A/HRC/8/31 Page 14 human rights treaties in overseas territories, and remove the reservation to article 8 (1) (d) of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights in respect of the Netherlands Antilles. It drew attention to concerns expressed by CERD about the sharp increase in the number of complaints, in particular those concerning Islamophobia and the manifestations toward ethnic minorities. It also noted that the Employment of Minorities Act is no longer in force. Algeria recommended that the Netherlands continue to promote awareness of diversity and multiculturalism at all levels of education and to ensure proper representation of minorities in the labour market, as per the ratio of minorities. Algeria recommended that the Government take proactive measures aimed at preventing the instrumentalization of the freedom of expression to justify campaigns of incitement to racial hatred and violence in the Netherlands. Algeria recommended the Netherlands adhere to ICMRW and to increase its efforts to prevent acts of discrimination in this area. Algeria recommended to the Netherlands to undertake an in-depth study on trafficking and exploitation of children, particularly with regard to sexual abuse, child prostitution and child pornography, as a basis for urgent remedial action in this regard. 66. South Africa strongly encouraged the Government to accelerate efforts in increasing female representation in top positions in the senior public service to 25 per cent by 2011. South Africa invited the Netherlands to further elaborate on the Government’s efforts to deal with the persisting problem of racial profiling and the success brought about by such interventions. It also asked for more details with regard to reservations entered on article 8 (1) (d) of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and intentions to remove them. Lastly, South Africa requested information on numerous reservations on some of the key provisions of ICCPR, and whether the Government was considering the withdrawal of these reservations. It also requested information on measures regarding verification methods in place in regard to political parties and social institutions aimed at ensuring that these do not propagate racist and xenophobic agendas. 67. Morocco noted that article 1 of the Constitution states that all are treated equally under similar circumstances, and that no discrimination is allowed. This implies ensuring that beliefs and feelings of all believers are respected and measures are taken to combat defamation and intolerance. It noted with satisfaction the statement by the State Secretary of Justice that freedom for Muslims to practise their religion is a key theme of integration policies. It welcomed the position of the Government to dissociate itself from the most recent provocative act by Mr. Wilders, such acts being shocking to Muslim feelings. Morocco wanted to know whether the Government intended to take preventive measures against the defamation of Islam or any other religion or to discourage it, and what its intentions are with regard to adhering to ICRMW. 68. Jordan highlighted that the freedom of expression and opinion must be within a framework that allows for restrictions without necessarily involving an infringement on the rights of others. It asked how the Netherlands explained that respective provisions and constraints were not formalized. Jordan expressed the hope that the action plan designed to combat discrimination and Islamophobia would prove successful. It further expressed satisfaction about efforts made with regard to asylum-seekers, migrants and trafficking in persons, and welcomed the 0.8 per cent of GDP allotted to combating poverty, an example that should be followed by other countries. Jordan recommended that the Netherlands take legal measures to deal with intolerance and initiate an awareness-raising campaign for the society at large to ensure a more generalized tolerance. 69. Azerbaijan emphasized that all measures should be taken to avoid the acts that could offend religious and cultural sentiments of others and strengthen polarization in society. It stressed the Netherlands efforts to promote media literacy. While noting the creation of the Equal Treatment Commission, it wanted to know how effective it was vis-à-vis combating discrimination, and which enforcement measures are envisaged. It also asked about plans to adhere to ICRMW.