A/HRC/11/37 concrete response had been given on the absence of a definition of racial discrimination in domestic legislation and recommended that a clear and comprehensive definition be adopted thereon. No clear response had been provided in relation to ensuring that relevant criminal law provisions were effectively implemented in case of racially motivated offences. The Islamic Republic of Iran expressed concern that some Muslim women had been denied positions as training teachers and civil servants and been threatened with disciplinary action for wearing the headscarf, contravening freedom of religion and expression. It also noted that adherence to certain religious organizations or beliefs constituted one of the main grounds for disqualifying individuals from employment in the public service. 186. Sweden noted that a recommendation relating to the human rights aspects in the fight against terrorism had been accepted. It expressed hope that it would also include how legislation was applied with regard to searches of private computers. It welcomed the fact that recommendations with a view to promote integration further and ensure that all persons enjoy the right to education, regardless of their background, enjoyed the support of Germany. 187. The United States of America commended Germany for its recent actions to extend permanent residence to those granted asylum. It also commended it for its efforts to better integrate members of immigrant communities into mainstream society. It noted, however, that discrimination and hostility towards some racial and religious minority groups remained a problem. It thus applauded the creation of the national plan of action against racism and commended Germany for its ongoing efforts to combat racism, xenophobia and intolerance. 188. Chad noted with satisfaction that Germany had accepted most of the recommendations made, which clearly showed the importance Germany attaches to the universal periodic review. It noted that Germany assisted poor countries in combating poverty by financing development projects, of which Chad was one of the beneficiaries. 3. General comments made by other relevant stakeholders 189. The German Institute for Human Rights welcomed Germany’s acceptance of most of the recommendations, of which it would closely monitor the implementation. It sought stronger commitment concerning the ratification of all core human rights treaties and the withdrawal of reservations, particularly concerning the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families, the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and lifting reservations to the Convention on the Rights of the Child. It said the universal periodic review procedure needed to be further developed, particularly relating to the interactive dialogue and adoption of recommendations. Given the importance of human rights, Governments could not simply disregard recommendations and should operate under the presumption that any rejection should be treated as an exception, deserving an explanation. It added that the review process should be seen in conjunction with other human rights mechanisms. Those recommendations based on treaty body or special procedures findings deserved additional attention. It added that a consultation process was initiated by the Government of Germany regarding adoption of recommendations and this should be a regular part of the review process. Governments should share whether, how and when such consultations had taken place. 190. The Charitable Institute for the Protection of Social Victims drew the attention of the Council to cases of human rights violations in Germany on the pretext of the war on terror. It noted that the adoption of secrecy policies by the Government and the grave violation of the rights of detainees suspected of terrorism were just a few examples of these extraordinary measures. It expressed concern at Germany’s adoption of double-standard GE.09-16766 87