A/HRC/22/14 30. On the procedures and treatment of applicants for refugee status, Japan indicated that refugee recognition was conducted in a fair and transparent manner, taking due consideration to the language, race and sex of the applicants, in particular during the interview. Furthermore, permission to stay in Japan is granted to applicants who were not recognized as refugees, when there was a reason for their protection due to the situation in their country. In filing objections, decisions are made upon listening to the opinions of Refugee Examination Counsellors appointed by the Ministry of Justice, upon the recommendation of UNCHR, the Japan Federation of Bar Associations and other organizations. 31. On the issue of Defense Counsel, Japan indicated that because of the limited means to obtain evidence, interrogation of suspects was the most important investigation method to bring out the truth. Therefore, Japan noted that the issue of the presence of Defense Counsel requires a cautious consideration. Japan also noted there are currently no limitations for detainees to access Defense Counsel in police detention facilities. 32. Japan reported that a study group on the death penalty, which had been set up by the Minister of Justice, published the report in March 2012; it has been subsequently dissolved. Japan believes that there should be a broader discussion on this issue. Japan has taken seriously the recommendations from treaty bodies regarding the treatment of inmates sentenced to death and will also continue its effort to treat them appropriately. B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review 33. During the interactive dialogue, 79 delegations made statements. Recommendations made during the dialogue are to be found in section II of the present report. 34. Morocco asked about measures envisaged by Japan in the fight against discrimination towards persons with leprosy, and about measures to ensure the independence of the National Human Rights Commission. 35. Myanmar noted efforts to create a gender-equality society and initiatives to prevent violence against women. Myanmar also noted Japan’s bilateral human rights dialogue with other countries. Myanmar made recommendations. 36. Namibia noted the advancement of the rights of persons with disabilities with a view to ratifying the Convention. It acknowledged Japan’s acceptance of the recommendation to provide free secondary education for all. Namibia made recommendations. 37. Nepal noted that Japan would submit a bill establishing a human rights commission. It commended the Third Plan for Gender Equality and initiatives to prevent violence against women and expand their participation in decision-making processes. Nepal made recommendations. 38. The Netherlands regretted that the issue of “comfort women” during the Second World War was no longer part of the school curriculum. This eliminated an instrument to raise awareness on past atrocities and a discussion of the relevant rights involved. It made recommendations. 39. Nicaragua highlighted efforts to empower women through the Third Plan for Gender Equality. It commended the reforms in the administration of justice, particularly those aimed at ensuring fair and transparent interrogation procedures. Nicaragua made recommendations. 40. Norway was concerned about Japan’s continued application of the death penalty, widespread use of solitary confinement and incarceration conditions prior to execution, as well as by the lack of legislation regarding discrimination. It made recommendations. 6