A/HRC/14/13 adequate defence, were respected and that appeal procedures were available for persons willing to submit a complaint and bring their case to court. 59. The delegation expressed the assurance that it would provide written replies to other questions that had not been fully addressed. 60. The Netherlands expressed serious concern at the impact on the enjoyment of all human rights resulting from the political crisis in the country, particularly with regard to reported unlawful arrests and arbitrary detentions, as well as violence against women and girls, including widespread domestic and sexual violence accompanied by a culture of impunity, and the lack of criminal provisions sanctioning marital rape. It made recommendations. 61. China appreciated the fact that Madagascar considered the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals a priority in its long-term efforts to eradicate poverty. It noted the establishment of a National Human Rights Council and the efforts made to promote the right to education and health and cultural rights. It noted that Madagascar had formulated a poverty reduction strategic paper and plan of action, and it expressed the hope that further information would be provided about their implementation. 62. The Lao People’s Democratic Republic noted the progress and achievements of Madagascar in promoting recovery and development despite the socio-political crisis that had affected the country since 2008. It also noted the establishment of a National Human Rights Council in accordance with the Paris Principles. It commended Madagascar for having supported the objectives of “Education for All”. It made recommendations. 63. Belarus noted with satisfaction a number of initiatives undertaken by the country, particularly the adoption of national plans to promote education for all and to combat HIV/AIDS and child labour. In that regard, it considered that, at the request of the Government, the United Nations, including the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, would provide appropriate technical assistance. It encouraged Madagascar to step up its efforts related to women’s and children’s rights, including in the areas of sexual exploitation, women’s access to medical care and education, the protection of street children from forced labour and the trafficking in persons. It made recommendations. 64. Norway recalled that the Universal Declaration of Human Rights set out the fundamental principle that the authority of Government shall be based on the will of the people, expressed in genuine elections. Norway expressed its particular concern regarding the human rights impact of environmental degradation in Madagascar, including the ongoing plundering of biological treasures recognized as World Heritage, which had escalated during the political crisis. Norway highlighted the role of civil society as essential to any meaningful universal periodic review process. Norway noted the focus on freedom of speech and the right to assembly, but expressed concerns about the increased number of politicians and journalists reportedly arrested and imprisoned. Norway recalled that media were crucial in ensuring freedom of expression. While noting certain progress made, Norway remained concerned at the lack of judicial independence and effectiveness. Norway appreciated the country’s determination regarding women’s rights. Norway made recommendations. 65. Argentina submitted a number of questions about the situation in Antananarivo, particularly concerning measures taken to restore the rule of law and measures adopted for the defence of women’s rights, in particular in cases involving domestic violence. Argentina welcomed the efforts made to accede to most international instruments on human rights. Argentina expressed concern about the situation of physical and sexual domestic violence experienced by girls and women. Argentina made recommendations. 10