A/HRC/24/14
Estemirova. Measures had been taken to solve other crimes committed against journalists
and human rights activists.
58.
The right to freedom of expression is guaranteed by the Constitution and censorship
was prohibited. Distribution of information that could cause damages should be limited in
order to prevent terrorism, extremism, etc. Legal amendments had singled out three
particularly dangerous types of information, namely, child pornography, instructions on
how to produce drugs and information on ways to commit suicide. In March 2013, the list
of information that could cause damages was supplemented by information on the children
who had been victims of crimes. The Law provided for a number of steps in order for
specific information to be deemed prohibited. Prohibitions related only to the specific types
of information mentioned above and had no impact on freedom of expression or the use of
the Internet. Filters had an important role to play as far as children’s access to the Internet
was concerned.
59.
There was no specific legislation regulating the Internet and this had been subject to
general legal norms. The delegation highlighted that restrictions in this area had been
introduced with the aim of countering terrorism, extremism and prevention of
dissemination of dangerous information and the implementation thereof should be carried
out in accordance with the law in order to make restrictions on freedom of expression
unnecessary.
60.
Regarding questions on restrictions on freedom of assembly and demonstrations, the
delegation stated that legal reforms in this area had been completed and that the key
objective of the legislation was to ensure balance between the realization of freedom of
expression for all, including through public manifestation, and public order.
61.
Pakistan welcomed the 2012 legislation providing for free legal assistance to
citizens, establishment of Regional Commissioners for human rights and a Commissioner
for children’s rights. It noted steps to comply with the Convention against Torture.
62.
Paraguay noted results in protecting human rights, and protection of women and
persons with disabilities. It noted evolution in due process and freedom of association.
63.
The Philippines welcomed the signing of the Convention on the Legal Status of
Migrant Workers from the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS States). It
commended the establishment of the Commissioner for Children’s Rights and expressed
confidence with regard to similar protection for women.
64.
Poland noted the development of human rights infrastructure. It expressed concern
at regulations requiring NGOs to register as foreign agents, and about reports of violence
against women and human rights defenders.
65.
The Republic of Korea highlighted significant steps taken to address racially
motivated crime and improvements to ease the requirements for founding political parties.
66.
Romania was concerned about restrictions on freedom of association and expression
and alleged torture in detention. It hoped for the continued ratification of further
international human rights instruments.
67.
Rwanda welcomed the extension of the moratorium on the death penalty, action to
combat trafficking in persons and reforms to the judicial system, including to prevent
corruption.
68.
Saudi Arabia welcomed the attachment of the Russian Federation to constructive
engagement with international human rights mechanisms and acknowledged important
steps taken in the field of human rights.
8
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