A/HRC/41/4/Add.1 Sexual orientation and gender-identity 41. As an inclusive society, New Zealand is committed to improving health care for rainbow communities. Important first steps have been taken, including an increase in the number of transgender genital reconstruction surgeries. 42. An Intersex Clinical Network will develop best practice guidelines for intersex children. The Government is unaware of cases of sex assignment surgery on intersex children. Since 2014, a small number of children underwent surgeries to resolve functional issues without gender-assignment. Accepted: 93–94, 96, 99–102 Noted: 95, 97–98 Women’s rights 43. New Zealand is a leader in women’s rights, yet inequalities still exist. Actions to address disparities include a gender analysis tool to help the Government consider inequities when formulating policies. Sexual and gender-based violence 44. We are committed to eradicating family and sexual violence, and creating a system delivering an integrated, consistent and effective response to victims, perpetrators and their families. 45. A Joint Venture of government agencies was established in 2018 to provide support through an effective, whole-of-government response. A national strategy and action plan are being developed enabling a strategic overview of prevention, early intervention, crisis response and support for long-term recovery. 46. The new Family Violence Act 2018 provides a modern framework to better prevent, identify and respond to family violence. Legislation will support sector-wide collaboration, for example through information sharing and codes of practice. 47. Legislation will make important improvements to victims’ experience of court processes, helping to bring more perpetrators to justice. Programmes and services will focus on vulnerable groups more likely be victimised. Accepted: 109–143 Children 48. The wellbeing of children is a priority for New Zealand. The first Child and Youth Wellbeing Strategy will be published in 2019. It will help protect children’s rights, including those under the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). 49. Violence against children is addressed through work to combat family and sexual violence. A five-year transformation programme will build a more child-centred state care system. The Royal Commission of Inquiry into Historical Abuse in State Care and in Care in Faith-based Institutions is investigating abuse of children and vulnerable adults. 50. Reducing child poverty is a priority. Under new legislation, ambitious child poverty reduction targets have been announced and annual reporting is required. 51. Education must be accessible and inclusive. Education strategies for Māori and Pacific people are being updated to enable all learners to succeed. Accepted: 103–104, 144–155 6