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xenophobia. It understands that the challenges faced by South Africa are enormous, but with the
commitment displayed by the Government, South Africa will soon be able to overcome these
challenges.
582. Botswana was encouraged by South Africa’s willingness to accept the recommendations of
the Working Group and that most of them are already being implemented. It noted with
appreciation the stance taken recently against xenophobic attacks on expatriates, which
demonstrates the commitment of the Government to safeguarding the human rights of both
South Africans and other nationals within its borders.
583. Algeria commended South Africa on having adopted, after the first democratic election
in 1994, a reconstructive framework the primary goal of which was to address the historical
legacy of inequality and create an integrated service delivery system to improve the quality of
life of all South Africans. It noted that the Government is demonstrating a firm commitment to
continuing to implement its human rights obligations and to address in the most appropriate
manner xenophobic attitudes towards immigrants from neighbouring countries. It commended
South Africa on following a coherent and structural approach to tackling poverty and
underdevelopment by integrating appropriate measures into sectoral policies and strategies and
by providing appropriate budgetary allocations thereto. With regard to HIV/AIDS, Algeria
highlighted that through the establishment of the Medicine Pricing Regulation in 2004, the
Government has made medicine affordable for all. It appreciated the fact that the challenge was
addressed with a special focus on preventive programmes targeting adolescents. Concerning
housing issues, it is impressed by the challenge that South Africa has met notably in addressing
the phenomenon of “homelessness-landlessness”. Beyond the impressive increase in available
housing and the adoption of legislation to address the issue of land reform, it acknowledged the
strong constitutional and legislative protection measures taken to prevent illegal evictions and to
provide judicial recourse for victims of illegal evictions. It stated that South Africa will continue
to be a source of inspiration in the field of human rights.
584. Malaysia noted with appreciation the positive engagement of the Government of
South Africa in the universal periodic review process, including its forthcoming responses during
the interactive dialogue in the session of the Working Group. It noted South Africa’s
commendable transformation into a vibrant democratic nation embracing the principles of the
rule of law and sound socio-economic policies for its population. The benefits thereof have been
acknowledged during the review of South Africa’s national report. It congratulated the
Government on its efforts to further enhance the promotion and protection of human rights in the
country, despite the existing challenges it continues to face. It reiterated its support to the
Government’s leading role in the global fight against racism and racial discrimination.
585. Egypt congratulated South Africa on the efforts made in the short period since
independence, and in getting rid of the repulsive system of colonialism, apartheid and racial
discrimination. It noted the progress achieved, including the framing of a modern constitution
and legislation, as well as the establishment of proactive institutions. Egypt noted that these
achievements were a good basis, though a work in progress, and was satisfied with the
constructive and open spirit in which the Government would address any new and remaining
challenges.
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