A/HRC/WG.6/1/TUN/4 page 20 educative approach which mainstream human rights through all subjects when it comes to promoting a culture of human rights. With regard to the rights of the child, the delegation of Tunisia indicated that the Child Protection Code contains relevant provisions in that respect and to assist the family. Regarding the electoral law, the Tunisian delegation noted that there has not been changed or amendment of law as there was forthcoming election campaign but rather an attempt to improve turnout in parliamentary elections. Regarding the participation of citizens in the election process, the delegation of Tunisia indicated that the age to vote is now 18 and that election process is monitored by the Constitutional Council. On the issue of the use of forced confession, the Tunisian delegation noted that a ruling says that if force has been used to achieve a confession than that evidence cannot be used in the judiciary system. On the issue of religious understanding, the delegation of Tunisia indicated its full commitment to ensure this principle. The Minister further indicated that particular attention was paid regarding the withdrawal of reservations, particularly to CEDAW, and that a working group studying the lifting of those reservations was currently working on the issue. Regarding the issue of terrorism and the right to life, the Minister also indicated that a working group has been set up and supported the suggestion made by Algeria to hold a seminar within the framework of the Council. The Minister also stated Tunisia’s openness in inviting special rapporteurs as part of its effective cooperation with all treaty bodies and special procedures. Regarding the monitoring of Human Rights Council recommendations that emerge from the UPR, the Minister informed that a special body to ensure the follow-up arising from all United Nations treaty bodies has been set up. He also indicated that the Constitutional Court is taking into account international treaties and human rights documents and instruments for its decisions in particular the CRC and CEDAW. He also mentioned that the Human Rights Committee did not cast doubt on the independence of the judiciary, but only pointed out that the 2005 reforms are positive but further reforms are needed. The Minister further stated that Tunisia has increased the number of judges and the current make up of the Constitutional Council is very much in line with similar councils in other countries. Regarding the issue of death penalty, the Minister indicated that Tunisia has de facto abolished the death penalty and this has lead to a debate on abolishment within the society and Tunisia hope to make further progress along this path and to abolish the death penalty once and for all. 82. The Minister of Justice and Human Rights concluded his intervention by thanking warmly all those who have taken the floor and recognized the support and understanding shown during the debate. The Minister noted that the reports are very positive and the statements of delegates were along the lines of these reports. He also reaffirm that Tunisia will pursue its efforts in the field of human rights. III. CONCLUSIONS AND/OR RECOMMENDATIONS 83. The recommendations formulated during the interactive dialogue have been examined by Tunisia and the recommendations listed below enjoy the support of Tunisia. • Recommends that Tunisia pursue its programmes and consolidated approach in the promotion and protection of all human rights including in the field of education, health and the promotion of the status of women (Syrian Arab Republic) as well as the empowerment of women. (Cuba) • Encourages Tunisia to work closely with international human rights bodies particularly with relation to the follow-up of UPR recommendations. (Qatar, United Kingdom)