A/HRC/28/14 88. Uruguay noted Iraqi adoption of human rights treaties and legislation, and its strategies and national plans addressing particularly vulnerable groups. 89. Uzbekistan commended the accession to CAT and CRPD, and the adoption of national strategies to tackle poverty, gender-based violence and corruption, and improving health and education systems and employment. 90. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela noted that the country’s current situation stemmed from the 2003 invasion. The country required international support to consolidate and build its human rights capacities. 91. Viet Nam noted legislation to protect human rights and the National Human Rights Plan. It commended steps to tackle terrorism and all forms of violence. 92. Yemen commended the adoption of the Act on combating human trafficking, the Journalists’ Rights Act and the Act concerning the welfare of persons with disabilities and special needs. 93. Afghanistan commended Iraqi commitment to fundamental human rights principles, despite immense security challenges, and welcomed the establishment of the High Commission for Human Rights. 94. Algeria commended Iraqi efforts, including the accession to human rights instruments and adoption of legislation and policies for the promotion and protection of human rights. 95. Angola noted that the ongoing situation in Iraq hindered the enjoyment of human rights. It noted with interest efforts to focus on the population’s health and education. 96. Argentina referred to the security and humanitarian situation. It noted that particular attention should be paid to the situation of minority groups in Iraq and recognized the authorities’ efforts to tackle violence towards them. 97. Australia commended the holding of democratic elections. It remained concerned by human rights abuses perpetrated by terrorists, militias and others, against civilians, and at increasing recourse to the death penalty. 98. Austria expressed concern about reports that religious minorities had come under attack by ISIL and abductions and executions perpetrated by other forces. It expressed concern about the rising numbers of refugees and IDPs and violence against journalists. 99. Azerbaijan congratulated Iraq on its strengthened legal framework and national institutional infrastructure for the promotion and protection of human rights. It commended the standing invitation issued to the United Nations human rights mechanisms. 100. Bahrain applauded Iraqi national plans to promote and protect human rights and the creation of human rights-related institutions, incorporated with the public and social society organizations. 101. Bangladesh welcomed the establishment of human rights institutions, ratification of CRPD and action to reduce gender disparities. It took note of challenges to ensure human rights, including poverty and terrorist attacks. 102. Belgium expressed shock at attacks on civilians. It noted with concern the precarious situation of religious and ethnic minorities, particularly Christians and Yazidis. 103. Bhutan noted that, despite significant challenges, progress had been made in the development of institutional structures for human rights, such as the National Centre for Human Rights. 11