A/HRC/29/13 117. Ireland commended Sweden’s strong commitment to human rights, the rule of law and freedom of the media. It noted that functions of the Ombudsman for Children did not include the power to accept individual complaints. 118. Israel congratulated Sweden on its leading work on promoting the human rights of the sexual orientation and gender identity community. It echoed concerns by the Office of the Ombudsman for Children, particularly on the human rights of children deprived of their liberty in remand prisons and police cells. 119. Italy noted concerns on the lack of a broader mandate for the Equality Ombudsman. It welcomed the measures taken to safeguard children from sexual exploitation, and noted the concerns about the low level of public awareness of child sex tourism. 120. Kuwait noted the challenges in fighting discrimination and welcomed the establishment of the office of the Equality Ombudsman to fight against all forms of discrimination against vulnerable groups, particularly foreigners and refugees. 121. Lebanon welcomed the efforts of Sweden to adopt international standards and develop national legislation. It commended the numerous initiatives to combat discrimination and xenophobia as a reflection of the commitment to strengthening human rights and democratic values. 122. Libya noted that despite considerable progress made in various areas, some challenges in the area of human rights still remained, particularly in fighting discrimination. 123. Lithuania encouraged Sweden to exchange its experience with other countries that were seeking to make progress in the area of human rights protection. It recognized the steps taken to ensure the protection of children by including a new crime in the Penal Code in 2009. 124. Malaysia acknowledged progress made, including in promoting and protecting the rights of persons with disabilities. Malaysia noted the Government’s dialogue with religious associations to combat xenophobia and religious intolerance. In addition, it noted that Sweden still faced the challenges of racism, intolerance, Islamophobia and xenophobic attitudes towards non-citizens and other minorities. 125. Trinidad and Tobago welcomed the adoption of the plan against human trafficking. Trinidad and Tobago believed that further work was needed to combat discrimination against minorities and to enhance the rights of disabled persons. 126. Uruguay welcomed the elaboration of a third human rights plan. The establishment of a national human rights institution would support human rights achievements. Uruguay stated that the humanitarian situation and rights of any person sought by the Government should be considered and protected. 127. The Republic of Moldova asked about the findings of the interim report of the committee of inquiry into compulsory residential care for children and adolescents and recommended the introduction of a new form of care home for unaccompanied children. It noted the successful implementation of the second human rights action plan. 128. South Africa commended the successful implementation of some UPR recommendations and encouraged Sweden to continue to make every effort for the promotion, protection and fulfilment of all human rights, including the right to development. 129. The Philippines recognized the important contribution by Sweden on migration and development and lauded Sweden for amending its anti-discrimination laws to make it easier for victims to seek redress. The Philippines was interested in knowing about initiatives to safeguard the rights of the Sami and Roma. 13

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