Human Rights Council
Thirty-first session
Agenda item 6
Universal periodic review
Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review *
Saint Kitts and Nevis
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 review6
II.Conclusions and/or recommendations14
Annex
Composition of the delegation23
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 Saint Kitts and Nevis was held at the 15th meeting on 11 November 2015. The delegation of Saint Kitts and Nevis was headed by the Permanent Secretary (Ag) Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kaye Bass. At its 18th meeting, held on 13 November 2015, the Working Group adopted the report on Saint Kitts and Nevis.
2.On 13 January 2015, the Human Rights Council selected the following group of rapporteurs (troika) to facilitate the review of Saint Kitts and Nevis: Gabon, Mexico and Saudi Arabia.
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 Saint Kitts and Nevis:
(a)A national report submitted/written presentation made in accordance with paragraph 15 (a) (A/HRC/WG.6/23/KNA/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/KNA/2);
(c)A summary prepared by OHCHR in accordance with paragraph 15 (c) (A/HRC/WG.6/23/KNA/3).
4.A list of questions prepared in advance by Kenya, Liechtenstein, Mexico, Spain and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland was transmitted to Saint Kitts and Nevis 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.The Delegation of Saint Kitts and Nevis reiterated its Government’s commitment to the universal periodic review. It emphasized that, although Saint Kitts and Nevis had made deliberate attempts to implement the recommendations shared by the Working Group and accepted during its first review, it was necessary to heighten awareness of the challenges with which it was confronted. These largely attributed to its inability to give wholesale effect to the recommendations, despite its acknowledgement of their value.
6.The small and highly open, middle-income economy of Saint Kitts and Nevis continued to face significant vulnerabilities to the world financial crisis and recession that had led to a reduction in income from remittances to the State and had contributed to the lacklustre conditions for foreign direct investment. Moreover, the economy was experiencing an additional challenge, namely, an exceptionally high public sector debt-to-gross domestic product ratio of almost 200 per cent by 2013.
7.The delegation asserted that the Government had designed a credible macroeconomic framework and had implemented stringent fiscal measures aimed at reducing debt and creating conditions for sustained economic growth, higher standards of living and poverty alleviation. Nevertheless, the allocations for social protection had not been reduced. The fundamental aim was to lift more people above the poverty threshold and give them the opportunity to make a greater contribution to the national development effort.
8.The delegation expressed hope that the delay in implementation of recommendations not be construed as a lack of interest or volition, but rather as a severe paucity of essential resources. Since the previous review, domestic developments aimed at enhancing the standard of living of citizens had been incremental.
9.It stated that, since the previous review, general elections had been held in Saint Kitts and Nevis on 16 February 2015, which ushered in a new administration. During the Throne Speech of the new Governor General, Sir Tapley Seaton outlined the focus of the newly installed Government. He reiterated the continuing commitment of the State to human rights, in spite of the transmission of leadership.
10.The delegation subsequently provided information on multiple initiatives, projects and programmes that had been successfully implemented.
11.The delegation indicated that, a few months after the first review of Saint Kitts and Nevis, the Ministry of Health, Social Services, Community Development, Culture and Gender Affairs had partnered with the World Bank, the United Nations Children’s fund (UNICEF) and the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN-Women) to launch national consultations on the National Social Protection Strategy, Plan of Action and Monitoring and Evaluation Framework.
12.The delegation underscored that, in the long term, it was envisaged that the Strategy would, inter alia, create a sustainable system for universal social protection coverage for the population, develop citizens who would become more self-sufficient over time and prevent chronic poverty. This Strategy, approved by the Cabinet in March 2012, is now being implemented.
13.On the situation of children, the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis was pleased to report that, with the assistance of UNICEF, a consultant had been contracted by the Ministry of Health, Social Services, Community Development, Culture and Gender Affairs to review the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography and to make recommendations with respect to acceding to those instruments. The delay in the country’s accession to both Optional Protocols was largely owing to the findings of the consultant, who discovered that some existing domestic legislation conflicted with them. It was determined that, until some articles of the Defence Force Act, in particular, were amended or some sections repealed, the Government could not proceed with acceding to the Optional Protocols. The consultant’s report would be presented to the Federal Cabinet of Ministers for review and approval to support accession to the Optional Protocols. It was proposed that the process be completed within the first quarter of 2016.
14.The delegation reported on the formulation of the National Child Protection Protocol and Action Plan, which served as a practical instrument to assist in the prevention, reporting and management of child abuse, while the Action Plan would aid the development of a training and stakeholder outreach programme for the Protocol’s implementation. It also highlighted the adoption of new child protection legislation through public consultation. The delegation also indicated that progress had been made through the child-friendly schools policy and the positive behaviour management policy, drafted by the Ministry of Education.
15.It reported that the Domestic Violence Act of 2014 had classified sexual violence, rape and incest as serious offences, provided greater protection for victims of domestic violence and established appropriate penalties for the perpetrators, including relatives of the victim. With technical assistance from the Pan American Health Organization, the Department of Gender Affairs had been able to draft a domestic violence protocol that sought to outline the roles, responsibilities and functions of each State and non-governmental partner in the identification, reporting and treatment of domestic violence situations.
16.The delegation expressed that, although discrimination against people on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity was not specifically prohibited in the Constitution, and although no domestic law had yet been drafted regarding the same, there was no formal or positive legal discrimination against persons in Saint Kitts and Nevis on that basis. It asserted that no laws existed that prohibited discrimination against a person on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity and that the Government had asserted that it had received no reports of violence or discrimination on that basis.
17.It indicated that the country’s gender assessment had highlighted the women in the construction trades programme, which was mainly aimed at equipping women with the resources to gain more lucrative occupations and at combating gender stereotypes.
18.Regarding the death penalty, the delegation stated that, according to section 4 (1) of the Saint Kitts and Nevis Constitution, a person should not be deprived of his life intentionally, except in the implementation of a sentence by a court in respect of a conviction for the criminal offences of treason or murder, and that, in that connection, there was no relevant law in relation to giving effect to the death penalty in the case of treason.
19.The delegation asserted that the relevant law in relation to murder cases was the Offences Against the Person Act and that the provision that would give effect to the death sentence was found to be unconstitutional. The mandatory nature of the death sentence was challenged and found to be inconsistent with the Constitution. Since 1993, with the seminal decision of the Privy Council in the case of Pratt and Morgan v. Attorney General of Jamaica (1993) 43 WIR 340: (1994) A.C. 1, which definitively established that the delay in the execution of a convicted prisoner under sentence of death could well offend the constitutional provision prohibiting degrading or inhumane treatment, the death penalty had not been implemented for any such convict who had spent a period of five years in prison after being sentenced.
20.The delegation underscored that Saint Kitts and Nevis had not imposed the death penalty for several years and that it was in fact very rare, with only three persons having been executed within the previous 30 years and none in almost 7 years.
21.Saint Kitts and Nevis had not imposed the death penalty since its first universal periodic review, reserving such sentences for only the “worst of the worst” cases. Four individuals had, in fact, through the appeal process, had their sentences commuted to life imprisonment or vacated. Recent statistics proved that crime in the State was on the decline, and it was clear that, although heinous crime continued to be a concern, the number of persons sentenced to death in recent years was also on a downward trend and, to date, only one person remained on death row.
22.The delegation of Saint Kitts and Nevis requested once again that it be granted technical and other resources to amend any prison policies and to maintain consistent and regular capacity-building programmes for prison officers. Subsequent to the first universal periodic review, parliament passed the Police Complaints Act in 2014, which provided for the receipt, investigation and determination of complaints by the public against the National Police and for related matters, and authorized the establishment of an independent body — the Police Complaints Commission — and a complaints unit within the police force.
23.The delegation underscored that, in July 2015, the police unveiled its Crime Action Plan to enhance public safety. It mentioned a number of achievements and stated the Plan had been working.
24.Regarding the country’s reporting to United Nations treaty bodies, Saint Kitts and Nevis was pleased to report that it had submitted its 2012 report on the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
25.The delegation indicated that the criminal justice system as a whole was under review and a number of proposals to reduce the backlog had already been approved. It was the Government’s intention to establish an additional criminal court in the short term and to provide judges with better legal support staff.
26.The delegation also asserted that the country was consolidating an educational system that was increasingly in line with the needs of the population. It affirmed that, with technical assistance from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the Ministry of Education had been engaged in consultations to create an education sector strategy document.
27.Saint Kitts and Nevis had continued to adopt measures to put an end to corporal punishment, as the Ministry of Education had adopted the effective UNICEF framework on child-friendly schools and was incorporating that framework in its sector strategy document. In addition, a behavioural policy had been drafted and would be forwarded to the Cabinet for adoption. That policy prohibited the use of corporal punishment as a tool to discipline children enrolled in public institutions of learning.
28.In consultation with civil society, the new political administration had made a pledge to institutionalize a process of consultation between the Government and all citizens, including civil society, on matters of national importance. In the previous month, representatives of civil society had been invited to and participated in the annual National Consultation on the economy.
29.With respect to previously noted recommendations, Saint Kitts and Nevis made a number of comments. Regarding the replacement of the Basseterre facility with a new prison that met international standards, the Government was very concerned about appropriate housing for incarcerated inmates and the delegation commented that funding had been the greatest challenge.
30.Regarding the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, with the assistance of UNESCO, a situational analysis had been undertaken to determine the readiness of the State for its adoption, which would be used to chart a plan of action to accompany the recommendation for Parliament to ratify the Convention.
B.Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review
31.During the interactive dialogue, 48 delegations made statements. Recommendations made during the dialogue are to be found in section II of the present report.
32.Barbados noted the emphasis placed on poverty reduction, the close collaboration with United Nations agencies to strengthen social assistance, improve education and health care and encouraged continued strengthening of domestic legislation to create sustainable social protection reform. It also noted the creation of a Special Victims Unit within the police force to address violence against women and girls and the legislation aimed at bringing about equality in the work place for men and women. It encouraged continued collaboration with the International Labour Organization in developing codes to protect workers.
33.Brazil noted the establishment of the Special Victims Unit and the adoption of the Domestic Violence Act 2014, pursuant to recommendations it had made at the first review. It encouraged the development of a national gender policy. It recognized efforts to strengthen child protection systems and encouraged the banning of corporal punishment. It noted initiatives to improve education and encouraged additional measures to promote gender equality and inclusive education. It encouraged the country to raise public awareness aimed at promoting non-discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons.
34.Canada commended Saint Kitts and Nevis for continued efforts to reduce domestic violence, including through the adoption of the 2014 Domestic Violence Act, which, among other provisions, includes economic relief for victims. It welcomed efforts to expand the protection and rights of children in Saint Kitts and Nevis through the adoption of several pieces of legislation in this area.
35.Chile praised efforts undertaken to make advances in the field of human rights, including the adoption of a number of laws, such as those related to domestic violence and the Law on Justice for Minors. It highlighted the development of the Social Protection Strategy and its Plan of Action, intended to train, empower and guide the most disadvantaged families. It encouraged Saint Kitts and Nevis to pursue such efforts, recognizing its limited resource availability and the need to count on the support of international organizations and the international community.
36.Colombia underscored the commitment of Saint Kitts and Nevis to advance on the recommendation received during its first universal periodic review cycle.
37.Costa Rica highlighted the constitutional provisions that guarantee the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms, and the significant efforts on the training of police and nurses and counselling for the empowerment of women. Attention should be given nevertheless to the delays in delivering criminal justice and delays in the presentation of reports to the Committee on the Rights of the Child, the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women and the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. It highlighted that a national policy on gender equality seemed to be urgent.
38.Cuba stated that, even in a period of economic and financial deceleration, the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis had maintained steady efforts to improve the quality of life of its citizens, strengthening the implementation of social projects and programmes. It underscored the adoption of new legislation on child protection, the building materials incentive programme, the national plan on health care and the increase in social security pensions.
39.The United Kingdom remained concerned at the high levels of reported gang activity and associated problems, including gun crime and murder, and encouraged the Government to continue to provide viable employment opportunities and alternatives for young people. The United Kingdom also encouraged the Government to review criminal justice procedures; ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights by persons with disabilities; sign the first two Optional Protocols to the Convention on the Rights of the Child; and promote a culture of tolerance and take concrete domestic actions to end all discrimination, including gender-based discrimination and discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people.
40.Djibouti noted with satisfaction the measures taken to promote and strengthen human rights, in particular the adoption of a strategy for the reduction of poverty.
41.Ecuador expressed appreciation for social development and poverty eradication programmes and the Social Protection Strategy 2013-2017. It highlighted the modification of the definition of “minor” in the Minor Justice Law, following international human rights standards, in order to provide adequate protection to persons under 18. It also underscored the creation of an education network that permitted access to the Internet.
42.Estonia encouraged the country to continue to strengthen cooperation with civil society. It regretted that the country was still not a party to the most human rights instruments and that progress in implementing the recommendations from the previous review had been modest. Estonia called on the Government to decriminalize defamation and to introduce provisions for defamation in the civil codes. It invited the Government to develop a national gender policy. It noted positively the efforts to strengthen child protection systems.
43.France thanked Saint Kitts and Nevis for the presentation of its national report.
44.Georgia commended Saint Kitts and Nevis for its poverty-reduction efforts and welcomed the establishment of the National Education Foundation, designed to help disadvantaged students through scholarships and grants.
45.Germany commended Saint Kitts and Nevis for efforts to improve the human rights situation, including efforts to reduce poverty and to support children and young people in areas of education and rehabilitation. It expressed concern about the high rate of homicide and welcomed steps taken to tackle that issue.
46.Ghana commended Saint Kitts and Nevis for ratifying the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court and encouraged the ratification of the Kampala amendments to the Statute. Saint Kitts and Nevis had yet to ratify a significant number of international human rights treaties, despite recommendations in that regard from the previous review.
47.Guatemala welcomed the adoption of the National Social Protection Strategy 2013-2017. It shared the opinion of the OHCHR Subregional Office about the importance that the country should introduce a national human rights institution in conformity with the principles relating to the status of national institutions for the promotion and protection of human rights (the Paris Principles). It shared the concern of UNESCO that laws on freedom of information had not been adopted and that defamation and slander were considered crimes. It highlighted the importance of establishing a national legal framework to provide protection for refugees.
48.Haiti thanked Saint Kitts and Nevis for its comprehensive and voluminous national report.
49.Indonesia appreciated the continued engagement in the universal periodic review process. It noted that Saint Kitts and Nevis had focused on the overall quality of life of its people and had supported policies to address poverty reduction, while expressing the view that all countries should review their human rights policies with a view to establishing strong national human rights mechanisms. It also noted the adoption of the White Paper on Education and Policy.
50.Ireland commended Saint Kitts and Nevis for the positive steps to deal with domestic violence, but remained concerned that the law did not cover marital rape. It urged Saint Kitts and Nevis to criminalize marital rape and establish and maintain shelters for victims of domestic violence; decriminalize libel and defamation and provide for freedom of information; and take concrete steps to abolish the death penalty and institute a moratorium on its use. Ireland remained concerned about reports of violence and discrimination of persons because of their sexual orientation.
51.Jamaica noted the initiatives taken to increase social protection and in relation to poverty reduction, the protection of children and the empowerment of women, young people and the elderly. It also noted the construction of a mixed-gender juvenile rehabilitation facility and the introduction of single-sex education at the primary school level, and looked forward to the hearing about the lessons learned in that regard. It applauded the inclusion of breast cancer treatment in the national health-care scheme and the establishment of the Special Victims Unit within the police force.
52.Maldives commended the progress made in ameliorating the standard of living. It noted the adoption of the White Paper on Education and Policy, which provided a blueprint for the education sector. It appreciated the continued work on providing reliable and affordable health services and noted the success in addressing the health-related Millennium Development Goals. It encouraged the formalization of health-related issues by enacting, reviewing and updating laws. It expressed appreciation for the progress in attaining gender equality.
53.Mexico valued the launching of the Plan for Education and Technical and Professional Training. It welcomed the collaboration of the country with UNICEF to make advances regarding development and the provision of education, and encouraged it to continue that cooperation and extend the practice to human rights bodies and mechanisms. It welcomed the initiation of the human rights awareness project aimed at young persons, with the support of UNESCO. It also welcomed the approval of the Law on Domestic Violence.
54.Montenegro welcomed the initiatives taken, particularly with regard to poverty eradication, social protection and services and juvenile justice. It noted the efforts to combat domestic violence, including through the adoption of the Domestic Violence Act in 2014. It commended the adoption of legislation to improve the protection of the rights of the child. It encouraged full implementation of the Social Protection Strategy 2013-2017. It requested to know the reasons for not ratifying core human rights instruments, although Saint Kitts and Nevis had accepted recommendations in that regard.
55.Morocco noted with satisfaction the initiatives taken in Saint Kitts and Nevis on improving the quality of life of its people through a strategy for the reduction of poverty and a national strategy for social protection; approaching the gender issue and the implementation of relevant judicial and administrative provisions; and the protection of young people, especially through the building of a centre for the reinsertion of young people in conflict with the law. Morocco stated that it considered the implementation of the National Child Protection Protocol to represent remarkable progress.
56.Namibia congratulated Saint Kitts and Nevis for the adoption of the National Social Protection Strategy and Plan of Action for 2013-2017 and the adoption of a best practice model for holistic poverty alleviation. It requested to know about the steps taken to implement the National Child Protection Protocol and Action Plan. It noted that the death penalty remained in the law books but that no executions had been carried out in the previous six years.
57.The Netherlands stated that, at the 2011 universal periodic review, Saint Kitts and Nevis had accepted recommendations to ratify two of the Optional Protocols to the Convention of the Rights of the Child and to review national legislation to ensure compliance with the Convention. However, it was yet to ratify those protocols. The Government was yet to establish an official moratorium on the death penalty.
58.Nicaragua underscored the positive impact on human rights of the social and economic programmes to alleviate poverty, including the National Plan for Social Protection. Overcoming poverty continues to be a fundamental objective for small-economy countries, which have not followed the international trend. It recognized the country’s performance in the promotion of a green economy as an alternative to facilitate growth and sustainable development.
59.Paraguay welcomed the efforts and advances achieved with the programme for the reduction of poverty and the success obtained in meeting the Millennium Development Goals regarding health. It appreciated the adoption of the law on equal pay among men and women. It also highlighted the creation of a national registry system that permits the registry of births and deaths. It noted the change in the Law on Criminal Responsibility, which increases the minimum age from 8 to 12 years.
60.The Philippines commended Saint Kitts and Nevis for addressing its debt situation and trusted that it would continue to respect the rights of its people in the implementation of its fiscal reforms. It encouraged Saint Kitts and Nevis to consider the need for inclusive consultations, especially with those living in extreme poverty, in line with the guiding principles on extreme poverty and human rights. The Philippines recognized the steps that had been taken to improve education and health, establish legal mechanisms for addressing domestic violence and enhance youth awareness on human rights issues. Finally, the Philippines regretted that some of the recommendations accepted during the first cycle had yet to be implemented, including ratification of core human rights instruments.
61.Portugal welcomed the current debate on the amendment of the Domestic Violence Bill 2014, in line with the recommendations accepted during the first cycle of the universal periodic review, as a means to tackle domestic violence, which remains a serious and pervasive problem in the country.
62.Rwanda commended Saint Kitts and Nevis for remaining steadfast in its commitment to the improvement of the quality of life of all citizens, in a period of economic and financial slowdown. It noted with appreciation that, under the National Social Protection Strategy and Plan of Action, initiatives to alleviate poverty had been structured to ensure that public resources were directed in order to more efficiently and effectively incorporate the poor into the mainstream of economic development.
63.Saint Lucia commended Saint Kitts and Nevis for its commitment to the Beijing Platform for Action in addition to all efforts made in implementing the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, such as the creation of a Special Victims Unit within the police force to deal with issues of domestic violence and abuse. Saint Lucia acknowledged efforts to incorporate into domestic legislation the Convention on the Rights of the Child, such as the National Child Protection Protocol and Plan of Action and the reestablishment of the Probation and Child Welfare Board. Saint Lucia noted that, despite efforts by the Government, the issue of domestic and sexual violence against women and children remained in the society.
64.Sierra Leone commended Saint Kitts and Nevis for having reached many of the Millennium Development Goals, particularly high life expectancy and low maternal and infant mortality rates. Sierra Leone applauded the efforts that were being made in the education sector, especially on the empowerment of young boys. Sierra Leone was concerned that Saint Kitts and Nevis had failed to implement the recommendations it had accepted in the first cycle of the universal periodic review relating to ratification of the core human rights treaties, and finally encouraged Saint Kitts and Nevis to develop national legal frameworks to provide refugees with international protection and to speedily enact the Domestic Violence Bill.
65.Slovenia noted a number of positive developments since the first review of Saint Kitts and Nevis, such as the adoption of various policies and plans to further improve the quality of education and its accessibility, such as the White Paper on Education Development and Policy 2009-2019. Slovenia encouraged the Government to take additional measures to further promote comprehensive and inclusive education and awareness-raising on health training.
66.South Africa was encouraged by the commitment demonstrated by Saint Kitts and Nevis to improve the quality of life of all citizens through the strengthening of the delivery of social programmes and projects focused towards family wellness, gender mainstreaming and the promotion of child rights. The Constitution of Saint Kitts and Nevis entitled every persons to the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms without discrimination on the basis of race, place of origin, birth, political opinions, colour, creed or sex, but subject to the respect of other people’s rights and freedoms and the public interest.
67.Spain highlighted the challenge that had derived from the realization of reforms in a context of economic difficulties and fiscal adjustments.
68.Switzerland took note of the commitment of Saint Kitts and Nevis to ratify and respect additional international human rights instruments. Nevertheless, Switzerland remained concerned by the lack of implementation of the recommendations received by Saint Kitts and Nevis during its first review.
69.Timor-Leste noted with appreciation the adoption of the national poverty-reduction strategy, which outlined key development pillars, such as reducing risk and enhancing social protection; enhancing technical and vocational education; and strengthening social safety nets. Timor-Leste appreciated the commitment made in passing a law on the maintenance of the Children Act, and progress in the area of health, in particular the raising of life expectancy, and lowering of infant and maternal mortality rates. Timor-Leste echoed concerns on fair representation of women in top political positions.
70.Trinidad and Tobago acknowledged fiscal constraints and lack of technical and human resources. Since its first universal periodic review in 2011, Saint Kitts and Nevis had accepted the recommendation of Trinidad and Tobago to develop a closer policy focus on the special needs and care of persons with disabilities. In that regard, Trinidad and Tobago was pleased to see that the Government had begun consultations and engagement of persons with disabilities and commended the Government for adopting the 2013-2017 Social Protection Strategy.
71.Denmark noted that, during the first review, Saint Kitts and Nevis had noted the recommendation to ratify the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. Denmark held strong hope that Saint Kitts and Nevis would join the 158 State parties to the Convention. It welcomed the engagement of Saint Kitts and Nevis in the seminar in Costa Rica organized by the Convention against Torture Initiative, and hoped that this could be useful to Saint Kitts and Nevis in advancing on the issue.
72.The United States of America commended Saint Kitts and Nevis for its efforts in combatting HIV/AIDS, expanding health programming in that area and the work done by the Department of Gender Affairs. It encouraged the Government to ensure that women could safely and reasonably file complaints or pursue them in courts. It expressed concern about the continued criminalization of same-sex sexual conduct between consenting adults, exacerbating societal discrimination. It remained concerned about poor prison conditions, lengthy detention times before trials and the high homicide rate.
73.Uruguay underscored efforts to sign and implement the Inter-American Convention on the Prevention, Punishment and Eradication of Violence against Women, the Inter-American Convention on the Granting of Civil Rights to Women and the Inter-American Convention on the Granting of Political Rights to Women. It encouraged Saint Kitts and Nevis to redouble its efforts regarding gender equality, particularly through the adoption of a national gender policy.
74.Algeria welcomed the social programmes of Saint Kitts and Nevis with a view to ensuring family wellness, gender equality, full and active participation in national development, the promotion of child rights and the improvement of the quality of life. Algeria encouraged the initiatives for green economy as a means for facilitating growth and durable development, and the National Social Protection Strategy and Plan of Action 2013-2017 for the reduction of poverty.
75.Argentina welcomed the human rights advances that had been reached since its first universal periodic review, particularly the launching of the programme of One Portable Computer per Child in 2013, that had given 7,000 students access to a computer. It stated that, nevertheless, there remained challenges to overcome.
76.Armenia appreciated the measures of Saint Kitts and Nevis to further improve education quality and accessibility, and the progress made in the promotion of the right to health, as well as the Social Protection Strategy 2013-2017, which prioritizing a number of vulnerable groups for social protection initiatives, including persons with disabilities. Armenia noted that Saint Kitts and Nevis had not ratified core international human rights instruments and treaties since its first review.
77.Australia welcomed the support of Saint Kitts and Nevis for the Organization of American States resolutions on sexual orientation and gender equality. Australia remained concerned by the criminalization of consensual same-sex activity between men, which carried a penalty of up to 10 years’ imprisonment, and the lack of legislation that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender. Australia was also concerned that at least one individual remained on death row, though the death penalty had not been imposed since 2008.
78.The Bahamas congratulated Saint Kitts and Nevis on conducting general elections in 2015 and in particular on the voting process. The Bahamas were encouraged by the approach of Saint Kitts and Nevis to overcoming financial challenges, particularly through the implementation of fiscal policies designed to promote sustained growth, poverty reduction and improved standards of living. The Bahamas also welcomed the establishment of a juvenile care facility for youth offenders.
79.The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela stated that the world economic and financial crisis had impacted on countries under development and that, even then, the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis had made efforts to bring into compliance the accepted recommendations from its first universal periodic review cycle. It underscored the promotion of important human rights initiatives, implementing social plans, programmes and projects centred on the well-being of the family. Gender perspective had been incorporated into public policies. It was pleased with the improvements reached on education, health and work.
80.In its final remarks, the delegation of Saint Kitts and Nevis expressed appreciation for all recommendations and comments delivered in the interactive dialogue. It expressed that Saint Kitts and Nevis was not able to comment at that moment on all of the recommendations and comments addressed in the interactive dialogue but wanted to highlight some areas.
81.On the establishment of a national gender policy, the delegation was pleased to report that consultations had begun with the Gender Affairs department in the Ministry of Health, Social Services, Community Development, Culture and Gender Affairs, and that a complete policy would be completed by 2016.
82.In the area of gang violence, a strategy was intended to be developed and the delegation was pleased to report that, on the prevention of violent crime, the Ministry of Health, Social Services, Community Development, Culture and Gender Affairs had officers trained in aggression-replacement therapy. It was also pleased to report that the Government had implemented two major programmes aimed at persons involved in gang-related activities, namely, the People Employment Programme and the Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Programme. The delegation stated it was open to further assistance from any international body that would assist the Government in this area.
83.Saint Kitts and Nevis acknowledged its delinquency in reporting to treaty bodies and explained that this was due in large measure to the existence of technical and legal challenges in obtaining timely and accurate data from national entities and the lack of capacity in producing such reports. Saint Kitts and Nevis expressed its readiness to collaborate with OHCHR and any other international or regional entity that could assist the country in this endeavour.
84.The delegation stated that it took on board the recommendation to invite special procedure mandate holders ,and that Saint Kitts and Nevis would positively consider it.
85.Saint Kitts and Nevis deemed it vital to emphasize that the recommendations for the creation of national human rights institutions had not gone unheeded and it considered the importance of establishing such a national mechanism that would involve stakeholder groups, including civil society. The delegation expressed that Saint Kitts and Nevis had remained steadfast in its commitment immediately after its second cycle review to request technical assistance from OHCHR to ascertain which national mechanism would be best suited to its peculiar and unique circumstances in order to more effectively and efficiently address human rights concerns, follow-up and implementation of the recommendations as well as reporting.
86.At a regional capacity-building exercise organized by OHCHR, the representatives of Saint Kitts and Nevis extended an invitation to the United Nations regional office for an in-country engagement and consultation with all necessary parties, immediately after its second cycle review, to consider the available options for the establishment of such an institution.
87.On teenage pregnancy, the Ministry of Education had adopted the Health and Family Life Education core curriculum in schools, supported by UNICEF. A theme unit of that document addressed sexuality and sexual health, whereby students learned about sexuality in terms of the total expression of who they are as human beings. It was envisaged that gaining an understanding about this critically important topic would prevent any discrimination against persons on the basis of their sexual orientation or sexual identity.
88.The delegation also referred to the programme that sought to address the development needs of the very young in disadvantaged conditions where children benefit from quality care, the development of basic skills, better health and nutrition and at the next level better performance in preschool and future education.
89.Regarding the ratification of human rights instruments the delegation reiterated that it did not object to ratifying them, but it hoped that all would understand the challenges the country was confronted by in doing so. In some cases, it would be necessary to adopt conventions into domestic law and some constitutional changes and reforms would be needed. It expressed that one of the commitments of the Government was to address areas requiring constitutional reform. It stated, however, that entrenched in the Constitution of Saint Kitts and Nevis were multiple provisions, including those related to fundamental rights and freedoms, and that amendments and alterations would require special procedures, parliamentary majorities and referendums.
90.The delegation thanked the Working Group for its recommendations.
II.Conclusions and/or recommendations **
91. The recommendations formulated during the interactive dialogue/listed below enjoy the support of Saint Kitts and Nevis:
91.1 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on children in armed conflict and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography (Estonia);
91.2 Follow through with a recommendation accepted by Saint Kitts and Nevis during its previous universal periodic review to ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on children in armed conflict and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography (Germany);
91.3 Consider ratifying the Optional Protocols to the Convention on the Rights of the Child (Ghana);
91.4 Ratify treaties and other international human rights instruments to which Saint Kitts and Nevis is not party yet, particularly the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography (Morocco);
91.5 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on children in armed conflict and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography, at the earliest possible time (Netherlands);
91.6 Ratify without delay the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography (Switzerland);
91.7 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the participation of children in armed conflict and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography (Uruguay);
91.8 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict (Algeria);
91.9 Sign the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and revise building codes to improve disabled access to public buildings (United Kingdom);
91.10 Consider ratifying the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (Ghana);
91.11 Ensure full incorporation of the provisions of the Convention on the Rights of the Child into its national legal framework (Portugal);
91.12 Work closely with OHCHR in order to seek its assistance in meetings the obligations to the United Nations treaty bodies and implementing the recommendations received under the universal periodic review (Georgia);
91.13 Request technical assistance from the relevant United Nations agencies in order to meet its human rights obligations (Trinidad and Tobago);
91.14 Engage closely with civil society in the follow-up on the recommendations of the Human Rights Council (Trinidad and Tobago);
91.15 Establish follow-up mechanisms on the implementation of recommendations made in the framework of the universal periodic review and by treaty bodies (Colombia);
91.16 Analyse the possibility of creating a national follow-up system to international recommendations (Paraguay);
91.17 Strengthen cooperation with treaty bodies and submit overdue reports (Paraguay);
91.18Prepare and submit, with the assistance of OHCHR, if required, all overdue reports to the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women, the Committee on the Rights of the Child and Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (Sierra Leone);
91.19Adopt legislative measures on gender equality (Costa Rica);
91.20 Continue to fully implement the Equal Pay Act in order to ensure equal remuneration for men and women (Cuba);
91.21 Strengthen its efforts to ensure formal and substantive equality for women, in addition to combating gender violence in all its forms (Ecuador);
91.22 Enact a national gender policy and augment the capacity for gender analysis within government ministries, departments and agencies that coordinate policy development (Maldives);
91.23 Promote gender equality in law and in practice, particularly through education and public awareness (Mexico);
91.24 Consolidate its national gender policy that promotes women rights and their participation in the development of their society (Nicaragua);
91.25 Adopt a national gender policy and enhance the capacity for gender analysis with government ministries, departments and agencies that coordinate policy development (Rwanda);
91.26 Amend the Protection of Employment Act to include a prohibition against sexual harassment in the workplace (Canada);
91.27 Increase resources to prisons to improve conditions, to the police to develop specialties in forensics and evidence collection, and the Department of Public Prosecutions to hasten the speed of trial procedures (United States);
91.28 Continue to deepen measures and plans to eradicate sexual and domestic violence, including strengthening awareness programmes to prevent this scourge (Chile);
91.29 Strengthen measures to combat family and domestic violence, particularly on access to justice and the necessary support to victims (Colombia);
91.30 Adopt measures aiming to combat domestic violence (France);
91.31 Enact the law that enables the prosecution of suspected perpetrators of domestic and sexual violence (Haiti);
91.32 That the Department of Gender Affairs ensure that its programmes to combat domestic and sexual violence include measures that target violence perpetrated against men and boys (Jamaica);
91.33 Continue the efforts to eradicate domestic violence and provide protection guarantees for women and children (Mexico);
91.34 Strengthen provisions related to the protection of women in the domestic life, particularly pursuing awareness raising campaigns on sexual violence and violence within the family, and allow the victims to be cared in an optimum manner (Morocco);
91.35 Address the issue of marital rape by including the necessary provisions in domestic law (Portugal);
91.36 Continue its commitment to working within the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) on initiatives such as the OECS Family Law and Domestic Violence Legal and Judicial Reform Project (Saint Lucia);
91.37 Continue to work within the broader membership of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to establish the creation of regional strategies to combat domestic and sexual violence against women and children (Saint Lucia);
91.38 Strengthen efforts to raise awareness about violence against women and children (United States);
91.39 Further work on the protection and rights of the child by ensuring that the necessary capacity and infrastructure are in place so that legislation related to the obligations of Saint Kitts and Nevis under the Convention on the Rights of the Child, which has been already been passed by parliament, can be proclaimed and implemented as soon as possible (Canada);
91.40 Review criminal justice procedures to reduce the length of detention without trial and replace preliminary inquiries with sufficient hearings in the High Court (United Kingdom);
91.41 Continue strengthening plans to facilitate access to employment for persons who are heads of households (Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);
91.42 Implement the National Strategy for the Social Safety Net in order to achieve an effective delivery of social services to citizens so they can live with dignity (Cuba);
91.43 Continue with initiatives envisaged to the implementation of plans and social development programmes, including those intended for early childhood care in the fields of health and education as tools to overcome poverty and extreme poverty (Ecuador);
91.44 Continue strengthening its successful policies developed to increase access to education and health, particularly for women and children as well as consolidating housing for families in need (Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);
91.45 Continue to reduce poverty and extreme poverty (Djibouti);
91.46 Continue to engage its multilateral, regional and bilateral partners to strengthen its capacity and resources for the effective implementation of its poverty-alleviation programmes and for meeting its international human rights obligations (Philippines);
91.47 Continue strengthening its successful social programmes in the fight against poverty (Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);
91.48 Create a formal health policy (Maldives);
91.49 Continue efforts and take measures to prevent the incidence of teenage pregnancy (Colombia);
91.50 Intensify its efforts to improve access to education for all, including by allocating adequate resources (Indonesia);
91.51 Take supplementary actions to advance comprehensive education, to further promote inclusive education in all its aspects (Maldives);
91.52 Enhance education training programmes, which should include technical and vocational education and training designed to facilitate the movement of workers into new areas of economic activity (Slovenia);
91.53 Intensify efforts to promote and protect the rights of persons with disabilities (Colombia);
91.54 Continue consultations and dialogue with the public and various stakeholders in order to promote awareness of the situation of persons with disabilities and their rights, and ratify and implement the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (Germany);
91.55 Build on its wide-ranging consultations, sensitization and confidence-building activities concerning persons with disabilities, to implement appropriate policies, legislation and practical measures to address the concerns and needs of this vulnerable group (Jamaica);
91.56 Give continuity to the process to ratify the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (Mexico);
91.57 Encourage the growth and sustainable development through stressing the green economy (Haiti);
91.58 Emphasize prevention with regards to face up to climate change (Haiti).
92. The recommendations below did not enjoy the support of Saint Kitts and Nevis and would thus be noted:
92.1 Accede to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the Convention against Torture and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (Costa Rica);
92.2 Accede to the fundamental international instruments on human rights, in particular the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and the Convention against Torture (France);
92.3 Ratify core international human rights instruments, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and its Optional Protocols, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and the Convention against Torture and its Optional Protocol (Germany);
92.4 Consider ratifying major human rights instruments, in particular the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, with a view to strengthen its commitment in promoting and protecting human rights of its citizen (Indonesia);
92.5 Take immediate steps, including if necessary requesting relevant technical assistance in that regard, to ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and the Convention against Torture (Ireland);
92.6 Consider ratification of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, as well as the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty (Namibia);
92.7Consider the ratification of the core human rights instruments to which it is not yet a State party (Nicaragua);
92.8Accede and ratify the main human rights instruments, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography (Paraguay);
92.9Accede to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and its two Optional Protocols; to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and its Optional Protocol and the three Optional Protocols to the Convention on the Rights of the Child (Portugal);
92.10 Consider ratifying the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and its Second Optional Protocol, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty, and the Convention Against Torture and its Optional Protocol (Rwanda);
92.11Ratify or accede to the remaining existing international human rights treaties, especially the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the participation of children in armed conflict, the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and its second Optional Protocol, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty, as well as the Convention against Torture (Slovenia);
92.12 Consider ratifying the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and the Convention against Torture (South Africa);
92.13 Proceed to the signature and ratification of the main international human rights instruments that has not already signed and ratified, including the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the participation of children in armed conflict and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography, whose signature and ratification was itself accepted in the previous review (Spain);
92.14 Ratify the fundamental international human rights law instruments, particularly the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the Convention against Torture (Switzerland);
92.15 Ratify the international human rights instruments to which it is not a party and bring its internal legal framework into line with international obligations (Trinidad and Tobago);
92.16 Study the possibility of ratifying the following international instruments: the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the Convention against Torture and the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance, as previously recommended (Argentina);
92.17Undertake the necessary processes, by availing itself of any available technical assistance, to identify and overcome any obstacles which may exist to the country becoming a State party to additional core human rights treaties, such as the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Bahamas);
92.18 Ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Estonia);
92.19 Consider ratifying the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and its Second Optional Protocol, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty (Ghana);
92.20 Ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and its Second Optional Protocol, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty (Montenegro);
92.21 Ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and its Optional Protocols (Uruguay);
92.22 Ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Armenia);
92.23 Consider ratifying the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (Ghana);
92.24 Ratify the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (Montenegro);
92.25 Ratify the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (Armenia);
92.26 Evaluate the accession and ratification of the main international conventions on human rights, including the Convention against Torture and its Optional Protocol (Chile);
92.27 Consider ratifying the Convention against Torture and its Optional Protocol (Ghana);
92.28 Ratify the Convention against Torture and its Optional Protocol (Guatemala);
92.29 Ratify the Convention against Torture (Denmark);
92.30 Ratify the Convention against Torture and its Optional Protocol (Uruguay);
92.31 Ratify the Convention against Torture (Algeria);
92.32 Consider ratifying the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (Ghana);
92.33 Ratify the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide (Armenia);
92.34 Fully align its national legislation with the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (Portugal);
92.35 Ensure that its legal and institutional frameworks are in line with international human rights standards (Philippines);
92.36 Move towards the establishment of a national human rights institution in accordance with the Paris Principles (Chile);
92.37 Bring the national human rights body in line with the Paris Principles, as recommended in the first universal periodic review cycle in 2011 (Costa Rica);
92.38 Establish a human rights commission in compliance with the Paris Principles (Djibouti);
92.39 Continue working to create a national human rights institution in accordance with the Paris Principles (Guatemala);
92.40 Establish a national human rights public body in accordance with the Paris Principles, as previously recommended (Mexico);
92.41 Establish a national human rights institution in accordance with the Paris Principles (Rwanda);
92.42 Give a mandate to the office of the Ombudsman to bring it in compliance with the Paris Principles (Sierra Leone);
92.43 Establishing a national human rights institution for the promotion and protection of human rights in accordance with the Paris Principles (South Africa);
92.44 Issue an open invitation to the human rights special procedures of the United Nations (Guatemala);
92.45 Extend an open and standing invitation to the special procedures of the Human Rights Council of the United Nations so that they can assist Saint Kitts and Nevis in complying with its human rights obligations, especially those regarding the implementation of the recommendations expressly accepted by Saint Kitts and Nevis, both in its first universal periodic review cycle as well as in the current one (Spain);
92.46 Enact comprehensive legislation that fully guarantees the application of the principle of non-discrimination and to ensure the full enjoyment of all human rights by every member of society (South Africa);
92.47 Take all necessary measures to end all forms of discrimination still existing in Saint Kitts and Nevis and analyse the possibility of creating a specific law on discrimination based on disability, language, sexual orientation, gender identity or social status (Argentina);
92.48 Ensure an equal participation between men and women in politics (Timor-Leste);
92.49 Take the necessary measures to decriminalize same-sex consensual relations (Brazil);
92.50 Meet Saint Kitts and Nevis’ commitments to equality and non-discrimination by prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation (Canada);
92.51 Remove any rule criminalizing sexual relations between consenting adults of the same sex, and include sexual orientation and gender identity as unlawful grounds of discrimination in all areas (Chile);
92.52 Adopt legislation to decriminalize homosexuality and to recognize the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people (France);
92.53 Decriminalize consensual adult same-sex relations by amending sections 56 and 57 of the Offences against the Person Act and take all necessary steps to ensure the enjoyment of their rights by all persons without discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation or gender identity (Ireland);
92.54 Carry out awareness campaigns for the population in relation to non-discrimination based on sexual orientation (Spain);
92.55 Decriminalize same-sex sexual conduct between consenting adults in the Offenses Against the Person Act and enact legislation to prevent discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons (United States);
92.56 Repeal all legislation which may discriminate against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons (Australia);
92.57 Establish a moratorium on the use of the death penalty, with a view to its abolition (Brazil);
92.58 Declare a moratorium on the application of the death penalty with a view to its definitive abolition (France);
92.59 Establish a moratorium on the death penalty and take measures towards its definitive abolition (Mexico);
92.60 Consider removal of the death penalty from its statute books (Namibia);
92.61 Establish an official moratorium to abolish the death penalty, as called for in five General Assembly resolutions, including most recently resolution 69/186 of 18 December 2014 (Netherlands);
92.62 Initiate a process of abolition of the death penalty and establish an immediate moratorium in relation to its application (Paraguay);
92.63 Establish a moratorium on the death penalty with a view to formally abolishing capital punishment in all cases and circumstances (Portugal);
92.64 Repeal the legal provisions that allow the death penalty and declare a moratorium on executions, as previously recommended (Slovenia);
92.65 Establish a legal moratorium on the application of death penalty with a view to its definitive abolishment and meanwhile carry out awareness campaigns in order for society to be aware of the ineffectiveness of capital punishment and of its lack of connection with the increase or reduction of crime (Spain);
92.66 Immediately establish a de jure moratorium on the death penalty with a view of abolishing it (Switzerland);
92.67 Repeal national provisions establishing the death penalty and establish an official moratorium on executions with a view to its abolition (Uruguay);
92.68 Establish a formal moratorium on executions with a view to ratifying the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty (Australia);
92.69 Take legal and practical steps to protect women and children from domestic violence, for example by prohibiting corporal punishment of children and marital rape (Germany);
92.70 Take the necessary measures to combat domestic violence, including the creation of shelters for victims (Paraguay);
92.71 Explicitly prohibit corporal punishment of children in all settings, including the home (Estonia);
92.72 Take active measures to abolish corporal punishment of children in all settings (Namibia);
92.73 Raise the minimum age of criminal responsibility to 18, as provided by the Convention on the Rights of the Child (Sierra Leone);
92.74 Guarantee the protection of refugees in conformity with the obligations of the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees (Djibouti);
92.75 Accede the 1967 Protocol relating to the Status of Refugees (Timor-Leste).
93. 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 Saint Kitts and Nevis was headed by Ms. Kaye Bass, Permanent Secretary (Ag), Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and composed of the following members:
•Ms. Janelle Lewis, Permanent Secretary, Community and Social Services;
•Mr. Steven Goldstein, Honorary Consul of Saint Kitts and Nevis.