A/HRC/28/17 40. Uruguay highlighted the ratification of OP-ICESCR and ICPPED. It welcomed the standing invitation to special procedures independent experts, which showed commitment to cooperation with the international human rights system. 41. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela noted efforts to improve the living conditions of Roma, particularly through education. It further noted the development of the normative framework for the prevention of gender-based violence, domestic violence and the protection of victims. 42. Viet Nam commended achievements in promoting and protecting human rights, including adoption of the guidelines for implementation of the World Programme for Human Rights Education in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It also noted improvements regarding institutional capacities, media freedom, education, social and health care, and employment rates. 43. Afghanistan commended efforts to implement recommendations accepted during the first cycle of the universal periodic review, particularly the ratification of CRPD and acceptance of its inquiry procedure. It welcomed the progress towards ensuring the rights of vulnerable and minority groups, noting the establishment of the Council of National Minorities and new laws and strategies. 44. Algeria welcomed the ratification of international instruments, including CRPD. It noted the creation of the Council for Children of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the adaptation of school curricula to meet the needs of minorities and improve integration. It welcomed the progress regarding gender equality, noting greater numbers of women in decision-making positions. 45. Angola welcomed the accession to international conventions and directives to improve living conditions for Roma children. It commended the work to harmonize gender equality legislation and ensure its application, in line with the the recommendation of the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women. It noted efforts to improve the social position of persons with disabilities. 46. Argentina commended efforts to strengthen criminal proceedings in relation to war crimes, noting the adoption of the protocol on the treatment of victims and witnesses of war crimes, sexual assault and other criminal acts of gender-based violence. It expressed an interest in the information provided regarding the prohibition of discrimination. 47. Australia welcomed the successful general elections and the progress in combating systematic abuses by the security forces. It expressed concern about constitutional clauses restricting full political participation by all citizens; undue influence and lack of capacity in the justice system; and reports of intimidation against journalists. 48. Austria commended the ratification of international instruments, noting concerns about implementation of the national policy framework. It expressed concern regarding violence against women; lack of progress on the ruling on the case of Sejdić and Finci; and Roma children outside the education system. It welcomed the ratification of CRPD and its Optional Protocol (OP-CRPD), urging further implementation. 49. Bahrain commended the method used to prepare the national report and noted efforts to implement recommendations accepted during the first cycle of the universal periodic review. It welcomed the reform of the criminal courts through the establishment of an efficient judicial system, guaranteeing the right to a fair trial, and related staff training programmes. 50. Belgium expressed regret that ethnic minorities had been prevented from standing for high-level State positions during recent elections; that right had only been granted to the three ethnic groups recognized in the constitution. It acknowledged local efforts to combat 8