A/HRC/11/19* achieved. In three quarters of these cases a large number of crimes committed are not directly related to journalistic activities of individuals involved. The cases related to murders of Anna Politkovskaya, Akatov, Zimin and Eloev have been brought to the court. Murders of Markelov and Baburova committed in 2009 are investigated on priority basis. Concerning the issue related to kidnapping of people in Chechnya, the delegation noted that in March 2007 a comprehensive programme was adopted combating the kidnapping of persons and seeking disappeared people. In the last few years the number of violent kidnapping of persons has been constantly decreasing, in many cases kidnappings were committed to extort money. 67. On the issue of penitentiary, the delegation mentioned that prison reforms started 10 years ago resulting in reductions of the number of people imprisoned, in addition medical care and prison conditions improved since then. The problem of overcrowded prisons was resolved and prison conditions in general were improved to meet sanitary norms. Special measures are undertaken with regard to juveniles and women in prisons. In 2008 the federal law was adopted stipulating establishment of regional commissions, involving members of civil society, which are monitoring prison conditions. 68. Concerning the issue of elimination of extremism phenomenon the delegation informed that in 2008 the number of registered crimes related to extremism increased, which was caused inter alia by improvement in police work. Additional measures are undertaken to combat extremism, including amendments to civil and criminal law. Regarding concerns expressed about possible use of those amendments to repress dissidents, the delegation noted that they were based on corresponding law enforcement and judicial practices and the list of extremist crimes is exhaustive. It was also noted that promotion of tolerance is essential to curb extremism. 69. Russian Federation is complying with provisions of the European Convention on Human Rights and enforces decisions of the European Court on Human Rights, including cases related to Chechen Republic. Consequently time of judicial consideration of cases was reduced, compensation for material and moral damages to victims was provided. In 2001-2008 more than 600 court cases related to persecution and abuse by authorities and other crimes were considered in the Chechen Republic, and more then 500 militants and 200 including police officials and members of government authorities were convicted. Compensation for loss of property were also provided. 70. In relation to judicial reforms, the delegation informed that it is largely achieved and as a result an independent judiciary exists. Legislation is brought into line with norms and principles of international law and treaties. Development of organization of judicial system is carried out by enhancing the training of its staff and provides guarantees of independence of judges. Attempts to illegally influence or interfere in the administration of justice are prohibited by law and punished. In relation to restriction of freedom of activities of lawyers the delegation noted that in the course of implementation of the federal programme for the development of the judicial system 2007–2011 the limitation of activities of lawyers are not foreseen. Law on activities of lawyers provides for lawyers’ independence and prohibits interference to lawyers practices from the state bodies (article 18). 71. The delegation informed that provisions ensuring interests of children and family are part of the national demographic policy and national projects. The foundation was set up to provide assistance to street children ensuring their access to health and education. On the annual basis, orphans are provided with thorough checks in clinics. Since 2007 the family programme was implemented focusing on children who do not have support of their parents. Together with NGOs a comprehensive protection system has been developed for children who were victims of violence. Social rehabilitation programmes and services were developed for domestic violence victims, including juveniles. Concerning gender equality it was noted that domestic legislation does not contain any discriminatory norms with regard GE.09-16259 15