A/HRC/29/5 57. The delegation acknowledged the comments that had been raised in relation to climate change, and reiterated that it was a major challenge that heightened the existing challenges that Kiribati faced in meeting its human rights obligations. The delegation thanked those who had commented on the need for stronger global action and support for countries like Kiribati in meeting the urgent challenges that were resulting from climate change. It called on the international community to recognize the urgency of responding to those who were on the front line now. 58. Solomon Islands commended efforts in implementing recommendations and the establishment of the Ministry of Women, Youth and Social Affairs and the Kiribati National Human Rights Taskforce. It noted the progress made in drafting policies, enquired about the Male Advocates Programme and encouraged Kiribati to seek international assistance. Solomon Islands made recommendations. 59. South Africa commended the efforts made by Kiribati in implementing recommendations and commitments from the previous review. It noted the progress in the realization of the Millennium Development Goal target on hunger, and encouraged Kiribati to continue the promotion, protection and fulfilment of all human rights, including the right to development. South Africa made recommendations. 60. Spain highlighted the progress made in combating gender discrimination. It recalled its 2010 recommendation on strengthening the protection of women and ensuring equal opportunities. It stated that Kiribati had made efforts to protect the rights of persons with disabilities. Spain made recommendations. 61. Sri Lanka noted positive developments, including policy initiatives to secure the rights of children and women, inclusive education and the establishment of the Kiribati National Human Rights Taskforce. It urged the international community to provide Kiribati with technical assistance to enhance the capacity of the task force. Sri Lanka made recommendations. 62. Sweden referred to a proposal to amend the Penal Code to reinstate the death penalty. It stated that corporal punishment was lawful within the day-care system and that article 226 of the Penal Code permitted the administration of “reasonable punishment”. Sweden made recommendations. 63. Thailand commended Kiribati on its ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the establishment of the National Human Rights Taskforce and national legislative acts on the rights of women and children. It expressed its belief that the implementation of a universal health coverage scheme would be useful, and offered to share its experience. Thailand made recommendations. 64. Timor-Leste noted with appreciation the withdrawal of all reservations to the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the adoption of the Education Act 2013. It remained concerned about the high percentage of children who did not attend primary school, and in particular that pregnant girls were not allowed to attend school. Timor-Leste made recommendations. 65. Trinidad and Tobago noted positively that Kiribati had approved its environmental policy, and noted the action taken to preserve the country’s first United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization World Heritage Site. It highlighted recent legislation to criminalize domestic violence. It noted the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and that a national policy was being drafted on the subject. Trinidad and Tobago made recommendations. 66. The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland welcomed measures to combat gender-based violence, in particular the criminalization of domestic violence through the Family Peace Act 2014 and the establishment of the Ministry of Women, Youth 11

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