A/HRC/13/17 Page 4 8. Ethiopia highlighted that the Federal Constitution guarantees every person’s inalienable right to life. While capital punishment is still permitted under the law and prisoners, the actual reality illustrates that capital punishment has been practically abolished. Only three death penalties have been carried out during the last 15 years. The Federal Constitution recently enacted criminal and criminal procedure codes prohibiting torture, inhumane and degrading treatment. The Federal Constitution also guarantees the rights of accused persons which include being brought before a court within 48 hours, to be presumed innocent until proven guilty and to appeal to a competent court challenging any judgment against them. Accused persons also have a right to a public trial, except where their case relates to issues such as privacy, public morals and national security. 9. The delegation indicated that persons of all religions are given equal opportunities for access to land to build places of worship. Christian and Muslim holidays are made public holidays by law, with the Government media agencies broadcasting the celebrations. Religious texts are circulated in increasing numbers and there is a strong tolerance among the various religions with people of different religions living in harmony. 10. The delegation highlighted that with the introduction of press and media laws, and capacitybuilding and professional ethics training for journalists, a number of print and electronic media, and radio and television broadcasting services, have emerged. 11. The delegation stated that the respect for the right to privacy has become prevalent with people demanding search warrants from police officers. Courts have ruled inadmissible evidence collected without a search warrant. Citizens have a constitutional right to freedom of peaceful assembly and demonstrations, with a proclamation being issued to establish procedures for peaceful demonstrations and public meetings. Freedom of association is also guaranteed by the Federal Constitution, as well as the right to vote, to be elected, to participate in elections and take part in the conduct of public affairs. Complaints relating to elections are directed to the Election Board with the option of appealing its decision to the Federal Court. 12. The delegation indicated that legal and policy measures were introduced to rectify the deep rooted political, economic and cultural bias against women. A number of laws – the Family Code, the Criminal Code and the Nationality law – have also been revised and amended. Equal rights for women, in marriage, divorce, custody of children, and rights to matrimonial properties are promoted. 13. With regard to the rights of the child, Ethiopia indicated that a National Plan of Action for Children has been implementing child-focused interventions in basic health-care, education and protection services for children orphaned by HIV/AIDS, in collaboration with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and other civil society groups. 14. The delegation stated that ownership of land, as well as natural resources, are vested in the State and the peoples, and thus not for sale. Peasants and pastoralists have a right to free land. Both women and men have equal rights to use, administer and bequeath land to their heirs. 15. The delegation indicated that legislation has been introduced to effectively implement constitutional guarantees and lays the basis for protecting the rights of workers. 16. The delegation stated that with regard to education, Ethiopia has experienced increased primary school enrolments, including the promotion of universal and free primary education. Furthermore, a