A/HRC/24/14 power. Russia had been taking measures to bring its national judicial practices into compliance with the standards of the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR). 19. The law on free legal aid adopted in 2010 had broadened the guarantees of access to free legal advice in civil cases for the neediest sectors of the population. Free legal advice in criminal cases had always been provided without any limitations. 20. The delegation noted that the legacy of the past and various unfavourable factors inherited had continued to impair the realization of human rights. Systemic risks, such as arbitrariness of decisions taken by public and municipal officials, insufficient responsiveness and effectiveness of the courts, and the low level of public dialogue in society remained, and these had been taken into account in designing new measures. B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review 21. During the interactive dialogue, 102 delegations made statements. Recommendations made during the dialogue are to be found in section II of the present report. 22. Germany made recommendations. 23. Greece acknowledged the promotion of women’s rights, including the establishment of a working group to implement the recommendations of the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), particularly regarding female political representation. It welcomed the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and protection of vulnerable groups. 24. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela noted strengthened dialogue between public institutions and civil society, the newly enacted law on legal assistance, and increased pensions. 25. Cuba commended progress resulting from the implementation of recommendations accepted during the first cycle of the UPR. 26. Hungary asked whether United Nations-funded (non-governmental organizations) NGOs were considered to be foreign agents. It encouraged implementation of the recommendations of the Special Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers. 27. Iceland observed that legislation did not prohibit gender-based discrimination, despite prohibiting discrimination on other grounds. It expressed concern regarding reports of discrimination and violence against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) persons. 28. India noted the creation of Commissioners for Children’s Rights, legislation on legal assistance, and procedural safeguards legislation. It encouraged ongoing judicial reform, promotion of freedom of religious belief and the prevention of violence. 29. Indonesia commended the adoption of the national strategy for action in children’s interests. It acknowledged improved economic, social and cultural rights, and an increase in the minimum wage, leading to a decline in poverty. 30. The Islamic Republic of Iran welcomed the delegation of the Russian Federation and noted investment in health and education, which had led to improved quality of life. Active participation in the UPR demonstrated commitment to human rights. 31. Iraq welcomed implementation of measures resulting from the previous cycle of the UPR, including judicial reform, protection of the right to education of persons with disabilities and efforts to combat terrorism. 5