A/HRC/14/3 85. The United States of America referred to civil society’s concerns about the denial of access to information and the lack of resources for the Office for Coordination of Access to Information. It noted with concern media complaints regarding harassment, censorship, arbitrary application of libel laws and the use of national security justification to suppress reporting. It appreciated the support expressed by Nicaragua for the participation of civil society and integration of the perspectives of women in promotion and protection of civil rights. It noted civil society leaders had been subject of unsubstantiated accusations, death threats and harassment. It made recommendations. 86. The Dominican Republic commended the importance given to the role and rights of women in development promising their full participation in national policy and decisionmaking. It recognized Nicaragua’s commitment to human rights, highlighting its programmes against poverty. It also recognized cooperation with different mechanisms and special procedures of the Council. It made recommendations. 87. India noted the accession to most major human rights instruments. It praised the human development plan, which set forth a development strategy based on the civil power model and citizen participation. It welcomed the introduction of special procurators and the establishment of the Office of the Procurator for the Defence of Human Rights in full accordance with the Paris Principles, and the Public Information Access Act. It highlighted the human rights training of police and military personnel, and steps to enhance access to justice, especially for vulnerable population. India appreciated efforts to provide universal coverage of social services, and commended for reducing illiteracy. It noted the Autonomous Regional Education System recognized the right of indigenous peoples to education in their own language. India commended the reduced maternal mortality but was concerned that the abortion law might contribute to maternal mortality. It asked about the possibility of providing exceptions in cases of therapeutic abortion. It also asked about challenges faced in implementing the new Criminal Procedure Code, especially regarding human trafficking. 88. Germany highlighted non-governmental organization reports on attacks and open or covert intimidation against human right defenders, journalists and radio stations, and on the vandalizing of independent media outlets. It asked about the steps planned to stop these attacks and to protect freedom of opinion and expression. It made recommendations. 89. Nicaragua was committed to providing information on the issues that have not been covered through the Permanent Representation. The review process had allowed Nicaragua to establish a sincere, genuine and transparent dialogue with the Council. Nicaragua hoped to take on board as many recommendations as possible reflecting the realities of the country. There was much to do, but Nicaragua expressed its will and commitment to respect human rights. Nicaragua invited representatives of civil society organizations to join in this task and contribute with their inputs. II. Conclusions and/or recommendations 90. The recommendations formulated during the interactive dialogue and listed below enjoy the support of Nicaragua: 1. Continue efforts to ensure that national laws comply with its international human rights obligations (Thailand); 2. Continue following up on obligations entered into in the various human rights treaties, prioritizing the needs of the most vulnerable segments of the population (Bolivia (Plurinational State of)); 14

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