A/HRC/14/17 preparation for repealing the emergency laws, Egypt was in the process of elaborating a counter-terrorism law, which would provide for a limited number of exceptional measures, but fully comply with international standards. The Commission charged with drafting the law was in the process of completing the draft text, which would then be debated in Parliament and with the National Council for Human Rights. 79. Concerning questions on political rights and elections, Egypt noted that some legislative amendments had been introduced in recent years, and that a higher committee consisting of representatives from the judiciary and other eminent persons had been established to ensure effective supervision and control over the electoral process, with active participation of civil society. 80. With regard to torture, Egypt affirmed that any such practice was prohibited and sanctioned in accordance with the Constitution, and that it aimed to align its definition of torture with relevant provisions in international instruments. 81. Egypt further explained that freedom of religion was a right guaranteed by the Constitution. While acknowledging that recent years had seen some tensions between the followers of different religions, Egypt recalled its efforts to promote cultural and religious tolerance, as exemplified among others by the introduction of public holiday for the different religious feasts, the construction of many new churches, and new legislative provisions clarifying practical issues related to freedom of religion and worship. Any violent act which may occur is addressed by applying the law. 82. Concerning freedom of expression, Egypt drew attention to recent increases in the number of TV channels and newspapers, the absence of censorship and government support for the spread of internet services. 83. On the issue of trafficking of persons, Egypt noted that an integrated draft law focused on the protection of interest of victims had been passed to the legislature. 84. Angola inquired about the interaction between the National Council for Human Rights and other national mechanisms for the promotion of human rights. It further underscored efforts taken by Egypt to fight illiteracy. Angola made recommendations. 85. United States of America thanked Egypt for the presentation of its national report and made recommendations. 86. Germany referred to concerns expressed regarding censorship of the media as well as literature and art in Egypt. It recalled recent reports by the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights while countering terrorism about the detention of journalists as well as Internet bloggers, and asked how many journalists, bloggers and human right defenders are currently detained in Egypt under the Emergency Law. Germany made recommendations. 87. The Republic of Congo welcomed the efforts undertaken by Egypt to promote human rights internally and abroad, including the withdrawal of reservations to international instruments. It welcomed the adoption of a series of measures, including on the right to food and adequate housing, which show the commitment of Egypt in promoting human rights. It encouraged Egypt to pursue its efforts aimed at improving children’s and women’s rights. 88. Bangladesh welcomed withdrawal by Egypt of the reservation made on article 9 (2) of CEDAW. Bangladesh noted with appreciation the progress in poverty reduction and social welfare, and accreditation of its National Council for Human Rights with the ICC of National Human Rights Institutions. Bangladesh asked about the status of international human rights instruments in national law and their application in courts. Bangladesh made recommendations. 11