Human Rights Council
Thirty-second session
Agenda Item 6
Universal p eriodic r eview
Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review *
Palau
Contents
Page
Introduction3
I.Summary of the proceedings of the review process3
A.Presentation by the State under review3
B.Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review6
II.Conclusions and/or recommendations15
Annex
Composition of the delegation24
Introduction
1.The Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review, established in accordance with Human Rights Council resolution 5/1, held its twenty-fourth session from 18 to 29 January 2016. The review of Palau was held at the 8th meeting on 21 January 2016. The delegation of Palau was headed by the Minister of Community and Cultural Affairs, J. Baklai Temengil. At its 14th meeting, held on 26 January 2016, the Working Group adopted the report on Palau.
2.On 12 January 2016, the Human Rights Council selected the following group of rapporteurs (troika) to facilitate the review of Palau: Congo, France and United Arab Emirates.
3.In accordance with paragraph 15 of the annex to Human Rights Council resolution 5/1 and paragraph 5 of the annex to Council resolution 16/21, the following documents were issued for the review of Palau:
(a)A national report submitted/written presentation made in accordance with paragraph 15 (a) (A/HRC/WG.6/24/PLW/1);
(b)A compilation prepared by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in accordance with paragraph 15 (b) (A/HRC/WG.6/24/PLW/2);
(c)A summary prepared by OHCHR in accordance with paragraph 15 (c) (A/HRC/WG.6/24/PLW/3).
4.A list of questions prepared in advance by Belgium, Germany, Liechtenstein, Mexico, Spain and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland was transmitted to Palau through the troika. These questions are available on the extranet of the universal periodic review.
I.Summary of the proceedings of the review process
A.Presentation by the State under review
5.The delegation of Palau welcomed the opportunity to respond to the recommendations made during the first cycle of the review process and to receive recommendations from the second cycle of the review. It valued the universal periodic review process as it had supported awareness-raising and mainstreaming human rights into their policies and programmes over the last four years.
6.As a young nation that gained Independence in 1994 and with a population of less than 20,000 people, Palau crafted its own Constitution, which reflects the values and beliefs of the people and guarantees human rights for all. In Palau culture, the strongest and most powerful relationship is between a brother and a sister. This is exemplified in extended family interactions and customary practices; this relationship historically formed the basis of Palau’s social organization, governance and system of justice.
7.Regarding achievements since the last review, the delegation stated that four and a half years ago (May 2011), the delegation of Palau had accepted 83 recommendations in total and had a time frame within which to implement them. The national report for the present review captures the implementation journey over that period. While recognizing from the outset the many challenges and difficulties to implement many of those key recommendations, Palau was also confronted with the reality that it would not be possible to fully implement some of the recommendations within the given time frame.
8.The Government strengthened its efforts to implement the recommendations and deal with emerging issues, such as the effects of climate change and natural disasters on human rights. The delegation reiterated that some issues were complex and required extensive resources and nationwide consultations, such as the ratification of core treaties, human trafficking, migrants, displacement and loss of land, property and homes due to climate change. As a small island developing State, Palau has limited resources to address these multidimensional issues. It urged the members of the Human Rights Council to take these circumstances into account when proposing further recommendations.
9.Despite the challenges, the Government had worked hard and was proud to report on a number of significant achievements, including the creation of the Reporting Committee on United Nations Human Rights Treaties, new legislation to address gender-based violence, the revision and approval of the new Penal Code, the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the establishment of a gender and disability office within the Ministry of Community and Cultural Affairs, the hiring of a Human Rights Officer under the Ministry of Community and Cultural Affairs, the development of policies for persons with disabilities, the completion and submission of the overdue periodic report on the Convention on the Rights of the Child and giant steps in signing the remaining core treaties to which Palau was not a party.
10.On advice from the members of the 9th Olbiil Era Kelulau (Palau National Congress), Palau will work towards establishing a national human rights mechanism to handle matters related to human rights.
11.On gender equality and women’s rights, the delegation asserted that, while Palau had yet to ratify the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, many positive steps had been taken. A Bureau of Aging and Gender had been established within the Ministry of Community and Cultural Affairs and further to recommendations from the first review, Palau enacted the Family Protection Act in 2012 to address domestic violence. Palau was also taking steps to implement this new legislation and welcomed the support of international partners in this endeavour.
12.In line with the Pacific Leaders Gender Equality Declaration of 2012, Palau was exploring ways to improve services for victims of gender-based violence, such as safe houses, counselling, immediate health responses and protection orders for victims and children. In line with the Family Protection Act, the Family Protection Committee was established and has been active in promoting awareness of the new law, affording people comfort and safety in reporting sexual assault and domestic violence.
13.Support for women in leadership positions has increased with a number of advocacy programmes and the establishment of the Centre for Women-Empowered Belau.
14.Responding to the recommendations from its first review, the delegation reported that marital rape was now criminalized under the Family Protection Act. The President of Palau, Tommy Remengesau Jr., and the current (9th) Olbiil Era Kelulau, Palau’s National Congress, showed tremendous support in ensuring the safety and protection of the people of Palau, especially children, through the revision and approval of the new Penal Code, 2014. The new Penal Code includes regulations on the use of force against children and other persons under the care or control of another. The new Penal Code also covers labour trafficking, anti-smuggling and anti-trafficking crimes and offences, as well as child exploitation.
15.Palau began the process of domesticating the Convention on the Rights of the Child through various legislative initiatives, including the adoption of the new Penal Code, which addresses sexual assault of children and provides for the registration of sex offenders. Higher penalties were introduced to deter human trafficking and sexual exploitation of children. The Family Protection Act, 2012 provides protection for children in violent domestic settings. Pursuant to a recommendation from the first review, the delegation announced that there was pending legislation before Congress to equalize the legal minimum age for marriage to 18 years.
16.Palau’s Constitution provides for free and compulsory education for all children living in Palau (art. VI). It further highlights the promotion of the health and social welfare of citizens through free or subsidized health care. The Government has declared 2016 the Year of the Youth, during which, attention will be fully focused on youth development and programmes.
17.At the time of its first review, Palau was a party to only the Convention on the Rights of the Child. It has since implemented recommendations 62.1 to 62.5 of the first review (see A/HRC/18/5) by signing the core human rights treaties, namely, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families and the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance in the margins of the 66th session of the General Assembly in 2011. Palau was pleased to announce that it had ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in 2013 and is currently in the process of formulating a policy on disability. In addition, the President had issued a Presidential Proclamation declaring 3 December 2015 the International Day of Persons with Disabilities and had called on the people of Palau to observe the day with appropriate programmes, ceremonies and activities.
18.The delegation stated that Palau supported the fundamental principles of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court. The Constitution of Palau provides for the prohibition of torture, cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, as well as excessive fines. While noting the importance of acceding to the Rome Statute, Palau still needs to consider the technical and resource implications of such accession. However, Palau has sufficient legislative safeguards to address grave human rights violations.
19.The Government recognized the value of each of the core human rights treaties, however, it needed a broader ratification timeline to allow for more rigorous oversight into the realities of ratification and implementation of the core treaties against the backdrop of immediate challenges. Nonetheless, Palau was taking considerable steps, including visiting each treaty with an open mind towards ratification.
20.Palau noted the importance of ratifying the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families. Despite the challenges, much progress has been made with regard to migrant workers, such as the increase in minimum wage and its universal application.
21.The Reporting Committee on United Nations Human Rights Treaties was created on 29 May 2014 by Presidential Executive Order No. 368. That was Palau’s first attempt towards national coordination of its human rights reporting obligations. The Committee is comprised of Cabinet ministers supported by a working group from government agencies and relevant stakeholders.
22.Palau announced that the Reporting Committee, with the support of the working group, had just submitted its combined second and third report on the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
23.The delegation stated that Palau, a peaceful and stable island nation, faced many challenges, prominent among which was climate change, which affected people’s livelihood, access to food, water and property. International cooperation and support is critical to addressing and ensuring the basic human rights of the people. Palau was also seeking the support of the international community for tackling other human rights priorities, including human trafficking, migrant workers, gender-based violence and vulnerable groups. The Government’s intention to establish a national human rights institution required specialized resources and Palau would be seeking the assistance from its partners to realize this.
24.Palau has its own wealth of experience and ideas, particularly in the area of preserving the oceans and the marine environment. The President of Palau had successfully secured a protection measure for the oceans through the Marine Sanctuary Act, which is intended to ensure food security for future generations of children. Palau called on the international community to commit to promoting these environments in the Sustainable Development Goals. Like other small island developing States, it depends on those resources and their protection is inextricably linked to its ability to protect and promote human rights. Palau emphasized the importance of development financing aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, including Goal 5 on gender equality and the goals relating to marginalized groups and human rights. The Human Rights Council has a real opportunity to strengthen its monitoring of the human rights captured in the Sustainable Development Goals through the universal periodic review process. This is the proposal that Palau submits to the Council at this review for further consideration.
25.The delegation stated that Palau continued to face many challenges and limitations in its efforts to fulfil its human rights obligations at the national, regional and international levels. Due to limited capacity, human resources and expertise, Palau continues to seek external technical and funding assistance. As it is committed to fulfilling its human rights obligations, Palau also sought assistance from the members of the Human Rights Council.
26.Palau called on the Council to assume decisive leadership with regard to the issue of climate change and human rights.
27.Palau supported the universal periodic review process as it provided the opportunity to engage constructively on issues that affected its people. Palau placed a lot of value in this process as demonstrated in its national report. The delegation underscored that Palau had taken great strides to better protect, promote and fulfil its human rights obligations. It assured the Council that Palau would continue to work towards the realization of the human rights of its people.
B.Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review
28.During the interactive dialogue, 46 delegations made statements. Recommendations made during the dialogue are to be found in section II of the present report.
29.Montenegro recognized Palau’s efforts to improve its institutional and legislative human rights framework. However, it was concerned about the insufficient capacities for the promotion and protection of human rights. Montenegro welcomed the fact that Palau had signed all the core human rights instruments since the first cycle of the review. However, it is only party to two treaties. Montenegro encouraged Palau to seek technical assistance from OHCHR to strengthen its capacities, implement the core human rights instruments and ratify the conventions to which it was a signatory.
30.Morocco noted with satisfaction the legislative and institutional reforms undertaken by Palau, as well as the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Convention on the Rights of the Child. It appreciated the attention paid to protect children, women and the family, and the measures taken with regard to domestic violence and violence against children. Morocco also welcomed the progress made to implement Millennium Development Goal 3 on the promotion of gender equality and empowerment of women, as well as its national gender policy.
31.Namibia noted that Palau had signed the core human rights instruments, such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, and asked about the efforts undertaken to ratify those instruments. It commended Palau on the enactment of the Family Protection Act and the revision of the Penal Code to protect children. Namibia encouraged Palau to work in coordination with the international community to enforce international law related to water protection and security, including the impacts of global sea level rise.
32.The Netherlands commended Palau for decriminalizing homosexuality through a revision of the Penal Code in 2014. It noted that work remained to be done to bring Palau’s national legislation into conformity with its international human rights obligations.
33.New Zealand highlighted the encouraging developments, such as Palau’s accession to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in 2013, however, there were still some areas for further progress. It noted that Palau had signed the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights but has yet to ratify them. New Zealand noted that Palau had legislation prohibiting and punishing violent behaviour, but had no legislation that specifically addressed domestic violence.
34.Pakistan noted with appreciation Palau’s efforts to implement the recommendations of the first cycle of the universal periodic review. It commended the establishment of the Ombudsman’s Office, the measures taken to strengthen the legal and justice systems, the human rights awareness programmes on gender equality, education, health and disabilities. Pakistan appreciated the ongoing development of national legislation and Palau’s accession to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. It also appreciated the fact that the Government encouraged the participation of girls and women in all social and economic spheres of Palau, and their increased participation in leadership roles.
35.Panama welcomed Palau’s reiteration of its invitation to Special Representatives and Special Rapporteurs, which could further compliance with the human rights commitments entered into with regard to children, persons with disabilities, violence against women, climate change, trafficking in persons and migrant workers. With regard to the Family Protection Act, Panama was concerned that the protection measures taken by Palau against domestic violence and abuse of children had not yet been clearly established.
36.The Philippines welcomed the signature of eight core international human rights treaties during the period under review and encouraged Palau to remain steadfast in pursuing the work towards their ratification. While appreciating Palau’s openness to receive migrant workers, Philippines was concerned about their reported increased vulnerability to involuntary servitude and debt bondage as a result of strict labour regulations. It requested the delegation to inform it of the measures taken to protect and promote the rights of migrant workers.
37.Portugal welcomed the signature of seven core human rights instruments since the last cycle of the review and congratulated Palau for the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Portugal regretted that the provisions of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, which Palau had ratified in 1995, have not yet been incorporated into the National Code.
38.The Russian Federation noted the progress made by Palau since its first review. However, it also noted with regret that exhaustive legislative measures had not been adopted to ensure the protection of children’s rights.
39.Slovenia commended the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and noted that Palau had signed the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. It encouraged Palau to proceed to become a party to these instruments.
40.Spain especially valued Palau’s commitment to implement its policy on climate change respecting human rights, including key aspects for a dignified life, such as the human right to safe drinking water. Spain appreciated the efforts to provide assistance to migrant workers. Spain recognized the progress made regarding gender equality in the framework of the Millennium Development Goals. It congratulated Palau for decriminalizing consensual homosexual activity.
41.Trinidad and Tobago commended Palau for the progress made since the last review with the signature of various international human rights conventions and the measures taken to address domestic violence and to safeguard children. It highlighted Palau’s determination to overcome its challenges despite the vulnerabilities faced by small island developing States. It stated that a similar commitment will serve to bear more fruit in the human rights sphere in the coming years and noted the invitation extended in its national report to the special procedures in areas of, inter alia, children, violence against women and climate change.
42.The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland welcomed Palau’s acknowledgment of the growing problem of human trafficking, including forced prostitution and labour, and its efforts to tackle the issue. It called on Palau to focus in particular on safeguarding Palauan children from being forced into prostitution. The United Kingdom expressed concern at the continued reports of abuses committed against foreign nationals working and residing in the country and called on Palau to review its policies on foreign nationals.
43.The United States of America commended Palau for the steps taken to deter acts of domestic violence and to protect survivors, including by passing the Family Protection Act in 2012. It encouraged Palau to establish shelters to help domestic violence survivors to move forward with their lives. The United States also urged Palau to enforce the 2005 anti-trafficking law by prosecuting those responsible for the crime of trafficking, rather than for lesser labour-related violations or prostitution-related offences.
44.The delegation welcomed all the recommendations and noted all the concerns raised by the speakers. About the ratification of the core human rights treaties, the delegation indicated that the country was signatory to the treaties and that the Government was working towards ensuring its obligations and considering the core treaties individually so as to undertake a legislative review and compliance.
45.With the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the country had the opportunity to reach out to its partners internationally, but in particular those at the regional level, through the programmes of the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat and Secretariat of the Pacific Community. The delegation was also pleased with the national disability policy which was now in its final draft and would be presented to the Cabinet and Congress during 2016.
46.Regarding the recommendation by New Zealand to combat domestic violence, Palau indicated it had implemented a Family Protection Act in 2012. It also explained that training had been provided by the Pacific Islands programme on preventing domestic violence, with the support of New Zealand, and added that the Police Force was leading a campaign to tackle violence against women.
47.The delegation indicated that the Family Protection Act was a very strong piece of legislation, which has helped many women and families so far, and stated that reconciliation under the customary process was not a bar to prosecution, therefore, even if there may be reconciliation between family members, domestic violence was considered a crime and prosecution would continue.
48.The delegation stated that the most important protection provided for under the Family Protection Act was that any person who was threatened or harmed could obtain a protective order from the court 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
49.The delegation asserted that it needed shelters and safe houses. It explained that this was its biggest challenge and it requested support and technical and financial assistance to build shelters and safe houses not only for victims of family violence but also for children who were living under difficult conditions in homes where there was violence.
50.Palau noted that the Penal Code protected children against child exploitation, which was criminalized. It pointed out that there was existing legislation that criminalized endangering a minor or his or her welfare, even when it was a parent who allowed a third person to endanger or hurt his or her child.
51.In response to questions on the situation of migrant workers formulated by the Philippines and the United States of America, the delegation of Palau stated that they were working on it and that legislation was pending before the National Congress to ensure safe working conditions and fair salaries. The Minimum Wage Act contains a provision that enables workers who are not being paid the minimum wage or who work under unsafe conditions to file a case against their employer with the Attorney General’s Office.
52.Uruguay welcomed Palau’s membership in the International Labour Organization and its ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. While welcoming the fact that Palau had signed a large number of international human rights instruments, Uruguay noted with concern that none of them had yet been ratified. It also welcomed the progress made in ensuring gender equality, but noted that Palau did not have a law explicitly prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
53.The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela noted that Palau had signed various international human rights instruments and ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, thus strengthening its domestic legislation in this area. It welcomed the steps taken to establish a national human rights institution and the adoption of a gender policy to be mainstreamed in government programmes. It also noted the measures taken to combat discrimination against women. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela highlighted the establishment of the National Health Insurance, in 2011, that covers everybody, including those who have not made contributions to the system and those who are no longer employed.
54.Algeria welcomed the efforts to promote the human rights of children and of persons with disabilities, as well as to combat violence against women, trafficking in persons and climate change. It noted with satisfaction the signature of the core human rights instruments. It welcomed the results in the area of education, following the adoption of the Education Master Plan, 20062016.
55.Argentina welcomed the efforts made since the last review and congratulated Palau on the decriminalization of consensual same-sex relations in the Penal Code. It considered that Palau still needed to overcome some challenges and noted that particular attention should be given to vulnerable groups, particularly persons with disabilities.
56.Armenia recognized the challenges that Palau faced as a small island State and appreciated the steps taken to promote human rights in the country since its first review review. It welcomed Palau’s awareness-raising programmes on certain areas of human rights and hoped that they would be further expanded. Armenia welcomed the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and encouraged the timely ratification of those international human rights instruments that Palau has already signed.
57.Australia congratulated Palau on strengthening its laws to protect family members against violence with the passing of the Family Protection Act in 2012, which criminalizes domestic violence. It also commended the steps taken to decriminalize homosexuality with the introduction in 2014 of legislation to remove offences relating to consensual same-sex relations. Australia welcomed Palau’s signing of several international human rights treaties and commended its ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. It was also pleased to be working with Palau in the Pacific Women Shaping Pacific Development programme.
58.Belgium encouraged Palau’s commitment regarding the 2015 declaration of the Pacific States on human rights and the rule of law. While welcoming the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, Belgium encouraged the ratification of all the core human rights instruments and stressed the need to submit reports to treaty bodies in due time. Belgium noted that Palau did not have a national body to coordinate policies to protect children. It welcomed the measures taken to combat domestic violence and violence against children, while noting that further measures should be taken.
59.Brazil praised the efforts carried out since the first cycle of the universal periodic review to improve the situation of human rights in Palau. It noted with appreciation the amendments to the Penal Code in 2014, which decriminalizes sexual relations between consenting adults of the same sex, a positive step towards the realization of the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons in the country. It also congratulated Palau for ratifying the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in 2012, followed by consultations, in partnership with the Pacific Disability Forum and the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, aimed at drafting a national disability policy.
60.Canada acknowledged the steps taken to develop a national gender policy and encouraged Palau to use the process to promote national dialogue and awareness-raising on the issue of gender equality in decision-making at the highest levels of Government and Congress. It encouraged Palau to develop policies to promote women’s participation in national decision-making structures and processes. Canada commended Palau for enacting the Family Protection Act and encouraged it to raise awareness through public education to ensure greater understanding of its provisions.
61.China urged the international community to follow the fundamental principles established in Human Rights Council resolution 5/1 and to carry out constructive dialogue and cooperation. It stated that it was most regretful that, in its national report, Palau had treated the Taiwan Province of China as a country partner and had refused to correct the mistake although China had repeatedly drawn its attention to the issue. Palau’s behaviour constituted a violation of General Assembly resolution 2758 and departed from the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations. It considered it a serious violation of China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and against the principle of non-politicization of the universal periodic review process. China was resolutely against this practice and reserved the right to take further measures in this regard.
62.On the statement made by China, the Vice-President of the Human Rights Council reiterated that in the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review, as a subsidiary body of the Human Rights Council and the General Assembly, United Nations terminology applied.
63.The Congo noted as positive Palau’s cooperation with the human rights mechanisms and the adoption of laws to implement the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. It appreciated the efforts taken to ratify the human rights instruments and to award equal education grants for girls and boys at the superior educational level, which contributed to increasing the number of women in high-level posts in the public and private sectors. It regretted, however, that a national human rights institution had not been yet established and that there was insufficient human rights training for the police and the judiciary.
64.Costa Rica noted that Palau had signed the core human rights instruments and it urged Palau to ratify those instruments. It welcomed the Family Protection Act to prevent domestic violence and acknowledged Palau’s efforts to create an independent national human rights institution and to conduct training and awareness-raising in the areas of domestic violence, migrant workers’ rights and climate change. It considered it pertinent that Palau should strengthen and promote education and training on human rights, particularly for the police and law enforcement personnel.
65.Cuba highlighted the signature of eight human rights instruments, which demonstrated Palau’s commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights. It noted the laws adopted to combat domestic violence, sexual exploitation, trafficking in persons and on the establishment of a registry on sex offenders, the minimum wage and the criminalization of marital rape. Cuba noted the challenges in implementing human rights in Palau given its limited resources and it called on the international community to support Palau’s efforts to improve the living conditions of its population.
66.Cyprus commended the measures taken by the Government to fulfil its international human rights obligations and welcomed the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in 2013.
67.Denmark was pleased to note that, following its first universal periodic review, Palau signed the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment of Punishment, in 2011. It highlighted that, as the implementation of the Convention against Torture Initiative required government-to-government exchange and cooperation, it stood ready to explore new ways of assisting the Government of Palau to advance in this regard if deemed helpful.
68.The delegation was humbled by the support given by the members of the Human Rights Council and the comments regarding the Family Protection Act. The Ministry of Community and Cultural Affairs, together with the Bureau of Aging and Gender, the judiciary, the Ministry of Health, the police department and the Attorney General, had signed a memorandum of understanding on raising awareness about domestic violence and working with schools, parent networks and traditional and non-traditional organizations on this issue.
69.As a small island State, Palau faced many challenges like domestic violence but it has made advances in the protection of women, children and in particular, the family. The Family Protection Act is aimed at providing protection for the whole family. The delegation recognized that the importance of the support provided by Australia, as a country in the Pacific region, particularly with regard to a gender policy. The delegation stated that the gender policy was in its final stages and thanked the various regional offices and the Secretariat of the Pacific Community for their support.
70.The delegation welcomed the support from Denmark and Cuba’s recognition of its needs and stated that the Government would continue to seek assistance for the process to ratify the core treaties. The Government was working with regard to the national human rights institution and appreciated all the comments and support. The delegation stated that the Committee that prepared this review included the President, members of the Cabinet and Parliament and that civil society and disability groups had also contributed to the national report.
71.The Constitution of Palau guarantees equal protection for women and men and no discrimination based on sex, race, place of origin, language, religion or belief, a fundamental right under the Constitution
72.The delegation stated that corporal punishment was strictly prohibited and the laws criminalized this act. There had been lawsuits against teachers for using corporal punishment against children.
73.The delegation indicated that Palau continued to work with relevant government agencies and different organizations on the issue of migrant workers. It affirmed that it was a challenging issue, as out of the 20,000 people in Palau, about 6,000 were foreign workers and there were seven labour officers to oversee the foreign workers. Despite the challenges, Palau continued to improve its work through regulations and legislation, such as the recently adopted Minimum Wage Act, which is applicable universally.
74.About women in politics, the delegation asserted that, of the 29 members of the Palau National Congress, three were women. During the last term, there were also three women members, so the number has been maintained. Palau hopes to increase the number of women in the National Congress in the upcoming general elections in November 2016. The delegation stated that, with the assistance of the Ministry of the Community and Cultural Affairs, the Government had conducted programmes to encourage more women to stand for election.
75.Djibouti welcomed the delegation of Palau and congratulated it for presenting the national report. It also welcomed the efforts made towards promoting and protecting human rights.
76.Egypt noted with satisfaction the measures taken to promote human rights in Palau as well as those taken by the relevant ministries in the areas of education, improving gender equality, promoting the rights of persons with disabilities and countering trafficking in human beings. It noted the adoption of laws to protect human rights, in particular the Family Protection Act and encouraged Palau to continue its efforts to counter trafficking in persons. Egypt invited Palau to ratify the Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children, supplementing the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime.
77.Estonia noted that Palau had ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Convention on the Rights of the Child and encouraged it to incorporate the provisions of both treaties into its domestic legislation. It also commended Palau for initiating the development of a national gender policy, but expressed its concern about the definition of rape, which was limited to sexual intercourse and spousal rape was still exempt from prosecution. Estonia encouraged Palau to establish protection services for survivors of domestic violence and child abuse.
78.Fiji noted the efforts made by Palau to keep abreast of its human rights obligations. It also noted that Palau had adopted the Family Protection Act, in 2012, which was designed to protect and empower the victims of domestic violence. Fiji congratulated Palau for ratifying the United Nations Convention Against Corruption and for its constructive participation in the peer review process under the Convention, in April 2015.
79.France noted the human rights commitments made by Palau since its first universal periodic review in 2011, in particular the signature of numerous international instruments. France invited Palau to continue its commitment.
80.Georgia highlighted Palau’s commitment to fully implement its human rights obligations and recognized the efforts made by the Government in signing and ratifying human rights instruments and undertaking legislative reform. It noted with appreciation that Palau had ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and had signed several international human rights conventions. It welcomed the steps taken by the Government to improve the health-care system and the establishment of National Health Insurance.
81.Germany thanked the delegation for the national report it submitted to the Working Group.
82.Ghana lauded Palau’s continuous engagement with the universal periodic review mechanism since its first cycle. It noted with appreciation the signing of some core international human rights treaties in 2011, which reflected Palau’s commitment to the promotion and protection of the human rights of its people.
83.Indonesia commended the efforts made to strengthen the promotion and protection of human rights through the establishment of the Ombudsman’s Office as well as the signing of the core human rights treaties in 2011 and the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Indonesia also recognized the efforts taken by the Ministry of State and the Ministry of Community and Cultural Affairs to establish a national human rights institution.
84.Iraq welcomed the delegation of Palau and their role in the preparation of the national report. Iraq expressed its appreciation and congratulated Palau for complying with international human rights instruments.
85.Israel recognized that Palau’s report was the result of extensive consultations, including with the recently created Reporting Committee on United Nations Human Rights Conventions and the working group formed to support the Reporting Committee. It congratulated Palau for the progress achieved since its first review and the significant efforts made by the Government to implement many of the recommendations accepted during the first review. It highlighted a number of measures taken, including the establishment of the Office of the Ombudsman, the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the enactment of the Family Protection Act and the reform of the Penal Code.
86.Italy noted the steps taken to promote gender equality and further the protection of women rights, in particular the measures aimed at combating domestic violence and protecting women and children from sexual abuse. It commended the Government for supporting community-awareness programmes that are crucial to avoiding discrimination and fostering integration.
87.Japan commended Palau for conducting human rights-awareness programmes in areas such as gender equality. It welcomed the signature of the core human rights treaties in 2011 and the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in 2013. Japan also expressed concern at the reports of prisoners being held under appalling conditions due to the deterioration of prisons and lack of space therein.
88.Malaysia noted the efforts made by the Government to conducting awareness-raising programmes on HIV/AIDS prevention, improving the rights of persons with disabilities, combating violence against women and environmental protection. It also noted the measures taken by the Government to protect children, in particular the enactment of the Family Protection Act and the revision of the Penal Code.
89.Maldives commended the progress made by Palau, including the enactment of the Family Protection Act, the Non-Communicable Disease Strategic Plan, the revision of the Penal Code and the efforts made to combat human trafficking and foster gender equality. Maldives welcomed the adoption of policies on climate change and sustainable economic development through renewable energy applications and encouraged the Government to reach out to its partners and seek support for the implementation of the recommendations made during the present review. Maldives thanked Palau for its efforts to raise the voice of small island developing States.
90.Mexico welcomed the ratification of Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the development of the national disability policy and the adoption of the Family Protection Act. It urged Palau to adopt a specific law to protect the rights of children. Mexico acknowledged the increase in the participation of women in high-level government posts and urged Palau to continue promoting the involvement of women in public life. It noted with satisfaction the amendments to the Penal Code to decriminalize consensual sexual relations between same-sex adults. Mexico also welcomed the National Disaster Risk Management Framework.
91.The delegation thanked Estonia and Fiji for their comments regarding spousal rape and stated that marital rape was now a crime in Palau and sexual abuse in the first degree was a felony. It stated that the definition of sexual penetration had been expanded and there was “no-drop policy” in place so that although there might be reconciliation under customary practice, cases were still moved forward and perpetrators were prosecuted.
92.The delegation indicated that there were anti-smuggling and anti-trafficking penal laws in Palau and that they were enforced.
93.The delegation stated that the Open Government Act was adopted in 2014 with a view to making government actions transparent and accountable, allowing people to see government records and to sit in government proceedings and allowing people to participate in government hearings and meetings.
94.Palau thanked Japan for its concerns and stated that the conditions in jails had considerably improved for inmates.
95.The delegation stated that Palau has considered the value of ratifying the core human rights treaties, however, it needed more time and it continued to seek international assistance in this matter.
96.About Ghana’s recommendation, the delegation stated that education in Palau was inclusive for all children. Regarding health insurance, it indicated that legislation existed for those who had not been in the programme but were now in the health-care system. The delegation thanked Maldives for their support in recommending that Palau develop a disability policy for the period 2015 to 2020 and welcomed its recommendation.
97.The delegation stated that it continued to learn from best practices and strived to shape and develop its policies, while also trying to keep abreast with international standards. It was no surprise that a small country with limited resources faced challenges in ensuring that human rights were afforded to every single person, however, it was also making some mighty strides and was proud to have shared an open and honest report with the international community.
98.With the financial and technical support from our international partners, Palau would continue to analyse its laws through legislative compliance reviews and make further amendments to its legislation in order to ensure human rights are enjoyed by every person in the country.
99.The delegation stated that the Government would continue to educate the public on human rights and raise awareness in the community so that the “duty bearers” understand their rights and responsibilities towards rights holders.
100.In closing, the delegation congratulated OHCHR for its efforts in overseeing the review process. It considered the review process a catalyst for Palau to look within, assess its situation and open its eyes to the gaps in its system when ensuring the rights of its people. The Government thanked the Secretariat of the Pacific Community and the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat for their guidance and support.
101.The delegation thanked the Government of Israel and the Government of Sweden in particular for their gracious donation to support its participation in the present session. It expressed its appreciation to the Netherlands for providing funding support to the Secretariat of the Pacific Community so that it, in turn, could provide the necessary support to all Pacific countries, including training support in Palau in 2015 for the mock session in preparation for the present review and for the participation of representatives of the Secretariat of the Pacific Community in the present session.
102.Palau welcomed and was seeking any assistance and support available from development partners and donors to pursue its human rights endeavours, not only with regard to fulfilling its international human rights obligations, but also for aligning itself to these principles.
103.The delegation thanked the Permanent Mission of Fiji in Geneva for its assistance with the preparations for this session, for opening its offices to it and for all the guidance provided with regard to chairing its meeting. It also thanked all the member States present for their input and recommendations which will indeed assist Palau in all of its work on the human rights conventions. Lastly, it thanked the Working Group and OHCHR staff, especially OHCHR Asia-Pacific office for its support, assistance and guidance in preparing for this second review.
II.Conclusions and/or recommendations**
104. The following recommendations will be examined by Palau, which will provide responses in due time, but no later than the thirty-second session of the Hu man Rights Council , in June 2016:
104.1 Speed efforts to ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (Namibia) ;
104.2 Ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (New Zealand);
104.3 Ratify the international human rights treaties and their optional protocols, in order to strengthen the implementation and observance of international human rights law, particularly the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (Panama);
104.4 Ratify, as a matter of priority, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (Portugal);
104.5 Consider continuing on to the ratification of the core human rights instruments (Trinidad and Tobago);
104.6 Start the ratification process of the international instruments already signed (Uruguay);
104.7 Ratify the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination a gainst Women, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (Canada);
104.8 Complete its international commitment by ratifying as a priority the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (France);
104.9 Ratify all the instruments that have already been signed, in particular the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (France);
104.10 Continue taking steps towards the ratification of the international human rights conventions to which Palau is a signatory, in particular the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights , the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination , the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights , the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Georgia);
104.11 Ratify those c onventions which Palau has not ratified, as previously recommended (Iraq);
104.12 Continue its efforts to accede to or ratify more h uman r ights treaties and their Optional Protocols (Israel);
104.13 Continue its efforts to ratify the main human rights treaties without delay, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (Japan);
104.14 Ratify the International Convention on the Elimination of A ll F orms of Racial Discrimination (Algeria);
104.15 Consider ratifying the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (Ghana);
104.16 Ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and its Second Optional Protocol, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty (Montenegro);
104.17 Consider ratifying the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Ghana);
104.18 Ratify Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty (Belgium);
104.19 Consider ratifying the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (Ghana);
104.20 Ratify the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (New Zealand);
104.21 Ratify and implement the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and other international human rights treaties and their Optional P rotocols, as previously recommended (Slovenia);
104.22 Ratify the Convention on the Elimination of A ll Forms of Discrimination against Women (Spain);
104.23 Ratify the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women at the earliest opportunity (Australia);
104.24 Ratify the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (Costa Rica);
104.25 Consider ratifying the Convention on the Elimination of A ll Forms of Discrimination a gainst Women (Ghana);
104.26 Consider ratifying the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and to ensure women equal inheritance rights (Italy);
104.27 Intensify its efforts to ratify the Convention against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Denmark);
104.28 Consider ratifying the Convention against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Ghana);
104.29 Incorporate the provisions of the Convention on the Rights of the Child into the domestic legal system (Montenegro);
104.30 Incorporate the provisions of the Convention on the Rights on the Child in the national legal order (Panama);
104.31 Step up efforts to enact legislation to implement the Convention on the Rights of the Child (Philippines);
104.32 Swiftly adopt measures aimed at incorporating the provisions of the Convention on the Rights of the Child into the Palau National Code (Portugal);
104.33 Incorporate the provisions of the Convention on the Rights on the Child , which has been ratified by Palau , into its domestic legislation (Russian Federation);
104.34 Consider acceding to the three Optional Protocols to the Convention on the Rights of the Child (Uruguay);
104.35 Establish a national body to develop and coordinate services to address the rights of children and child protection issues and ensure full implementation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (Canada);
104.36 Incorporate in the national legislation the provisions of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (Djibouti);
104.37 Take the necessary constitutional measures to bring the Convention on the Rights of the Child into force (Egypt);
104.38 Ratify the Optional Protocol s to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the i nvolvement of c hildren in a rmed c onflict and on the s ale of c hildren, c hild p rostitution and c hild p ornography (Germany);
104.39 Ratify the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and M embers of T heir Families (Algeria) ;
104.40 Consider ratifying the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (Ghana);
104.41 Consider ratify ing the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of T heir Families and the Convention a gainst Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Indonesia);
104.42 Ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (Argentina);
104.43 Consider ratifying the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearances (Ghana);
104.44 Continue to implement the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (Pakistan);
104.45 Incorporate the provisions of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities into the domestic legal system (Portugal);
104.46 Ratify the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (Belgium);
104.47 Consider ratifying the fundamental I nternational Labour Organization c onventions (Trinidad and Tobago);
104.48 Consider ratifying fundamental I nternational Labour Organization conventions, and adopt policies to avoid discrimination against foreign workers (Brazil);
104.49 Accede to the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide (Armenia);
104.50 Consider ratifying the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide (Ghana);
104.51 Accede to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, the Agreement on the Privileges and Immunities of the International Criminal Court and the 1968 Convention on the N on- A pplicability of S tatutory L imitations to W ar C rimes and C rimes against H umanity, and implement the m in national law (Netherlands);
104.52 Take all necessary measures towards acceding to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (Cyprus);
104.53 Accede to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court and fully align its national legislation with the Statute and accede to the Agreement on the Privileges and Immunities of the International Criminal Court (Estonia);
104.54 Consider ratifying the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (Ghana);
104.55 Ratify the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees and its 1967 Protocol (Costa Rica);
104.56 Consider ratifying the U nited N ations E ducational, S cientific and C ultural O rganization Convention against Discrimination in Education (Ghana);
104.57 Continue to implement laws for further protection of human rights of the people (Pakistan);
104.58 Redouble efforts through legislative measures and public policies to ensure that its legislation is aligned with international human rights obligations (Panama);
104.59 Implement the recommendations under the U nited N ations C onvention against Corruption peer review process conducted in April 2015 and in particular review its legal framework to criminali z e the bribery of foreign officials and officials of international organi z ations and pass legislation that allows for the forfeiture of unexplained wealth by public officials (Fiji);
104.60 Establish a national human rights institution that fully complies with the Paris Principles (Portugal);
104.61 Continue taking the necessary steps to set up a n ational h uman r ights i nstitution in line with the Paris Principles (Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela );
104.62 Establish an independent national human rights institution to lead, coordinate, develop capacity and assist with human rights implementation (Canada);
104.63 Set up a n ational h uman r ights i nstitution in conformity with the Paris Principles (Congo);
104.64 In line with the recommendations from the first universal periodic review accepted by Palau, establish an independent national human rights institution to lead, coordinate, develop capacities and help strengthen implementation of human rights throughout the country , and provide the Ombudsman Office with sufficient financial and human resources to strengthen its independence and capabilities (Costa Rica);
104.65 Set up an independent human rights institution in charge of coordinating the implementation of human rights in the whole country (Djibouti);
104.66 Establish a national human rights institution (Egypt);
104.67 Set up a national human rights institution in accordance with the Paris Principles, as the authorities committed to during the first review (France);
104.68 Continue efforts aiming at the protection of human rights, including through the establishment of a n ational h uman r ights i nstitution (Georgia);
104.69 Continue its efforts to establish a n ational h uman r ights i nstitution in line with the Paris Principles and with full participation of the civil society (Indonesia);
104.70 Continue its efforts to establish a n ational h uman r ights i nstitution, as this was an accepted recommendation from the first review (Iraq);
104.71 Establish a n ational h uman r ights i nstitution, in accordance with the Paris Principles (Malaysia);
104.72 Establish an independent n ational h uman r ights i nstitution to coordinate, develop capacities and strengthen respect for human rights in the country, in line with the Paris Principles (Mexico);
104.73 Enact national legislation to protect the rights of the child (Maldives) ;
104.74 Continue to engage international and regional partners to seek technical and other assistance towards its full compliance with its human rights treaties obligations (Philippines);
104.75 Take active measures in order to ensure the protection of vulnerable groups in the society , such as children, women and the elderly, and to enact legislation on anti-discrimination (Namibia);
104.76 Continue deploying efforts for a strategy in favour of gender equality, in particular regarding policies and programmes of the national G overnment and local authorities (Morocco);
104.77 Continue to promote gender equality through its policies and program me s (Australia);
104.78 Eliminate all laws and practices that discriminate against women and promote equal treatment of girls and boys (Cyprus);
104.79 Take measures to facilitate greater participation and representation of women in public offices (Israel);
104.80 Introduce comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation, including discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity (Netherlands);
104.81 Legislate in order to permit marriage between persons of the same sex (Spain);
104.82 Extend existing legislation to protect the rights of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex community , including the recognition of same sex couples and anti-discrimination employment laws (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland);
104.83 Adopt measures to ensure that lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons are no longer victims of discriminatory provisions (France);
104.84 Consider establishing explicit legislation or policies that prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity (Israel);
104.85 Take all the necessary measures to eliminate discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity (Mexico);
104.86 Establish shelters and other support services for victims and implement program me s in order to provide human rights education , in particular to the police, lawyers and judges (Panama);
104.87 Establish shelters for domestic violence survivors (United States of America);
104.88 Strengthen legislation on the prevention and combat of sexual harassment, trafficking in persons and sexual tourism (Mexico);
104.89 Enact legislation to directly address the prevention of and protection against domestic violence (New Zealand);
104.90 Take concrete measures to raise public awareness and further develop legislation to combat domestic violence, especially against women and children, including through the adoption of legislation that prohibits all corporal punishment of children in any setting (Brazil);
104.91 Align the legal definition of rape and related prosecution procedures with international norms, notably regarding marital rape and the burden of proof (Belgium);
104.92 Consider amending its Penal Code and Family Protection Act to ensure that spousal rape is criminali z ed, and that the definition of rape include s any form of non-consensual penetration of or by a sexual organ and that the definition be gender neutral so that men and boys are also protected by the rape laws (Fiji);
104.93 Take all necessary measures to promote the rights of women and to counter domestic violence, in particular by preventing and punishing , more effectively , violence within the family (France);
104.94 Carry out further awareness-raising campaigns to combat trafficking in persons, and include this issue i n the school programmes , for a greater prevention of the phenomenon (Morocco);
104.95 Enact further measures in order to address violence in the educational system, particularly by implementing programmes to prohibit and eliminate all forms of corporal punishment (Slovenia);
104.96 Provide further training and legal assistance on the application of the Family Protection Act (Cuba);
104.97 Prohibit all corporal punishment in all settings, including in the home (Estonia);
104.98 Take all necessary measures to ensure the protection of the rights of the child (France);
104.99 Strengthen laws and regulations to prevent and address human trafficking, including providing effective assistance to trafficked victims and prosecutin g traffickers (Philippines);
104.100 Enforce the 2005 anti-trafficking law and ratify the Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, especially Women and Children , supplementing the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (United States of America);
104.101 Setup a national strategy to combat trafficking in persons as defined by the existing Penal Code (Egypt);
104.102 Strengthen the efforts to prevent and combat trafficking in human beings for sexual purposes, with particular attention to children (France);
104.103 Continue efforts to address human trafficking , including the development of stricter legislation and assistance for victims ’ reintegration and recovery (Malaysia);
104.104 Improve its prison environment as part of a wider effort to protect and promote the human rights of prisoners (Japan);
104.104 Introduce a law on freedom of information in compliance with international standards (Estonia);
104.106 Intensify its fight against all discrimination that hinders trade union freedom of all workers, both national and foreign (Spain);
104.107 Enforce regulations to protect foreign workers, particularly regarding work conditions and occupational and safety standards, and prosecute violations (United States of America);
104.108 Improve the situation of workers, in particular migrant workers, by providing them with the necessary protection (Congo);
104.109 Enact a labour law that applies to nationals and enhance efforts to spread awareness among workers (Egypt);
104.110 Continue taking efforts aimed at combating the unemployment phenomenon (Egypt);
104.111 Adopt concrete measures to better integrate migrant workers, with special attention to combating human trafficking and discrimination (Germany);
104.112 Continue implementing additional measures to fight discrimination against foreign workers, addressing in particular work conditions and the respect for occupational and safety standards (Italy);
104.113 Continue efforts to promote the rights and working conditions in employment , including through appropriate legislative and administrative measures (Malaysia);
104.114 Continue to strengthen the social protection programmes that are currently being implemented in order to provide the greatest possible welfare and standard of living to its people (Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela );
104.115 Expand human rights training and awareness-raising program me s so that they include all aspects of human rights (Armenia);
104.116 Continue promoting education for all, in particular for persons with special needs (Djibouti);
104.117 Adopt specific measures to promote the development of inclusive education for persons with disabilities (Argentina);
104.118 Consider endorsing and implementing the n ational d isability p olicy as a tool to ensure better rights for persons with disabilities (Malaysia);
104.119 Implement the n ational d isability i nclusive p olicy (Maldives);
104.120 Increase efforts to guarantee access to education for children with disabilities (Mexico);
104.121 Step up efforts to improve the situation of socially vulnerable groups of the population, in particular migrant workers, including their protection from discrimination (Russian Federation);
104.122 Become party to the 1954 and 1961 s tatelessness c onventions and take all steps necessary to implement their content (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland);
104.123 Strengthen efforts deployed to prevent natural disasters (Morocco);
104.124 Continue to implement policies for development of its people under the S ustainable D evelopment G oal s (Pakistan);
104.125 Continue to pay particular attention to the consequences of climate change on the human rights of the population (Cuba ).
105. All conclusions and/or recommendations contained in the present report reflect the position of the submitting State(s) and/or the State under review. They should not be construed as endorsed by the Working Group as a whole.
Annex
Composition of the delegation
The delegation of Palau was headed by Honorable J. Baklai Temengil, Minister, Ministry of Community and Cultural Affairs and composed of the following members:
•Honorable J. Uduch Sengebau Senior, Senator, Palau National Congress (9th Olbiil Era Kelulau);
•Ms. Hila Asanuna, Senior Foreign Service Officer, Bureau of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Ministry of State;
•Ms. Holly Yamada, Small Island States Officer, Ministry of State/Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat;
•Mr. Kyonori Tellames, Senior Planning Analyst, Bureau of Budget and Planning, Ministry of Finance;
•Mr. Romulo Nayacalevu, Human Rights Adviser, Regional Rights Resource Team, Secretariat of the Pacific Community.