A/HRC/21/14
18.
Regarding human rights training for the police and their evaluation, an issue raised
by Slovenia, the delegation indicated that even though the exact direct effects of those
trainings had not been measured, indirectly, they were reflected in the rate of public trust
towards the police which had reached 70 per cent.
19.
On steps taken to counteract extensive pretrial detentions and overcrowding of
prisons, an issue raised by the United Kingdom, the number of imprisoned had been
constantly dropping, down to 95 per cent of the capacities available , achieved partly as a
result of a wider application of alternative punishment and the use of electronic surveillance
systems.
20.
Regarding Norway’s question on measures taken to review article 212 of the Polish
Penal Code that criminalizes libel and slander, penal sanctions had already been reduced in
June 2010.
21.
Norway, Sweden and Slovenia asked about women’s enjoyment of their sexual and
reproductive rights. In recent years Poland had introduced a new right of the patient; the
right to object to the doctor's opinion or judgment, if it affected the patient's rights or
obligations. The Penal Code did not envisage any sanctions for women who had undergone
an illegal abortion. Women, who had illegally terminated pregnancy, were offered medical
and psychological help.
22.
Norway asked about measures taken in order to ratify Protocol 12 to the European
Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms (ECHR) on
Discrimination. The Constitution in its article 32 stipulated that all persons were equal
before the law and had the right to equal treatment by public authorities. As a result, no one
can be discriminated against in political, social or economic life. More time was necessary
for Poland to proceed with inter-ministerial consultations to conclude whether Poland can
accede to Protocol 12.
B.
Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review
23.
During the interactive dialogue, 45 delegations made statements. Recommendations
made during the dialogue are to be found in section II of the present report.
24.
Malaysia remained concerned at the increased incidents of racial violence, abuse and
discrimination against minority groups and the lack of attention given to investigating and
prosecuting reported cases; and the reports of excessive use of force by law enforcement
agencies. Malaysia also noted the continued social marginalization and discrimination of
the Roma community. Malaysia made recommendations.
25.
Mexico recognized Poland’s legislative progress which inter alia related to a better
definition of torture, freedom of expression and domestic violence. It also recognized
Poland’s efforts in relation to the rights of persons with disabilities, the broadening of the
scope of human trafficking and the increased protection for children against sexual
violence. Mexico made recommendations.
26.
Morocco welcomed Poland’s ratification of a significant number of human rights
instruments since 2008. It expressed satisfaction at the establishment of several human
rights institutions, including three offices of the Ombudsman. Morocco welcomed the work
done by Poland in the Human Rights Council. Morocco made recommendations.
27.
The Netherlands asked whether Poland would ensure that bodies such as the
Ombudsman and the Office of the Plenipotentiary for Equal Treatment receive adequate
funding; could elaborate on its plans to prevent racial incidents and hate crimes; and would
consider amending the Criminal Code by including crimes motivated by homophobic and
gender biases
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