A/HRC/32/8 62. In respect of the wage gap between men and women, the delegation explained that Belgium had regulations prohibiting gender-based discrimination for equal work. 63. Regarding the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families, Belgium attached importance to upholding the rights of migrants, but was not in a position to accede to the Convention since it conferred equal rights upon both regular and irregular migrant workers. This approach differed from the regulations in force at the European and national level. 64. Cuba recalled that the Committee against Torture had expressed concern regarding information indicating that law enforcement officers used excessive force to carry out interrogations or detentions. 65. The Czech Republic warmly welcomed the delegation of Belgium and expressed appreciation for the responses of Belgium to advance questions. 66. The Democratic Republic of the Congo commended Belgium for the adoption of a law which provided for heavier penalties for certain offenses with racial motivations. 67. Denmark welcomed the acceptance by Belgium of the recommendation to ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment; inquired about steps taken to achieve ratification; and encouraged establishment of an A-status national human rights institution. 68. Djibouti expressed appreciation for the positive steps taken in the protection and promotion of human rights since the first review. 69. The Dominican Republic, considering the efforts of Belgium to improve prisons, invited the Government to learn from the Dominican prison system, held up as an example by other States. 70. Ecuador expressed concern regarding the security approach used against migrants and refugees, and about the enactment of the Agrofuels Act affecting third countries. 71. Egypt commended the creation of family courts, human rights training and inclusive education, and expressed concern about racism and regret about the lack of a national human rights institution. 72. Estonia noted progress in promoting employment equality, reducing the wage gap, combatting gender-based violence and ensuring child rights, and called for more consultations with vulnerable groups. 73. Fiji noted the need for progress in establishing a national human rights institution, and addressing prison overcrowding through improved detention standards. 74. France made recommendations. 75. Georgia encouraged Belgium to establish a national action plan on human rights and continue midterm reporting on implementation, and noted its ratification efforts and human rights commitment. 76. Germany welcomed Belgium to the Human Rights Council and commended its progress made since the 2011 review of Belgium and its continued engagement with human rights mechanisms. 77. Ghana lauded the actions of Belgium to improve prison conditions; legislation targeting racism, extremism and xenophobia; and steps taken toward a national human rights institution. GE.16-05884 9