A/HRC/10/69 Page 3 Introduction 1. The Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review, established in accordance with Human Rights Council resolution 5/1 of 18 June 2007, held its third session from 1 to 15 December 2008. The review of Botswana was held at the 1st meeting, on 1 December 2008. The delegation of Botswana was headed by Hon. Mr. Dikgakgamatso Seretse, Minister for Defence, Justice and Security. At its meeting held on 3 December 2008, the Working Group adopted the present report on Botswana. 2. On 8 September 2008, the Human Rights Council selected the following group of rapporteurs (troika) to facilitate the review of Botswana: Uruguay, Senegal and Slovakia. 3. In accordance with paragraph 15 of the annex to resolution 5/1, the following documents were issued for the review of Botswana: (a) A national report submitted / written presentation made in accordance with paragraph 15 (a) (A/HRC/WG.6/3/BWA/1); (b) A compilation prepared by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), in accordance with paragraph 15 (b) (A/HRC/WG.6/3/BWA/2); (c) A summary prepared by OHCHR, in accordance with paragraph 15 (c) (A/HRC/WG.6/3/BWA/3). 4. A list of questions prepared in advance by the Czech Republic, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Sweden, the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark and Latvia was transmitted to Botswana through the troika. These questions are available on the extranet of the universal periodic review. I. SUMMARY OF THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE REVIEW PROCESS A. Presentation by the State under review 5. At the first meeting, on 1 December 2008, the opening statement of Botswana was presented by the Head of Delegation, the Honourable Mr. Dikgakgamatso N. Seretse, Minister of Defence, Justice and Security. 6. Botswana recognized that the commitment to the implementation of human rights instruments must be demonstrated through a series of actions, including domestication of treaties and reporting. It noted, however, some capacity constraints and the need for technical support. 7. The Minister presented an overview of the Botswana national report. In its preparation, the Government consulted with a cross section of civil society and took into account their comments and inputs. 8. Botswana explained that as a young country it is faced with diverse challenges and had to place emphasis on nation building and developmental issues. In the past four decades, Botswana has made significant strides in the areas of economic freedom, transparency and good governance. Botswana remained focused in its decision to find innovative ways that can guarantee its nationals and residents full enjoyment of human rights.