A/HRC/29/8 106. China appreciated the efforts of Spain in the promotion of equal opportunities for men and women, the combat against sexual exploitation and the health-care reform. China welcomed the efforts on anti-racial-discrimination. 107. The Congo commended the establishment of a National Council on victims of hate crime. It noted the improvement of the legal framework for human trafficking, organ trafficking and forced marriages. 108. Costa Rica underscored the efforts by Spain to achieve the international abolition of the death penalty, and stated that its role in the creation of the International Commission against the Death Penalty was commendable. 109. Côte d’Ivoire commended human rights reforms, namely article 59bis of the Aliens Act on human trafficking (2010) and the adoption of a Protocol to protect victims of trafficking (2011). 110. Cuba noted the implications of austerity measures on the human rights situation. It invited Spain to further work to combat unemployment, poverty, evictions, hate speech and racial discrimination. 111. Cyprus welcomed initiatives to combat human trafficking, including the establishment of the Rapporteur, and to eliminate all forms of discrimination. Cyprus welcomed efforts to tackle racism and facilitate the integration of immigrants. 112. The Czech Republic appreciated the information on the implementation of previous UPR recommendations and the response of Spain to some advance questions. 113. Ecuador acknowledged efforts to comply with previous recommendations, including the ratification of the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the Human Rights Plan assessment and measures to overcome the economic crisis. 114. Egypt welcomed the establishment of provincial discrimination departments and the continued commitment of Spain to women’s rights. It recognized the difficulties resulting from the financial and economic crisis with regard to social protection and promotion of human rights. 115. Estonia highlighted the commitment of Spain to combating human trafficking and the prioritization of the elimination of violence against women. Estonia seconded the suggestion by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) that the Government pursue efforts to ensure the rights of all children to an inclusive education. 116. France welcomed the hate crime departments in provincial prosecutor’s offices and plans to combat gender discrimination. It noted the impunity for crimes perpetrated during the civil war and dictatorship. 117. Gabon appreciated the measures regarding the fight against gender-based discrimination, notably policies favouring equal opportunities within the professional sphere and those on fighting violence against women. 118. Germany welcomed improvements in the institutional framework and appreciated civil society’s involvement in the preparation of the national report. It praised the creation of the post of National Rapporteur on human trafficking. 119. Ghana commended various measures addressing hate crime and discrimination, human trafficking, racism, xenophobia and gender violence. It expressed concern about discrimination against migrants, and instances of racist stereotypes and prejudices in the media. 12