A/HRC/10/78
Page 7
regard to gender equality, Turkey asked Serbia to give more information on the implementation
of the national Millennium Development Goals. Turkey wished to be informed on the mandate
and functioning of the Council for National Minorities and the implementation of by-laws on
affirmative action.
17.
Algeria recalled the commitment of Serbia and Algeria to the ideals of liberty, peace and
justice and to the principles of international law as the only way to preserve international
stability. It paid tribute, in particular, to the State’s determination to prevent Islamophobia,
having seen its negative consequences, and also for having brought Radovan Karadzic to justice.
Algeria asked for more information on the implementation of recommendations made by the
Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights on ensuring universal access to primary
health care, particularly by extending the system of mandatory insurance to all, including
refugees, displaced persons and Roma, and on the recommendation of the Human Rights
Committee regarding full and effective access to social services. Algeria noted that the adoption
of a specific law dealing with discrimination is listed among the State’s priorities. It
recommended that Serbia take appropriate measures to implement commitments referred to in
paragraphs 119 and 120 of the national report, in particular ratifying various international
instruments, including the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All
Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families.
18.
Italy was concerned that a number of non-governmental organizations have reported high
levels of domestic violence against women and children and recommended that Serbia take all
appropriate measures, in legislation, implementation and awareness-raising, to tackle such
issues. Italy noted that the implementation of the law in 2006 on churches and religious
organizations was giving rise to a significant number of complaints by “non-traditional”
religious communities, which have been denied official recognition and were thus deprived of
any legal status. Italy recommended that Serbia take adequate measures to guarantee the
protection and promotion of religious freedom, including by adopting legislation related to the
recognition of all churches and religious communities. While welcoming the adoption of a
strategy to improve the situation of disabled persons, Italy noted that the legislative framework
was incomplete and that not enough resources were allocated to this sector. It recommended that
new anti-discrimination legislation be adopted to protect the rights of disabled persons, including
the living conditions in residential and mental health institutions, and that their social integration
be promoted.
19.
Finland acknowledged the State’s commitment to improving the situation of the Roma,
who however still lived in poor conditions and faced discrimination in several areas, including
education, social protection, health care and employment. Finland asked for further information
on concrete measures for the improvement of the situation of the Roma and recommended that
the Government adopt and implement comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation, and
commit to effectively integrating the Roma into society. Expressing its concerns about the
realization of the rights of persons with disabilities, Finland recommended that the Government
take concrete measures to address the high rate of unemployment among persons with
disabilities and the special needs of children with disabilities at schools.
20.
The United Kingdom commended Serbia for its efforts and encouraged it to continue
bringing its legislation into line with European human rights standards. While recognizing the
State’s commitment to human rights, the United Kingdom noted that changes to its domestic
legislation were needed. It recommended that the Government ensure that legislation on the
proper implementation of its commitments to human rights was adopted and enforced as soon as
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