A/HRC/17/3
33.
Brazil was pleased to learn of measures aimed at reviewing the Constitution, with
positive impact in areas such as women’s and children’s rights, the right to life, economic
and social rights, freedom of information and political participation. Brazil regretted
however that despite all efforts, the review had not been approved by referendum. It warned
that persistence of the political stalemate could jeopardize the promotion and protection of
fundamental rights and freedoms. Brazil commended Nauru for its review of the Criminal
Code, which, amongst others, would decriminalize sexual relations between consenting
adults of the same sex. Brazil also recognized positive steps with regard to women’s rights,
but noted with concern the high incidence of violence against women, particularly domestic
violence. Brazil made recommendations.
34.
The delegation of Nauru welcomed the fact that most of the statements were in
support of Nauru. Regarding women and children, Nauru tried to address most of these
issues through the constitutional review. Although the constitutional referendum failed, all
the measures for the advancement of the rights of women and children were very much
supported and were not controversial matters. The Government and the Parliament were
looking at ways to introduce legislation in this regard that could be allowed under the
current circumstances.
35.
With regard to the national human rights institution, Nauru had discussed the matter
at length. The biggest obstacle towards establishing such an institution was again resources
and expertise. In its struggle to regain financial and economic situation, Nauru recognized
that there were probably other institutions which took precedence such as the Ombudsman
Office, the Leadership Code and tribunal. A national Ombudsman Office might be created
through the parliamentary amendments to the Constitution. Because of human and financial
constraints, a proposal was still under consideration for this office to have a dual function.
36.
Domestic violence against women and children was a problem in Nauru and the
Government was taking positive steps and gave more focus on this issue by establishing the
Domestic Violence Unit, which combined various departments to look at this matter. Nauru
was interested in trying to formulate policies and actions in this field. In prisons, for
example, young offenders and women were physically separated after the building of new
facilities.
37.
Nauru was aware of the lack of a focal point for children issues. There were many
issues such as children and disability issues which were cross-sectoral, as they did not relate
to one ministry. Nauru needed a better arrangement in place in this regard.
38.
Slovenia welcomed the efforts undertaken by Nauru to improve the human rights
situation of its people, in spite of challenges. In particular, it noted efforts to fight domestic
violence, empower women, improve the quality of education, address unemployment and
draft a new Criminal Code. With regard to the negative outcome of the referendum on
constitutional reform, Slovenia asked which of the envisaged rights clauses could still be
approved by the parliament. Slovenia made recommendations.
39.
Hungary noted with satisfaction that despite the impact of climate change Nauru had
proved its commitment to the Millennium Development Goals. Hungary welcomed the
ratification of the Convention on the Rights of the Child without reservations, but noted that
no reports had been submitted yet to the Committee on the Rights of the Child. Hungary
was concerned about the low proportion of boys enrolled in secondary education, and about
the high rate of school truancy. It also expressed concern about the lack of specific
legislation on violence against women. At the same time, Hungary appreciated efforts made
to curb that situation and also welcomed that Nauru had signed Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. Hungary made
recommendations.
7
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