A/HRC/33/6
49.
Indonesia appreciated efforts made by Samoa on legal and social reform, as
recommended in the first cycle. It encouraged Samoa to further promote a strengthened
independent national human rights institution. Indonesia encouraged the ratification of the
Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or
Punishment.
50.
Ireland commended positive developments since the first review. Ireland urged that
additional attention be paid to children’s rights, and it echoed the concerns of the
International Labour Organization at the persistence of child labour, including child street
vendors.
51.
The delegation of Samoa pointed out that the Government had been working on the
ratification of a number of international instruments. In reply to questions on specific
issues, Samoa indicated that the Constitution already included provisions against torture
and mistreatment of persons in custody. Concerning the adverse effects of climate change,
Samoa had recently been a signatory to the Paris Agreement on climate change, which
paved the way for future global action. Immediately after signing, Samoa had deposited its
instrument of ratification. The recommendation of the first cycle on the establishment of a
sex-offender registry had been implemented and the relevant instrument was now before
the Parliament for adoption. Authorities and institutions had recently been involved in a
weeklong training session on sex offences.
52.
Samoa was not procrastinating on the ratification of international treaties; it would
examine all human rights conventions for possible ratification, but it would first make sure
that an adequate legal framework for their implementation was in place. That exercise,
which was absolutely essential, would take time.
53.
Italy welcomed progress on women’s rights with the adoption of the Family Safety
Act, the creation of a specialist family violence court and the introduction of the crime of
marital rape. Italy commended Samoa for results achieved in the field of compulsory
education.
54.
Jamaica noted robust human rights awareness-raising programmes and the strong
commitment to governance, which emphasized the Samoan way of life. Jamaica
encouraged Samoa to continue engaging religious leaders to play a more active role in
promoting women’s rights and reducing domestic violence.
55.
Malaysia noted efforts taken to increase school enrolment among children with
disabilities or those in vulnerable socioeconomic situations. Malaysia noted that further
efforts could be undertaken to counter discrimination against women, eliminate violence
against children and promote the rights of persons with disabilities.
56.
Maldives welcomed the progress made, notably the constitutional amendment
introducing a 10 per cent quota reserving five seats for women in Parliament. Maldives
encouraged Samoa to continue reaching out to international partners, including OHCHR, to
further strengthen efforts to promote and protect human rights in Samoa.
57.
Mexico highlighted the creation of the Office of the Ombudsman. It noted efforts
made by Samoa to promote the rights of women, as reflected in the Labour and
Employment Relations Act 2013, and urged the Government to take the measures necessary
to ensure its effective implementation.
58.
Morocco appreciated the consultative approach to preparing the national report. It
welcomed efforts towards harmonizing national legislation with international norms, such
as the adoption of the Samoa national development strategy; the creation and design of 15
sectoral plans covering such matters as agriculture, education, communication, health and
public administration; and the law and justice sector plan for the period 2012-2016.
GE.16-10832
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