Human Rights Council
Thirty-first session
Agenda item 6
Universal periodic review
Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review *
Lebanon
Contents
Page
Introduction3
I.Summary of the proceedings of the review process3
A.Presentation by the State under review3
B.Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review5
II.Conclusions and/or recommendations13
Annex
Composition of the delegation28
Introduction
1.The Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review, established in accordance with Human Rights Council resolution 5/1, held its twenty-third session from 2 to 13 November 2015. The review of Lebanon was held at the 2nd meeting on 2 November 2015. The delegation of Lebanon was headed by Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Permanent Representative of Lebanon in Geneva, Najla Riachi Assaker. At its 10th meeting, held on 6 November 2015, the Working Group adopted the report on Lebanon.
2.On 13 January 2015, the Human Rights Council selected the following group of rapporteurs (troika) to facilitate the review of Lebanon: Indonesia, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of).
3.In accordance with paragraph 15 of the annex to Human Rights Council resolution 5/1 and paragraph 5 of the annex to Council resolution 16/21, the following documents were issued for the review of Lebanon:
(a)A national report submitted/written presentation made in accordance with paragraph 15 (a) (A/HRC/WG.6/23/LBN/1);
(b)A compilation prepared by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in accordance with paragraph 15 (b) (A/HRC/WG.6/23/LBN/2);
(c)A summary prepared by OHCHR in accordance with paragraph 15 (c) (A/HRC/WG.6/23/ LBN /3).
4.A list of questions prepared in advance by Belgium, the Czech Republic, Germany, Liechtenstein, Mexico, the Netherlands, Norway, Slovenia, Sweden, the United Kingdom and the United States of America was transmitted to Lebanon through the troika. These questions are available on the extranet of the Working Group.
I.Summary of the proceedings of the review process
A.Presentation by the State under review
5.Lebanon considered the universal periodic review to be an opportunity to push for increased efforts to promote and protect human rights. Since its first review, Lebanon had taken a host of measures to improve the human rights situation in the country. The serious events unfolding in the region were unexpected and had led to many challenges that had had a negative impact on the country’s human rights plans.
6.The fundamental principles of human rights were enshrined in the Constitution of Lebanon, while the full text of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was echoed in the preamble thereto. All Lebanese citizens were equal under the Constitution and their personal freedoms and civil and political rights were guaranteed. Freedoms of speech, faith, religion, opinion, expression and access to property were rights that were exercised by the Lebanese people daily. Laws stemming from the Constitution guaranteed those rights and freedoms. Freedom of expression, for example, was exercised, as reflected by the considerable number of politically diverse media outlets and the freedom of expression they enjoyed.
7.While a few human rights violations had taken place in Lebanon, they did not represent a general tendency and were exceptions to the norm. Civil society organizations and human rights activists sometimes played a positive role in that regard.
8.Despite its limited economic and financial resources, its small surface area and the political instability, Lebanon had always opened its borders to refugees from many countries without any discrimination as to their ethnicity, religion or political affiliation. Refugees were hosted in the country based on humanitarian reasons only. Although Lebanon was not a signatory to the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees, and despite its limited capacity, it had never closed its borders to anyone seeking safety or fleeing persecution.
9.The world had recently begun to feel the serious challenges faced by the economically robust, politically stable and geographically vast Europe, as a result of the influx of just a few thousand refugees, while Lebanon, a small country, had hosted millions. Lebanon had been hosting Palestinian refugees for over half a century and there were currently about half a million of them. Since 2011, Lebanon had also hosted nearly 1.5 million Syrian and 50,000 Palestinian displaced persons. According to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Lebanon was hosting the largest per capita number of refugees and displaced persons in modern history. The United Nations had depicted that situation as a national disaster.
10.Refugees and displaced persons were sharing basic services such as water, electricity, health and social services with the Lebanese people. As a result, State institutions were facing tremendous challenges and were severely overburdened. The influx of refugees represented a demographic threat to Lebanon as an entity. Lebanon therefore reiterated its appeal to the international community to share that burden. The emergency conditions had affected its programmes to promote human rights and its ability to fulfil its international obligations.
11.Owing to the marked increase in the number of people residing in Lebanon, the prison population had increased, hindering the implementation of plans to reduce prison overcrowding that had been adopted by the prison authorities. The Lebanese authorities, however, were continuing in their efforts to combat and prevent torture in prisons and places of detention. In April 2014, the Council of Ministers had presented a bill on the establishment of a national human rights institution and a national independent body on the prevention of torture, in accordance with the provisions of the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, which had been submitted to the parliament for adoption. Another bill had been submitted to the parliament to amend the provisions of the Penal Code on the definition of torture, in line with the Convention against Torture.
12.Lebanon continued its efforts to combat human trafficking and to guarantee the protection of victims of trafficking. Major steps had been taken in that field, including the adoption by the parliament in 2011 of Act No. 164 on punishment for the crime of trafficking in persons.
13.Concerning the prohibition of discrimination against women in law and in practice, the parliament had adopted a law in April 2014 on the protection of women and other family members from domestic violence.
14.As for labour rights, the Ministry of Labour continuously monitored the application of the Labour Code and the amendments thereto with regard to Lebanese and foreign workers alike. The rights of women and juveniles in the workplace were protected. The Ministry was in the process of aligning Lebanese labour laws with the provisions of the international labour conventions, in particular those to which Lebanon was a party. Special emphasis was placed on health and social security for workers. Public sector employees had set up a Civil Service Board to defend their rights.
15.The Government and civil society organizations placed great emphasis on the rights of persons with mental or physical disabilities, in accordance with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act of 2000, and strove to protect and integrate persons with disabilities.
16.Compulsory primary education was provided free of charge in Lebanon and Lebanese university fees were purely symbolic.
17.Having reviewed the human rights related bills that were pending adoption, Lebanon noted that any delay in the adoption of the bills would be the result of political instability in the country, which had already caused delays in the adoption of many other laws and decrees.
18.Despite its fierce and costly war on terrorism, Lebanon remained committed to combating terrorism in all its forms and to doing its utmost to protect human rights.
19.Lebanon highlighted that it was facing not only terrorism, but also many other military, security, economic and social challenges at the national, regional and international levels, mainly the Israeli occupation and its repeated attacks on its territories in 1978, 1982, 1993, 1996 and 2006 against the civilian population and infrastructure. The assassination of former Prime Minister Hariri on 14 February 2005 and the ensuing situation had had a destabilizing effect on Lebanon. That was in addition to the effects of the Syrian crisis on the political, economic, social and security situation in Lebanon since 2011, which was stretching insufficient resources beyond existing capacity.
20.The Government of Lebanon, however, in full respect for its international obligations, continued to prepare its reports to the United Nations treaty bodies, albeit with delays. Lebanon had submitted reports to the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women, the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, the Committee on the Rights of the Child and the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. Reports to the Human Rights Committee and the Committee against Torture were under preparation. The foreign minister had announced his intention to establish a human rights directorate at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates.
21.Lebanon had received a number of international human rights delegations, including the Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture, the Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of slavery and the Committee against Torture, making Lebanon one of the few countries to receive a delegation from that committee. That was a demonstration of the high level of transparency and determination of the Lebanese authorities to protect and promote human rights and to fulfil the country’s international obligations. It had also received a visit from the Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief.
B.Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review
22.During the interactive dialogue, 98 delegations made statements. Recommendations made during the dialogue are to be found in section II of the present report.
23.Saudi Arabia noted the efforts of Lebanon, despite political and economic challenges, particularly to combat terrorism, integrate refugees, respect the right of persons with disabilities and children and combat human trafficking.
24.Senegal praised progress since the first review, especially the implementation of the National Human Rights Plan and the establishment of the national preventive mechanism, in compliance with the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture.
25.Serbia stated that the situation of migrants, refugees and internally displaced persons required attention and that a comprehensive strategy should be developed to provide protection and humanitarian assistance to displaced persons.
26.Sierra Leone appreciated the efforts to develop legislation and strategies, particularly concerning persons with disabilities and on gender parity. It commended Lebanon for opening its borders to about 1.2 million refugees and recalled the need to respect the rights of all migrants.
27.Singapore recognized that hosting a high number of displaced persons represented a tremendous challenge. It acknowledged the efforts made to improve the rights of persons with disabilities and to improve gender equality.
28.Slovakia invited Lebanon to establish a moratorium on executions with a view to abolishing the death penalty and to amend the legislative framework so that it protected women from psychological, economic and sexual abuse.
29.Slovenia welcomed the adoption of a National Human Rights Plan and the revocation of article 562 of the Penal Code. It noted that Lebanon faced challenges in the provision of quality education and health care and concerning discrimination against women.
30.Spain recognized the efforts since the first review to improve the human rights situation in a difficult regional context. It welcomed the extension of a standing invitation to the special procedures.
31.Sri Lanka welcomed the efforts made to ensure the right to health and education, noting in particular the reduction in maternal and infant mortality.
32.The State of Palestine commended efforts to promote and protect human rights and plans to strengthen State institutions, including the National Human Rights Plan. It applauded efforts to incorporate the Convention against Torture in the Penal Code and the amendment to labour legislation to partially open the market to Palestinian workers.
33.The Sudan commended the steps taken since the first cycle, especially the development of the National Human Rights Plan, efforts to organize training for military and security personnel and cooperation with the special procedure mandate holders.
34.Sweden stated that the fact that citizenship was transferred from father to child only had resulted in some children being born stateless. The citizenship law was also a factor in discrimination against women.
35.Switzerland noted that no executions had been carried out in the past ten years. It referred to the 2014 conclusions of the Committee against Torture (see A/69/44, annex XIII) on the existence of the systematic practice of torture and unlimited pretrial detention for persons accused of State security crimes and terrorism.
36.Thailand appreciated the steps taken to improve the situation of refugees and asylum seekers. It was concerned that many refugee women and girls were still vulnerable to economic exploitation.
37.Togo praised the adoption of the National Human Rights Plan, the establishment of the committee for follow-up to the universal periodic review, and the bill on the creation of a national human rights institution.
38.Tunisia appreciated the measures taken to combat violence against women and to establish a national committee to prevent torture. It urged the international community to support Lebanon with the refugee issue.
39.Turkey welcomed the adoption of the National Human Rights Plan and the law on the protection of women and other family members from domestic violence. It praised the generosity of Lebanon to Syrian refugees. It regretted that Lebanon had not ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
40.Ukraine welcomed the ratification of the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture. Further international assistance was needed to help Lebanon meet the challenge represented by the flow of Syrian refugees.
41.The United Arab Emirates noted the achievements of Lebanon in the legislative and constitutional areas, in developing national plans and in establishing and developing government agencies to promote and protect human rights.
42.The United Kingdom urged Lebanon to investigate allegations of torture. It was concerned about the difficulties that Syrian refugees faced to obtain and renew their legal documents.
43.The United States remained concerned about prison and detention centre conditions, the risk of exploitation of domestic migrant workers and their exclusion from protection under the Labour Code, and the potential gender discrimination inherent in several religion-based personal status laws.
44.Uruguay praised the adoption of the 2014-2019 National Human Rights Plan, the National Plan for the Integration of Persons with Disabilities and the National Action Plan to Eliminate the Worst Forms of Child Labour.
45.The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela acknowledged the commitment of Lebanon to upholding human rights, despite the Israeli military aggression against its people and civil infrastructure, which had lasted almost half a century.
46.Yemen noted the adoption of the National Human Rights Plan, the bill on an independent human rights commission, the protection of vulnerable groups and the National Action Plan to Eliminate the Worst Forms of Child Labour.
47.Afghanistan appreciated the efforts to spread the culture of human rights. It encouraged Lebanon to ensure that counter-terrorism measures were in line with human rights standards.
48.Albania welcomed the 2014-2019 National Human Rights Plan and the law to protect women against domestic violence.
49.Algeria commended Lebanon for its progress on economic, social and cultural rights, measures taken to empower women and persons with disabilities, the proposed creation of a national human rights institution and the amendments to legislation on torture.
50.Argentina congratulated Lebanon on its legislation guaranteeing freedom of religion and allowing religious diversity. It recognized efforts to guarantee the rights of refugees and asylum seekers.
51.Armenia welcomed the measures to combat trafficking in persons and commended Lebanon for its policy aimed at promoting diversity and tolerance between its different ethnic and religious groups.
52.Australia noted the adoption of legislation on domestic violence and recognized the country’s generous response to the refugees it had received. Australia was concerned at the reports of torture.
53.Austria praised Lebanon for hosting some 1.5 million refugees, but was concerned that the situation of refugees and migrants in the country remained precarious in many ways.
54.Bahrain commended the steps taken with regard to the refugee crisis and the efforts made to protect and promote the human rights of all citizens, especially vulnerable groups.
55.Bangladesh commended Lebanon for hosting a huge number of refugees and continuing to receive foreign workers, despite the fact that the promised international assistance had yet to come to help Lebanon face the numerous challenges that were impeding progress in implementing the review recommendations.
56.Belgium praised the efforts of Lebanon to improve protection of human rights and its generous hosting of refugees who were victims of the Syrian conflict.
57.Brazil appreciated that bills establishing a national human rights institution and a national mechanism on the prevention of torture were under consideration, and the decision to extend a permanent invitation to all special procedures.
58.Canada welcomed the national report and the participation of Lebanon in the review.
59.The delegation briefed the Working Group on developments on women’s rights. The provision mitigating sentences for honour crime had been repealed, efforts were under way to criminalize marital rape and measures had been taken to facilitate the issuance of residency and work permits for foreign men married to Lebanese women. The Minister of the Interior had agreed to register civil marriages on the condition that the couple removed the religious sect entry from their national identity cards. The Ministry of Labour had taken measures to protect the rights of female foreign domestic workers, including on the translation and standardization of contracts and on mandatory health insurance.
60.The Government provided protection for children in line with the Convention on the Rights of the Child and other international conventions. In 2012, the Council of Ministers had passed Decree No. 8987 concerning the prohibition of employment of minors under the age of 18 in work that may harm their health, safety or morals. Forcing street child to participate in begging had been brought within the scope of Act No. 164 of 2011 on punishment for the crime of trafficking in persons, which had been adopted by the parliament.
61.As for sexual orientation, although article 534 of the Penal Code stated that sexual intercourse contrary to nature was punishable, two court decisions had indicated that article 534 did not apply to homosexuals. The judiciary had played an important role in preventing and opposing acts of violence or discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons.
62.Lebanon had reaffirmed its commitment to combating torture by prosecuting officials responsible for torture and sentencing them to prison terms and strict disciplinary measures. The provisions of the Convention against Torture had also been incorporated in training programmes. An inspection body had been established within the law enforcement agencies to consider complaints and ensure that victims were treated humanely. The relevant authorities periodically organized basic and continuous training in order to ensure that confessions were not allowed as the only evidence without compelling forensic proof. The Internal Security Forces had issued a new complaint form, in line with international standards agreed by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. Several legislative measures had been taken to promote human rights, such as commuting the sentences of convicted prisoners who had been diagnosed with serious health issues. No one on death row had been executed since 2004 and the Government had imposed a de facto moratorium on the death penalty.
63.Chile acknowledged that Lebanon had welcomed more than 1.5 million Syrian refugees and noted that the need to ensure the protection and dignity of that population had to be addressed without delay.
64.China welcomed the development of the National Plan for the Integration of Persons with Disabilities, the National Strategy for Women and the National Committee for the Elimination of Child Labour. It appreciated measures towards improving conditions for Palestinian refugees, while remaining concerned about terrorist threats and the influx of refugees.
65.Colombia stressed the Government’s commitment to implementing the recommendations from the first review and offered to share its expertise in various areas of human rights with Lebanon.
66.The Congo noted with appreciation the progress made in areas such as combating torture and trafficking in persons and protecting the elderly, children and migrant workers.
67.Costa Rica praised Lebanon for having welcomed more than one million Syrian refugees. It expressed concern about attacks against journalists and delays in reporting to treaty bodies.
68.Côte d’Ivoire welcomed the measures taken to promote the rights of children and persons with disabilities. It encouraged Lebanon to strengthen the capacities of national human rights institutions.
69.Croatia welcomed steps to create a just and equal society, including the adoption of the National Strategy for Women. Notwithstanding new legislation, it was concerned that the protection of children from violence and exploitation remained weak.
70.Cuba acknowledged the establishment of a National Plan for the Integration of Persons with Disabilities and the adoption of the National Human Rights Plan and of Act No. 293 on domestic violence.
71.Cyprus appreciated the efforts of Lebanon in hosting more than a million Syrian refugees along with Palestinian refugees and acknowledged its commitment to human rights, despite the challenges it was facing, including terrorism.
72.The Czech Republic appreciated that Lebanon had responded to some of its advance questions.
73.Denmark acknowledged the challenges facing Lebanon with respect to the situation of refugees. It was concerned about the risk of exploitation of migrant workers, who were not integrated into and protected within the labour market.
74.Djibouti welcomed the National Plan for the Integration of Persons with Disabilities.
75.Ecuador noted the efforts to implement the recommendations received during the first review, the adoption of the National Human Rights Plan and the enactment of the Domestic Violence Act.
76.Egypt commended Lebanon for its efforts in hosting more than 1.5 million Syrian refugees and half a million Palestinian refugees since 1948. It welcomed the 2014-2019 National Human Rights Plan and the steps taken towards establishing a national human rights institution.
77.Estonia appreciated the efforts of Lebanon to improve the human rights situation while accommodating more than a million Syrian refugees, and encouraged it to continue its efforts to become a party to all the main international human rights instruments.
78.Finland appreciated the efforts of Lebanon to host refugees and the challenges arising from the latest inflows. It encouraged Lebanon to do its utmost to provide fair treatment to new arrivals, including by ensuring children’s access to education.
79.France commended Lebanon for its efforts in hosting the Syrian refugees and welcomed the measures taken to combat domestic violence.
80.Gabon praised the significant legal and administrative reforms and the measures taken to extend training in international humanitarian law to members of the security forces and others.
81.Germany welcomed the recent decision to allow Syrian refugee children access to schooling, regardless of their parents’ status. It acknowledged the significance of the adoption of the law to protect women from domestic violence.
82.Ghana welcomed the cooperation of Lebanon with several human rights mechanisms, but remained concerned about continuing reports of acts of torture of persons in custody perpetrated by some elements of the armed forces and law enforcement agencies.
83.Greece commended Lebanon for developing the National Human Rights Plan, the National Strategy for Women and the National Action Plan to Eliminate the Worst Forms of Child Labour by 2016.
84.The Holy See acknowledged the efforts of Lebanon in hosting the highest per capita concentration of refugees in the world. It also acknowledged the balanced and peaceful coexistence of people of different religions.
85.Honduras welcomed the openness of Lebanon in recognizing the existence of gender discrimination and the adoption of Act No. 293 on gender violence.
86.Hungary appreciated the efforts of Lebanon to implement the review recommendations in the light of the difficult political and security situation in the country.
87.Iceland encouraged Lebanon to ensure that all refugee children born in the country received a birth certificate. It was concerned at the restrictions and discrimination affecting Palestinian refugees.
88.Indonesia commended the efforts of Lebanon to implement recommendations from the first review and believed that the National Human Rights Plan was crucial in guiding the Government.
89.The Islamic Republic of Iran commended Lebanon for developing partnerships between the Government and civil society, and National Human Rights Plan.
90.Iraq appreciated the accession of Lebanon to international treaties and its establishment of a national strategy to combat child labour and a national committee to implement it.
91.Ireland congratulated Lebanon on extending a standing invitation to the special procedures. It noted the lack of progress in the implementation of recommendations related to combating torture.
92.Israel objected to references to Lebanon blaming it for the human rights situation in the country. It was concerned at the recruitment by Hizbullah, a terror organization, of child soldiers sent to Syria in violation of the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict.
93.Lebanon rejected the statement of Israel accusing Hizbullah as a terrorist group, stating that it is a Lebanese component, participating in the Government and the parliament. It rejected that description especially as it came from an occupying power which is still occupying part of the territory of Lebanon. Lebanon also brought to the attention of the President of the Working Group the fact that the universal periodic review should not be politicized and should be focused on human rights only.
94.Lebanon was striving to improve the human rights situation in all fields. Some human rights violations continued to take place, but were considered to be isolated cases and were not representative of systematic or organized violations. Nonetheless, they were unacceptable and were investigated and the perpetrators prosecuted.
95.The Government was making efforts to combat human trafficking and enforce the law on domestic violence, and human rights awareness within law enforcement agencies had improved.
96.Lebanon had reviewed the measures taken concerning prison administration, as the national plan to transfer prison authority from the Ministry of the Interior to the Ministry of Justice had been adopted in 2012. A prison directorate had been established and the parliament had adopted Act No. 216 of 2012 reducing the standard prison term from 12 to 9 months. Convicted prisoners’ sentences had been commuted accordingly.
97.The Constitution and the international instruments Lebanon had ratified expressly prohibited arbitrary detention. Conducting an investigation and arresting a person without a warrant were also forbidden and anyone found violating those prohibitions was held accountable.
98.Although Lebanon was not bound by the Convention relating to the Status of Refugees, it had always respected the principle of non-refoulement for displaced Syrians. The Lebanese authorities and border control personnel had never denied any Syrians entry into the country from Syria for humanitarian reasons. Such compliance with the provisions of that Convention in both word and deed possibly went above and beyond the actions of the States that were parties to it. The Government did its utmost to facilitate Syrians’ departure and resettlement in third countries, in coordination with UNHCR, the International Organization for Migration and up to 20 embassies of destination countries.
99.Italy stated that the high number of international conventions Lebanon had ratified confirmed its commitment to human rights. Italy welcomed the progress made in the field of protection from domestic violence.
100.Japan appreciated the acceptance by Lebanon of a large number of refugees and commended it for taking steps to promote women’s rights. Japan was concerned about delays in the criminal justice procedures and about prison conditions.
101.Jordan welcomed the efforts made to produce the national report and to improve the situation of people with disabilities. It referred to the updating of laws to bring them into line with international human rights standards.
102.Kenya noted the ongoing efforts to implement the first review recommendations and voiced concern about the plight of migrant domestic workers, including the restrictive immigration rules, which made it difficult for them to leave.
103.Kuwait noted that refugees made up at least a third of the population. It referred to the fight against terrorism and other challenges facing Lebanon, as well as its achievements in promoting human rights in those circumstances.
104.The Lao People’s Democratic Republic commended Lebanon for developing the National Human Rights Plans and creating governmental bodies to promote and protect human rights.
105.Latvia acknowledged measures taken since the first review, particularly the law on the protection of women and other family members from domestic violence, and noted the recommendations on gender mainstreaming from the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women.
106.Libya noted the cooperation of Lebanon with human rights mechanisms and commended it for its adoption of the National Action Plan to Eliminate the Worst Forms of Child Labour.
107.Luxembourg welcomed the efforts made since the first review, especially the new law on protection against domestic violence and the National Human Rights Plan, and thanked Lebanon for its efforts to provide for Syrian refugees.
108.Madagascar noted with satisfaction the steps taken to protect foreign workers, but was concerned that violations continued to occur and much remained to be done in that regard. It welcomed the efforts made in education.
109.Malaysia noted the efforts of Lebanon to implement the accepted recommendations, in particular the two it had made, and acknowledged the continued efforts to improve the situation of displaced persons and refugees and the National Human Rights Plan.
110.Maldives took note of the progress made by Lebanon in the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women, and acknowledged the difficulties it faced in promoting human rights.
111.Mauritania welcomed the National Human Rights Plan and the bill on establishing a national human rights institution. It commended Lebanon for the measures taken for the rights of elderly people and persons with disabilities.
112.Mexico welcomed the implementation of the National Strategy for Women and the creation of a national human rights institution, which would hopefully be established in the near future.
113.Montenegro asked what measures were planned to prevent domestic violence and gender-based killings effectively. It welcomed progress in education and enquired about plans to implement free, compulsory education for children up to the age of 15.
114.Morocco valued the efforts made to promote and protect human rights, especially the establishment of a National Human Rights Commission, despite the political instability and terrorism in the region. It noted the practical measures that had been taken to protect vulnerable groups.
115.Namibia commended the initiatives taken to host refugees and displaced persons, including efforts to uphold the right of Palestinian refugees to employment, and noted the adoption of the Domestic Violence Act.
116.The Netherlands commended Lebanon for its legislative reform since the last review, but expressed regret about the political and constitutional void. It appreciated the efforts of Lebanon to respond to the Syrian refugee situation.
117.Nicaragua congratulated Lebanon on the progress made since its first review, despite the complex regional context. The international community must remain committed to supporting Lebanon in that particular situation.
118.Nigeria welcomed the efforts of Lebanon to protect the rights of persons with disabilities, improve the human rights situation in the country and address many of the recommendations received during the first review.
119.Norway recognized the huge efforts made by Lebanon in accommodating refugees fleeing war in Syria; Lebanon had shown impressive tolerance and hospitality. Norway welcomed legislative improvements concerning women.
120.Oman commended the efforts of Lebanon to protect and promote human rights with the establishment of national mechanisms, particularly on the inclusion of persons with disabilities, guaranteeing them equal opportunities. It called for further efforts to establish the national human rights institution.
121.Pakistan commended Lebanon for having hosted half a million Palestinian refugees since 1948 and currently hosting over 1.5 million Syrian displaced persons on its territory, despite the difficulties it faced.
122.Panama recognized the participation of civil society in monitoring the recommendations from the first review and welcomed the adoption of the 2012-2019 National Human Rights Plan.
123.Paraguay congratulated the Government for enacting laws on domestic violence and criminalizing human trafficking, and adopting the plan for the integration of persons with disabilities.
124.The Philippines commended the enactment of the law criminalizing trafficking in persons. It noted the need to address remaining gaps in providing non-citizens with equal access to education, labour and health care.
125.Poland praised Lebanon for increasing the age of compulsory education, but expressed concern about domestic violence, sexual harassment and the exploitation of women and children.
126.Portugal welcomed the standing invitation Lebanon had extended to the special procedures, the achievements of the Strategy for Women’s Affairs and the endorsement by the parliamentary law committee of the bill establishing a national human rights institution.
127.Qatar noted the efforts of Lebanon to establish national institutions and bodies concerned with human rights promotion and protection, particularly a national human rights institution.
128.The Republic of Korea noted the steps taken to improve the living conditions of vulnerable groups, including refugees and persons with disabilities. It praised Lebanon for enacting a law against domestic violence.
129.The Republic of Moldova welcomed the National Human Rights Plan and the bill on establishing an independent national human rights institution, which would perform the functions required under the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture.
130.The Russian Federation acknowledged the challenges Lebanon faced, including the influx of refugees and the threat of terrorism. It noted the efforts Lebanon had made with regard to the National Human Rights Plan and the establishment of a national human rights institution.
131.Lebanon appreciated the opportunity the review provided for interactive dialogue and was open to all constructive recommendations. It confirmed its commitment to promoting human rights, despite the unprecedented challenges it was facing.
II.Conclusions and/or recommendations **
132. The following recommendations will be examined by Lebanon, which will provide responses in due time, but no later than the thirty-first session of the Human Rights Council, in March 2016.
132.1 Ratify international instruments on human rights to which the country is not yet party (Côte d’Ivoire);
132.2 Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty (Montenegro) (Poland) (Portugal); Accede to the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Australia);
132.3 Abolish the death penalty and ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Italy);
132.4 Consider ratifying the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and establish a de jure moratorium on the death penalty with the view of total abolition thereof (Namibia);
132.5 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (Portugal);
132.6 Withdraw its reservations to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (Portugal) (Slovenia) (Croatia) (Paraguay); Take steps to withdraw its reservations to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (Namibia); Lift the reservations to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (Republic of Korea); Lift its reservation on Article 9 of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and allow women to pass the citizenship to their children (Norway); Review all reservations to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, including the one related to article 9.2, with a view to withdrawing them (Uruguay);
132.7 Withdraw all its reservations to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (Luxembourg);
132.8 Consider withdrawal of its reservations to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (Latvia);
132.9 Take further measures to eradicate discrimination against women, as prescribed by Article 3 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, by considering the withdrawal of its reservation to Article 9 of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and allowing women to pass on citizenship to their children in the same manner as men (Sweden);
132.10 Review current legislation and amend as necessary all discriminatory provisions against women and lift all reservations to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (Germany);
132.11 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict (Estonia) (Honduras) (Paraguay);
132.12 Consider the possibility of ratifying the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict (Panama);
132.13 Ratify the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (Senegal) (Honduras) (Madagascar) (Sierra Leone);
132.14 Take steps toward accession to the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (Philippines);
132.15 Ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (Uruguay) (Argentina) (Sierra Leone);
132.16 Establish a legal framework and a national commission of inquiry on missing persons, and ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (France);
132.17 Ratify the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (Sierra Leone) (Honduras) (Portugal); Conclude the ratification process of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (Turkey); Expedite the necessary process to ratify the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (Thailand); Facilitate ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (Republic of Korea);
132.18 Positively consider ratifying the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities to fully ensure the rights of persons with disabilities to education, employment and their participation in political and public life (China);
132.19 Ratify the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and effectively implement the national plan in order to make the education system open to children with disabilities (Italy);
132.20 Ratify the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and its Optional Protocol, and promote the awareness of the society and institutions on the right to equality and non-discrimination of persons with disabilities in all areas of life (Mexico);
132.21 Sign and ratify the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (France); Ratify the Rome Statute (Switzerland) (Paraguay) (Austria) (Costa Rica); Take all necessary steps towards acceding to the Rome Statute (Cyprus); Accede to and fully align its national legislation with the Rome Statute (Latvia); Accede to and implement the Rome Statute in national legislation (Poland);
132.22 Accede to and fully align its national legislation with the Rome Statute and accede to the Agreement on the Privileges and Immunities of the International CriminalCourt (Estonia);
132.23 Ratify various international human rights statutes and conventions, including the Rome Statute, the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and the ILO Conventions Nos. 87, 169 and 189 (Ghana);
132.24 Take steps toward accession to ILO Convention 189 (Philippines);
132.25 Ratify ILO Convention No. 87 on Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organise, and implement it to ensure the right of all workers to freely organize (Sweden);
132.26 Sign and ratify the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees and its 1967 Protocol and ensure their effective implementation at the national level (Belgium);
132.27 Ratify the Convention relating to the Status of Refugees of 1951 and its 1967 Protocol (Uruguay) (Iceland); Promote the ratification of the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees (Paraguay);
132.28 Accede to the Convention on the Non-Applicability of Statutory Limitations to War Crimes and Crimes against Humanity (Uruguay);
132.29 Consider enacting, in consultation with civil society, an optional civil code that takes into account Lebanon’s international human rights obligations (United States of America);
132.30 Amend its legislation so that it treats equally all women and men with respect to marriage, divorce and inheritance rights as well as conferring citizenship to their children and spouses (Czech Republic);
132.31 Amend personal status laws and develop a comprehensive policy at the national level, consistent with the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, to ensure that women are treated in the same way as men in issues related to child custody, inheritance and divorce (Canada);
132.32 Reform the nationality law to give women the capacity to acquire, retain and transfer citizenship on an equal basis with men and to bring the law into compliance with international human rights standards (Kenya);
132.33 Pass laws that aim at ensuring equal treatment of women, in issues related to child custody, inheritance and divorce (Netherlands);
132.34 Criminalize torture in accordance with Article 1 of the Convention against Torture and combat impunity in this field (Belgium);
132.35 Define and criminalize torture as a matter of priority and amend its legislation accordingly (Turkey);
132.36 Amend relevant national legislation in line with the Convention against Torture (Hungary);
132.37 Adopt laws to increase the age of criminal responsibility and to eliminate child, early and forced marriage (Sierra Leone);
132.38 Make it easier for displaced persons in Lebanon, and their children, to obtain legal status in order to prevent any violation of fundamental rights recognised in treaties to which Lebanon is party; and develop a legal framework defining and protecting the rights and freedoms of those individuals (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland);
132.39 Develop a specific legal framework defining and protecting rights and freedoms of refugees and amend the 1962 Law on Entry and Exit with a view to de-penalise the illegal entry or presence of asylum-seekers and refugees registered by UNHCR (Norway);
132.40 Amend its legislation to ensure that Palestinians in Lebanon have the right to inherit and register property, including the right to own land, as previously recommended (Finland);
132.41 Continue making efforts to protect the rights of older persons (Saudi Arabia);
132.42 Establish an independent national human rights institution in line with the Paris Principles (Sierra Leone);
132.43 Create a National Human Rights Institution in accordance with the Paris Principles (Hungary);
132.44 Establish a National Institution for Human Rights in accordance with the Paris Principles (Namibia);
132.45Speed up the establishment of the National Independent Commission for Human Rights which includes the establishment of a permanent national committee to prevent torture, in accordance with the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture (Bahrain);
132.46 Strengthen the institutional framework for human rights by establishing a national institution in accordance with the Paris Principles (Spain);
132.47 Move expeditiously to establish a National Institution for Human Rights in accordance with the Paris Principles (Australia);
132.48 Continue efforts to set up the National Human Rights Institution (Sudan);
132.49 Continue efforts aiming at establishing the independent national human rights institution (Egypt);
132.50 Redouble its efforts in finalizing the establishment of an independent national human rights institution in accordance with the Paris Principles (Indonesia);
132.51 Hasten the establishment of a National Human Rights Institution (Nigeria);
132.52 Continue its efforts to establish an independent national human rights institution (Oman);
132.53 Finalize the procedure to establish a national human rights institution in full compliance with the Paris Principles (Portugal);
132.54 Take the necessary steps to establish the National Human Rights Institution (Jordan);
132.55 Consider the establishment of an independent mechanism for children and provide it with necessary human and financial resources (Slovakia);
132.56 Implement in full the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture, which Lebanon acceded to in 2008, in particular by establishing a national preventative mechanism as a matter of priority (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland);
132.57 Establish a national mechanism to prevent torture competent to visit detention centres and monitor the situation of detainees (Costa Rica);
132.58 Establish a National Prevention Mechanism in accordance with the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture (Denmark);
132.59 Establish without delay a national preventive mechanism in accordance with the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture with adequate personnel and financial resources for its effective and independent work (Czech Republic);
132.60Ensure that the legislation for establishing the National Preventative Mechanism is in line with the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture (Canada);
132.61Initiate national consultations, involving representatives from civil society organizations and human rights defenders, in order to adopt and implement a national system to prevent and fight against torture and all forms of ill-treatment, in line with recommendations submitted by the Committee against Torture and the obligation to establish a National Preventive Mechanism, as contained in the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture (Brazil);
132.62 Provide all the material and human means to ensure the success of the National Human Rights Plan which was ratified by Parliament for the period 2014-2019 (United Arab Emirates);
132.63 Continue its ongoing efforts in adopting various national human rights policies based on the National Human Rights Plan 2014-2019, including by providing the necessary budgetary requirements for the actual implementation of those policies (Indonesia);
132.64 Continue its positive efforts in ensuring effective implementation of its National Human Rights Plan, including by seeking necessary technical and financial assistance (Malaysia);
132.65 Continue making practical steps aimed at the development of the institutional and human rights infrastructure to better implement its human rights obligations, taking into account applicable international humanitarian law (Ukraine);
132.66 Continue efforts to maintain its achievements made in the field of human rights (Bangladesh);
132.67 Request from the international community all necessary aid and technical assistance to enable Lebanon to meet its international commitments on human rights (Côte d’Ivoire);
132.68 Continue to strengthen national human rights mechanisms to protect the most vulnerable sectors of society (Bahrain);
132.69 Continue its efforts to spread the culture of human rights across the school curriculum and public awareness campaigns (Yemen);
132.70 Continue to mainstream human rights through training and awareness-raising programs in all relevant sectors (Egypt);
132.71 Consider developing Human Rights Indicators, as an important instrument that allows for a more precise and coherent evaluation of national human rights policies (Portugal);
132.72 Promote the training of the personnel of the public sector in the field of human rights (Islamic Republic of Iran);
132.73 That the international community support Lebanon (Kuwait);
132.74 Continue its constant support to the human rights issues and provide support to the humanitarian efforts (Kuwait);
132.75 Consider the possibility of establishing a national system to follow up international recommendations (Paraguay);
132.76 Consider establishing a permanent inter-ministerial committee responsible for the implementation of its international human rights obligations (Portugal);
132.77 Continue submitting periodic reports to the treaty bodies Lebanon is party to (Iraq);
132.78 Effectively implement Act No. 293 and amend relevant provisions in family law in order to ensure equality between women and men (Italy);
132.79 Continue to promote gender equality and the involvement of women in public services (Lao People’s Democratic Republic);
132.80 Continue to implement the National Strategy for Women (2011-2021) for promoting women’s development (Pakistan);
132.81 Redouble its efforts to eradicate all forms of gender discrimination, particularly on issues such as marriage, adultery, rape and abortion, and guarantee the right of women to property, inheritance and unrestricted disposition of their estate (Uruguay);
132.82 Adopt appropriate policies and additionally promote gender equality in public affairs as well as enforce strict sanctions against all kinds of discrimination and abuse of women’s rights (Serbia);
132.83 Further measures aimed at achieving effective gender equality (Chile);
132.84 Redouble efforts to promote the status of women (Djibouti);
132.85 Continue with efforts to empower women economically, politically and socially, and take all necessary measures to eliminate all forms of discrimination against women (Croatia);
132.86 Implement action-oriented measures to strengthen protection and promotion of women’s rights in the areas of health and combating violence against women (Singapore);
132.87 Pursue efforts to promote and protect the rights of women through the implementation of the National Strategy for Women (Algeria);
132.88 Continue its efforts to eliminate discrimination against women in law and in practice, by amending the legislation on personal status and nationality as well as the Penal Code (Spain);
132.89 Redouble its efforts to advance women’s rights, including by improving legal systems regulating marriage and family relations in a way that eliminates discrimination against women (Republic of Korea);
132.90 Continue its policy of tolerance and diversity among the different ethnic and religious groups (Armenia);
132.91 Modify the definition of domestic violence in law in order to better protect women against sexual, economical and psychological violence (Togo);
132.92 Adopt the draft law on the marriage of minors (Congo);
132.93 Repeal Articles 487, 488, 522 and 534 of the Penal Code (Slovenia);
132.94 Ensure maximum attention to the protection and enjoyment of equal rights for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex population (Chile);
132.95 Decriminalise homosexuality and ensure non-discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity (Norway);
132.96 Promote the protection of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex community (Spain);
132.97 Secure the human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons by amending Article 534 of the Lebanese Penal Code and by codifying a protection against the discrimination of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons into law (Sweden);
132.98 Reform existing laws that can be used to discriminate against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons, including article 534 of the Lebanese Penal Code criminalising “sexual acts against nature” (Austria); Repeal article 534 of the Penal Code (Spain); Repeal Article 534 of the Lebanese Penal Code, which criminalizes homosexuality, and pass legislation to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity (Canada); Revise article 534 of the Penal Code so that its scope is clearly defined and that it does not discriminate against persons on the basis of their sexual orientation and gender identity (Czech Republic);
132.99 Ensure that the security forces, including the military, are governed, during peaceful demonstrations, by the United Nations Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials (Costa Rica);
132.100 Take the necessary measures to effectively regulate the acquisition and possession of firearms (Uruguay);
132.101 Abolish de jure the death penalty (France);
132.102 Abolish the capital punishment in all cases and in all circumstances (Portugal);
132.103 Establish a de jure moratorium on the death penalty and commute all the death sentences with a view to its abolition (Switzerland);
132.104 Abolish death penalty for all crimes and meanwhile put in place a de jure moratorium on executions, as provided by five resolutions adopted by the General Assembly of the United Nations, including the most recent resolution 69/186 of 18 December 2014 (Belgium);
132.105 Establish a moratorium with a view to abolishing the death penalty (Sierra Leone);
132.106 Establish an immediate de jure moratorium on the use of the death penalty (Luxembourg);
132.107 Transform the de facto moratorium on the death penalty into an official moratorium with a view to fully abolishing the death penalty (Germany);
132.108 Declare an official moratorium on the use of the death penalty with a view to its abolition from the penal code and commute the sentences of prisoners already sentenced to death (Ireland);
132.109 Replace the de facto moratorium with a de jure moratorium, to commute all death sentences, and stay all executions (Norway);
132.110 Continue efforts in addressing the problem of missing persons (Cyprus);
132.111Put an end to the practice of torture, criminalize all acts of torture, ensure that all allegations are duly investigated and the perpetrators are prosecuted and punished thereby fully applying the Convention against Torture and its Optional Protocol (Switzerland);
132.112 Improve prison conditions by strengthening preventive measures to protect prisoners from ill-treatment and torture and investigating allegations of abuse (United States of America);
132.113 Introduce national legislation that criminalizes all forms of torture and ill treatment, that Lebanon prosecutes perpetrators of torture, and imposes judicial sentences that correspond to the gravity of torture crimes committed (Netherlands);
132.114 Comply with the Convention against Torture, criminalise all forms of torture and ill-treatment; ensure places of detention under its control are subject to open and transparent scrutiny by bodies independent of government and undertake prompt and impartial investigations of allegations of torture (Australia);
132.115 Provide comprehensive and effective protection against cases of torture and accountability of perpetrators, in particular for persons in detention or prison facilities (Holy See);
132.116 Take urgent, strong and coordinated action at all levels to eradicate torture, punish perpetrators, compensate victims and ensure effective legal safeguards for all persons deprived of their liberty (Ireland);
132.117 Take the appropriate legislative measures in order to incorporate into national law the provisions of the Convention against Torture and its Optional Protocol for the purpose of ensuring its effective implementation (Luxembourg);
132.118 Incorporate the provisions of the Convention against Torture into domestic laws, and implement the recommendations of the Committee against Torture following the inquiry mission to Lebanon (Germany);
132.119Adopt a law on the general prohibition of torture based on a comprehensive definition of torture in conformity with the Convention against Torture and providing for adequate assistance to victims as well as for victims’ access to redress and compensation (Austria);
132.120 Take appropriate steps to address acts of torture of all persons, including migrants in detention, and to tackle the phenomenon of child labour and ensure that all children of school going age have unimpeded access to education (Ghana);
132.121 Promote the welfare of detainees, and continue with the reforms necessary for the protection of their rights by improving conditions in detention facilities and continuous staff training (Ecuador);
132.122 Take all measures necessary to accelerate its criminal justice procedure and improve the conditions of its prisons and detentions centres, including the elimination of overcrowding (Japan);
132.123 Put an end to unlimited detention on remand and free all persons detained without official accusation and trial (Switzerland);
132.124 End arbitrary detention, torture and ill-treatment, including violence committed by the police and the armed forces; fight effectively against the impunity of the perpetrators of such acts (France);
132.125 Enforce the 2014 Law to Protect Women and all Members of the Family from Family Violence, criminalize marital rape, and ensure that marriage to the victim does not exempt a sexual offender from punishment (Canada);
132.126 Continue its efforts to combat domestic violence, sexual harassment and exploitation of women, in particular adolescents, women heads of households without a partner and girls with children (Colombia);
132.127 Harmonize Law 293 on domestic violence to ensure it is in line with the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, and allocate human, institutional and financial resources for its proper implementation (Honduras);
132.128 Criminalize marital rape and establish a common minimum age for marriage at 18 years old (Slovenia);
132.129 Adopt and implement all necessary measures to effectively prevent domestic violence and gender-based homicides (Panama);
132.130 Ban child marriage (Holy See);
132.131 Ban child marriages and amend Law 422 of 2002 on the protection of minors in conflict with the law in order to raise the minimum age of criminal responsibility in compliance with international standards (Czech Republic);
132.132 Adopt a draft law on the marriage of minors (Djibouti);
132.133 Develop a strategy to combat child labour (Sierra Leone);
132.134 Implement measures to fight against child labour (France);
132.135 Take adequate measures to ensure full compatibility of national legislation with the provisions and principles of the Convention on the Rights of the Child and its Optional Protocols (Slovakia);
132.136 Further strengthen measures to protect children and women from all forms of violence (Sri Lanka);
132.137 Improve the harmonization of national legislation with that of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, in particular the legal status of corporal punishment of children and provisions on the minimum age of criminal responsibility (Croatia);
132.138 Prohibit all corporal punishment of children, including in the home and all other settings, and explicitly repeal the right to discipline children according to “general custom” in the Penal Law (Estonia);
132.139 Continue efforts of the Lebanese Government to improve the functioning of the education system, including by advancing the enrolment and by protecting street children from the worst forms of child labour (Albania);
132.140 Progress on measures to provide psychological and specialized medical services for children victims of abuse, and continue fighting the worst forms of child labour (Colombia);
132.141 Enhance promotion and protection of the rights of the child, including measures against sexual and labour exploitation (Japan);
132.142 Continue strengthening legal and policy protections which guarantee the rights of the child, in line with the provisions of the Convention on the Rights of the Child and its Optional Protocols (Serbia);
132.143 Identify, protect and support victims of trafficking and forced labour (Australia);
132.144 Continue efforts on achieving gender equality and fighting against human trafficking (Greece);
132.145 Continue intensifying the efforts aimed at combatting trafficking in person and guarantee the protection of victims (Jordan);
132.146 Pursue and enhance efforts to combat human trafficking as well as raising awareness as to the threat posed by this scourge and protect its victims (Qatar);
132.147 Adopt a National Action Plan on preventing and combating trafficking in human beings and pursue measures aimed at preventing trafficking and providing appropriate protection to victims (Republic of Moldova);
132.148 Continue efforts to strengthen equality between men and women and in combatting trafficking in persons (Russian Federation);
132.149 Improve the conditions for fair trial by introducing reforms to limit the Military Tribunal’s jurisdiction to members of the armed forces and enhance the independence of the judiciary (Hungary);
132.150 Raise the age of criminal responsibility to 12 years (Slovenia);
132.151 Raise the age of criminal responsibility of children from 7 to 12 years, as recommended by the Committee on the Rights of the Child (Montenegro);
132.152 Continue making progress towards a more efficient functioning of government institutions, continuing the fight against corruption and promoting transparency (Holy See);
132.153 Further improve its birth registration system and ensure that this system is accessible to all children born in Lebanon (Turkey);
132.154 Take legal and administrative steps to ensure that every refugee child born in Lebanon is properly registered by the authorities and issued with the documents to prove it, without prejudice to the question of permanent residency or acquisition of citizenship (Austria);
132.155 Amend the Nationality Law to ensure that women have the right to pass on their nationality to their children and husband (Denmark);
132.156 Provide opportunities for women to pass on Lebanese citizenship and withdraw all reservations to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (France);
132.157 Make the necessary legislative amendments to allow all children born in Lebanon to be entitled to the legal recognition through their birth registration (Mexico);
132.158 Strengthen the measures to ensure a safe environment for the activities of human rights defenders (Colombia);
132.159 Safeguard the democratic nature of Lebanon, as prescribed by Article 25 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, by carrying out local elections as planned, without delay, as well as by urgently facilitating the appointment of a president and the holding of a parliamentary election (Sweden);
132.160 Adopt a national action plan to encourage women’s participation in political and public life (Italy);
132.161 Implement the necessary policies to encourage women to participate in political and public life (Mexico);
132.162 That the Ministry of Labour accelerate passing the executive decrees of the Labour Law to facilitate access to employment for Palestinians and open the prospect of work in all professional fields (State of Palestine);
132.163 Establish a monitoring mechanism to prevent abuse, guarantee decent working conditions and wage payments (Madagascar);
132.164 Ensure equal rights to all workers in the country in accordance with international standards (Nigeria);
132.165 Pursue efforts to ensure that labour relations between workers and employers are in line with international labour standards (Iraq);
132.166 Work towards additional efforts to promote economic and social rights; to enhance in particular the right to work, education, health and housing (Saudi Arabia);
132.167 Consider amending legislation, which limit Palestinian refugees from owning property, considering the suffering of our people there and facilitate their lives and meet their human needs, with emphasis on the right to return as one of the basic rights to the Palestinian refugees (State of Palestine);
132.168 Continue taking further steps at the legislative level, that take into consideration the recent developments and the economic and social conditions of vulnerable families and provide better protection for children (Libya);
132.169 Pursue further efforts in order to further bolster economic, social and cultural rights and support the implementation of programmes and national related plans (Qatar);
132.170 Continue consolidating the national policies to combat poverty and social exclusion in favour of the most vulnerable sectors (Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);
132.171 Continue implementing the program of support for the poorest families as a means to combat poverty (Cuba);
132.172 Continue the search for measures to address the high cost of health services and the existing quality disparity in the market for such services (Cuba);
132.173 Make primary education compulsory, free and accessible to all children (Togo);
132.174 Pursue efforts to provide education for all people residing in the Lebanese territory (Algeria);
132.175 Continue efforts to establish a free and compulsory quality education for all children up to the age of 15 (Congo);
132.176 Continue its efforts to establish a free and compulsory quality education for children up to the age of 15 years (Djibouti);
132.177 Ensure equitable and sustainable resources to education (Slovakia);
132.178 Improve access to quality education, health and social services, in particular for children and women (Italy);
132.179 Strengthen and expand the education infrastructure in order to offer quality inclusive education to all children on its territory (Slovenia);
132.180 Pursue efforts to promote the quality of education and to establish mandatory free education for all (Madagascar);
132.181 Guarantee free, obligatory, and quality education for all children (Maldives);
132.182 Further develop, exponentially and progressively, free and compulsory quality education for all children up to 15 years of age (Panama);
132.183 Continue to implement the National Plan for the Integration of Persons with Disabilities (Pakistan);
132.184 Ensure the effective implementation of the National Plan for the Integration of Persons with Disabilities, especially regarding access to education and employment (Finland);
132.185 Further strengthen efforts to improve the lives of persons with disabilities, including by developing and implementing policy instruments to meet the education needs of children with disabilities (Singapore);
132.186 Ensure that the National Plan for Integration of Persons with Disabilities has the necessary human, institutional and financial resources for its effective implementation (Honduras);
132.187Continue to realize the rights of persons with disabilities, including their right to education, in the framework of the National Plan for the Integration of Persons with Disabilities which it has adopted (Russian Federation);
132.188 Take further steps to ensure the protection of persons with disabilities (Greece);
132.189 Continue its efforts to protect persons with disabilities including awareness-raising campaigns about the rights of people with disabilities (Islamic Republic of Iran);
132.190 Strengthen measures towards the integration of children with disabilities into formal education mechanisms (Maldives);
132.191 Implement policies focused on the integration of children with special needs into the public education system, adapt buildings, and provide training to teachers and educational staff to promote an enabling and inclusive environment for education (Canada);
132.192 Intensify efforts to integrate persons with special needs in schools (Oman);
132.193 Continue to strengthen the educational system and to ensure equal access of disabled children to education (Lao People’s Democratic Republic);
132.194 Abolish the “kafala” sponsorship system with regard to migrant domestic workers (Denmark);
132.195 Take into particular consideration the vulnerable situation of migrants and refugees in the country, in particular women and children (Nicaragua);
132.196 Engage constructively with international and regional partners to secure support for programs aimed at providing humanitarian assistance to migrants and refugees (Philippines);
132.197 Amend the Labour Code to extend legal protection to domestic workers equal to that afforded to other workers and reform the visa sponsorship system so that workers can terminate employment without sponsor consent (United States of America);
132.198 Improve the legal situation of migrant workers (Austria);
132.199 Further strengthen the promotion and protection of rights of foreign workers (Bangladesh);
132.200 End the sponsorship system for migrant domestic workers (France);
132.201 Amend the labour code and visa sponsorship system to accord the necessary legal protection to migrant domestic workers on an equal footing with other workers (Kenya);
132.202 Take necessary measures to ensure that effective protection against discrimination in all aspects of their employment is provided to all migrant domestic workers (Albania);
132.203 Remove the discriminatory restrictions on access to the labour market for Palestinian refugees (Iceland);
132.204 Strengthen efforts to improve the well-being of women migrant workers in Lebanon and their rights (Sri Lanka);
132.205 Improve the situation of the foreign workers including female domestic workers as they constitute a vulnerable group (Senegal);
132.206 Take legal and administrative measures to guarantee the principle of non-refoulement and the adequate and fair treatment for those requesting international protection (Argentina);
132.207 Continue the cooperation with international organizations and donor countries to find solutions to the problems of the refugees (Armenia);
132.208 Continue to enhance domestic legal frameworks promoting the human rights, security and well-being of refugees and migrants in Lebanon (Philippines);
132.209 Consider developing a comprehensive domestic legal framework on the treatment of asylum seekers and refugees with a view to better ensure their basic human rights and living conditions (Republic of Korea);
132.210 Establish specific legal provisions in order to define and protect the rights and freedoms of refugees (Congo);
132.211 Pursue its efforts to put an end to remaining discriminations against women and Palestinian refugees (Belgium);
132.212 Put in place measures to protect refugees and asylum-seeking women and girls from economic and sexual exploitation, gender-based violence, including sexual abuse, as well as child and forced marriage and discrimination (Thailand);
132.213 Ensure the full protection of refugees and displaced persons by strengthening the appropriate mechanisms of attention to safeguard optimal standards in their living conditions (Ecuador);
132.214 Promote the registration of Syrian refugees by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in order for the international community to help Lebanon to cope with this humanitarian crisis and to allow the return of Syrians in the country when peace returns. Promote refugee access to livelihoods (France);
132.215 Improve the situation of refugees by facilitating their registration and by renewing residency permits; by setting up an effective mechanism for birth registration to avoid statelessness of newborn children; and by allowing refugees, including Palestinian refugees, access to segments of the official labour market (Germany);
132.216 Continue its laudable efforts to give shelter to refugees and, through the involvement of UNHCR, to provide an effective administrative system for their registration and protection (Holy See);
132.217 Strengthen the efforts to ensure the protection and dignity of Syrian refugees, especially with regard to health care, access to education and protection of children, women, the elderly and persons with disabilities in situation of risk (Chile);
132.218 Continue efforts in the fight against terrorism including assistance to victims of terrorism (Armenia);
132.219 Continue to fight firmly against terrorism so as to provide security guarantees to the people of Lebanon to enjoy all human rights (China).
133. Lebanon considers that the recommendations below cannot be accepted and would thus be noted.
133.1 Take concrete steps to guarantee gender equality and abolish all means of gender-based violence (Israel);
133.2 Take concrete steps to assure freedom of expression and to guarantee the protection of peaceful protesters (Israel).
134. Lebanon considers that the recommendations 133.1 and 133.2 cannot be accepted, because Lebanon does not recognize Israel, and considers that they are submitted by an occupying power to part of the Lebanese territory.
135. All conclusions and/or recommendations contained in the present report reflect the position of the submitting State(s) and/or the State under review. They should not be construed as endorsed by the Working Group as a whole.
Annex
Composition of the delegation
The delegation of Lebanon was headed by H.E. Mrs. Najla Riachi Assaker, Ambassador, and Permanent Representative of Lebanon in Geneva and composed of the following members:
•Mr. Rayan Said – Deputy Permanent Representative at the Permanent Mission of Lebanon in Geneva;
•Mr. Ahmad Arafa – Counsellor at the Permanent Mission of Lebanon in Geneva;
•Ms. Rana El Khoury – First Secretary at the Permanent Mission of Lebanon in Geneva;
•Judge Mrs. Marleine Al Jor – Representative of the Ministry of Justice;
•Judge Mrs. Nazek Al Khatib – Representative of the Ministry of Justice;
•Colonel Mr. Ziad Kaed Bay – Representative of the Ministry of Interior and Municipalities;
•Captain Mr. Talal Youssef – Representative of the Ministry of Interior and Municipalities;
•Mr. Fadi Karam – Representative of the National Commission for Lebanese Women.