A/HRC/27/8 45. Germany acknowledged the positive developments that had led to the peaceful and democratic change of government. It commended steps to implement previous UPR recommendations, notably the enactment of the Domestic Violence Prevention Act. Germany made recommendations. 46. Ghana applauded steps to implement previous UPR recommendations. It requested clarification of the work and functions of the Gross National Happiness Commission, which had taken part in the preparation of the report. Ghana made a recommendation. 47. India commended the commitment of Bhutan to democracy and a free press, its achievements in poverty reduction, its efforts to consolidate the democratic process, and its holding of elections in 2013. It acknowledged the challenges facing Bhutan. India made recommendations. 48. Indonesia noted efforts to ensure women’s political participation, and the consideration of a quota system. It welcomed plans to reduce poverty and to assist vulnerable groups through targeted intervention. Indonesia made recommendations. 49. Iraq commended Bhutan for its achievements in improving the human rights situation since the first UPR cycle, its initiatives to protect women and children from violence, and its strengthening of human rights legislation. It welcomed efforts to promote political, economic and social rights and to combat poverty. 50. Ireland encouraged Bhutan to adhere to international instruments. It drew attention to the pending visit request by the Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief. It expressed concern at the prevalence of malnutrition, which increased child mortality and the likelihood of the non-fulfilment of Millennium Development Goal 4. Ireland made recommendations. 51. The Islamic Republic of Iran commended the constructive engagement of Bhutan in the UPR process. It noted the drafting of rules and regulations under the Child Care and Protection Act. It expressed appreciation for poverty reduction efforts and programmes. It made recommendations. 52. Italy commended Bhutan for its poverty alleviation efforts, for having taken steps towards ratifying international instruments and for having ratified the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the optional protocols thereto on the involvement of children in armed conflict and on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography. It expressed concern regarding child marriage and child labour. Italy made recommendations. 53. Jordan welcomed the enactment of the Domestic Violence Prevention Act, the Child Care and Protection Act and the Anti-Corruption Act, as well as the establishment of the National Commission for Women and Children. Jordan made recommendations. 54. Kazakhstan noted the signing of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the adoption of related domestic legislation, improved education and health care provision, and efforts to combat domestic violence and human trafficking. It welcomed the establishment of the National Commission for Women and Children and improved awareness of human rights. Kazakhstan made recommendations. 55. Kuwait commended progress in poverty alleviation through programmes such as the Rural Economy Advancement Programme and the National Rehabilitation Programme for the most vulnerable groups. Kuwait made a recommendation. 56. Kyrgyzstan noted the recent reduction in poverty and the provision of free education and health care. It expressed support for anti-corruption measures, which had improved the situation. Kyrgyzstan made recommendations. 7

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