A/HRC/31/9 28. Mexico welcomed the new Constitution and appreciated progress made, such as the start of the implementation of the national action plan and strategy for gender empowerment and the elimination of gender-based violence. 29. Montenegro commended efforts to strengthen the national framework for human rights protection. It asked for more information on the comprehensive plan of action to address recommendations. 30. Morocco commended the creation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the Commission on Investigation of Disappeared Persons and the importance given to workers’ rights and the reduction of poverty. 31. Myanmar noted the commitment of Nepal to the implementation of periodic national human rights action plans in collaboration with the national human rights institutions and civil society. 32. Namibia was pleased to note the progress in making the new Constitution and commended Nepal on the recent national shelter/housing plan of 2014. 33. While taking note of the Caste-based Discrimination and Untouchability Act, Denmark noted that discrimination based on gender, caste, ethnicity and religion was widespread. The implementation of the Act on the Commission on Investigation of Disappeared Persons, Truth and Reconciliation, remained slow. 34. New Zealand commended the establishment of committees to increase protection for human rights, but remained concerned about aspects of women’s rights in Nepal. 35. Nicaragua recognized achievements relating to social and economic rights, such as improvements in the field of employment, but regretted that these had been undermined by the recent devastating earthquake. 36. Norway noted progress in access to education but that the enrolment of children with disabilities remained low. Dropout rates remained high. Discrimination against and trafficking and sexual harassment of women had increased. 37. Pakistan noted with appreciation the new Constitution and measures to ensure the right to education, health, housing and land. It encouraged Nepal to guarantee the rights of indigenous peoples, minorities and vulnerable groups. 38. Panama commended Nepal for the preparation of the second national report in consultation with the national human rights institutions, civil society and the media. 39. Paraguay commended Nepal for the adoption of the new Constitution. It recognized the specific challenges in the protection of human rights in natural disasters. It asked for more information on how humanitarian assistance was provided. 40. The Philippines noted the new Constitution guaranteeing human rights and freedoms. It recognized the need for enhanced international support for economic development and reconstruction of damaged infrastructure in Nepal. 41. Portugal noted a human rights plan of action for 2014-2018, as well as several policies and programmes on gender equality. 42. Qatar noted challenges facing the country after the earthquake. It also noted the new Constitution and a plan of action for persons with disabilities. 43. The Republic of Korea commended the establishment of the Truth and Reconciliation Commissions and the Commission of Investigation of Disappeared Persons, and the enactment of the new Constitution. 6