A/HRC/24/5 84. On results achieved in combating sexist stereotypes and patriarchal attitudes, Cape Verde highlighted that its legislation was very modern and in line with international standards, but that traditional mentalities could not be abolished by decree. That was why institutions such as the National Human Rights Commission were created to raise awareness on human rights and educate the population. In the previous few years, the Commission had been working intensively to carry out that function. Additionally, the educational system of Cape Verde was conceived so as to raise awareness of human rights issues. Action adopted in that regard was described in detail. 85. As for the reduction of discrimination in the private sector it was clarified that labour law already prohibited discrimination, so that there was a clear norm that should be complied with by that sector. 86. With regard to questions on the establishment of the National Human Rights Commission and persons with disabilities, Cape Verde acknowledged existing challenges and reiterated information provided on action taken to address those issues. 87. On plans to reduce gender-based violence, it was explained that the new legislation adopted was appropriate and complied with international standards, but that remaining challenges included awareness-raising and training of police and judicial officials with regard to how to address the issue expediently, as well as that of the general population. 88. Sierra Leone congratulated Cape Verde on its achievements in promoting and protecting human rights since 2008, including legislative and policy measures in the areas of women’s and children’s rights, gender equality and combating gender-based violence, the rights of persons with disabilities and prison reform. It made recommendations. 89. Singapore welcomed the provision of free primary education, the adoption of legislation to enhance the legal protection of children in line with its obligations under CRC and the establishment of support centres for child victims of ill-treatment, abuse and sexual exploitation. It also welcomed initiatives to promote gender equality and combat genderbased violence referring to the 2011 Gender-Based Violence Act and the National Gender Equity and Equality Plan. Singapore made recommendations. 90. Slovakia commended the ratification and signature of major international human rights instruments, the drafting of a national UPR follow-up action plan adopted in 2012, the adoption of the Gender-Based Violence Act, constitutional reforms to strengthen the independence of the judiciary and greater female political participation. Slovakia made recommendations. 91. Slovenia noted with appreciation the ratification of several important international human rights instruments, including CRPD, OP-CEDAW, the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide and the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court. However, it was concerned that its reporting status was not very good. Slovenia made recommendations. 92. South Africa commended the signature and ratification of several key international human rights instruments and steps taken to promote and protect children’s rights, including becoming a party to international and regional instruments and working in collaboration with UNICEF and the Institute for Children and Adolescents. It made a recommendation. 93. Spain congratulated Cape Verde on its ongoing commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights and commended in particular the adoption of legislation to eliminate discrimination against persons with disabilities and discrimination on grounds of gender or sexual orientation. Spain made recommendations. 12