A/HRC/8/19 Page 6 17. The Ministry of the Interior stresses its continuous commitment to ensuring that peaceful and lawful assemblies and gatherings take place free from unlawful interference. A programme of human rights education will be developed, directed both at law enforcement officers and at civil society organizations to explore the possibility of developing a voluntary code of conduct and behaviour applicable to all present at lawful assemblies and gatherings to ensure full compliance with the rule of law. B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review 18. During the ensuing interactive dialogue a number of delegations welcomed Bahrain for its commitment and positive and highly constructive approach toward the UPR process, as illustrated, inter alia, by the attendance of a large delegation. Bahrain was also welcomed for the preparation of a report of high quality and civil society participation in the preparation thereof. Statements during the interactive dialogue were made by 36 delegations. 19. On behalf of the Arab Group, Palestine noted achievements in the area of human rights and welcomed that Bahrain had prepared in a democratic manner for the UPR review, including through wide participation. Palestine further welcomed the establishment of a human rights administration, even before the UPR mechanism had been established, reflecting Bahrain’s commitment to the UPR mechanism. It further highlighted the number of voluntary commitments undertaken by the country. It also noted that Bahrain was ranking among the 40 countries with a progressive human development, despite its geographic position and condition, as well as its shortage of resources. Palestine suggested that the example of Bahrain could set an Arab standard, which has set an example to all. 20. India congratulated Bahrain for the cooperative, open and positive approach during the preparation of the review. India welcomed the assertion by Bahrain of its commitment to democratic and pluralistic principles and to respecting human rights. India inquired about the status of a legislative proposal to establish a national human rights institution and offered further bilateral cooperation in this regard. Furthermore, India asked for details about steps already taken as well as those planned, which could favourably impact on the condition of foreign workers. 21. Congratulating Bahrain for its national report, Pakistan suggested that the involvement of stakeholders and the setting up of a hotline should be replicated in other countries. Pakistan noted with appreciation efforts undertaken in the area of human development, to improve labour policies and the close cooperation with ILO and UNDP. Freedom of expression has been encouraged and the number of newspapers and media outlets has increased. It also noted Bahrain’s efforts to enhance the situation of women in society, as well as women’s increased political participation. Pakistan invited the delegation to comment on how these series of steps regarding the advancement of women were perceived by the citizens. It also asked about plans to synthesize the good work and to replicate the good consequences in comparable circumstances elsewhere. 22. Qatar welcomed the decision to establish a national human rights institution, adopted in 2007. It noted with appreciation the decision of the House of Representatives in 2005 to integrate a special course in human rights and democracy into all school curricula, as well as recent free elections and women’s right to vote. Qatar invited the State under Review to provide information on human rights institutions Bahrain was planning to establish in the governmental or civil spheres. 23. Tunisia referred to the national association of journalists, who had received an international award. Noting with appreciation Bahrain’s progress in the area of audiovisual media, Tunisia asked how the country intended to adapt to international developments in this area.