A/HRC/33/14
economic resources would be mediated through their husbands. The delegation provided
details on existing institutions and policies adopted in that regard.
65.
On women’s participation in politics, the delegation indicated that Swaziland was
developing a national strategy on that issue. It was recalled that the Constitution contained
provisions to ensure that women constituted 30 per cent of representatives in Parliament.
66.
With regard to early marriage, the delegation recalled that Swaziland had enacted
the Child and Protection and Welfare Act, which endeavoured to eliminate all harmful
practices and enhance protection of the girl child from such practices, and provided that a
woman should not be compelled to undergo or uphold any custom to which she was
opposed. The delegation also highlighted that the Constitution guaranteed equal treatment
of men and women, and the rights of married women, abolishing the practice of inheritance
through the system of patriarchy.
67.
With regard to questions on how Swaziland had followed up on the implementation
of accepted universal periodic review recommendations, the delegation indicated that,
immediately after the previous review, an interministerial committee had been set up to
address implementation of those recommendations, among other things. Details regarding
its functioning were provided. The delegation indicated that Swaziland was seeking the
assistance of the international community in the implementation of a fully fledged
secretariat under the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs to coordinate the
activities of that committee.
68.
On sexual minorities, the delegation stated that Swaziland did not deny access to
services based on an individual’s sexual orientation. The delegation indicated that, though
there would be no efforts at the present stage to decriminalize same-sex relations,
Swaziland did not prosecute anyone for engaging in consensual same-sex relations.
69.
With regard to the issue of stigmatization of persons living with HIV, the delegation
indicated that both the national multisectoral strategic framework for the period 2014-2018
and the Code of Good Practice on Industrial Relations addressed the issue of
discrimination, along with other issues.
70.
Regarding the juvenile justice system, the delegation indicated that child-friendly
courts had been established in three of the country’s regions. It provided details on their
procedures and on provisions in the Child and Protection and Welfare Act aimed at
protecting children during proceedings.
71.
On overcrowding in prisons, the delegation stated that this was a general
international problem and that Swaziland had made every effort to ensure that the living
standards of prisoners in Swaziland were of high quality.
72.
On education, it was highlighted that, despite its small economy, Swaziland paid for
tertiary education, which many countries did not. However, once people had completed
their education and were employed, they were required to reimburse a part of the amount
paid by the State.
73.
Malaysia noted the new legislation enabling women to own property and addressing
domestic violence against women and children. Malaysia welcomed the adoption of a
comprehensive framework on HIV and AIDS and noted the increased enrolment of children
in schools.
74.
Maldives welcomed the 2012 Child Protection and Welfare Act, which focused on
prevention of abuse and on universal primary education. It recognized progress made by
Swaziland in ensuring access to safe drinking water for its people.
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