A/HRC/31/8 adequate safeguards, and inadequate protection of the confidentiality of journalistic sources. 95. Bangladesh commended efforts in the areas of poverty eradication, administration of justice, equality and non-discrimination. It highlighted that support and technical assistance from the United Nations and the international community were of utmost importance. 96. Belgium noted with satisfaction a number of accomplishments, including in the area of gender equality. It asked what efforts had been made to guarantee the independence of the Rwandan media commission, following the legislative reforms. 97. Benin appreciated legislative reforms concerning the right to information and freedom of expression and association. It encouraged Rwanda to continue its efforts to effectively deal with the commitments undertaken on human rights. 98. The Plurinational State of Bolivia recognized the progress that Rwanda had made since the first review cycle, and the constructive spirit that had characterized the current review. 99. Botswana noted positively the legislative measures undertaken to protect human rights and the steps taken to address prison overcrowding. It noted reports of child trafficking. Botswana encouraged Rwanda to address concerns regarding the judiciary. 100. Brazil noted the standing invitation issued to special procedure mandate holders, the high number of women in political positions and the contribution of Rwanda to important issues such as the prevention of genocide. 101. Cabo Verde noted the creation, since the previous review, of institutions and the adoption of laws and policies on the rights of women and children, the justice system and access to water. 102. Canada indicated that a functioning opposition, a vibrant civil society and an independent media were essential to maintain the remarkable gains achieved in economic and social development in the post-genocide era. 103. Chad noted measures taken to strengthen the protection of human rights. It encouraged Rwanda to continue to move forward and requested that its partners assist it in honouring its commitments. 104. Chile noted the efforts made to promote human rights, particularly the ratification of international instruments such as the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture. 105. China recognized active efforts made to implement recommendations accepted during the first cycle, to enhance human rights mechanisms and the rule of law and to cooperate with United Nations human rights bodies. 106. Colombia highlighted the commitment of Rwanda to implementing recommendations received during the first cycle and recognized progress made in ensuring freedom of peaceful assembly and association and participation in public and political life. 107. The Congo commended efforts to implement recommendations accepted during the first cycle. It encouraged Rwanda to continue its cooperation with human rights mechanisms and treaty bodies. 108. Costa Rica noted that Rwanda had ratified international instruments, particularly the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty. 109. Côte d’Ivoire noted legislative reforms concerning the rights to information and freedom of expression and association. It encouraged Rwanda to request the support of the international community in the implementation of recommendations. 11

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