly sanctioned and that other effective means to support implementation be adopted.

120. The Committee is concerned at the under-representation of women in qualified positions in some areas of professional and public life, such as the judiciary and external affairs, particularly at the highest echelons. It is also concerned that women’s participation in high-ranking positions in economic life remains much lower than men’s.

121. The Committee recommends that pro-active policies for women’s increased participation at those levels be adopted and, when appropriate, temporary special measures in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention be taken to ensure women’s real empowerment on equal terms with that of men.

•          Morocco, CEDAW, A/58/38 part II (2003) 101 at paras. 155, 164 and 165.

155. The Committee welcomes the legislative changes and the voluntary quota system established by political parties to increase women’s representation in the House of Representatives, which has led to a significant increase in the number of women elected during the last elections.

...

164. While welcoming the State party’s efforts and achievements to increase women’s political participation at the national level, the Committee remains concerned about the low rate of representation of women in decision-making positions in all spheres, particularly in political representation at all levels, the public and private sectors, the judiciary, the foreign service and academia.

165. The Committee requests the State party to take effective and sustained measures to increase the political representation of women at all levels, taking into account article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention. It also calls upon the State party to increase women’s representation in decision-making positions in all spheres. The Committee also suggests that the State party offer support and leadership training programmes to women and carry out awareness-raising campaigns concerning women’s participation in decision-making, including in the public and private sectors, the foreign service, the judiciary and academia.

•          Slovenia, CEDAW, A/58/38 part II (2003) 109 at paras. 210 and 211.

210. While welcoming the efforts made to encourage women’s participation in political and public life, including provisions in the Act on Equal Opportunities for Women and Men and the proposed draft constitutional amendment to encourage equal opportunities between women and men with regard to standing as candidates in elections, and noting the high level of women’s educational achievement, the Committee is concerned about the low representation of women in elected and appointed bodies, including the National Assembly, executive bodies of the Government and local government bodies.

211. The Committee urges the State party to adopt the proposed draft constitutional amendment to encourage equal opportunities between women and men, and to strengthen and implement measures to increase the representation of women in elected and appointed bodies through, inter alia, the implementation of temporary special measures, in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention, in order to realize women’s right to participation in all areas of public life, particularly at high levels of decision-making. The Committee recommends that the State party increase its efforts in offering or supporting training programmes for current and future women leaders and carry out awareness-raising campaigns regarding the importance of women’s equal participation in political decision-making.

•          France, CEDAW, A/58/38 part II (2003) 116 at paras. 247, 259 and 260.

247. The Committee warmly welcomes the constitutional amendment adopted in June 1999 and the Act of 6 June 2000 (the Parity Act), which establish the principle of equal access for men and women to electoral mandates and elective posts, as a way to achieve balanced participation of men and women in political life.

...

259. The Committee expresses its concern that women are underrepresented in high-level positions in many areas, particularly in the civil service, the diplomatic service and academia.

260. The Committee calls on the State party to take steps to facilitate increased access of women to high-level positions. It recommends the adoption of proactive measures to encourage more women to apply for high-ranking posts, and where necessary, to implement temporary special measures, as provided for in article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention.

•          Japan, CEDAW, A/58/38 part II (2003) 130 at paras. 359 and 360.

359. While appreciating the State party’s recognition that the long-standing stereotyped perception of gender roles remains the major obstacle to achieving equality between women and men and noting its efforts based on regular opinion polls in this regard, the Committee remains concerned about the persistence of deeply rooted and rigid stereotypes in Japan regarding the role and responsibilities of women and men in the family and in society, which are reflected in women’s situation in the labour market, educational choices and low participation in political and public life.

360. The Committee recommends that the State party design and implement comprehensive programmes in the educational system, including human rights education and gender equality training, and disseminate information on the Convention and the Government’s commitment to gender equality, with a view to changing existing stereotypical attitudes on women’s and men’s roles... It recommends that awareness-raising campaigns be intensified and that the media be encouraged to project a positive image of women and of the equal status and responsibilities of women and men in the private and public spheres.

•          New Zealand, CEDAW, A/58/38 part II (2003) 138 at paras. 407, 408, 423 and 424.

407. While appreciating the fact that women are in some of the highest decision-making positions and the progress made as regards women’s increased political representation, the Committee notes with concern the declining number of women in Parliament and in local government it also notes with concern that not all political parties see this issue as also their responsibility. The Committee further notes with concern that women are underrepresented in public life, inter alia, with respect to chief executives in the public sector, on Crown Company Boards, and that the State party does not pursue an overall policy of target setting in its Ministries. The Committee is further concerned about inequality, which persists within the private sector, in which action on equal opportunities is taken up only reluctantly.

408. The Committee urges the State party to bring to the attention of all political parties their responsibility to achieve equality between women and men in political life, in accordance with the Committee’s general recommendation 23. It also recommends that the State party adopt a comprehensive strategy including temporary special measures, in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention, to strengthen its efforts to increase the number of women in policy- and decision-making positions at all levels and in all areas in the public sector, and to strengthen its policies in supporting the private sector’s efforts towards the promotion of women in decision-making positions.

...

423. While recognizing the State party’s efforts to address the needs of Maori and Pacific women and girls through the “Reducing Inequalities” programme, the Committee is concerned that the situation of Maori and Pacific women and girls remains unsatisfactory in many areas, particularly with regard to employment, political participation, decision-making positions in the public and private sector, the judiciary and tertiary education and economic independence...

424. The Committee urges the State party to continue to implement the “Treaty of Waitangi” and to monitor the impact of measures taken through the “Reducing Inequalities” programme on Maori and Pacific women and girls, in particular in the social, economic and political areas and in criminal justice...

•          Kuwait, CEDAW, A/59/38 part I (2004) 15 at paras. 60, 61, 74 and 75.

60. The Committee expresses concern at the reservations entered by the State party to article 7 (a), article 9, paragraph 2, and article 16 (f) of the Convention. While welcoming the State party’s stated intention to introduce legislation during the current legislative period that is expected to create the conditions for the withdrawal of the reservation to article 7 (a), the Committee is concerned at the failure of the State party to ensure that women have, on equal terms with men, the right to vote in all elections and public referendums, and to be eligible for election to all publicly elected bodies. The Committee considers the lack of political rights of women a very serious limitation of their rights, which also has a significant negative impact on women’s enjoyment of other rights protected under the Convention.

61. The Committee calls upon the State party to take all necessary steps, as a matter of the utmost urgency, to introduce and actively support the adoption of legislation to amend the discriminatory provisions of the Electoral Law in line with the constitutional guarantee of equality and in order to ensure compliance with the Convention. The Committee encourages the State party to expedite the necessary steps for the withdrawal of its reservation to article 7 (a) of the Convention, which it believes to be contrary to the object and purpose of the Convention. The Committee draws the State party’s attention to its general recommendation 23, on women in political and public life...

...

74. The Committee expresses its concern at the lack of detailed information and statistical data on women’s representation, particularly in decision-making positions, in various areas of public life, including in law enforcement, the judiciary and the diplomatic corps.

75. ...The Committee...recommends that the State party take measures to increase the representation of women in all areas of public life, including at the decision-making level, and in law enforcement, the judiciary and the diplomatic corps, through the use of temporary special measures, in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention, and general recommendation 25, as well as general recommendation 23. The Committee encourages the State party to undertake and support awareness-raising programmes on the importance of women’s representation, in particular at decision-making levels, in all areas of public life.

•          Bhutan, CEDAW, A/59/38 part I (2004) 21 at paras. 107 and 108.

107. The Committee, while welcoming the progress in promoting women’s political participation and noting that several women hold high ministerial posts, expresses concern at the low representation of women in decision-making bodies in the various areas and levels of political and public life.

108. The Committee recommends that the State party adopt temporary special measures in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention and in the light of general recommendations 23 and 25, to increase the number of women at national and local decision-making levels in government, governmental bodies and public administration, provide targeted training programmes for women, and conduct, on a regular basis, awareness-raising campaigns to encourage women to participate in public life in decision-making positions.

•          Kyrgyzstan, CEDAW, A/59/38 part I (2004) 28 at paras. 165 and 166.

165. While noting that the law on the bases for State guarantees of gender equality provides for gender quotas in the appointment of judges to the Constitutional Court and the Supreme Court, the staff of the Central Commission on Elections and Referendums, and the auditors of the Auditing Chamber, the Committee is concerned about the underrepresentation of women in elected and appointed bodies, particularly at high levels, including the Zhogorku Kenesh (Parliament) and regional and district parliaments, State executive and administrative organs and the diplomatic service.

166. The Committee urges the State party to strengthen and implement measures to increase the representation of women in elected and appointed bodies through, inter alia, the implementation of temporary special measures, in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention and general recommendation 25, in order to realize women’s right to equal participation in all areas of public life, particularly at high levels of decision-making. The Committee recommends that the State party fully utilize general recommendation 23 concerning women in public life and promote changes in the attitudes and perceptions of both women and men with regard to their respective roles in the household, the family, at work and in society as a whole. The Committee recommends that the State party increase its efforts in carrying out awareness-raising campaigns regarding the importance of women’s equal participation in political and public decision-making and in the diplomatic service.

•          Nepal, CEDAW, A/59/38 part I (2004) 34 at paras. 192, 214 and 215.

192. The Committee commends the State party for identifying gender equality as a priority in its national development plan and welcomes new laws and legal reforms, such as...the Civil Service (First Amendment) Act, containing special provisions with regard to entry regulations, career development and conditions of service for women; and the Local Self-Governance Act, which includes a quota of at least 20 per cent representation by women in local bodies...

...

214. While noting the 5 per cent constitutional minimum for the fielding of women candidates for elections by political parties, the Committee is concerned at the very poor representation of women in decision-making positions in the political and administrative spheres. It is also concerned at the very low numbers of women within the judiciary as well as the nominal participation of women at the international level.

215. The Committee recommends that the State party intensify its efforts to encourage women to take up leadership positions through temporary special measures, including timetables and numerical targets, in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention and general recommendation 25. The Committee also recommends that the State party undertake awareness-raising campaigns on the importance of women’s participation in decision-making.

•          Ethiopia, CEDAW, A/59/38 part I (2004) 42 at paras. 263 and 264.

263. The Committee, while noting the slight increase in women’s political participation, is concerned that the representation of women in decision-making positions in the various areas and levels of political and public life is still low.

264. The Committee requests the State party, in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention, to take effective measures, such as implementation of targeted training programmes and awareness-raising campaigns, to encourage women to participate in public life and to highlight the importance to the society as a whole of women’s full and equal participation in the development and decision-making processes, in accordance with general recommendation 23 on women in public and political life.

•          Nigeria, CEDAW, A/59/38 part I (2004) 49 at paras. 309 and 310.

309. The Committee, while recognizing the efforts made to achieve 30 per cent representation of women in public office, notes with concern the low number of women in political and public life, especially in leadership and decision-making positions. It also notes with concern that the persistence of stereotypical and patriarchal attitudes, which view men as natural leaders, may preclude women from seeking positions of leadership.

310. The Committee recommends that the State party take measures to increase the number of women in decision-making positions at all levels and in all areas, in the light of general recommendation 23 on women in political and public life. It also recommends that the State party introduce temporary special measures, in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention and general recommendation 25, to strengthen its efforts to promote women to positions of leadership, including in the diplomatic service. To that end, the Committee urges the State party to increase the availability of training programmes and to enhance its awareness-raising campaigns aimed at underlining the importance of women’s participation in decision-making at all levels.

•          Belarus, CEDAW, A/59/38 part I (2004) 55 at paras. 331, 332, 357 and 358.

331. The Committee welcomes the increase in representation of women in the House of Representatives of the National Assembly and in the local councils of deputies. It also welcomes the use of a quota-based principle in forming the National Assembly’s Council of the Republic.

332. The Committee welcomes the increase in the number of women members of the Supreme Court. It notes with satisfaction the high numbers of women judges and lawyers.

...

357. While recognizing an increase in the representation of women in the House of Representatives of the National Assembly, in the local councils of deputies and on the Supreme Court, as well as the use of a quota-based principle in forming the National Assembly’s Council of the Republic, the Committee remains concerned about the underrepresentation of women in elected and appointed bodies, particularly at high levels and in decision-making positions, including the diplomatic service.

358. The Committee urges the State party to strengthen and implement measures to increase the representation of women in elected and appointed bodies through, inter alia, the implementation of temporary special measures, in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention and general recommendation 25, in order to implement women’s right to equal participation in all areas of public life, particularly at high levels of decision-making. The Committee recommends that the State party fully utilize general recommendation 23, concerning women in public life. It also recommends that the State party increase its efforts in offering or supporting capacity-building programmes for current and future women leaders and carry out awareness-raising campaigns regarding the importance of women’s equal participation in political and public decision-making.

•          Germany, CEDAW, A/59/38 part I (2004) 62 at paras. 396 and 397.

396. While appreciating that women’s participation in political life has exceeded the critical threshold of 30 per cent, the Committee is concerned that women are underrepresented in the higher echelons of several other sectors of public life, particularly in the civil service, the diplomatic service, science and research and academia.

397. The Committee calls on the State party to take steps to facilitate increased access of women to high-level positions. It recommends the adoption of proactive measures to remove existing obstacles and, where necessary, to implement temporary special measures, as provided for in article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention.

•          Latvia, CEDAW, A/59/38 part II (2004) 103 at paras. 44, 61 and 62.

44. The Committee notes with appreciation that, since 1999, a woman has held the highest public office, that of President. It also notes with appreciation that women parliamentarians chair the Parliament (Saeima) Commissions on Human Rights and Public Affairs, on the Implementation of the Citizenship Law, and on Social and Labour Affairs.

...

61. While welcoming the information that there has been a slight increase of women elected to the eighth Saeima (Parliament), the Committee is concerned that women’s representation in that body is low. It is also concerned at the low representation of women in decision-making bodies in political and public life in general.

62. The Committee recommends that the State party utilize temporary special measures in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention to increase the number of women at decision-making levels in both elected and appointed governmental bodies, and towards that end, to establish clear timetables and targets. It also recommends that the State party conduct, on a regular basis, awareness-raising campaigns regarding the importance of women’s participation in political decision-making.

•          Malta, CEDAW, A/59/38 part II (2004) 111 at paras. 107 and 108.

107. While noting that the proportion of women represented in local councils as of June 2004 was 17.6 per cent, the Committee is concerned that they are significantly underrepresented at the national level in elected and appointed posts, in the judiciary, and in political decision-making, including the administration and the foreign service.

108. The Committee encourages the State party to take sustained measures to increase the representation of women in elected and appointed bodies in all areas of the public sector and in the judiciary. The Committee recommends the utilization of temporary special measures in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention and general recommendation 25 in all areas of public life including adequate measures with clearly defined goals and time-bound targets aimed at achieving balanced representation of women and men in general and at high levels of decision-making in particular. The Committee also suggests that the State party continue to offer leadership training programmes to women and carry out awareness-raising campaigns on women’s participation in decision-making.

•          Angola, CEDAW, A/59/38 part II (2004) 118 at paras. 154 and 155.

154. The Committee expresses concern over the fact that the number of women in decision-making positions remains low in political and public life, including in the National Assembly, the civil service and the judiciary. It is also concerned at the low representation of women in decision-making positions in the national foreign service.

155. The Committee recommends that the State party undertake measures to increase the number of women in decision-making positions in all spheres, in accordance with its general recommendation 23 on women in political and public life, including in the National Assembly, in political parties, the judiciary and the civil service, including the foreign service. It also recommends that the State party introduce temporary special measures, in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention and the Committee’s general recommendation 25 on temporary special measures, and to establish concrete goals and timetables to accelerate women’s equal participation in public and political life. The Committee urges the State party to implement training programmes to encourage women to participate in public life. It also calls on the State party to implement awareness-raising campaigns to highlight the importance to society as a whole of women’s full and equal participation in leadership positions at all levels of decision-making for the development of the country, especially at a time of rebuilding and reconstruction after the long war.

•          Equatorial Guinea, CEDAW, A/59/38 part II (2004) 126 at paras. 201 and 202.

201. The Committee is concerned that the number of women in decision-making positions remains extremely low in politics, the judiciary, and the civil service. It notes with concern that the persistence of stereotypical and patriarchal attitudes may preclude women from seeking positions of leadership.

202. The Committee recommends that the State party take measures to increase the number of women in decision-making positions in all spheres. It recommends that the State party introduce temporary special measures, in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention and the Committee’s general recommendation 25, to strengthen and accelerate its efforts to promote and elect women to decision-making positions. To that end, the Committee urges the State party to implement and strengthen training and awareness-raising programmes to highlight the importance of women’s participation in decision-making at all levels and to create enabling, encouraging and supportive conditions for such participation.

•          Bangladesh, CEDAW, A/59/38 part II (2004) 134 at paras. 234, 255 and 256.

234. The Committee welcomes the fact that women have held the highest political offices of the country, and the measures to increase women’s participation in the political life of the country, including the increase in the number of women in the National Parliament and in local governments.

...

255. While welcoming the measures taken to increase the number of women in the National Parliament, the Committee expresses concern that the number of women in decision-making positions remains low in politics, the judiciary, the civil service and the foreign service. The Committee is further concerned that a lack of a women-friendly environment in these sectors may contribute to women’s low representation.

256. The Committee recommends that the State party adopt proactive policies for women’s increased participation at all levels and, when necessary, adopt temporary special measures and establish effective policies and a timetable to increase the number of women in decision-making positions in all spheres. It also recommends that the State party introduce legislation providing for the direct election of women to the National Parliament rather than through selection by members of the Parliament. The Committee furthermore calls on the State party to sensitize government officials on the issue of gender discrimination in order to promote a women-friendly environment that would encourage the participation of women in the public life of the country.

•          Dominican Republic, CEDAW, A/59/38 part II (2004) 141 at paras. 298 and 299.

298. Although the Committee notes the Government’s efforts to increase the number of women in political party structures and in municipal government, it remains concerned that there are so few women in decision-making posts in the Government and that article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention on temporary special measures has not been understood and implemented correctly.

299. The Committee recommends that the State party redouble its efforts to bring about the necessary legislative or procedural changes to ensure the participation of women in political party structures as well as in public and political life. The Committee also recommends that the State party consider adopting temporary special measures, in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention and general recommendation No. 25, to accelerate the full participation of women in political and public life and in decision-making at all levels of government.

•          Spain, CEDAW, A/59/38 part II (2004) 149 at paras. 326 and 340-343.

326. The Committee commends the State party for the appointment of an equal number of women and men to ministerial posts within the new Government and the high level of commitment and political will to achieve gender equality that this demonstrates.

...

340. While noting an increase in women’s political participation at the national, legislative and executive level, the Committee remains concerned that the representation of women in political life is still low.

341. The Committee recommends that the State party consider amending the Constitutional Act on the General Electoral Regime in order to achieve a balance of men and women in political office. It further suggests that the number and placement of women candidates on the electoral lists of political parties be a factor in determining the allocation of grants to them.

342. The Committee is concerned at the under-representation of women in senior positions in some areas of professional and public life, such as the judiciary and the Foreign Service, particularly at the highest echelons.

343. The Committee recommends that proactive policies for women’s increased participation at those levels be adopted and, when appropriate, temporary special measures in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention and general recommendation 25 be taken to ensure the acceleration of the achievement of women’s real empowerment on equal terms with that of men.

•          Argentina, CEDAW, A/59/38 part II (2004) 155 at para. 368.

368. The Committee commends the State party for its measures to increase the participation of women in public life in the renewal process of the country. It particularly welcomes the fact that two women judges have been appointed to the Supreme Court of Justice, and that women now constitute 41.67 per cent of senators, 33 per cent of members of Parliament and 27 per cent of deputies in the provincial legislatures. It also welcomes the fact that, further to the adoption of National Law No. 25.674 and Decree No. 514/2003, known as the Law on Trade Union Quotas, a woman is now part of the presiding body of the confederation of labour.

•          Samoa, CEDAW, A/60/38 part I (2005) 9 at paras. 52 and 53.

52. The Committee is concerned about the continuing low representation of women in public life and decision-making, including women’s limited access to family chiefly titles (matai) and their resulting low representation in the Parliament. It is concerned that sociocultural stereotypes and traditions continue to prevent women from seeking public, and especially elective, office.

53. The Committee encourages the State party to take sustained and proactive measures to increase the representation of women in elected and appointed bodies in all areas of political and public life. It recommends that the State party introduce temporary special measures, in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention and the Committee’s general recommendation 25, to increase the number of women in the Parliament and in local government bodies. It calls upon the State party to carry out awareness-raising campaigns on the importance of women’s participation in public and political life and in decision-making positions, with a view to eliminating customs and practices that discriminate against women, in accordance with articles 2 (f) and 5 (a) of the Convention. The Committee requests the State party to evaluate regularly the impact of such measures, including temporary special measures, so as to ensure that they lead to the desired goals...

•          Lao People’s Democratic Republic, CEDAW, A/60/38 part I (2005) 16 at paras. 85, 92, 93, 104 and 105.

85. The Committee commends the State party for increasing considerably the proportion of women in the National Assembly, from 9.4 per cent in the third legislature (1992-1997) to 21.1 per cent in the fourth legislature (1997-2002) and to 22.9 per cent in the fifth legislature (2002-2007).

...

92. While noting that 80 per cent of the population lives in rural areas, the Committee is deeply concerned about the pervasive poverty and underdevelopment of women, especially in rural and ethnic minority communities...The Committee is very concerned that rural women are not fully represented in important decision-making regarding development programmes, nor on the village council.

93. The Committee urges the State party to accelerate its plan to eradicate poverty among women, especially rural and ethnic minority women, by more actively seeking international assistance and at the same time by applying gender perspectives in all development programmes and fully integrating women into decision-making on those programmes, as well as in their implementation processes...The Committee strongly recommends that the State party ensure the full and equal representation of rural women on the various committees at the village level.

...

104. The Committee is concerned about the generally low representation of women in the administration, at both the national and local levels, and in the judiciary. Considering the fact that 80 per cent of the population lives in rural areas and that the village chiefs and the village councils handle most everyday matters, the Committee is very concerned that less than 1 per cent of the village chiefs are women and only one member of the Lao Women’s Union represents women in the village council.

105. The Committee recommends that the State party take measures to increase the representation of women in administrative and judicial organs at the national, provincial and village levels, in accordance with the Committee’s general recommendation 23 on women in political and public life. It also recommends that the State party introduce temporary special measures, in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention and the Committee’s general recommendation 25 on temporary special measures, to increase the percentage of women at all levels of decision-making and to make sure that the interests of women are fully reflected and that gender equality is guaranteed at all levels of decision-making. The Committee urges the State party to take measures to empower village women so that they can participate equally in village matters.

•          Algeria, CEDAW, A/60/38 part I (2005) 23 at paras. 134, 155 and 156.

134. The Committee notes the improvement in women’s participation in public life and welcomes the inclusion of four women ministers in the current Government.

...

155. While welcoming the progress achieved over time in women’s political participation, the Committee remains concerned about the low level of representation of women in decision-making positions, particularly their political representation at all levels and their representation in the administration and the foreign service.

156. The Committee encourages the State party to take sustained measures, including temporary special measures in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention and the Committee’s general recommendation 25, to accelerate the increase in the representation of women in elected and appointed bodies in all areas of public life. The Committee also suggests that the State party implement leadership training programmes and carry out awareness-raising campaigns on the importance of women’s participation in decision-making, and that it evaluate the impact of such measures.

•          Croatia, CEDAW, A/60/38 part I (2005) 30 at paras. 196, 197, 202 and 203.

196. The Committee is concerned that Roma women remain in a vulnerable and marginalized situation, especially in regard to education, employment, health and participation in public life and decision-making...

197. The Committee requests the State party to take effective measures to eliminate discrimination against Roma women, both in society at large and within their communities, and to enhance respect for their human rights through effective and proactive measures, including temporary special measures in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention and the Committee’s general recommendation 25, and awareness-raising programmes...

...

202. The Committee is concerned that women are significantly underrepresented in the executive bodies of local authorities.

203. The Committee recommends that the State party take appropriate measures to increase the representation of women in the executive bodies of local authorities, inter alia by implementing temporary special measures in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention and the Committee’s general recommendation 25. The Committee recommends that the State party assess the causes for the successful increase of women in public and political life at the national level, including in Parliament and the Government, and to use the lessons learned to increase women’s participation in local government structures.

•          Gabon, CEDAW, A/60/38 part I (2005) 37 at paras. 243 and 244.

243. While the Committee commends the State party for introducing temporary special measures to increase the number of women in public life and decision-making, it is concerned at the low level of women’s participation, particularly in the National Assembly and the Senate, and at the international level, and the insufficient information provided about the implementation of articles 7 and 8 of the Convention and the Committee’s general recommendation 23 on women in public life and decision-making.

244. The Committee recommends that the State party implement temporary special measures, in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention and the Committee’s general recommendation 25, to increase the number of women in decision-making positions. The Committee urges the State party to implement and strengthen training and awareness-raising programmes to highlight the importance of women’s participation in decision-making at all levels, including at the international level, and to create enabling, encouraging and supportive conditions for such participation.

•          Italy, CEDAW, A/60/38 part I (2005) 51 at paras. 310, 322-325, 332 and 333.

310. The Committee commends the State party for amending article 51 of the Constitution which, as was stated by the delegation, is the vehicle through which the Convention will become part of the law of the land and forms the constitutional basis for the use of temporary special measures, including the use of quotas for accelerating the increased participation of women in political and public life.

...

322. The Committee remains concerned about the persistence and pervasiveness of patriarchal attitudes and deep-rooted stereotypes regarding the roles and responsibilities of women and men in the family and society. These stereotypes undermine women’s social status, present a significant impediment to the implementation of the Convention and are a root cause of women’s disadvantaged position in a number of areas, including in the labour market and in political and public life...

323. The Committee calls upon the State party to adopt a large-scale, comprehensive and coordinated programme to combat the widespread acceptance of stereotypical roles of men and women, including awareness-raising and educational campaigns aimed at women and men, to help ensure the elimination of stereotypes associated with men’s and women’s traditional roles in the family and in society at large, in accordance with articles 2 (f) and 5 (a) of the Convention. It recommends that the State party make every effort to disseminate information on the Convention among both private and public actors to increase awareness and understanding of the meaning and content of the substantive equality of women. It also recommends that the media and advertising agencies be specifically targeted and encouraged to project an image of women as equal partners in all spheres of life and that concerted efforts be made to change the perception of women as sex objects and primarily responsible for child-rearing.

324. While noting with appreciation the increase in the number of Italian women in the European Parliament, the Committee remains deeply concerned about the severe underrepresentation of women in political and public positions, including in elected bodies, the judiciary and at the international level. The Committee is especially concerned that the political participation of women at the national level has fallen in recent years and remains among the lowest in Europe.

325. The Committee encourages the State party to take sustained measures to increase the representation of women in elected and appointed bodies and in the judiciary and at the international level. It recommends that the State party introduce appropriate measures, including temporary special measures in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention and the Committee’s general recommendation 25, to increase the number of women in political and public positions. It further encourages the State party to step up efforts to pass legislation under article 51 of the Constitution to increase the number of women in political and public positions, including through the use of quotas, and to ensure adequate representation in such positions of Roma and migrant women, and women from the south of the country. The Committee recommends that the State party carry out awareness-raising campaigns among both men and women on the importance of women’s participation in political and public life and in decision-making, and that it create enabling, encouraging and supportive conditions for such participation.

...

332. The Committee is concerned that certain groups of women, including Roma and migrant women, remain in a vulnerable and marginalized situation, especially in regard to education, employment, health and participation in public life and decision-making...

333. The Committee urges the State party to take effective measures to eliminate discrimination against vulnerable groups of women, including Roma and migrant women, and to enhance respect for their human rights through all available means, including temporary special measures in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention and the Committee’s general recommendation 25...

•          Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, CEDAW, A/60/38 part II (2005) 101 at paras. 61 and 62.

61. While noting that women make up approximately 20 per cent of the deputies to the eleventh Supreme People’s Assembly, and 30 per cent of the local people’s assemblies, the Committee expresses concern that the number of women in decision-making positions remains low in politics, the judiciary and the civil service. The Committee is also concerned at the low participation of women in decision-making positions in the foreign service.

62. The Committee recommends that the State party take measures to increase the number of women in decision-making positions in all spheres. It also recommends that women’s representation in the foreign service be increased, including in missions abroad. It also recommends that the State party introduce temporary special measures, in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention and the Committee’s general recommendation 25, to strengthen and accelerate its efforts to promote and elect women to positions of power, supported by special training programmes and awareness-raising campaigns aimed at underlining the importance of women’s participation in decision-making at all levels.

•          Lebanon, CEDAW, A/60/38 part II (2005) 109 at paras. 107 and 108.

107. While welcoming the fact that the percentage of women deputies in the National Assembly has doubled from 2.3 per cent in 1992 to 4.3 per cent in 2005, the Committee remains concerned about the very low level of representation of women in decision-making positions, particularly in elected and appointed bodies at all levels, and their representation in the administration and foreign service.

108. The Committee encourages the State party to take sustained measures, including temporary special measures in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention and the Committee’s general recommendation 25, to accelerate the increase in the representation of women in elected and appointed bodies in all areas of public life.

•          Benin, CEDAW, A/60/38 part II (2005) 116 at paras. 153 and 154.

153. The Committee is concerned about the low level of representation of women in public and political life and in decision-making positions, including at the international level. It notes with concern the absence of proactive measures to increase women’s participation in political and public life. The Committee further expresses its concern regarding the State party’s position that the use of temporary special measures such as quotas might be considered to be in violation of the principle of equality between women and men of the country’s Constitution.

154. The Committee draws the State party’s attention to general recommendation 23 on the participation of women in public life and urges full implementation of the measures recommended therein. The Committee also urges the State party to implement temporary special measures, including quotas, in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention and the Committee’s general recommendation 25, and to establish concrete goals and timetables to increase the number of women in political and public life and in decision-making positions. The Committee encourages the State party to implement and strengthen training and awareness-raising programmes to highlight the link between the application of temporary special measures and the achievement of substantive equality between women and men, as well as the importance of women’s participation in decision-making at all levels, including at the international level, and to create enabling, encouraging and supportive conditions for such participation.

•          Gambia, CEDAW, A/60/38 part II (2005) 122 at para. 186.

186. The Committee welcomes the progress made in women’s political representation, especially the appointment of a woman as Vice-President of the country, and three women ministers, and the election, for the first time, at the most recent elections, of five women alkalos (village heads).

•          Israel, CEDAW, A/60/38 part II (2005) 129 at paras. 251 and 252.

251. While noting the increase in the number of women in the Knesset, the Committee remains concerned about the low level of representation of women in decision-making positions in local authorities. It is also concerned that the number of women in high-level positions in the civil service and foreign service remains low. The Committee is further concerned about the low level of representation of Israeli Arab women in these areas.

252. The Committee encourages the State party to take sustained measures, including temporary special measures in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention and the Committee’s general recommendation 25, and to establish concrete goals and timetables so as to accelerate the increase in the representation of women, including Israeli Arab women, in elected and appointed bodies in all areas of public life.

•          Burkina Faso, CEDAW, A/60/38 part II (2005) 144 at paras. 351 and 352.

351. While noting the increase in the number of women in the National Assembly from three in 2000 to 13 in 2005, the Committee remains concerned about the low level of representation of women in public and political life and in decision-making positions, including in the foreign service. It notes with concern the absence of temporary special measures to increase women’s participation in political and public life, despite the Committee’s recommendation in paragraph 273 of its previous concluding comments (see A/55/38, part one).

352. The Committee urges the State party to implement temporary special measures, including quotas, in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention and the Committee’s general recommendation 25, and to establish concrete goals and timetables so as to increase the number of women in political and public life and in decision-making positions. The Committee also draws the State party’s attention to general recommendation 23 on the participation of women in public life and urges full implementation of the measures recommended therein.

•          Ireland, CEDAW, A/60/38 part II (2005) 151 at paras. 382, 383, 390 and 391.

382. The Committee is concerned at the persistence of traditional stereotypical views of the social roles and responsibilities of women and men in the family and in society at large, which are reflected in article 41.2 of the Constitution and its male-oriented language, as recognized by the All-Party Oireachtas Committee on the Constitution, in women’s educational choices and employment patterns, and in women’s low participation in political and public life.

383. The Committee recommends that the State party take additional measures to eliminate traditional stereotypical attitudes, including through sensitization and training of all educational actors and sustained awareness-raising campaigns directed at both women and men. It recommends that the All-Party Oireachtas Committee on the Constitution take the Convention fully into account in considering any amendments to article 41.2 of the Constitution, as well as including a provision to underline the obligation of the State to pursue actively the achievement of substantive equality between women and men... Considering the important role of the media in regard to cultural change, the Committee furthermore recommends that the State party encourage the media to project a positive image of women and of the equal status and responsibilities of women and men in the private and public spheres.

...

390. While acknowledging that the President, the Deputy Prime Minister and three members of the Cabinet are women, and that women occupy other visible decision-making positions, including three Supreme Court judges, the President of the District Court, the President of the Law Reform Commission and the Ombudsman, the Committee is concerned at the significant underrepresentation of women in elected political structures, particularly in the Oireachtas. The Committee is further concerned at the low representation of women in the civil service and in the Department of Foreign Affairs at the higher grades.

391. The Committee encourages the State party to take sustained measures to increase the representation of women in elected bodies, including temporary special measures in accordance with article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention and the Committee’s general recommendation 25 on temporary special measures. It recommends that research be carried out under the aegis of a parliamentary committee into the root causes of the lack of progress in this area.

CAT

•          Cyprus, CAT, A/58/44 (2002) 21 at para. 32.

32. The Committee notes with satisfaction that there are no reported cases of torture or political prisoners in the State party.

•          Morocco, CAT, A/59/44 (2003) 58 at paras. 125 and 126.

125. The Committee takes note of the following positive new developments:

(a) The declaration by the State party delegation of the intention of the executive, up to the highest level, and of the legislature, to implement the Convention, which is directly applicable in Morocco, to adopt institutional, normative and educational measures, in consultation with local and international associations, and to develop technical cooperation in the area of human rights with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). This political will has also been reflected in the release of political prisoners, including a group of 56 who were released in November 2002, and in the compensation of victims;

...

126. The Committee expresses concern about:

...

(d) The increase, according to some information, in the number of arrests for political reasons during the period under consideration, the increase in the number of detainees and prisoners in general, including political prisoners, and the increase in the number of allegations of torture and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, allegations implicating the National Surveillance Directorate (DST);

...

•          Chile, CAT, A/59/44 (2004) 28 at paras. 54, 56 and 57.

54. The Committee notes the following positive developments:

...

(g) The establishment of the National Commission on Political Imprisonment and Torture to identify persons who were deprived of freedom and tortured for political reasons during the military dictatorship, and the assurances by the representative of the State party that its tenure would be extended to permit it to complete its work;

...

56. The Committee expresses concern about the following:

...

(g) The limited mandate of the National Commission on Political Imprisonment and Torture aimed at identifying victims of torture during the military regime and the conditions for obtaining reparation. In particular, the Committee notes with concern:

(i) The short time period in which alleged victims can register with the National Commission, resulting in fewer persons registering than anticipated;

(ii) The lack of clarity as to which acts the Commission defines as torture;

(iii) The reported rejection of claims not filed in person, notwithstanding, e.g., the disability of the person(s) involved;

(iv) The failure to permit persons to register who may have received reparation for other human rights violations (disappearance, exile, etc.);

(v) That “austere and symbolic” reparation is not the same as “adequate and fair” reparation as set forth in article 14 of the Convention;

(vi) That the Commission does not have the competence to investigate allegations of torture in order to identify those persons responsible, so that they may be prosecuted;

...

57. The Committee recommends that the State party should:

...

(k) Extend the term and mandate of the National Commission on Political Imprisonment and Torture to enable victims of all forms of torture, including victims of sexual violence, to file complaints. To this end:

(i) Initiate measures to better publicize the work of the Commission, utilizing all media, and clarifying the definition of torture by including a non-exhaustive list specifying various forms of torture, including sexual violence, on the forms victims must complete;

(ii) Ensure that victims will be afforded privacy when registering with the Commission, and that persons in rural areas or otherwise unable to file in person can register;

(iii) Include in the final report of the Commission data disaggregated by gender, age, type of torture, etc.;

(iv) Consider extending the Commission’s mandate to permit investigations and, where warranted, the initiation of criminal proceedings against those allegedly responsible for the actions reported;

...

•          Bahrain, CAT, A/60/44 (2005) 44 at para. 107.

107. The Committee notes the following positive developments:

(a) The extensive political, legal and social reforms on which the State party has embarked, including:

...

(iv) The establishment of a new bicameral parliament with an elected chamber of deputies;

...

CRC

•          Cape Verde, CRC, CRC/C/111 (2001) 135 at paras. 626 and 627.

626. While noting the State party's efforts in this regard, including both the establishment of a children's parliament and the State party's efforts in 1998 to raise awareness of children's right to participate, the Committee remains concerned that this right is not adequately respected in the context of, inter alia, the family, schools and policy-making.

627. In light of article 12, the Committee recommends that the State party strengthen its efforts to ensure respect for children's right to participate through, inter alia:

(a) The use of promotion campaigns targeting parents, teachers and children;

(b) Continuing support to the children's parliament and ensuring that conclusions and recommendations made by this parliament are taken into consideration in the State party's decision-making process.

•          Greece, CRC, CRC/C/114 (2002) 25 at paras. 130 and 131.

130. ...The Committee is...concerned that the Youth Parliament does not represent the views of a sufficiently wide spectrum of children in the State party.

131. The Committee recommends that the State party:

...

(b) Ensure that the Youth Parliament is representative of all sectors of the State party’s child population, including children from distinct ethnic, religious, linguistic or cultural groups.

•          Gabon, CRC, CRC/C/114 (2002) 47 at paras. 203 and 204.

203. While welcoming the existence of a Children’s Parliament, the Committee is concerned that, owing to traditional attitudes, respect for the views of the child remains limited within the family, in schools, in the courts, and before administrative authorities and in the society at large.

204. The Committee encourages the State party to pursue its efforts to:

...

(c) Promote the activities and take duly into consideration the decisions of the Children’s Parliament and take care that all groups of children are represented.

See also:

•          Burkina Faso, CRC, CRC/C/121 (2002) 103 at paras. 453 and 454.

•          Mozambique, CRC, CRC/C/114 (2002) 65 at paras. 281 and 282.

281. While noting the State party’s efforts to establish a child legislative assembly and consultations of children throughout the country, the Committee remains concerned that:

...

(b) Children’s views are not systematically sought and taken into consideration with regard to decisions that may affect them.

282. The Committee recommends that the State party:

(a) Continue and strengthen efforts to ensure the participation of children in all spheres that affect their lives, including through reinforcing the work of the children’s parliament and the consideration of its recommendations;

...

•          Guinea-Bissau, CRC, CRC/C/118 (2002) 12 at paras. 51 and 52.

51. The Committee is concerned that:

(a) The list of criteria for which discrimination is prohibited under the Constitution, as described in the State party’s report (para. 146), is limited in relation to article 2 of the Convention and omits, notably, discrimination on the grounds of political belief;

...

52. The Committee recommends that the State party:

(a) Amend the legislation to ensure that it fully corresponds with the provisions of article 2 of the Convention;

...

•          United Arab Emirates, CRC, CRC/C/118 (2002) 90 at paras. 381 and 382.

381. The Committee...is concerned that insufficient attention has been given to the allocations of resources for programmes and policies to promote the civil and political rights of children.

382. The Committee recommends that the State party:

(a) Strengthen its efforts to allocate resources for programmes and policies to promote the civil and political rights of children;...

...

•          The Netherlands (Antilles), CRC, CRC/C/118 (2002) 129 at paras. 555 and 556.

555. While noting the State party's efforts in this regard, including the establishment of Youth Summits, Youth Advisory Groups, and a Youth Parliament, the Committee remains concerned that:

...

(b) Few of the Youth Advisory Groups are still active, and the Youth Parliament only includes a minority of persons under 18.

556. The Committee recommends that the State party:

...

(c) Continue and strengthen its efforts to assure child participation in all spheres that affect their lives, including through reinforcing the work of and increasing the number and representation of children involved in Youth Parliaments, Summits and Advisory Groups, and ensure that girls in particular take an active role within these bodies and other participatory mechanisms;

...

•          Republic of Korea, CRC, CRC/124 (2003) 24 at paras. 114 and 115.

114. The Committee is concerned at the limitations on students’ freedom of expression and association due to strict administrative control of student councils and school regulations that limit or prohibit outside political activities of students in elementary and secondary schools. It is further concerned about allegations that Internet chat rooms, set up independently by teenagers, have been arbitrarily closed down by the authorities.

115. In the light of articles 12 to 17 of the Convention, the Committee recommends that the State party amend legislation, guidelines issued by the Ministry of Education and school regulations to facilitate children’s active participation in decision-making processes and in political activities both within and outside schools and ensure that all children fully enjoy their right to freedom of association and expression.

•          Japan, CRC, CRC/C/137 (2004) 116 at paras. 631 and 632.

631. The Committee is concerned about restrictions on political activities undertaken by schoolchildren both on and off school campuses. It is also concerned that children below the age of 18 require parental consent to join an association.

632. The Committee recommends that the State party review legislation and regulations governing activities undertaken by schoolchildren on and off campus and the requirement for parental consent to join an organization, in order to ensure the full implementation of articles 13, 14 and 15 of the Convention.

•          Bosnia and Herzegovina, CRC, CRC/C/150 (2005) 49 at paras. 227 and 228.

227. The Committee is concerned that discrimination on grounds of ethnicity, political affiliation, national origin, social status, status as internally displaced persons or returnees, residence in rural areas and gender or disability continues to be widespread...

228. In accordance with article 2 of the Convention, the Committee recommends that the State party carefully and regularly evaluate existing disparities in the enjoyment by children of their rights and undertake on the basis of that evaluation the necessary steps to prevent and combat all discriminatory disparities...

•          Nepal, CRC, CRC/C/150 (2005) 66 at paras. 292 and 294.

292. The Committee...notes with serious concern that the absence of the parliament which was dissolved in 2002, does not allow the State party to enact or amend legislation, nor to ratify international conventions, including the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict.

...

294. The Committee recommends to the State party that it undertake all necessary measures to restore the regular functioning of the State party, including the parliament, and to ratify the Optional Protocols to the Convention.

•          Costa Rica, CRC, CRC/C/150 (2005) 149 at paras. 692 and 693.

692. The Committee is concerned at the contradiction between the information provided by the Ministry of Education in the State party’s report whereby students have the right to freedom of association, including the right to participate in students political parties, and article 18 of the Childhood and Adolescence Code which establishes that persons below the age of 18 have the right to freedom of association, except for political or lucrative activities.

693. The Committee recommends that the State party take appropriate measures to ensure the coherence of its legislation with regard to the right of persons below the age of 18 to be involved in political activities.