A/HRC/42/16 43. Luxembourg stated that the events of 2018 showed that non-respect for human rights could jeopardize the consolidation of socioeconomic progress. 44. Madagascar welcomed efforts to promote respect for human rights, such as the adoption of Act No. 896 on combating human trafficking. 45. Maldives appreciated the efforts to resume talks with the Civic Alliance for Justice and Democracy to bring peace and stability to the nation. 46. Slovenia was concerned about the level of repression and called for thorough investigations into reports of harassment, intimidation, criminalization and reprisals and for perpetrators of human rights violations and abuses to be held accountable. 47. Mexico was following the situation in the country closely, especially with regard to the demonstrations in 2018. 48. Montenegro was concerned by domestic violence and sexual abuse of girls. It also noted the very high level of child pregnancy in Nicaragua. 49. Mozambique took note of the significant strides made by the Government, which had clearly promoted peace. 50. Myanmar commended Nicaragua on its ratification in 2018 of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. 51. The delegation of Nicaragua reaffirmed the progress made in the areas of gender equity and access to justice. 52. The Netherlands expressed concern about the lack of freedom of expression in Nicaragua, especially for journalists and human rights defenders. 53. New Zealand welcomed the participation of Nicaragua in the current cycle of the universal periodic review. 54. Nigeria noted efforts aimed at eradicating extreme poverty and commended efforts to combat human trafficking. 55. Norway remained deeply concerned about the human rights situation in Nicaragua. 56. Oman appreciated efforts to promote and protect human rights and the National Human Development Plan for sustained economic growth and poverty reduction. 57. Pakistan appreciated progress on social and economic development and noted efforts to combat poverty and realize the rights to health and education. 58. Paraguay expressed serious concern at reports of grave human rights violations, including the disproportionate use of force during demonstrations, arbitrary detentions and sexual violence in detention centres. 59. Peru expressed concern about the repression of peaceful protests and urged the Government to honour the commitments it had made during the negotiations to re-establish Constitutional order and democratic freedoms. 60. The Philippines welcomed the progress made in reducing poverty and extreme poverty and in inclusive education. It acknowledged the implementation of programmes to promote economic, social and cultural rights. 61. Poland remained alarmed by the restrictions on the enjoyment of all human rights, particularly freedom of expression, association and assembly, and the lack of due process. 62. Portugal was concerned about the continued violence and arrest of political opponents, the reports of violent repression and the arbitrary use of force. 63. Eritrea welcomed steps to combat poverty and improve the health and education sectors, and appreciated efforts for the realization of law and order. 64. The Republic of Korea appreciated efforts to improve living standards, poverty eradication, food, health and safety. It was concerned at reports of human rights violations. 5