A/HRC/16/18 13. As regards the jurisdiction of military courts, this had been expanded as a result of the prevailing security situation. 14. A Lebanese-Palestinian Dialogue Committee had been created to improve refugees’ conditions and find solutions in areas such as employment and education. In cooperation with UNRWA, two laws had been enacted on specific benefits for Palestinians at the termination of service or in the case of accidents. The right to work was granted to Palestinians residing in Lebanon. However, humanitarian assistance, in terms of education, living condition and health, were primarily to be shouldered by the international community through UNRWA. In accordance with the fundamental objective of the return of refugees to their homeland and in light of Lebanon’s delicate demographic composition, the Constitution provided that Lebanon would not allow settlement of Palestinian on its lands. 15. Concerning the overcrowding of prisons, Lebanon was in need of further assistance. It was applying the law on the reduction of sentences and preparing a draft law on alternative punishment. The administration of prisons had been moved from the Ministry of Interior to the Ministry of Justice. 16. In conclusion, the head of delegation reconfirmed the Government’s commitment and full respect of international standards of human rights and its commitment to cooperation with international mechanisms and civil society organizations. B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review 17. Algeria noted that the ratification by Lebanon of most international human rights instruments was proof of its commitment to human rights. It further noted that the issue of the foreign workforce in Lebanon posed challenges. Algeria appreciated efforts to improve the situation of Palestinian refugees, including with regard to improved access to the labour market. Algeria wished Lebanon success in its endeavours, in spite of existing threats to its security and sovereignty. Algeria made recommendations. 18. Qatar noted that the political and legal system guaranteed respect for basic freedoms, social justice and equality of rights without discrimination. While repeated aggressions and resulting political and social crises had hampered development and the enjoyment of human rights, Lebanon had made efforts to overcome the difficulties and improve living conditions, particularly for vulnerable groups, and to revive its economy. Qatar made recommendations. 19. Sudan expressed understanding for challenges faced by Lebanon due to the Israeli occupation of Palestinian and other Arab lands, but valued the achievements made in the area of human rights. Sudan expressed appreciation for the draft law by the Ministry of Labour on retirement and social protection and old age and inquired about the main provisions. Sudan made recommendations. 20. Oman noted that Lebanon was party to the major human rights instruments, which demonstrated its commitment to human rights and to complying with its international obligations. Oman expressed its conviction that the promotion and protection of human rights was a strategic choice for Lebanon on the path towards progress and stability, and noted that fundamental rights were guaranteed by the Constitution. Oman made a recommendation. 21. Saudi Arabia noted that the Lebanese Constitution contained a section dedicated to human rights and that the Government had made progress at the legal and institutional level, in spite of difficulties related to economic and security aspects. Saudi Arabia further commended the excellent cooperation by Lebanon with United Nations mechanisms, 5