A/HRC/17/18 sexual abuse and trafficking in persons. Japan remained concerned about the wide use of preventive detention of youths and the frequent use of torture in police custody. Japan made recommendations. 69. Ecuador commended Paraguay for its efforts during the last 10 years in the consolidation of a comprehensive policy for the protection of human rights. It noted the role played by the Human Rights Network within the Executive power in the coordination of human rights policies. Ecuador highlighted progress made in the areas of education and social programmes to assist families in need, which demonstrated the commitment of Paraguay. 70. Sweden asked Paraguay about actions to combat gender-based discrimination in law and practice. While referring to provisions in the Constitution regarding discrimination on a number of grounds, it also noted that sociocultural traditions that discriminated against women persisted. It also noted that were no laws explicitly prohibiting discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transsexual persons in employment, housing and access to education or health. Sweden made recommendations. 71. Honduras noted the recent creation of a number of human rights bodies, including the Human Rights Network of the Executive branch. The commitment of the Government was also demonstrated by the elaboration of the Human Rights Action Plan 2010–2011. Honduras appreciated that Paraguay had extended a standing invitation to special procedures and increased cooperation with OHCHR and the United Nations country team. However, Honduras shared concerns expressed by the Committee on the Rights of the Child and the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women on human trafficking and legislation on sexual exploitation and encouraged Paraguay to take increased efforts to address these concerns. Honduras made recommendations. 72. Mexico recognized progress made by Paraguay in the recognition of the right of indigenous people to collective land property and the implementation of policies to fight poverty and social inequality. It took note of efforts to investigate, punish, redress and prevent human rights violations by State and non-State agents during the dictatorship. Mexico made recommendations. 73. Australia recognized ongoing efforts to strengthen human rights legislation and establish related institutions. It also welcomed efforts to meet the needs of all Paraguayans, especially rural and indigenous communities. Australia further welcomed the existing freedom of assembly, association and religions, as well as efforts to end discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender. However, it was concerned by harassment of and discrimination against women, minorities and indigenous peoples. It also welcomed progress in bringing perpetrators of past human rights abuses to justice, but was concerned by reports of security force heavy-handedness, as well as unacceptable prison conditions. Australia made recommendations. 74. Colombia commended Paraguay for its national report. It highlighted the firm commitment of Paraguay to ensuring that violations committed during the military dictatorship did not occur again. Colombia welcomed efforts to address all forms of discrimination. Colombia reiterated its willingness, within the framework of bilateral agreements to continue cooperating with Paraguay on efforts to counter–terrorism and common crime. Colombia made recommendations. 75. Costa Rica congratulated Paraguay on the greatly improved human rights situation since the end of the dictatorship and for the ratification of international human rights instruments. It recognized the enormous efforts undertaken in this regard and expressed understanding that full implementation would need time and resources. Costa Rica also appreciated the establishment of an independent human rights institution. It expressed satisfaction concerning the adoption of the Action Plan for Human Rights Education, which 12