A/HRC/36/8
manner. Turning to the issue of measures to prevent hate crime and tackle bullying, she
drew attention to the fact that the Non-discrimination Act placed a legal obligation on
authorities, schools and employers to promote equality and to take active steps to prevent
discrimination and harassment.
13.
In answer to the questions on migrants, asylum seekers and refugees, particularly
unaccompanied minors and their integration, the Minister elaborated on legislative changes
that had been made to ensure the management of the increased number of asylum seekers.
She also referred to the measures set out in the Government’s Integration Programme for
2016-2019 to support immigrants’ ability to secure an income, which was a requirement in
order for other family members to be granted a residence permit. That requirement could
limit the possibilities for family reunification and thus the integration of an unaccompanied
minor. However, exceptions might be made to the requirement if it was clearly in the
child’s best interest.
B.
Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review
14.
During the interactive dialogue, 70 delegations made statements. Recommendations
made during the dialogue are to be found in section II of the present report.
15.
Lebanon noted the presentation of the national report. It expressed appreciation for
efforts made by the Government to fight discrimination, racism and xenophobia through the
adoption of legislation and policies.
16.
Libya expressed appreciation for the fact that the national report included
monitoring of progress achieved since the second review cycle. It was concerned about
cases of violence against women and children, which were mentioned in the report.
17.
Lithuania congratulated Finland on its efforts across a wide range of human rights
issues. It commended Finland for adopting the second National Action Plan on
Fundamental and Human Rights 2017-2019 and supported efforts to combat violence
against women.
18.
The Maldives commended Finland for the creation of the Non-Discrimination
Ombudsman and the National Non-Discrimination and Equality Tribunal as measures to
ensure that the rights of its citizens were not infringed.
19.
Mexico welcomed the adoption of the National Action Plan on Fundamental and
Human Rights 2017-2019, particularly the inclusion of projects on human rights education.
It thanked Finland for sharing lessons learned on the prevention of domestic violence
against women and children.
20.
Mongolia congratulated Finland for implementing most of the recommendations
from the previous review cycle on ratifying human rights treaties. It appreciated the efforts
Finland had made to further protect the rights of children and persons with disabilities. It
noted, however, that violence against women remained the main human rights issue.
21.
Montenegro asked what policies had been developed to address all forms of
discrimination and violence against women, including domestic and sexual violence. It also
asked Finland to provide information on results achieved in implementing the action plan to
prevent hate speech and racism, as well as to foster social inclusion.
22.
Mozambique commended Finland for the implementation of recommendations from
the previous cycle, which had informed the preparation of its second National Action Plan
on Fundamental and Human Rights 2017-2019. It appreciated the fact that Finland had
ratified almost all of the main United Nations and Council of Europe human rights treaties.
23.
Namibia noted that Finland was an example of good practice on issues such as
access to information and free press, and that it was ranked by Reporters Without Borders
as one of the world’s top achievers. It applauded initiatives and achievements in
strengthening equality between men and women.
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