HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL ADOPTS OUTCOME OF UNIVERSAL PERIODIC REVIEW ON TUNISIA, MOROCCO AND FINLAND

The Human Rights Council this afternoon adopted the outcome of the Universal Periodic Review on the reports of Tunisia, Morocco and Finland. It also started its review of the outcome of the Universal Periodic Review on the report of Indonesia.

On the outcome on the report of Tunisia, whose consideration started in the morning meeting, non-governmental organizations noted and commended the work done by Tunisia to progress policies on women and children’s rights. Many highlighted the efforts made since the beginning of the Universal Periodic Review process. Also noteworthy was the withdrawal of reservations on the International Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Speaking were the International Federation of Human Rights Leagues, Organisation de la Mere Maghrebine (OMMA), World Organization Against Torture, International Publishers Association, Union Nationale de la Femme Tunisienne, Espace Afrique International, Tunisian Association for the Rights of the Child, Fondation Atlas pour l’Auto-Developpement et la Solidarite, Association Tunisienne de la Communication and Action Internationale pour la Paix et le Development dans la Region des Grands Lacs.

On the outcome on the report of Morocco, Mohammed Loulichki, Permanent Representative of Morocco to the United Nations Office at Geneva, said that the Working Group of the Universal Periodic Review had issued 13 recommendations after the interactive review – and Morocco had agreed to accept 11 of them. Today, Morocco reconfirmed its acceptance of the 11 recommendations. Two weeks after the Universal Periodic Review, the National Human Rights Institute in Morocco had organized a symposium to create the National Plan of Action, which would be adopted next week. Morocco would also continue its ratification of international human rights conventions, and would develop a programme to protect the most vulnerable.

In the discussion on Morocco, delegations commended Morocco for the transparent way in which it handled the Universal Periodic Review. Morocco was praised for its efforts in implementing the recommendations of the Working Group; in some cases even before they were identified, progress had already been made. Also noted was the work undertaken on prisons, the rights of women and those of children.

Speaking on the report of Morocco were the delegations of the Netherlands, Tunisia, Qatar on behalf of the Arab Group, Pakistan, Bahrain, Syria, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates.

Also speaking on Morocco were the representatives of Conseil Consultatif des droits de l’homme du Maroc (Human Rights Advisory Council of Morocco, Mouvement contre le Racisme et pour l'amitié entre les peoples, Cairo Institute for Human Rights Studies, Action Internationale pour la Paix et le Développement dans la Région des Grands Lacs, Interfaith International, Arab Commission for Human Rights, Union de l’action Féminine, Centrist Democratic International and Amnesty International.

On the outcome on the report of Finland, Teija Tilkainen, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs of Finland, said Finland valued the Universal Periodic Review mechanism and wanted the Review to be an active mechanism. The Universal Periodic Review had given Finland an opportunity to assess its national human rights situation in a self-critical manner. The recommendations would form an integral part of the Government’s comprehensive human rights policy report. Despite persistent work to integrate immigrants into Finnish society, there were still certain problems of racism and intolerance in Finland.

In the discussion on the report of Finland, delegations welcomed the serious and open way in which Finland had approached its participation in the Universal Periodic Review. However, some said that a false view about the situation in Finland was presented. Discrepancies in the Finnish and English versions of the report were pointed out. Some said that the excessive length of the alternative service in comparison to the military service had not been properly addressed.

Speaking in the discussion on Finland were the representations of Amnesty International and International Federation of Human Rights Leagues.

On the outcome on the report of Indonesia, I. Gusti Agung Wesaka Puja, Permanent Represenative of Indonesia to the United Nations Office at Geneva, said it was difficult to promote human rights given the limitations on human resources capacity. With regard to the recommendations made by the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review that enjoyed their support, the Government viewed them as being in line with its priority programmes for the promotion and protection of human rights in Indonesia. Indonesia attached great importance to cooperating with the international human rights mechanisms. It had received 11 different Special Procedures mandate holders.

In the discussion on Indonesia, delegations commended its cooperation and commitment to promote human rights. Many thanked Indonesia for the steps taken to show substantial progress in all human rights, especially with regard to women, children, education and employment. It was encouraged that law enforcement officials got appropriate training in human rights standards and that Indonesia continue to disseminate information after the Universal Periodic Review process had ended.

Speaking in the discussion on the report of Indonesia, were the delegations of Algeria, Tunisia, Qatar, Pakistan, Iran, Bahrain, Cuba, Syria and Azerbaijan.

The Council will meet again at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, 10 June when it is scheduled to conclude consideration of the outcome on the report of Indonesia, and begin review of the outcome of the Universal Periodic Review on the United Kingdom, India and Brazil.


Continuation of Consideration of Outcome of Universal Periodic Review for Report of Tunisia

JULIE GROMELLON, of International Federation of Human Rights Leagues, in a joint statement with Amnesty International and Cairo Institute for Human Rights Studies, welcomed the ratification by Tunisia of the Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women and took note of the planned Special Rapporteur visits but regretted that the Special Rapporteur against torture had not yet been invited. It was also regretted that the recommendations of the review did not cover the freedom of association and expression enough.

SAIDA AGREBI, of the Organisation de la Mere Maghrebine, in a joint statement with Femmes Africa Solidarite, and Association tunisienne des mères, said that they were thankful for the opportunity to speak during the Universal Periodic Review. The principle of equality was enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Women were under-represented in decision making bodies in Tunisia. Equality should be achieved to raise the standard and quality of families. The process should entail principles of openness, tolerance, and universality. Equality should involve the entire community to eliminate all forms of discrimination. All actors should be involved, working in partnership and cooperation to sustain such policies.

ROLIN WAVRE, of World Organization against Torture, in a joint statement with Human Rights Watch; International Commission of Jurists; and Cairo Institute for Human Rights Studies, said Tunisia had shown it was capable of making progress on issues related to the rights of the child and the rights of women. It was regrettable therefore that certain laws still existed which limited human rights. The World Organization wished to make recommendations related to the Universal Periodic Review report. Tunisia should take measures without ambiguity to end the use of torture, clarify the definition of terrorism, verify the independence of judges, guarantee the opening of an investigation in all allegations of torture, end all forms of harassment, and amend the law regarding sexual abuse involving people under 20 where the perpetrator was not charged if he married the victim.

ALEXIS KRIKORIAN, of International Publishers Association, in a joint statement with International PEN; and World Association of Newspapers, said that serious breaches of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights had been reported in Tunisia. These included Internet and book censorship, restriction of freedom of association, interference in the judiciary, detention of prisoners of opinion and reports of torture and police brutality. There was no evidence of an ease in this regard. The Tunisian authorities were urged to encourage diversity of content and ownership of the press and to stop blocking websites. The Government must also allow legal non-governmental organizations to work.

BEHHADI IMEN, of Union Nationale de la Femme Tunisienne, said that the Universal Periodic Review revealed a number of indicators for women in society. The report allowed the Government to reflect on what needed to be done, as much remained to be focused on. The independence of the code of status, customary and judicial marriages and polygamy were all issues that needed review. The Tunisian Government had established legislature to guarantee equality between the two sexes. The Government and women’s associations had had numerous meetings. Rural women needed to be brought into the picture, this would be up to both men and women in society to support. This could be achieved through an in-depth and collective reflection of what was needed. There were threats to the model of Tunisian women through a number of Internet sites. The Union called for combining and multiplying efforts with organizations to block people trying to enter these sites.

AWA N’DIAMYE, of Espace Afrique International, welcomed Tunisia’s approach to human rights in general and women’s rights in particular. Tunisia had concentrated its efforts on solidifying positions for women to participate in public life. Measures were being taken to promote women in various areas of public life. A partnership between men and women had become established. Women had been able to achieve ranks of high prominence and had become fully involved.

JAMELEDDINE KHEMAKHEN, of Association tunisienne des droits de l'enfant - ATUDE, welcomed the promulgation of the law in which Tunisia’s reservations on the International Convention on the Rights of the Child had been withdrawn, as a result of the Universal Periodic Review. Tunisia was requested to also reconsider its reservations on the Covenant on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. Regarding education, several efforts had been made, but these should be supported with awareness raising programmes in collaboration with non-governmental organizations and the media in order to safeguard children and society. More attention was needed on the problem of violence against children; it required more research and follow up.

Mr. BALTI, of Atlas - Association Tunisienne pour l'Auto-Développement et la Solidarité, said that the efforts of Tunisia to combat poverty had been outlined in the report. Tunisia reduced poverty in 1990 by 12 per cent which had improved the status of citizens and helped the emergence of a middle class. This was strengthened and encouraged by active solidarity. With the rise in prices of oil and food products as a result of inevitable globalization, they asked how Tunisia could safeguard against this difficult context, ultra liberalism and selfishness of the wealthy. They also asked if the time had not yet come to put into effect the work for a solidarity fund to combat poverty.

IMEDEDDINE CHEKER, of Association Tunisienne de la Communication "ATUCOM", said human rights could not be spoken about without talking about the rights of people with disabilities. People with disabilities were protected by a new law in Tunisia which was in compliance with international standards. The Association was convinced that other measures had to be taken to further the full integration of persons with disabilities. More access to affordable technology like information and communication technology had to be provided. The Association called on the Government, public sector and the international community to help provide this access. This access should not be withdrawn from people who lacked the means to acquire it, which contravened United Nations standards.

MAURICE KATALA, of Action internationale pour la paix et le développement dans la région des Grands Lacs (AIPD), welcomed with satisfaction Tunisia’s holistic approach in protecting human rights in Tunisia. The efforts carried out since the Universal Periodic Review were highlighted. The fact that the national human rights institution had been put in line with the Paris Principles was especially noted as well as the prison visits that were now accorded to Human Rights Watch. Also noteworthy was the withdrawal of reservations on the International Convention on the Rights of the Child. The same should be done on the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

BECHIR TEKKARI, Minister of Justice and Human Rights of Tunisia, in concluding remarks, thanked the delegations and civil society for their comments. He made three points. First, he reminded and confirmed that with respect to torture, Tunisia was fully committed to closely following all recommendations made by the Human Rights Council. The Government had set up a body to follow-up on this and it would keep records of achievements to date. There was an invitation extended to the Special Rapporteur on human rights and countering terrorism, however, it did not mean that this invitation would be extended to other Special Rapporteurs, specifically such as the Special Rapporteur on Torture. Secondly, he said that on 17 March 2008, a discussion took place in Human Rights Council regarding torture. There was no torture in Tunisia; there were only isolated cases and anyone who had inflicted this type of treatment on people was tried and convicted. Being part of public office did not give immunity to such acts. There was no widespread torture in Tunisia, there were only specific cases. The journalists who have been detained had been detained on charges not related to their work. Third, he said with regards to the Internet, the Government had been approached regarding young people using Internet sites to produce explosives. The person involved in this case was killed, but in an unrelated incident.

Mr. Tekkari reminded the Council that many obstacles remained ahead. There were obstacles such as religious extremism that was within the mandate of the Government alone to address. Terrorism was an obstacle that would not slow down the progress of the Universal Periodic Review, such cases would be combated through law, and if legislation needed to be improved to combat such acts, then steps would be taken to ensure such laws existed to address such cases.

Consideration of Outcome of Universal Periodic Review for Report of Morocco

MOHAMMED LOULICHKI , Permanent Representative of Morocco to the United Nations Office at Geneva, in opening remarks, said that the Working Group had issued 13 recommendations after the interactive review – and Morocco had agreed to accept 11 of them. Today, Morocco reconfirmed its acceptance of the 11 recommendations. Two weeks after the Universal Periodic Review, the National Human Rights Institute in Morocco had organized a symposium to create the National Plan of Action, which would be adopted next week. Morocco would also continue its ratification of international human rights conventions, and would develop a programme to protect the most vulnerable. After the official launch of the National Action Plan, the training centre would organize four regional meetings. Further, Morocco had undertaken initiatives to combat violence against women and domestic violence, opening a shelter for victims, and overhauling the Criminal Code to criminalize violence against women.

Morocco would also work to comply with the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and there was a draft law currently being considered which was inspired by that Convention. Morocco would modernize its prisons. A Director position had been created whose job would be to ensure the proper treatment of detainees, and Morocco was building seven new prisons. In addition, more than 13,000 beneficiaries had been indemnified for violations against their human rights, and the State was taking responsibility for victims and families for all medical costs. The Ministry of Professional Development and the National Human Rights Institute were cooperating, which allowed for the Ministry to contribute to preparations of those benefit packages. Morocco had also recently held a conference on the rights of the child, it had committed to continuing its reform of its healthcare system, and the National Human Rights Institute had signed agreements to improve training for high-level officials in ministries.

Morocco had always supported all Special Procedures and their mandates. It had received visits from various Special Rapporteurs. Morocco was committed to promoting and protecting human rights. Having paid reparations to victims in the past, Morocco was now working hard to identify and protect all human rights. It would continue to keep the Human Rights Council advised as Morocco moved forward with its reforms.

NYNKE B. WIJMENGA (Netherlands) commended the Moroccan delegation for the transparent way they had handled their review. It was noted with appreciation that Morocco had agreed to almost all the recommendations that had been made during the interactive dialogue in the Working Group. The Netherlands would also be grateful if Morocco could inform the Council not only on progress made in the implementation of the recommendations it could agree to, but also when it could reconsider its position on the Rome Statute.

SAMIR LABIDI (Tunisia) thanked Morocco for its statement and for the commitment and progress that country had shown in the area of human rights. The strengthening of the Constitution, the ratification of nearly every relevant international human rights instrument, and a national initiative to establish a plan of action on social, economic, and political rights, were clear signs of that commitment in Morocco.

ABDULLA FALAH ABDULLA AL-DOSARI (Qatar), speaking on behalf of the Arab Group, congratulated Morocco for its progress on human rights. Morocco had taken seriously the recommendations of the Working Group. It had made every effort to protect the human rights of all its citizens. Morocco safeguarded the rights of minorities, and had adopted various measures to give new impetus to various areas of human rights.

MARGHOOB SALEEM BUTT (Pakistan) said that Morocco had had a successful – and one of the most participated in – reviews. A number of recommendations had been made by the Working Group and it was noteworthy that, leaving aside two, Morocco had had accepted all the recommendations. Also welcome was the Moroccan statement that explicitly committed to give serious and positive consideration to every single request made by any of the Special Procedures. That was what was needed to ensure an atmosphere of trust and confidence with respect to cooperation with United Nations mechanisms.

ABDULLA ABDULLATIF ABDULLA (Bahrain) welcomed the statement made by Morocco, and noted that there had been positive developments towards promoting and protecting human rights in Morocco. The keenness of Morocco to continue working on human rights at the national, local and international level was illustrative of their commitment to fulfilling the recommendations made. They had evaluated some of the challenges and had proven their commitment to working in a number of important areas, such as looking into a draft law on persons with disabilities, improving conditions in the prison system and establishing a children's parliament, which would help towards implementing the rights of the child, which were among the recommendations made in the Universal Periodic Review.

ABIR AL ASSAD (Syria) congratulated Morocco for cooperating with the Universal Periodic Review mechanism. Morocco had taken various efforts to protect human rights. It had also taken steps to raise awareness about the rights of various people. The Council must remember the efforts that Morocco had shown in the creation of the Council. Morocco deserved credit for it efforts and continuing commitment to preserving and protecting human rights.

ABDULWAHAB ABDULSALAM ATTAR (Saudi Arabia) welcomed the comprehensive statement made by Morocco. Morocco was a pioneer among countries and had been giving special attention to human rights, especially on a legal level. Morocco had accepted the recommendations of the Working Group, although some of them had financial implications; this showed the country’s dedication.

GHADEER EL-FAYEZ (Jordan) noted that the national report discussed on 4 April 2008 within the context of the Universal Periodic Review had identified the attachment Morocco had to human rights. Human rights in Morocco had continued to improve and the Government had cooperated with all actors in society in the promotion of such rights. Morocco had ensured a positive and interactive dialogue throughout the process, which was not a surprise. Those who observed human rights, specifically the rights of women in Morocco, would note that women now constituted 11 per cent of the Parliament and 50 per cent of the judiciary. Those were two areas where historically women had not been represented and, as such, that increase was important. The cooperation of Morocco with the Universal Periodic Review was evident. Jordan recommended that Morocco continue in this direction.

AMR ROSHDY HASSAN (Egypt) expressed appreciation for Morocco’s efforts and report under the Universal Periodic Review process. Morocco had started implementing recommendations even before they were issued by the Working Group. Egypt noted the work undertaken on prisons, the rights of women and those of children. Morocco's actions were fully compatible with its historic role as a human rights pioneer.

ADEL ESSA HUR AL MAHRI (United Arab Emirates) congratulated Morocco for the acceptance of the recommendations of the Working Group and thanked it for its efforts within the Universal Periodic Review, as well as for the efforts aimed at improving the national legislation with regard to national reconciliation. It was noted that Morocco had been working towards putting in place the internationally recognized norms in human rights. The Council should provide all the necessary help to Morocco.

TOUFIK MEDIANI, of the Conseil Consultatif des droits de l’homme du Maroc (Human Rights Advisory Council of Morocco), said that, as a national institution, they were responsible for the implementation of human rights in cooperation with the Government. Those rights had allowed for them to improve the situation and provide redress for cases of human rights violations. Providing redress to more than 95 per cent of victims and regarding health insurance, cooperation between the Government and the Advisory Council had allowed health coverage to be provided for the majority of those victims.

Regarding collective rights, various decisions had been taken at the local level before programmes were implemented. Regarding the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, 44 cases out of 66 had been dealt with, and investigations were in progress to settle the remaining cases. They were working on implementing the recommendations which had been drawn up by the Commission regarding legal redress. They have also set up a committee to combat impunity.

GIANFRANCO FATTORINI, of Movement against Racism and for Friendship among Peoples, in a joint statement with France Libertés – Fondation Danielle Mitterrand, said the Working Group of the Universal Periodic Review had excluded important historic events. There was silence about the situation in the Western Sahara. Was this a black hole or just a hole in memory. More than 30 years after the end of the Spanish colonization, the Western Sahara remained the last piece of the puzzle of the decolonisation process in the African continent. The Council seemed to want to ignore this part of the world. In the document which the Working Group used to produce the report, there was no reference to the mission of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights to the territory in May and June 2006.

ABDESLAM SEDDIKI, of the Cairo Institute for Human Rights Studies, observed, with regard to collaboration between the Government and non-governmental organizations in the preparation of the Universal Periodic Review, that it should be institutionalized so that it became more tangible. Significant reforms had been undertaken in Morocco with regard to the harmonization of legislation in line with international norms and standards. Violations of human rights had, however, continuously been reported. The Government was invited to implement the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission which called, among other recommendations, for the ratification of the Rome Statute and for the intensification of efforts to respect economic, social and cultural rights.

MAURICE KATALA, of Action internationale pour la paix et le développement dans la région des Grands Lacs (AIPD), said that they were pleased by Morocco’s devotion to the Universal Periodic Review. Civil society would like to be involved in contributing to human rights in Africa. People had been fleeing other African States through Morocco to go to Europe. The recommendations showed Morocco’s willingness to promote and protect human rights. There was a plan to improve social, economic and political rights through cooperation with institutional partners and civil society. Such steps had been taken to eradicate poverty in rural zones.

MAOULAININE ZADANI, of Interfaith International, said the aims of the Human Rights Council could not be achieved without the Universal Periodic Review. Interfaith International congratulated Morocco for protecting and promoting human rights. Morocco had overhauled its Constitution; it had created various new laws that protected human rights; it had created bodies to promote rights; and it had developed strategies that placed the human being at the centre of development.

ABDELWAHAB HANI, of the Arab Commission for Human Rights, said that until the 1990’s democratic reforms had been taken in Morocco to protect human rights. But in the name of the fight against terrorism, a number of people had been tortured in the following years. Efforts undertaken to combat terrorism had been contrary to international human rights law. Democracy was now back on track but a source of concern was that a number of private security services were being subcontracted to conduct torture.

HAJBOUHA ZOUBEIR, of Union de l'action féminine, said that they encouraged Morocco to continue the efforts to apply the recommendations of the Universal Periodic Review to promote and protect human rights. They believed the Government should lift the reservations on the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and its Optional Protocol. They urged the creation of a higher council for women to guarantee the aforementioned rights. Morocco should establish and institutionalize a committee that would bring together all stakeholders on an equal level. The Council was urged to adopt the outcome of the review to help assist Morocco in meeting those goals.

MME SOUAD HACHLER, of International Federation of Business and Professional Women, said it was pleased with the efforts of Morocco. The Moroccan experience was a model. That was due to the courage of the country. Morocco was willing to promote a culture of human rights. Noted in particular was the overhaul of the family code. Women had a high level of freedom in Morocco and enjoyed equality with men. Children were also well protected now. There was a long path ahead and Morocco was encouraged to continue its efforts.

MARIANNE ULLIEBJERG, of Amnesty International, welcomed the recommendations made by several States to the Moroccan authorities, including continuing to implement the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. It was regrettable that certain significant human rights issues had not been raised during the review. One concern was the lack of accountability of the security forces for their alleged abuses. There were also concerns about the freedom of the press and journalists. Strengthening of human rights protections had to be urgently implemented. The fact that several recommendations by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission had not been ratified put in question the political will of the authorities to implement these human rights reforms.

MOHAMMED LOULICHKI, Permanent Representative of Morocco to the United Nations Office at Geneva, in concluding remarks, thanked all delegations which had given a positive assessment of the reforms taken by Morocco, and the efforts shown by Morocco with respect to human rights. The process was ongoing and the policy for promoting human rights was not limited to the national level, but affected the local level too. That policy was not decreed – it was a policy that emanated from a process between Government and civil society. Like all countries, Morocco met challenges of an economic and political nature, as well as social issues, but did so without abandoning its respect for human rights.

Regarding statements made by non-governmental organizations that had nothing to do with the Universal Periodic Review, in Morocco's view, the Review could be undermined if these comments continued, and therefore they should be avoided. Good practice started at the beginning and they should be careful when undertaking such an endeavour. Morocco reiterated the Government's commitment to continue to communicate with the Council throughout the process of addressing the recommendations of the report. The reforms would be conducted with conviction and determination, and the Government had a constant, firm and irreversible commitment to such work.

MHAMMED ABDENABAOUI, Director of Prison Affairs of Morocco, said regarding queries with respect to counter-terrorism measures, the Government of Morocco had always acted in line and in harmony with human rights law. There had been arrests that had been taken with respect to the views of the law and only under the law. With regard to comments on torture and abductions, it was not clear what the speaker had been referring to exactly, but he would be ready to meet with him and to clarify those concerns. Whatever had happened in the past should stay in the past. Morocco was moving forward to promote and protect human rights.

Domestically, as was represented in the report, civil society had been a partner in drafting the report and would continue to be a partner and the Government would work to consolidate this work. The Government believed this issue should be dealt with in cooperation with civil society, and all of society. In conclusion, he said Morocco had contributed to the success of the Universal Periodic Review.

Consideration of Outcome of Universal Periodic Review for Report of Finland

TEIJA TILKAINEN, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs of Finland, said it was still too premature to draw any conclusions about the Universal Periodic Review process. It was important that a constructive and true dialogue occur between Member States and civil society in order for there to be a successful Universal Periodic Review. The State had to take the recommendations seriously. The Review should be seen as a continuous process. Finland valued the Universal Periodic Review mechanism and wanted the Review to be an active mechanism. The Universal Periodic Review had given Finland an opportunity to assess its national human rights situation in a self-critical manner. It had consented to comprehensively follow up the recommendations made. The recommendations would form an integral part of the Government’s comprehensive human rights policy report.

Despite persistent work to integrate immigrants into Finnish society, there were still certain problems of racism and intolerance in Finland. The Review Outcome had recommended that Finland strengthen efforts to restrict racism and xenophobia on the Internet. The Minister of Justice was working on new regulations that would oblige service providers to remove offensive material. Regarding a recommendation to take effective measures to prevent violence against women and to compile information on domestic violence, only through a holistic approach could violence against women and domestic violence be contained and eliminated. Finland continued to increase its activities in this area. A comprehensive study on violence against children would be published in the autumn. The rights of immigrants were already covered by national legislation. The basic rights under the Constitution were applied to all residing in Finland. At the moment, there were no consultations envisaged to revise the national policy regarding ratification of the International Convention on Migrant Workers. Regarding the recommendation to consider ratifying ILO Convention No. 169 on indigenous peoples, the Government was pursuing enhancement of the rights of the Sami people. The objective of the present Government was to solve the land use issue of the Sami people. As for refugees, Finland was committed to the Geneva Convention of 1951. There were also existing domestic laws that protected asylum-seekers. The Constitution and the Aliens Act prohibited deportation of aliens to a country where they could face the death penalty, torture or ill-treatment.

Regarding sexual orientation, all peoples were equal under the Finnish law. Furthermore, discrimination was prohibited in several Acts. Finland was committed to further enhancing the situation of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people in Finland. The Government was preparing an action plan for gender equality, which included the mainstreaming of key objectives such as gender perspective, to raise awareness of gender equality in schools and to reduce violence against women. The final action plan would be adopted soon.

RACHEL BRETT, of Friends World Committee for Consultation (Quakers), in a joint statement with Amnesty International, welcomed the serious and open way in which Finland had approached its participation in the Universal Periodic Review. However, the issue of the excessive length of the alternative civilian service in comparison to the military service had not been properly addressed. It was hoped that this issue would be treated as though a specific recommendation had been made.

JALI RAITA, of the International Federation of Human Rights Leagues, said that the report gave a false view about the situation in Finland. The report in the Finnish language consisted of 109 clauses, but in English there were 155. It was wondered which of the two was being discussed today. Also, the report had not been done in a democratic way. There was no democracy in Finland: a member of the Parliament could be a minister and the Government had started with a diminished number of members. That was against the Constitution.

TEIJA TILKAINEN, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs of Finland, in concluding comments, said that the information provided was very useful and the dialogue had been an interactive one. Finland was trying to strengthen its national human rights mechanisms. The Governmental report in Finland, which was regularly given to Parliament, had been drafted with the cooperation of civil society. The Government was searching to find the right instruments to address the weaknesses they had.

International monitoring mechanisms and, now, the Universal Periodic Review, were key to helping in the development of human rights policies in Finland. Finland was grateful for the helpful comments throughout the process. All the comments received would inevitably help to improve the human rights situation in Finland, which was one of the first few countries to go through the process. Finland supported the Universal Periodic Review process as an important mechanism for the promotion and protection of human rights.

Consideration of Outcome of Universal Periodic Review for Report of Indonesia

I. GUSTI AGUNG WESAKA PUJA, Permanent Representative of Indonesia to the United Nations Office at Geneva, said Indonesia was a large country geographically with a diverse population. It was difficult to promote human rights given the limitations on human resources capacity. Despite that, the National Action Plan and 436 implementing committees had significantly contributed to nurturing a human rights culture. With regard to the recommendations made by the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review that enjoyed their support, the Government viewed them as being in line with its priority programmes for the promotion and protection of human rights in Indonesia. They were being implemented through various government programmes.

Indonesia was implementing a National Action Plan and was stepping up efforts to engage all relevant stakeholders. It would assess readiness of stakeholders’ ability to implement various instruments. It was working through a committee process to ensure conformity of local regulations with a ratified core of international human rights treaties. On the question of Ahmadiyah (a religious group), it was stressed that freedom of religion in Indonesia and the practices linked to individual belief were guaranteed under the Constitution. Ahmadiyah had created tension in some communities. Acts of violence against believers had happened. Authorities did step in to protect believers when those believers were at risk. Following attacks perpetrators were detained, questioned and brought before the law. Indonesia did not outlaw the belief, but called on followers to halt their proselytization activities and to fully respect the existing laws and regulations. The issuance of such a decree was not intended to be an intervention of the State in people’s freedom of religion. It was an effort by the Government to uphold public law and order. With regard to the death penalty, capital punishment was retained by decisions democratically taken through a parliamentary process. The Constitutional Court had decided that the application of the death penalty remained fully compatible with the Constitution.

Indonesia attached great importance to cooperating with the international human rights mechanisms. It had received 11 different Special Procedures mandate holders. The cooperation of countries with the Special Procedures should not be based on extending invitations, but on the assessment of the added value derived from such a visit to meet the needs and priorities of the country concerned. There was a need to provide additional human rights training for the police. Indonesia was thankfull for the generous assistance offered by the international community in that regard. Indonesian police had stepped up efforts to undertake preventative measures in protecting against the trafficking of people. Various measures were also under way to ensure effective implementation of the law on political parties in order to enhance the participation of women in politics. There was a continuing reform process of the judiciary, including enhancing the capacity of its human resources. The National Human Rights Commission played an important role in addressing violations on human rights. Furthermore, the Government was working with the Constitutional Commission and non-governmental organizations on a judicial review of law 27 on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. There was also ongoing work to strengthen the judicial process in addressing human rights violations. In addition, Indonesia was developing a code of ill-treatment that would cover the crime of torture as defined in the Convention on Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman and Degrading Treatment or Punishment.

IDRISS JAZAIRY (Algeria) commended Indonesia for its cooperation and commitment to promote and protect human rights and to address the complex challenges it faced in that respect. Indonesia’s willingness to accept the Universal Periodic Review recommendations contributed to the effectiveness of this new and innovative mechanism of the Human Rights Council. Among the various conclusions and recommendations, Algeria was encouraged by Indonesia's acknowledgement of the need to continue human rights training and education for security and law enforcement officials. Indonesia was also commended for empowering a vibrant civil society and for its willingness to work toward acceding to the Optional Protocol of the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

ANOUAR BEN YOUSSEF (Tunisia) appreciated the way Indonesia was following up on the promotion and protection of human rights. Tunisia congratulated Indonesia for the measures it had taken with the view of implementing the recommendations made by the Working Group of the Universal Periodic Review, especially those relating to information and training for security agents on human rights issues. Tunisia also appreciated the way in which Indonesia portrayed the challenges affecting the promotion and protection of human rights and encourage the country to continue with its efforts.

FAISAL ABDULLA AL-HENZAB (Qatar) appreciated Indonesia’s cooperation in the Universal Periodic Review process, as well as the Government's efforts to protect and promote human rights in Indonesia. It was the collective obligation of the Human Rights Council to help Indonesia to improve its human rights. Qatar encouraged Indonesia to fully implement the recommendations of the outcome document. Indonesia should continue to promote the rights of women and children.

MARGHOOB SALEEM BUTT (Pakistan) said that the reform process in Indonesia had brought many improvements. The challenges had been complex but the effort of the Government to sort them out had been noteworthy. Indonesia should be encouraged in its efforts. In the context of Indonesia, it was important that security and law enforcement officials were getting appropriate training in human rights standards. Pakistan would also continue its bilateral cooperation with Indonesia.

ASADOLLAH ESHRAGH JAHROMI (Iran) welcomed the Government of Indonesia's commitment to further progress in its efforts to promote and protect human rights and to address its complex challenges. Iran further commended the strong commitment and positive approach of Indonesia to the Universal Periodic Review process. As mandated by the General Assembly resolution 60/251, the Universal Periodic Review mechanism should uphold cooperation and genuine dialogue aimed at strengthening the capacity of countries under review to promote and protect all human rights. Iran appreciated the transparency and manner of acknowledging various challenges that Indonesia had confronted. Iran shared the opinion that there was a need to focus on continued human rights training and education, inter alia, for security and law enforcement officials, as well as ongoing efforts to protect women and children.

MUNA RADHI (Bahrain) welcomed the positive steps taken by the Government of Indonesia. Their common responsibility was to create an enabling environment. The Indonesian Government was commended for improving the rights of women and children. Indonesia was applauded for its efforts in improving the situation of all human rights and was encouraged to continue training for all actors in human rights issues.

RESFEL PINO ALVAREZ (Cuba) congratulated Indonesia for its efforts. As had been highlighted through the Universal Periodic Review, it was necessary to take into account the specific situation of a country when reviewing it. Here, they were dealing with a developing country, which had limited resources, thus one had to recognize that the efforts undertaken were even more worthwhile. The priority attached by the Government to address poverty was also highlighted. Indonesia had been able to show substantial progress in all human rights, especially with regard to education and employment. Indonesia should be sincerely applauded for their efforts in promoting human rights.

ABIR AL ASSAD (Syria) said Indonesia had taken important steps in promoting and strengthening all human rights – civil, political, economic, cultural and social – while preserving the specificities of its cultural diversity and religious tolerance. Those steps were highly commended and should not go unnoticed by the international community. It was evident that Indonesia was committed to promoting human rights worldwide in their positive and active participation in the Human Rights Council, which was also constructive and objective. Those efforts deserved all praise and encouragement from the Council.

AZAD CAFAROV (Azerbaijan) welcomed the fact that Indonesia attached great importance to the Universal Periodic Review process. Azerbaijan appreciated the commitment Indonesia had shown to making further progress in order to promote and protect human rights. It noted the consultations taken with civil society. It was encouraging that Indonesia continued dissemination of Universal Periodic Review information after the process had ended. It was important for the definition of torture to be included in the new code of ill-treatment. Azerbaijan commended the Government of Indonesia for having transparently acknowledged the challenges and constructively engaged in the Universal Periodic Review.


For use of the information media; not an official record

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