A/HRC/22/29 54. Austria identified corruption as a main obstacle to the realization of the rule of law. Its intensified anti-corruption activities included the creation of the Central Office for the Prosecution of Economic Offences and Corruption, with countrywide jurisdiction, and the International Anti-Corruption Academy. The Austrian Development Cooperation gives priority to combating corruption, which affects governance and development policy. Training in human rights, democracy and the rule of law have become mandatory for judges and prosecutors. 55. Azerbaijan reported on its efforts to build a democratic and secular State respecting human rights and the rule of law. They include the establishment of the Institute of Human Rights, which investigates the infringement of fundamental freedoms in democratic processes; the adoption of the National Action Plan for the Protection of Human Rights; and the establishment of the office of the Ombudsman to ensure the protection of national minorities, freedom of speech and religious tolerance. Among lasting challenges, Azerbaijan noted the protection of the rights of refugees and internally displaced persons, the harmonization of national legislation with international human rights standards and the adverse effects of corruption. 56. Bosnia and Herzegovina reported on the measures adopted at the legislative, judicial and administrative levels to remedy inconsistencies in its legal system with the principles of international law, that is, with respect to equality before the law, the legal protection of its 17 national minorities and the elimination of racial discrimination, through the adoption of an anti-discrimination law. It noted the importance of the principles of predictability and accessibility upheld by the European Court of Human Rights. 57. Bulgaria reported on national measures to ensure compliance with due legal process with regard to lengthy judicial proceedings, the lack of efficient domestic remedies for the victims of crimes, and excessive use of force by police forces. Those measures included the amendment of the Judiciary System Act to introduce efficient compensatory mechanisms. Bulgarian authorities are expected to develop those mechanisms within a reasonable period of time. 58. The Czech Republic referred to its transitional experience, noting that effective support of democracy is a long-term strategic goal, based on partnership with civil society and encouraged as a common political commitment through bilateral and multilateral diplomacy. The Transition Promotion Programme set up in 2005 recognizes the linkage between democracy, the rule of law and human rights as the most effective instrument to control, prevent and redress human rights violations. The principles of democratic governance, including media freedom, access to information and the empowerment of civil society, were given priority in the transition policy. 59. Greece reported on the guarantees provided for civil servants under the Code of Civil Servants to criticize the action of a superior authority. Lifelong training for civil servants, in compliance with their right to continuing education, is an important factor for developing staff skills. It contributes to improving the quality and effective functioning of public administration and enhances its capacity to combat corruption. 60. Japan reported on its international support for democratization, notably through the Partnership for Democratic Development. This support includes the development of legal, judicial and electoral systems; training programmes for the judiciary, public administrations and police officers; women’s empowerment; and strengthening of civil society. The principles guiding the support are partnership with developing countries based on consultations and agreement and self-help efforts by the partner country. 61. Jordan reported on legislative and practical measures adopted in conformity with international human rights standards to ensure the independence of the judiciary and military courts, access to justice by all, including minorities, equality before the law, fair 12