A/HRC/7/22 page 19 VIII. CONCLUSIONS 75. The protection of human rights in the Sudan remains an enormous challenge. Human rights continue to be violated, including freedom of expression and association. Political opposition parties, journalists, students, internally displaced persons and tribal leaders continue to be targeted because of their activities. This is of particular concern as the country prepares for elections in 2009. 76. In the Darfur region, gross violations of human rights continue to be perpetrated. The Government of the Sudan has the primary responsibility to ensure protection of civilians. To date, however, the steps taken have been insufficient to have a tangible impact on the ground in Darfur. After all the debates, the Special Rapporteur sincerely hopes the deployment of the African Union - United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID) will increase security and the protection of civilians in Darfur. Unfortunately, in December 2007, UNAMID was still facing difficulties, including shortages in troops and assets. The Government of the Sudan is not facilitating the deployment by opposing some non-African contingents; also, flight clearances and access to land and water have been obstructed. The protection of civilians during armed conflicts is an absolute priority. 77. Justice and accountability continue to be a major challenge, especially with regard to serious crimes. Several investigative committees have been formed following allegations of serious human rights violations in the north and in Southern Sudan. However, the findings have not been made public and, according to information received, no perpetrators have been prosecuted. 78. The advancement of economic, social and cultural rights is going at an extremely slow pace. Widespread poverty and marginalization continue to be sources of political unrest throughout the country. This situation is seriously inhibiting the delivery of basic social services, such as health care, education and water supply, especially in Southern Sudan. IX. RECOMMENDATIONS 79. The Special Rapporteur reiterates all previous unimplemented human rights recommendations contained in her reports, those of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and of the Group of Experts on Darfur. In addition, she recommends that: (i) The Government of National Unity: (a) Continue and intensify efforts to implement the recommendations compiled by the group of experts on Darfur, in accordance with the specified time frames and indicators (A/HRC/5/6, annex I); (b) Accelerate the implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement and establish the remaining commissions, in particular the national human rights commission, in accordance with the Paris Principles; (c) Revise national laws to conform with the Comprehensive Peace Agreement, the Interim National Constitution and international human rights standards; priority attention should be given to the National Security Forces Act;