A/HRC/23/12 66. The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia commended the ratification of core human rights treaties and the establishment of a legislative and institutional human rights framework. Noting the adoption of a law and strategy against domestic violence, it requested details on the legal framework to combat violence against women and the effects of the legislation adopted. More information was requested on the institutional protection of minority rights. 67. The Republic of Moldova applauded efforts by Montenegro to strengthen its human rights protection system. At the same time, it emphasized the importance of effective translation of the human rights standards into practice. It welcomed the development of policies, programmes and strategies to combat human trafficking and prevent and eliminate domestic violence against women and children. The Republic of Moldova made recommendations. 68. Slovakia commended Montenegro on its ratification of core international human rights instruments, notably its signing of the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on a communications procedure (OP-CRC-IC). It noted that Montenegro, as a multi-ethnic and multicultural State, promoted intercultural dialogue and cooperation among ethnic and religious groups in the wider region. Slovakia made recommendations. 69. Slovenia welcomed the adoption of legislation and specific measures to address discrimination in general, but especially discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity, and legislation to prohibit the publication of information and opinions aimed at inciting discrimination. It also welcomed the adoption of legislation on protection from domestic violence. Slovenia made a recommendation. 70. Responding to comments made, the Montenegro delegation referred to significant steps taken to address the high level of homophobia in Montenegro. In December 2011, the Government set up three working groups (with equal numbers of representatives from ministries and NGOs), with the aim of creating the conditions for LGBT persons to obtain equal status in the community. 71. The new law strengthening the competences of the Protector of Human Rights and Freedoms (Ombudsman) was highlighted. It was set up as the national mechanism for the protection of persons deprived of liberty against torture and other forms of cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. The Parliament of Montenegro appointed a Deputy Ombudsman for the prevention of torture and the protection of persons deprived of liberty. 72. Montenegro has adopted a series of strategic documents on anti-corruption: the Strategy for the fight against corruption and organized crime and the Strategy for the reform of judiciary 2010, including the action plan. The creation of a Commission composed of high-ranking members of the executive, judiciary, Parliament, political parties and NGOs to coordinate and monitor anti-corruption policy was an important step forward. Montenegro has also established specialized anti-corruption governmental departments; undergone GRECO evaluations concerning the State’s corruption practices conducted public campaigns to enhance awareness of corruption; implemented judicial training for judges and prosecutors dealing with corruption and instigated disciplinary procedures against a number of officers regarding corruption and organized crime. Montenegro intends to implement activities related to improving anti-corruption legislation; strengthen cooperation between bodies dealing with combating corruption and conflict of interest; develop integrity plans and campaigns to promoting reporting of corruption and protection for citizens who report it. 73. Reference was made to the judicial reform being undertaken in cooperation with the courts, prosecution and the bar and all stakeholders. Parliamentary committees are working 10