A/HRC/26/6 43. The Philippines noted progress in ratifying international human rights instruments and engagement with regional human rights bodies. It praised the inclusion of human rights among the constitutional amendments. 44. Timor-Leste noted the steps taken to strengthen the legal system to ensure the protection and promotion of the human rights of citizens, particularly in the area of health. 45. Togo noted progress in honouring international commitments. It commended the achievement of most of the MDGs. 46. Tunisia noted progress made since the review in 2009. It encouraged Viet Nam to fight more effectively all forms of discrimination against women. 47. Turkey commended steps taken to protect the rights of vulnerable groups. It expressed concern about the income gap between rich and poor. 48. Kazakhstan noted the signature of CRPD and the ratification of CAT and steps taken in human rights education among government bodies to ensure freedom of religion and social welfare provision. 49. The United Arab Emirates commended policies and laws regarding the human rights of the population. 50. The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland encouraged Viet Nam to ensure that all citizens have the right to freedom of expression and assembly without fear of harassment or imprisonment. 51. The United States of America welcomed progress on protecting the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) persons. It expressed concern about restrictions on freedom of religion and the formation of independent trade unions, and about harassment of unregistered churches. 52. Uruguay highlighted the abolition of the death penalty for some crimes, the signature of CRPD, and policies aimed at strengthening human rights education. 53. Uzbekistan commended the attention paid to UPR. It noted the strengthening of constitutional guarantees, amendments to the Penal Code and the implementation of various human rights awareness-raising programmes. 54. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela praised progress made, particularly with regard to the achievement of most of the MDGs. 55. Yemen commended efforts to improve and develop the human rights situation. It highlighted various measures, including laws to protect elderly people, people with disabilities and trade unions. 56. The delegation reaffirmed the commitment and efforts of the Government to protect and promote human rights by giving detailed supplementary information on domestic legal reform, accession to and implementation of international instruments, the achievement of MDGs, the exercise of freedom of opinion and speech, and the implementation of the Penal Code and Criminal Procedure Code. 57. The delegation gave details of the drafting and adoption process for the 2013 Constitution, which gave human rights, together with citizens’ rights, higher priority than ever before. Under the 2013 Constitution, although restrictions might be put on the exercise of rights for national security, public order and health or morality, they are in conformity with international standards. 58. The newly amended Land Law protects the rights of citizens, especially the rights and legitimate benefits of women citizens regarding ownership and use of land. 7

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