A/HRC/42/16 102. Belgium was concerned about the deteriorating human rights situation since the 2018 political crisis. 103. Bhutan commended the progress made in poverty and inequality reduction and measures to guarantee women’s participation in decision-making. 104. The Plurinational State of Bolivia stressed the measures taken to eradicate poverty through a model of participatory democracy, and progress towards gender equality. 105. Brazil was concerned about the deteriorating human rights situation, but noted the release of political prisoners and the return programme. It urged the Government to allow international bodies to return to Nicaragua. 106. Bulgaria deplored the excessive force used in the 2018 protests. It noted the establishment of negotiations and called for the release of all political detainees. 107. Canada acknowledged the national dialogue and the liberation of prisoners. It called for a genuine and inclusive dialogue and electoral reforms. 108. Chile hoped for an improvement in the human rights situation and the reestablishment of cooperation with the international human rights system. 109. Colombia was concerned about the political and social crisis, triggered by persistent violations of fundamental freedoms. 110. Costa Rica noted that OHCHR had reported a number of human rights violations in Nicaragua between April and August 2018. 111. Croatia was concerned about the deteriorating human rights situation in Nicaragua since the protests had begun in April 2018. 112. Viet Nam welcomed the achievements of Nicaragua in term of gender equality, health, poverty reduction and climate change. 113. Cyprus acknowledged the efforts of Nicaragua to eradicate extreme poverty and promote inclusive education. 114. Czechia welcomed the agreement between Nicaragua and the International Committee of the Red Cross on access to prisons, but remained concerned at the disproportionate use of force by the police. 115. The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea noted with appreciation the sustained State policies, international commitments and significant achievements in various areas. 116. Denmark noted the systematic restriction of press freedom since 2018 through acts of violence and intimidation of journalists. 117. The Dominican Republic welcomed the delegation of Nicaragua and thanked it for its national report. 118. Ecuador reiterated its concern regarding the acts of violence that had resulted in numerous fatalities, including of minors, and hundreds of injuries. 119. Egypt welcomed the efforts of Nicaragua to promote economic, social and cultural rights by improving economic performance, reducing poverty and achieving food security. 120. El Salvador recognized the achievement of Nicaragua in terms of mainstreaming a gender perspective, which had resulted in more women taking on decision-making roles. 121. Haiti urged all relevant parties to end the sociopolitical crisis and bring the country back to the path to prosperity. 122. Malta was concerned at violent acts committed against students and civilians and the legal status of civil society and journalists’ organizations. 123. The delegation of Nicaragua stressed the Government’s commitment to the universal periodic review for the improvement and respect of human rights and thanked the countries that had participated in the interactive dialogue. 8