A/HRC/8/42 Page 11 reorientation and updated curriculum assistance. It noted that any assistance by the international community in the field would be welcome. 53. Regarding the issue of the independence of the judiciary and access to justice, the Representative highlighted the importance of a vibrant civil society and political parties in the March 2007 lawyers’ movement. She noted a few problems, including that of the restoration of the lawyers and judges, already released from detention, which is currently being examined. Pakistan re-stated that the National Human Rights Commission was in the process of being created and noted as challenges ensuring true independence and diversity of opinion. 54. On the issue of child labour, Pakistan re-stated that it was aware of the problem, the reason for which lies mainly in poverty, and added that this problem exists mainly in the informal sector, its incidence in the formal sector being negligible. The Representative noted a number of measures taken to eliminate this issue, including its elimination from hazardous industries i.e. surgical, tanneries, football and carpets. 55. Norway recommended a swift ratification of ICCPR and CAT and enactment of implementing legislation to ensure that ICCPR, CAT and ICESCR become part of the domestic law. It recommended Pakistan to consider issuing standing invitations to all special procedures. It drew attention to the fact that journalists work under constant threat of attack both from the security forces and militants, and that they are regularly subjected to torture, kidnapping, illegal detention, beatings, and death threats from the State, insurgents and opposition political parties and requested information on initiatives to address this concern. Norway recommended that the Government investigate and prosecute both government officials and other perpetrators of acts against members of the media. 56. Jordan noted Pakistan’s progress in combating poverty and promoting freedom of expression, including of the press, as well as achievements in the area of national reconciliation, and urged Pakistan to continue along this path. 57. Noting Pakistan’s legislative and institutional promotion of gender equality, Austria requested information on the status and content of the “Prevention of Anti-Women Practices Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill (2007)”. Austria recommended that further measures be adopted to overcome stereotypes, constitutional and legal guarantees reinforced and implemented, and the human rights of women safeguarded. Austria requested information on the situation of the internally displaced, particularly in the Balochistan province. Austria recommended to Pakistan to adopt specific measures to safeguard the human rights of IDPs. Austria enquired about Pakistan’s application of the death penalty, particularly in relation to blasphemy and adultery. 58. The United Arab Emirates noted Pakistan’s efforts to improve the situation and the standard of living of its people and noted results in reducing poverty and illiteracy. The United Arab Emirates recommended that these achievements be emulated by in other countries and enquired about the Women’s Commission established in 2000. 59. Azerbaijan noted the National Plan of Action for Education for All, the Ten-Year Perspective Development Plan 2001-2011 and progress in women’s rights. It requested Pakistan to share lessons learned on tackling refugee-related issues and more information on the District Interfaith Harmony Committees. 60. Bahrain recognized the progress made in a number of areas, including health and education. It asked for information regarding freedom of information and the media. 61. The Netherlands recognized that Pakistan has made progress regarding the situation of women in its society by introducing the Women’s Protection Act of 2006. Netherlands recommended that Pakistan incorporate ICESCR and ICCPR and other treaties to which Pakistan is a party, such as CEDAW and CRC, into domestic legislation and that it ensure effective

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