A/HRC/17/9 85. Italy welcomed Aung San Suu Kyi’s liberation and took note of the elections. It was concerned about human rights violations and impunity, specifically regarding the death penalty, child soldiers, torture, forced labour, sexual violence, restrictions on freedom of expression, ethnic minorities’ and detainees’ rights. It made recommendations. 86. The delegation of Myanmar stated that, during their visits, Special Rapporteurs were allowed to go to the places they wanted to visit and meet the persons they requested to see. 87. The Myanmar Human Rights Body is still in its initial stages and its goal is to emerge eventually as National Human Rights Commission in line with the Paris Principles. 88. Since 2006, the Government had issued a public notice in the press for complaints against human rights violations to the ministries concerned. From January to August 2010, the Ministry of Home Affairs received 503 submissions and action had been taken on 199 complaints, 203 complaints were under investigation and 101 complaints had been found to be false. 89. The delegation stated that the Government had strengthened its legislation and enhanced enforcement action. Some of the measures taken include the establishment of the Myanmar National Committee for Women’s Affairs in 1996; becoming a State Party to the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime and its Protocol in 2004 and promulgation of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Law in 2005. 90. Due to the economic sanctions imposed on Myanmar, over 160 garment factories had closed, 162 foreign companies had withdrawn and over 70,000 workers, mainly women, became jobless. Sanctions have become a major push factor in the trafficking arena. 91. Regarding the issue of child soldiers, the delegation stated that under the Myanmar Defense Services Act and War Office Council Instructions, the minimum age requirement to enlist in the armed forces is eighteen. Forced conscription in any form is strictly prohibited. A Child Soldier Prevention Committee was established in 2004, with the task of preventing recruitment of underage children. 92. Punitive actions are taken against military personnel who violate the military recruitment laws and regulations. A total of 440 underage recruits have been returned to their parents or guardians since 2002. For the process of demobilization, rehabilitation and reintegration and on awareness-raising, the Government is working in close cooperation with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), INGOs and non-governmental organizations. In drafting a plan of action, the Government cooperates with the United Nations Country Team. 93. According to Special Rapporteur Mr. Quintana: “International partners have acknowledged the Government’s increased commitment to addressing the issue of recruitment of child soldiers.” 94. Rape is regarded by Myanmar people and Government as the most dastardly crime. Perpetrators are brought to justice and prosecuted and, on conviction, heavy sentences from 7 to 20 years’ imprisonment are imposed. The allegations of sexual violence against ethnic women and children are baseless and merely aimed at discrediting the Myanmar Armed Forces. 95. Internal insurgencies and terrorism have endangered national security and hampered the livelihood of the people. The Government has given priority to national reconsolidation through peaceful negotiations and eventually reached ceasefire agreements with 17 out of 18 major ethnic armed groups and people are now enjoying unprecedented peace and development since regaining independence. It is important to note that the insurgent groups never represent any of the ethnic national races or people. 11