A/HRC/11/37 Senegal attested to its consistent commitment to guaranteeing full respect for human rights. Morocco indicated that these efforts made Senegal a model and required the support of relevant international bodies to help Senegal to implement its programmes of action and promote the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals. 498. The United States of America appreciated Senegal’s commitment to further strengthen its efforts to eliminate the economic exploitation of children, including by enhancing access to education and enforcing laws against child labour and trafficking. It noted the concern expressed by several delegations regarding the criminalization of homosexuality, as well as harassment and discrimination based on sexual orientation. It also echoed concerns regarding intimidation and harassment of journalists and media organizations. It urged Senegal to fulfil the African Union mandate regarding the trial of Hissène Habré in Senegal. It encouraged Senegal to undertake an awareness-raising campaign on female genital mutilation. 499. Ireland thanked the delegation of Senegal for the constructive way in which it had participated in the universal periodic review process. It noted with appreciation that Senegal had accepted its recommendation concerning the need for an awareness-raising campaign on the application of the law on female genital mutilation. Ireland stressed the importance of the mandate given to Senegal by the African Union concerning the need to bring to justice Hissène Habré, the former President of Chad. 3. General comments made by other relevant stakeholders 500. Comité sénégalais des droits de l’homme noted with great satisfaction the replies provided by the Government to its complaints. It highlighted the open and sincere dialogue the Government had established with the national institution and all civil society organizations. It called on the authorities to continue their partnership with civil society and to be even more vigilant in their struggle for human rights. It was prepared to assist the Government in the implementation of the recommendations it had accepted. 501. The European Region of the International Lesbian and Gay Association noted the recent release from jail of nine gay men but stated that public statements condemning homosexuality had led to an increase in homophobia. It indicated that the penal code threatened sexual minorities and violated the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. It urged Senegal to abolish article 319 of the penal code and to review other legislation that resulted in the discrimination, prosecution and punishment of people solely for their sexual orientation or gender identity. The Association asked Senegal to take measures to promote tolerance and to provide law enforcement and judicial officials with training on human rights and sexual minorities. 502. Organisation pour la communication en Afrique et de promotion de la coopération économique internationale, in a joint statement with the Indian Council of South America and the International Human Rights Association of American Minorities, noted the efforts made by Senegal to promote the rights of women, above all to make sure that their social status was commensurate with their eminent social role. It encouraged the Government to pursue its effort to implement its commitments. It also commended the attention paid by Senegal to the promotion and protection of the rights of the child. It pointed out that Senegal had made progress in improving access for women to positions of political responsibilities. It recommended the ratification of other international human rights instruments. 503. Rencontre africaine pour la défense des droits de l’homme welcomed the re-election of Senegal to the Council, which reflected the vitality and the mission of Senegal regarding human rights. It welcomed the acceptance by Senegal of most recommendations. It recalled 134 GE.09-16766