A/HRC/28/6
against children in all settings, and the steps taken to implement legislative and other
measures to combat violence against women. It expressed concern about reported violations
of the freedoms of expression, association and peaceful assembly.
54.
South Africa commended the Gambia for the marked improvements registered in all
spheres of national development, particularly in the achievement of the Millennium
Development Goals on universal primary education and gender parity. It welcomed the
declaration regarding free education at upper basic school level and for leading the way on
sustainable energy.
55.
South Sudan welcomed improved enrolment and the achievement of the Millennium
Development Goals on free primary education and gender parity. Noting the challenges
faced, it urged the Gambia to continue efforts regarding FGM. It welcomed the ratification
of CRPD and OP-CRPD and measures in favour of persons with disabilities.
56.
Spain recognized efforts to improve human rights, especially the ratification of
CRPD. It expressed concern over regressive action regarding the moratorium on the death
penalty, criminalization of consensual same-sex relations, torture allegations and national
legislation restricting freedom of expression. It welcomed national legislation to protect
women’s rights.
57.
The Sudan commended the Gambia’s positive engagement with the UPR process
and was encouraged by the information provided since the first cycle. It welcomed the
ratification of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), CRPD and OP-CRPD, as
well as the adoption of the National Gender and Women Advancement Policy 2010-2020.
58.
Sweden expressed concern about reports of violence against journalists, human
rights defenders and others exercising their right to freedom of expression, and about the
proposed amendment to the Criminal Code Act 2014, as it would result in discrimination
based on a person’s real or perceived sexual orientation.
59.
Thailand commended the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals on
primary school enrolment, child nutrition and the fight against malaria. It expressed support
for efforts to improve legislation on the rights of women and children and noted efforts to
establish a national human rights institution in cooperation with OHCHR, and offered
assistance in that respect.
60.
Togo recognized efforts made under the National Education Policy 2004-2014 to
improve enrolment at all levels, gender parity, free primary education provision,
infrastructure and capacity-building. It welcomed increased financing for social protection
programmes, including provision for children, women, the elderly and persons with
disabilities.
61.
Tunisia noted progress made regarding violence against women and children, and
education. It noted the creation of a national treaty body reporting group and encouraged
the issuance of a standing invitation to special procedures. It acknowledged requests for
technical assistance and called on OHCHR and the international community to respond.
62.
The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland recognized progress
made regarding the rights of women and children rights, education, and the national human
rights institution, which should comply with the Paris Principles. It encouraged action on
FGM and expressed concern regarding freedom of expression and discrimination against
LGBTI persons.
63.
The United States of America expressed dismay at the human rights situation. It was
concerned about interference with electoral processes and the treatment of critics, including
restrictions on freedom of speech, reports of torture, arrest, detention and enforced
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