A/HRC/13/5 structural or underlying cause for those incidents. It also asked whether Norway could elaborate on the relationship between the various Ombudsmen and the Government, specifically on the implementation of the Ombudsman’s recommendations. Malaysia made a number of recommendations. 88. Burundi stated that Norway has ceaselessly worked to promote human rights at the national and international levels and that Burundi benefited from Norway’s experience and expertise. Burundi welcomed Norway’s efforts to punish all female genital mutilation and forced marriages. It noted that the new Criminal Code decriminalized blasphemy. Burundi complimented Norway on its new legislation protecting victims of trafficking. 89. Jordan noted that it is encouraged that Norway is strengthening its legislative and institutional framework, including the establishment of the Norwegian Centre for Human Rights. Jordan commended Norway’s appointment of a human rights committee charged with preparing a draft revision to enhance the human rights aspects in the Constitution. Jordan made a number of recommendations. 90. Qatar applauded Norway’s efforts to develop its national human rights institutions. It commended the preparation of a revised draft of the Constitution that will enhance human rights protection. It also referred to reforms to combat racial discrimination through comprehensive legislation. Qatar made several recommendations related to these issues. 91. Norway stated that assistance is offered to cover the basic humanitarian needs of immigrants without legal status. 92. On alleged discriminatory practices by the police, Norway referred to the 2009-2012 National Action Plan for equality and against ethnic discrimination, which includes a number of measures targeting the police. Visible registration numbers on police uniforms made it easier to file complaints against the police. 93. The gender pay gap issue will be addressed by raising awareness, Government initiatives and through tripartite cooperation between the social partners. 94. Norway was addressing the low level of income for immigrant workers and unemployment in times of crises. An action plan against social dumping, active surveillance of respect for the laws and regulations at the labour market, and effective policies against financial crises were being implemented. 95. Regarding official development assistance earmarked for human rights, Norway noted that human rights are an important component in many projects. 96. According to the Government, the Finnmark Act was working according to its purpose. The East Sámi language and culture had to be addressed in cooperation with the Russian Federation and Finland, in consultations with the Sámediggi and in dialogue with the East Sámi people. The Finnmark Act established the Finnmark Commission to investigate and map existing rights in Finnmark. Its work will include East Sámi areas. 97. Aware of the challenges regarding Sámi teaching materials, Norway had taken steps to improve the situation. 98. Full-time domestic violence coordinators were employed in all police districts. Domestic violence alarms had been deployed, and there was a free helpline for all victims of crime. Legal aid was provided to victims of domestic violence also before any complaint was made to the police. Rape and violence crisis centres were established across the country. Domestic violence was unconditionally prosecuted. 99. Norway noted that the practice of female genital mutilation conflicted with fundamental human rights and was prohibited and punishable by law. The action plan 2008-2011 focused on changing attitudes through dialogue involving the groups concerned. 13

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