A/HRC/14/12 investigate and prosecute those responsible. Austria expressed concern about the apparently disproportionate application of the death penalty against members of minority groups and political activists. 70. Mexico asked for details about the implementation of the work plan for technical cooperation between the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran and OHCHR in relation to the judiciary. 71. The Netherlands expressed grave concern about extrajudicial and arbitrary detention, suspects being held without information on charges, the absence of due process and the possible use of torture and other cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment or punishment. It welcomed the fact that the Iranian Government had assumed responsibility for guaranteeing equal rights for men and women. 72. Kyrgyzstan highlighted several initiatives in the judicial area, including 14 investigations related to human rights. It noted activities to promote human rights, such as training courses and the publication of books and periodicals. It welcomed cooperation with international mechanisms, such as the 2003 visit by the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, and plans to work with OHCHR. 73. Slovakia objected to the use of the death penalty, particularly for juveniles. It noted that, despite the 2008 announcement banning public executions, the practice was still being reported. It noted the arrest and detention of political opponents, human rights defenders, journalists, students, intellectuals, religious representatives and ordinary citizens. Independent press had faced tightened restrictions since the 2009 elections, and the Internet was heavily censored. It noted widespread violence against women and a lack of redress for victims. 74. Belgium recognized Iran’s intention to accede to CEDAW, but remained concerned at existing discriminatory legal provisions and at the arrest, harassment, intimidation, persecution and sentencing of women’s-rights activists. It also noted the prescription of the death penalty for a large number of crimes and its application for the violation of minimum standards. It urged the abolition of the death penalty. 75. Denmark expressed concern about the crackdowns imposed on demonstrators since the presidential election and cited reports of extrajudicial killings, rapes, torture and violations of the right to freedom of assembly and expression, as well as thousands of arbitrary arrests. It welcomed the closing of the Kharizak detention centre, but remained concerned about allegations concerning the torture and ill treatment of prisoners. 76. Estonia asked about Iran’s plans to combat discriminatory practices against women and how it planned to combat violence against them. Regarding reports of arbitrary arrest and the cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment of detainees, it asked whether Iran planned to accede to CAT and its Optional Protocol. 77. Bangladesh acknowledged progress regarding education, health care and poverty reduction. Gender parity in primary schools, the 62 per cent representation by women in higher education, improvements in life expectancy, the reduction of maternal and child mortality, and the adoption of complementary legislation on citizens’ right to facilitate judicial enforcement were noted. Remaining challenges included regional and gender disparity. Bangladesh welcomed the formation of a committee including Islamic scholars to make practical recommendations and encouraged the Government to continue to support its work. 78. The Sudan noted Iran’s efforts in the economic and political spheres and the remaining challenges. It asked about the impact of sanctions on human rights. It recognized the multicultural nature of Iran’s society and requested information about how the country 11