39/11 Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review - Canada

GE.18-11468(E)



Human Rights Council Thirty-ninth session

10–28 September 2018 Agenda item 6

Universal periodic review

Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review*

Canada

* The annex is being circulated without formal editing, in the languages of submission only.

United Nations A/HRC/39/11

Introduction

1. The Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review, established in accordance

with Human Rights Council resolution 5/1, held its thirtieth session from 7 to 18 May 2018.

The review of Canada was held at the 9th meeting, on 11 May 2018. The delegation of

Canada was headed by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Jody

Wilson-Raybould. At its 14th meeting, held on 15 May 2018, the Working Group adopted

the report on Canada.

2. On 10 January 2018, the Human Rights Council selected the following group of

rapporteurs (troika) to facilitate the review of Canada: Georgia, Kenya and Switzerland.

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 Canada:

(a) A national report submitted/written presentation made in accordance with

paragraph 15 (a) (A/HRC/WG.6/30/CAN/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.6/30/CAN/2);

(c) A summary prepared by OHCHR in accordance with paragraph 15 (c)

(A/HRC/WG.6/30/CAN/3).

4. A list of questions prepared in advance by Belgium, Brazil, Germany, Liechtenstein,

Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and

Northern Ireland, the United States of America and Uruguay was transmitted to Canada

through the troika. These questions are available on the website of the universal periodic

review.

I. Summary of the proceedings of the review process

A. Presentation by the State under review

5. The Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada introduced the national

report of Canada to the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review.

6. She recalled that, in accordance with the country’s federal structure, and as

enshrined in the Constitution, responsibility for implementing the international human

rights obligations of Canada was shared among the federal, provincial and territorial

governments.

7. The strong commitment of governments in Canada to human rights had been

reaffirmed during a meeting of federal, provincial and territorial ministers responsible for

human rights in December 2017. They had made a number of commitments to strengthen

intergovernmental collaboration and public dialogue on human rights and had discussed

key priorities in relation to the international human rights obligations of the country.

8. The indigenous populations of Canada — First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples —

faced a number of challenges relative to the rest of the population, including greater rates of

poverty and food insecurity, higher likelihood of experiencing poor housing conditions,

lower education outcomes, and greater health disparities. Canada had committed to

achieving true, meaningful and lasting reconciliation based on the recognition and

implementation of indigenous rights.

9. In February 2018, the Prime Minister had announced that the Government would, in

full partnership with First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples, develop a recognition and

implementation of rights framework as the basis for all relations between indigenous

peoples and the federal Government. That would build on the country’s ongoing

reconciliation efforts, including its unqualified endorsement of the United Nations

Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

10. In December 2015, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission had released its final

report, which included 94 calls to action. The Government had signalled that it would fully

implement the calls to action in partnership with indigenous communities, the provinces,

territories and other partners.

11. Indigenous women and girls in Canada were disproportionately affected by all forms

of violence. Canada was committed to ensuring the safety and security of all women and

children in the country. During the second cycle of the universal periodic review, many

delegations had recommended that Canada launch an inquiry into missing and murdered

indigenous women and girls. The National Inquiry had been launched in December 2015

and was an important step towards ending that ongoing national tragedy. Furthermore, in its

broad review of the criminal justice system, the Government was looking, among other

things, at ways to address the overrepresentation of indigenous women and girls as victims

of crime.

12. The Government had renewed its commitment to gender equality, including by

appointing the first federal minister fully dedicated to gender issues, and the first gender-

balanced federal Cabinet. With regard to the gender wage gap, the Government recognized

that pay equity was a human right and had taken action in that regard, including at the

provincial level.

13. Gender-based violence remained a significant barrier to achieving gender equality.

In order to address that issue, in 2017, the Government had announced the first federal

strategy to end gender-based violence, which included investments in important

programmes for at-risk populations, including indigenous women and girls. The

Government had also introduced numerous criminal law reforms to better protect women

and all Canadians from violence, including strengthened sexual assault laws and responses

to intimate partner violence.

14. A key priority was increasing the inclusion of persons with disabilities in society.

Following extensive consultations, the Government expected to introduce legislation in

2018 to transform how accessibility was addressed at the federal level.

15. Canada had inclusive migration policies that supported diversity and a two-way

approach to integration. The Government worked closely with provincial, territorial,

municipal and community-based partners to ensure the successful integration of newcomers,

including refugees. It also strove to address vulnerabilities faced by some immigrant

subgroups, such as women who were victims of gender-based violence.

16. Canada recognized the importance of addressing racial and religious discrimination

and crimes motivated by hate and the challenges that remained in those areas.

17. The visit of the Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent in 2017

had highlighted many issues of discrimination against African Canadians. The Government

was making significant new investments towards a new national anti-racism approach,

including measures to address the challenges faced by Black Canadians. Action had also

been taken at the provincial level, including in Ontario and Quebec.

18. Canada had an excellent agenda to promote equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual,

transgender, queer and intersex persons, protect their rights and address violence and

discrimination against them, both historical and current. Several measures had been adopted

recently in that regard.

19. While Canada was a prosperous country, too many Canadians did not share in that

prosperity. A poverty reduction strategy was therefore being developed. Additionally,

several provinces, territories and municipalities also had stand-alone poverty reduction

strategies.

20. Canada had recently unveiled its first National Housing Strategy to help ensure that

Canadians had access to affordable housing that met their needs. It was also funding the

creation of three distinctions-based (culturally specific) housing strategies for First Nations,

Inuit and Métis communities.

21. As part of the federal Government’s commitment to creating a better, fairer

immigration detention system, in 2016, it had launched a new framework for immigration

detention, which included new funding to improve detention infrastructure and provide

better medical and mental health care.

22. Following national security consultations held in 2016, the Government had put

forward new legislation that included the establishment of a national security and

intelligence review agency and an intelligence commissioner. Taken together with other

recent changes, the legislation would create a robust accountability framework for the

country’s national security and intelligence activities.

B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review

23. During the interactive dialogue, 107 delegations made statements.

Recommendations made during the dialogue are to be found in section II of the present

report.

24. Côte d’Ivoire encouraged Canada to continue its efforts to better consider the needs

of minorities and indigenous peoples.

25. Croatia regretted that many indigenous communities lived without equitable access

to health, education, food, housing and safe drinking water.

26. Cuba stated that indigenous peoples in Canada still faced different types of

challenges, including higher rates of poverty and food insecurity.

27. Cyprus encouraged the Canadian authorities to strengthen their efforts to address

unemployment faced by disadvantaged and marginalized groups.

28. Czechia welcomed measures taken to advance women’s rights and gender equality,

and the intention of the Government to ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention

against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment.

29. The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea was concerned at the persistence of

racial discrimination, the overincarceration of aboriginals and inequality.

30. Denmark stated that violence against women disproportionally affected indigenous

women and that adequate levels of services and protection must be ensured.

31. Ecuador welcomed the adoption of the National Housing Strategy and invited

Canada to reconsider Sustainable Development Goal 11 in its implementation.

32. Egypt urged Canada to provide the necessary protection for Muslims to enable them

to participate in religious activities.

33. El Salvador commended the development of programmes and strategies for the

protection of the rights of older persons.

34. Estonia commended Canada for its full support for the United Nations Declaration

on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

35. Finland encouraged Canada to continue efforts to eliminate violence against women,

especially indigenous women and girls, focusing on its root causes.

36. France welcomed the high level of protection of human rights in Canada.

37. Gabon welcomed measures taken for gender equality and to combat poverty, racism

and gender-based violence.

38. Georgia welcomed the commitment of Canada to providing protection to refugees

through its inclusive legal framework.

39. Germany commended Canada for its strong record on the protection of civil and

political rights.

40. Ghana encouraged Canada to take steps to eliminate structural obstacles that

threatened the realization of women’s political rights.

41. Greece welcomed measures taken with a view to achieving equality and non-

discrimination for indigenous peoples.

42. Haiti acknowledged the progress made in several areas since the second review

cycle.

43. The Holy See appreciated the attention paid by the Government to freedom of

religion.

44. Honduras congratulated Canada on the progress made in implementing the

recommendations received during the previous reviews.

45. Hungary called upon the Government to take all appropriate measures to address

violence against indigenous women.

46. Iceland commended Canada for its decision to set up an inquiry into missing and

murdered indigenous women and girls.

47. India noted the measures taken to ensure the rights of indigenous peoples and

advance gender equality.

48. Indonesia noted the role of Canada in advancing the rights of women worldwide.

49. The Islamic Republic of Iran was concerned about cases of racism and hate crimes

against minorities.

50. Iraq noted the Government’s efforts to protect the rights of indigenous peoples,

youth, older persons and migrants.

51. Ireland urged Canada to ratify the human rights instruments it had not yet ratified.

52. Argentina commended Canada for its support for the United Nations Declaration on

the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

53. Italy appreciated the measures taken to promote gender equality and women’s

empowerment and to combat gender-based violence, and the full support of Canada for the

United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

54. Japan commended Canada for its initiatives to empower women and its accession to

the major human rights treaties.

55. Kazakhstan welcomed the measures taken to advance gender equality, but noted that

the situation of indigenous peoples remained problematic.

56. Kenya encouraged Canada to continue implementing human rights for all in the

country.

57. Libya noted the legal measures taken to promote freedom of religion and belief.

58. Madagascar was concerned about existing inequalities in access to education and

about violence against indigenous women.

59. Malaysia encouraged Canada to embrace moderation as an approach in countering

extremism in all its forms.

60. Mali noted progress in combating racism and violence against women and children.

61. Mauritania encouraged Canada to continue combating discrimination in employment

and crimes motivated by racial hatred, including crimes against Muslims.

62. Mexico recognized the cooperation of Canada with the universal human rights

system and invited it to ratify the relevant international instruments.

63. Mongolia welcomed the commitment to implementing the calls to action of the

Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.

64. Montenegro urged Canada to strengthen its efforts to develop a policy to combat

gender-based violence against women.

65. Morocco welcomed the progress made on protecting the rights of persons with

disabilities and of children, including protection from cyberbullying.

66. Mozambique commended Canada for its engagement on the issue of refugee

resettlement.

67. Myanmar welcomed the measures taken to promote education and to preserve the

languages of indigenous peoples.

68. Namibia welcomed the appointment of a gender-balanced federal Cabinet in 2016.

69. Nepal welcomed the commitment Canada showed to diversity and inclusion by

addressing the causes of persistent inequalities.

70. The Netherlands welcomed the importance attached by Canada to inclusion,

diversity, sexual orientation and gender identity.

71. New Zealand welcomed measures taken by the Government to implement new

federal accessibility legislation.

72. Nigeria was encouraged by initiatives aimed at addressing racism and racial

discrimination.

73. Norway noted the positive steps taken since the previous review.

74. Pakistan noted the need to address racial profiling by the police, security agencies

and other authorities.

75. Panama highlighted the implementation by Canada of the Feminist International

Assistance Policy, focusing on women’s rights.

76. Paraguay was concerned that temporary migrant workers lacked access to basic

health services.

77. Peru welcomed the progress achieved by Canada on indigenous rights and the right

to housing and on combating poverty.

78. The Philippines welcomed the achievements made in promoting and protecting

human rights.

79. Portugal welcomed the improvements to the migrant detention system and the

considerable reduction in detention of children.

80. Qatar welcomed the commitment of Canada to protecting human rights, particularly

those of indigenous peoples.

81. The Republic of Korea noted the positive developments in the dialogue with

indigenous peoples to address property rights issues.

82. Responding to questions concerning access to justice, the delegation of Canada said

that the Government had amended the Supreme Court judicial appointments process to

increase the openness, transparency and diversity of the judiciary. Women, indigenous

peoples, members of visible minorities, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex

persons and persons with disabilities were represented among the 100 judicial appointments

announced in 2017 alone. Moreover, legal aid funding to provincial governments had been

increased to ensure that indigenous peoples, ethnic and racial groups had access to legal

services to enable them to navigate the justice system effectively.

83. The delegation recalled that, in accordance with the federal system, the

implementation of many provisions of the human rights treaties to which Canada was a

party rested with the provincial governments. The actions taken by those governments

included measures adopted by Newfoundland and Labrador on immigration and refugees

and steps taken by Quebec with regard to gender equality and gender-based violence.

84. The provincial, territorial and federal governments had agreed to complete their

consideration of the accession by Canada to the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the

Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Canada was also considering becoming a party to the

Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture, as well as options to implement that

instrument.

85. The federal Government had established a Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible

Enterprise to address human rights obligations arising from Canadian business conduct

abroad. It had also set up a multi-stakeholder advisory body that reported to the

Government on responsible business conduct. The Ombudsperson would be empowered to

investigate complaints relating to allegations of human rights abuses arising from Canadian

companies’ activities abroad, including through independent fact-finding missions.

86. Canada was committed to orderly migration, which included providing protection to

genuine refugees, based on a well-founded fear of persecution. Several steps had been taken

to protect vulnerable, refugee and asylum-seeking women and girls.

87. The delegation provided additional details on action taken to promote the rights of

indigenous peoples, on gender equality and on gender-based violence.

88. The delegation noted that Canada was committed to ending trafficking in persons at

home and abroad by focusing on preventing human trafficking, protecting victims,

prosecuting offenders and developing partnerships domestically and internationally. In

Canada, trafficking in persons was specifically prohibited by six offences under the

Criminal Code.

89. The Republic of Moldova welcomed the advances in gender equality and the

initiative to develop the first Canadian youth policy.

90. Romania welcomed the commitment of Canada to gender equality and various

initiatives on youth.

91. The Russian Federation noted with concern an increase in violence against women,

particularly indigenous women.

92. Rwanda encouraged Canada to adopt more proactive measures to combat racial

discrimination, including by addressing cases of racial profiling.

93. Senegal welcomed action to protect the rights of indigenous peoples and to combat

persistent gender inequality and discrimination.

94. Serbia stated that Canada played an important role in the creation of human rights

standards within the United Nations system.

95. Slovakia welcomed the commitment of Canada to working towards ratification of

the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and to

adopting legislation on accessibility.

96. Slovenia welcomed the announcement of the creation of the Canadian

Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise.

97. South Africa welcomed progress on ensuring equality for women and their full

participation in economic and social life.

98. Spain recognized the progress made on inclusive education for persons with

disabilities.

99. Sri Lanka acknowledged the important steps taken in initiating the National Inquiry

into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.

100. The Sudan welcomed the delegation and took note of the national report.

101. Sweden acknowledged the continued work of Canada to fulfil its human rights

obligations and encouraged it to make further efforts.

102. Switzerland commended Canada for its efforts to ensure respect for human rights by

Canadian corporations, including those operating abroad.

103. The Syrian Arab Republic noted concerns relating to persons living in poverty,

particularly those from vulnerable and marginalized groups.

104. Thailand welcomed the efforts of Canada to promote corporate responsibility to

respect human rights, in line with the Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights:

Implementing the United Nations “Protect, Respect and Remedy” Framework.

105. Togo commended Canada for the priority given to promoting gender equality and

action on climate change.

106. Trinidad and Tobago noted the continued commitment of Canada to advancing the

rights of women and girls and to the situation of children and youth.

107. Tunisia commended Canada for its progress on gender equality, as well as efforts

made for asylum seekers and migrants.

108. The United Kingdom commended the creation of the National Inquiry into Missing

and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.

109. The United States praised efforts towards reconciliation with peoples of the First

Nations, and noted the strategy to combat gender-based violence.

110. Uruguay welcomed the progress made by Canada in terms of women’s

empowerment and gender equality.

111. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela acknowledged the multifaceted approaches

adopted by Canada in addressing gender-based violence.

112. Viet Nam welcomed the policies and strategies adopted on gender equality, access to

housing and poverty reduction.

113. Zambia welcomed the refugee reform, but was concerned about the backlog facing

the Immigration Refugee Board.

114. Afghanistan congratulated Canada on its legal and policy framework for the

integration of migrants and asylum seekers.

115. Albania praised the preventative measures being taken to address inequalities

between women and men, with a special focus on women’s empowerment.

116. Algeria welcomed the measures adopted for indigenous peoples and training on

human rights education.

117. Angola congratulated Canada on the measures taken to reduce social inequalities,

especially among indigenous peoples and minorities.

118. Armenia encouraged Canada to continue with its effective measures to ensure the

protection of the rights of indigenous peoples.

119. Australia applauded Canada on its formal apology to, and reparations for, historical

discrimination against the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex community.

120. Azerbaijan was concerned about the reported continuation of racial profiling on the

part of the police, security agencies and border agents.

121. Bahrain welcomed the Government’s continued commitment to addressing human

rights issues.

122. Belarus noted the efforts of Canada to combat trafficking in persons at the

international level and the adoption of the National Housing Strategy.

123. Belgium noted the persistence of violence and discrimination against indigenous

women and women from ethnic minorities.

124. Benin congratulated Canada for implementing the recommendations received during

the previous review.

125. Bhutan welcomed the constructive engagement of Canada with the special

procedures.

126. The Plurinational State of Bolivia welcomed the Principles Respecting the

Government of Canada’s Relationship with Indigenous Peoples.

127. Bosnia and Herzegovina appreciated the fact that the national report had been

prepared in collaboration with federal, provincial and territorial governments.

128. Botswana requested an update on the implementation of a recommendation it had

made during the previous cycle on eliminating racial profiling.

129. Brazil commended Canada for its commitment to gender equality and to protecting

the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons.

130. Bulgaria commended Canada for establishing a permanent mechanism for dialogue

with the indigenous population.

131. Burkina Faso urged Canada to fully implement the recommendations that it accepted.

132. Chile asked about measures to protect the physical integrity of intersex children and

to ensure their informed consent.

133. China noted the efforts made by Canada to promote and protect human rights, but

was concerned about the remaining problems, including the living conditions of indigenous

people and serious racism and discrimination against people of African and Asian

descendent.

134. The Congo noted the implementation of the recommendations from the previous

cycle, notably those on indigenous peoples and corporate social responsibility.

135. Israel noted the Strategy to Prevent and Address Gender-based Violence, which

aimed to fill gaps in the support provided to diverse populations.

136. Costa Rica acknowledged the initiatives on including indigenous people in the

decision-making process.

137. Lebanon noted the efforts of Canada to ensure the equal enjoyment of rights by non-

citizens.

138. The delegation of Canada provided details of its efforts to reform the criminal justice

system, to combat acts of violence and to address inequalities. In 2017 and 2018, the

Government had introduced new legislation in Parliament. It aimed to strengthen the

provisions of the Criminal Code to reinforce sexual assault laws, to enhance victim safety

and strengthen criminal law in the context of domestic violence, and to reduce delays in

criminal courts and ensure a fair and effective criminal justice system that was accessible to

all Canadians.

139. The legislative framework covered hate crimes, discrimination and acts of violence

based on race and religion. Four specific offences in the Criminal Code prohibited acts

motivated by hatred that were committed against not only a person, but also a group or

property. Canada had measures in place at all levels of government to prohibit and prevent

targeting, profiling and harassment. The country’s law enforcement and security

intelligence officials investigated threats to national security and criminality based on

available intelligence and information and did not target any particular community, group

or faith.

140. Canada was collaborating with First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples to develop a

law aiming at the preservation of indigenous languages. The Government had voluntarily

committed to continuing to improve services delivered to indigenous peoples.

141. Canada thanked the delegations for their active participation and their interest in the

human rights situation in the country, and thanked civil society for its formal and informal

participation in the review process.

II. Conclusions and/or recommendations

142. The following recommendations will be examined by Canada, which will

provide responses in due time, but no later than the thirty-ninth session of the Human

Rights Council:

142.1 Consider ratifying those international human rights instruments to

which it is not yet a party (Burkina Faso);

142.2 Ratify the international human rights instruments to which Canada

is not yet a party (Mali);

142.3 Consider acceding to the International Convention on the Protection

of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (Sri

Lanka);

142.4 Consider ratifying the International Convention on the Protection of

the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (Peru)

(Albania) (Chile) (El Salvador) (Indonesia);

142.5 Adhere to and/or ratify those international human rights instruments

to which it is not yet a party, in particular the International Convention on the

Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their

Families and the Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention, 1989 (No. 169) of

the International Labour Organization (ILO) (Honduras);

142.6 Ratify the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of

All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (Paraguay) (Egypt)

(Uruguay) (Philippines) (Algeria) (Benin);

142.7 Ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons

from Enforced Disappearance (Uruguay) (France) (Belgium) (Japan) (Portugal)

(Costa Rica);

142.8 Consider signing the Optional Protocol to the Convention against

Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment

(Italy);

142.9 Consider ratifying the international human rights instruments to

which Canada is not yet a party, including the Optional Protocol to the

Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading

Treatment or Punishment (Mongolia);

142.10 Consider acceding to the Optional Protocol to the Convention against

Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment

(Tunisia);

142.11 Consider ratifying the Optional Protocol to the Convention against

Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment

(Ghana);

142.12 Sign and ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention against

Torture, in line with the 2013 announcement that Canada would begin the

process of joining (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland);

142.13 Ratify those international human rights instruments to which

Canada is not yet a party, in particular the Optional Protocol to the Convention

against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or

Punishment (Romania);

142.14 Speed up the ratification process of the Optional Protocol to the

Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading

Treatment or Punishment and put in place a national preventive mechanism in

accordance with this instrument (Switzerland);

142.15 Set a clear timeline for completion of the ratification of the Optional

Protocol to the Convention against Torture and establish, accordingly, the

national preventive mechanism (Hungary);

142.16 Complete consultations with all relevant stakeholders, including

provincial and territorial governments, to ratify the Optional Protocol to the

Convention against Torture, and designate or establish a national preventive

mechanism (Czechia);

142.17 Expedite accession to the Optional Protocol to the Convention against

Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment

(Australia);

142.18 Expedite the process to ratify the Optional Protocol to the

Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading

Treatment or Punishment (Germany) (Greece) (New Zealand);

142.19 Expedite the process of ratification of the Optional Protocol to the

Convention against Torture (Netherlands);

142.20 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and

Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Portugal)

(Chile) (Bosnia and Herzegovina) (Croatia) (Cyprus) (Denmark) (Estonia)

(France) (Kenya) (Costa Rica) (Panama) (Spain) (Zambia);

142.21 Take steps to ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the

Rights of Persons with Disabilities (New Zealand);

142.22 Expedite the process to ratify the Optional Protocol to the

Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (Greece);

142.23 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of

Persons with Disabilities (Croatia) (Finland) (Spain);

142.24 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on

Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (Costa Rica) (Portugal) (Montenegro)

(Spain);

142.25 Ratify the ILO Domestic Workers Convention, 2011 (No. 189)

(Panama) (Togo) (Madagascar);

142.26 Ratify the convention on migrant workers and members of their

families as well as the ILO Domestic Workers Convention, 2011 (No. 189)

(Syrian Arab Republic);

142.27 Consider ratifying the ILO Indigenous and Tribal Peoples

Convention, 1989 (No. 169) (Peru) (Plurinational State of Bolivia);

142.28 Ratify the ILO Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention, 1989 (No.

169) (Brazil) (Benin) (Madagascar);

142.29 Consider becoming a party to the 1954 Convention relating to the

Status of Stateless Persons (Georgia);

142.30 Ratify the 1954 Convention relating to the Status of Stateless Persons

(Costa Rica) (Côte d’Ivoire);

142.31 Ratify the American Convention on Human Rights (Paraguay);

142.32 Expedite accession to the Arms Trade Treaty (Australia);

142.33 Take all necessary measures to ensure that the recommendations

made by the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Racial

Discrimination are fully implemented (Azerbaijan);

142.34 Take the necessary measures to advance with the implementation of

the Safe Schools Declaration and the Guidelines for Protecting Schools and

Universities from Military Use during Armed Conflict (Argentina);

142.35 Strengthen national mechanisms for monitoring implementation of

the international human rights recommendations received by the State

(Paraguay);

142.36 Strengthen the coordination on human rights implementation across

levels of government in order to ensure better implementation domestically

(Norway);

142.37 Establish a mechanism to follow up and implement human rights at

all levels of government (France);

142.38 Adopt and ensure the effective implementation of a national youth

policy that would promote the full realization of human rights and fundamental

freedoms for all young people (Republic of Moldova);

142.39 Further intensify its efforts for the elimination of structural

inequality and intersectional discrimination faced by vulnerable groups

(Cyprus);

142.40 Continue with efforts to combat all forms of discrimination and

intolerance, especially against minority groups (El Salvador);

142.41 Take further legal and administrative measures for the promotion

and protection of the human rights of aboriginals and to eliminate

discrimination against minorities, so that they enjoy life on an equal basis

throughout the country (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea);

142.42 Redouble its efforts to raise awareness of xenophobic and race-based

discrimination and ill-treatment, with a view to thoroughly ending such

practices in society (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea);

142.43 Strengthen measures adopted by the Government to combat racism

and discrimination against Canadians of African descent and indigenous

peoples in the criminal justice system (Belarus);

142.44 Strengthen legislation to combat discriminatory practices against

indigenous peoples and people of African descent, and promote their inclusion

in the area of human rights (Madagascar);

142.45 Put an end to the violation of the human rights of ethnic, minority

and vulnerable groups, eradicating racist and discriminatory practices by

public organizations and entities (Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);

142.46 Take additional measures to end discriminatory practices against

Canada’s indigenous populations, especially indigenous women and children

(Algeria);

142.47 Continue to implement policies to reduce inequalities, especially

among indigenous peoples, racial and religious minorities, and increase access

to basic social services for all (Angola);

142.48 Continue efforts to combat racism, discrimination and hatred (Libya);

142.49 Redouble efforts to combat racism and discrimination in all its forms

(Nigeria);

142.50 Eliminate all forms of racial discrimination through legal,

administrative and policy measures (Kenya);

142.51 Continue to support governmental programmes aimed at combating

racism and hatred, and fostering positive interaction between different cultural,

religious and ethnic groups in Canada (Lebanon);

142.52 Strengthen its efforts to fight racial discrimination, including by

enhancing institutional capacity to systematically document, investigate and

prosecute racially motivated crimes (Rwanda);

142.53 Adopt and implement a national plan to combat racial discrimination

(Togo);

142.54 Criminalize acts of violence on the basis of race and religion

(Pakistan);

142.55 Introduce legislation to ban any organization that incites racial

discrimination (Pakistan);

142.56 Continue efforts to combat racial discrimination and hate speech

against foreigners and minorities (Tunisia);

142.57 Strengthen measures to combat structural discrimination against

African Canadians, indigenous peoples, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender,

queer and intersex persons and religious minorities, in particular by

establishing effective mechanisms of investigation and punishment of

perpetrators of acts of discrimination and violence against them (Argentina);

142.58 Make serious efforts to deal with crimes committed on racial grounds

and motivated by religious and ethnic hatred (Syrian Arab Republic);

142.59 Intensify efforts to combat hate crimes (Iraq);

142.60 Strengthen its policy to fight against offences motivated by racial

hatred (Côte d’Ivoire);

142.61 Redouble efforts to eliminate racist hate crimes and encourage the

population to report such crimes (Qatar);

142.62 Take further measures to address hate crimes and racial profiling, in

accordance with the rule of law, especially those that are directed towards

religious minorities (Indonesia);

142.63 Take appropriate measures to address racism, racial discrimination

and racial profiling, especially for people of African descent, and bring the

perpetrators to book (Namibia);

142.64 Address racist hate crimes, especially against the black population

(Mozambique);

142.65 Conduct impartial, thorough and effective investigations into all cases

of attacks against and harassment and intimidation of religious and ethnic

minority groups and bring perpetrators of such offences to justice (Azerbaijan);

142.66 End anti-black and anti-Muslim discrimination and racism and

implement an appropriate justice strategy within the criminal justice system in

this regard (Islamic Republic of Iran);

142.67 Eliminate all forms of racial discrimination, xenophobia and related

intolerance against Muslims and people of African descent (Sudan);

142.68 Continue strengthening the legislative and institutional foundations

to combat discrimination against indigenous peoples, migrants, refugees, people

of African descent and Muslim minorities (Egypt);

142.69 Develop and implement strategies, including the introduction of

legislation and awareness campaigns, to counter anti-Semitic and anti-Muslim

sentiment across Canada (Bahrain);

142.70 Continue to combat racial hatred and crimes against Muslims

(Senegal);

142.71 Pay more attention to the issue of the rise of Islamophobia in certain

provinces of Canada (Kazakhstan);

142.72 Ensure the consistent collection of data on ethnic and racial

discrimination in the criminal justice system, and intensify the fight against

racial profiling and ethnic and religious intolerance (Russian Federation);

142.73 Address the worrying trend of the growing number of anti-Semitic

incidents against members of the Jewish community in Canada (Hungary);

142.74 Develop a comprehensive plan to counteract all forms of

discrimination against indigenous peoples (Sweden);

142.75 Step up efforts to protect indigenous women and girls from all forms

of discrimination, violence and abuse (Philippines);

142.76 Adopt and implement policy measures to protect the rights of the

peoples of the First Nations and immigrants, especially women (Pakistan);

142.77 Continue to strengthen its measures to address discrimination against

indigenous women and girls, as raised by the treaty bodies (Japan);

142.78 Revoke all discriminatory provisions that remain in the Indian Act,

with a view to avoiding revocation of indigenous status (Paraguay);

142.79 Repeal the remaining discriminatory provisions in the Indian Act

(Iceland);

142.80 Abolish all discriminatory implications of the Indian Act to remove

remaining historical discrimination against matrilineal descent regarding

aboriginal status (Germany);

142.81 Further strengthen policies for social inclusion and tolerance between

groups, particularly with regard to migrants (Viet Nam);

142.82 Take the necessary measures and place more emphasis on the

principles of non-discrimination and inclusion in education, mainly for

minority groups and persons with disabilities (Albania);

142.83 Continue strengthening efforts in promoting the rights of lesbian, gay,

bisexual, transgender and intersex persons (South Africa);

142.84 Continue efforts made to protect the rights of the elderly (Morocco);

142.85 Consider raising the level of official development assistance to meet

the target of 0.7 per cent of gross national income in response to the call of the

2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (Nepal);

142.86 Increase official development assistance to reach the 0.7 per cent

threshold of gross national product, with a focus on capacity-building and

resilience (Haiti);

142.87 Engage actively with the international community in efforts to

promote and protect human rights in the context of climate change (Viet Nam);

142.88 Strengthen its legislation and standards in conformity with

international obligations, conducting periodic environmental impact

assessments in the context of industrial activity (Panama);

142.89 Ensure that mining operations are conducted on the basis of clear

and honest assessments of their environmental impact (Holy See);

142.90 Strengthen legislation regulating the foreign activities of companies

registered or headquartered in Canada (Peru);

142.91 Take further steps to prevent human rights impacts by Canadian

companies operating overseas, as well as ensuring access to remedies for people

affected, and share Canada’s practices as appropriate (Thailand);

142.92 Ensure that Canada’s mining, oil and gas companies are held

accountable for the negative human rights impact of their operations abroad

(Philippines);

142.93 Adopt additional measures to guarantee the accountability of

transnational corporations and other business enterprises with regard to

human rights abuses in third countries throughout their chain of production

and operation (Brazil);

142.94 Strengthen measures aimed at ensuring access to justice and

remedies for violations of rights of persons by transnational corporations

registered in Canada operating abroad (Namibia);

142.95 Exercise due diligence in dealing with business entities that are

involved in illegal economic activities and human rights violations in the

uncontrolled conflict-affected territories of other United Nations Member

States (Azerbaijan);

142.96 Consider making the Office of the Extractive Sector Corporate Social

Responsibility Counsellor independent and broaden its mandate (Haiti);

142.97 Consistency with the United Nations guidelines with regard to the

arrival of the victims of Canadian companies operating abroad to justice in

Canada (Syrian Arab Republic);

142.98 Develop a national action plan for business and human rights

(Switzerland);

142.99 Adopt a national action plan to implement the United Nations

Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (Kenya);1

142.100 Start work on the drafting of a national action plan to implement the

Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, in cooperation with all

stakeholders concerned (Belgium);

142.101 Adopt legislation governing the conduct of corporations under its

jurisdiction in relation to their activities abroad (Kenya);2

142.102 End excessive use of force by the police when responding to cases

involving vulnerable people of African descent, such as those who are mentally

ill (Sudan);

142.103 Adopt measures to prevent excessive use of force and the high

number of deaths involving the police among vulnerable people of African

descent (Czechia);

142.104 Put an end to the practice of excessive use of force by law

enforcement officers, and arbitrary detentions during protests at the federal

and provincial levels (Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);

142.105 Halt the practice of solitary confinement of prisoners (Philippines);

142.106 Ensure that Canada’s indigenous peoples are able to access justice on

an equal footing with the rest of Canada’s population (Philippines);

142.107 Work towards improving access to justice for women, including

indigenous and racialized women, and women with disabilities (Qatar);

142.108 Stop racial profiling and other discriminatory practices by the police

and security agencies (India);

142.109 Combat racist hate crimes and racial profiling by the police, security

agencies and border agents (South Africa);

142.110 Take measures to prohibit targeting, profiling and harassment of

Muslims by the police, security agencies and other authorities (Pakistan);

142.111 Take effective measures to avoid the continuation of racial profiling

by the police, security agencies and border agents of indigenous peoples,

Muslims, Afro-Canadians and other minority ethnic groups (Ecuador);

142.112 Increase funding for civil legal aid in order to ensure that women

have access to adequate legal aid in all jurisdictions, in particular women

victims of violence (Ghana);

142.113 Take measures to provide the necessary assistance to victims of

violence, including psychological assistance (Russian Federation);

142.114 Tackle the root causes of the overrepresentation of African

Canadians and indigenous peoples at all levels of the judicial system, from

arrest to incarceration (Congo);

1 The recommendation, as read out during the interactive dialogue, was: “Adopt a national action plan

to implement the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and legislation

governing the conduct of corporations under its jurisdiction in relation to their activities abroad.”

2 See footnote 1.

142.115 Take effective measures to reduce overcrowding in detention centres

(Ghana);

142.116 Organize training programmes for law enforcement officials to

guarantee respect of human rights standards (Egypt);

142.117 Adopt specific measures to address racial profiling in law

enforcement to prevent arbitrary arrests, stops, searches and investigations and

the over-incarceration of African Canadians (Botswana);

142.118 Decriminalize defamation and include it in the Civil Code, in

accordance with international standards (Estonia);

142.119 Strengthen the framework to prevent the misuse of freedom of

expression to incite violence and the glorification of terrorists as martyrs

(India);

142.120 Continue efforts to promote the political participation of young

people with a particular focus on the empowerment of young women, including

indigenous women (Republic of Moldova);

142.121 Continue making further efforts to ensure equal participation in

political and public affairs (Slovakia);

142.122 Enhance efforts to adopt adequate mechanisms to identify victims of

trafficking, especially those who need protection and rehabilitation, including

women belonging to ethnic minorities (Thailand);

142.123 Investigate, prosecute and adequately punish all cases of trafficking

in persons (Serbia);

142.124 Revise the National Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking to

reflect the international commitments Canada has subsequently made in this

area (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland);

142.125 Devise innovative policies to bring down existing gender wage gaps

(Israel);

142.126 Combat the wage gap between men and women on the basis of equal

pay for work of equal value (Lebanon);

142.127 Bridge the wage gap between men and women (Iraq);

142.128 Adopt legislation in the federal jurisdiction and in all provincial and

territorial jurisdictions on the principle of equal pay for work of equal value

(Iceland);

142.129 Implement existing measures effectively for improving gender

equality with a view to enhancing women’s participation in decision-making,

full-time employment and equal pay for equal work (India);

142.130 Ensure equality of opportunity for all citizens, so that each eligible

person would be able to work in high-level and professional job positions

(Islamic Republic of Iran);

142.131 Introduce strict policies and further strengthen its overall law

enforcement to address discriminatory hiring practices (Malaysia);

142.132 Take all measures to ensure the adoption of employment equity

legislative and policy measures in all jurisdictions to address unemployment

faced by disadvantaged and marginalized groups (Islamic Republic of Iran);

142.133 Intensify efforts to address the issue of unemployment and take

measures to ensure equality in this area (Russian Federation);

142.134 Address the employment disparity for African Canadians through

the enactment of employment equity legislation through targeted hiring policies

similar to those for First Nations people (Botswana);

142.135 Promote fairer working conditions for all, including migrant workers

(Nepal);

142.136 Take steps to reduce the employment gap among immigrants by the

provision of employment opportunities without discrimination (Pakistan);

142.137 Take the necessary steps to combat discriminatory labour market

practices against women and migrant workers (Algeria);

142.138 Continue to support the social assistance programme and improve

individual and family income (Libya);

142.139 Take steps to ensure that all Canadian children have equal access to

government services such as health, education and welfare, and address the

disparities in access to these services for indigenous children in particular

(Ireland);

142.140 Ensure that indigenous peoples have access to the same support,

services and ability to exercise their human rights as other Canadian citizens

(Sweden);

142.141 Enhance efforts to protect the rights of indigenous peoples, especially

in the field of education and health services (Italy);

142.142 Cease cases of children being taken away from their parents by child

welfare agencies, thus restoring the era of residential schools (1874–1996)

(Syrian Arab Republic);

142.143 Address disparities in access to health, education and welfare services

provided for indigenous people, in particular for children (Hungary);

142.144 Provide adequate needs-based funding for all social programmes for

children and families of First Nations and indigenous communities (Haiti);

142.145 Remove all discriminatory practices against First Nations children in

access to health, educational and social support and services (India);

142.146 Ensure non-discriminatory and culturally appropriate First Nations

child and family services as well as other public services such as education,

health, culture and language (Slovenia);

142.147 Continue its efforts in order to improve health care and education for

indigenous children, also by ensuring the allocation of adequate funds (Greece);

142.148 Continue efforts to expand financial and human resources to ensure

the implementation of Jordan’s Principle (Republic of Korea);

142.149 Ensure the justiciability of economic, social and cultural rights

(South Africa);3

142.150 Ensure that those living in poverty are not unduly criminalized

(South Africa);4

142.151 Interpret the Charter of Rights and Freedoms confirming the

interdependence and indivisibility of all human rights with a view to ensuring

access to food, health and adequate housing for all those living in the country

(Uruguay);

142.152 Ensure that the rights to health, education and employment of

indigenous peoples, people of African descent as well as migrants, refugees and

asylum seekers are respected and guaranteed (Madagascar);

3 The recommendation, as read out during the interactive dialogue, was: “Ensure the justiciability of

economic, social and cultural rights; that adequate measures are put in place to prevent homelessness;

and that those living in poverty are not unduly criminalized.”

4 See footnote 3.

142.153 Continue its efforts to fight against poverty (Gabon);

142.154 Introduce all measures necessary to combat poverty more effectively

while paying particular attention to vulnerable groups and individuals

(Bahrain);

142.155 Continue with efforts to eradicate poverty among vulnerable groups:

indigenous peoples, people of African descent and persons with disabilities

(Peru);

142.156 Continue to take all measures necessary to combat poverty more

effectively while paying particular attention to groups and individuals that are

more vulnerable to poverty, such as indigenous peoples, persons with

disabilities, single mothers and minority groups (Serbia);

142.157 Ensure that its poverty reduction strategy includes a targeted

approach to addressing the socioeconomic disparities and systemic

discrimination experienced by African Canadians and indigenous peoples and a

federal disaggregated data collection programme (Trinidad and Tobago);

142.158 Promote social equality and take substantial steps in addressing the

issue of poverty among indigenous peoples, ethnic minorities and persons with

disabilities (China);

142.159 Continue efforts to holistically address poverty and homelessness,

taking into consideration the needs of the most vulnerable communities, in

particular indigenous communities (Sri Lanka);

142.160 Ensure that adequate measures are put in place to prevent

homelessness (South Africa);5

142.161 Guarantee universal access to health care, education and a high

standard of living without discrimination, including through the collection of

disaggregated statistics (Mexico);

142.162 Take urgent steps to address homelessness and adopt legislation that

fully recognizes the right to housing and provide for effective remedies for

violations for the right (Philippines);

142.163 Plan to allocate the necessary resources in order to overcome the

housing crisis swiftly (Belarus);

142.164 Ensure that the legislation implementing the National Housing

Strategy fully recognizes the right to housing and provide for effective remedies

for violations of that right (Portugal);

142.165 Expedite the adoption of the national strategy to address issues of

adequate housing (Republic of Korea);

142.166 Adopt the National Housing Strategy as soon as possible, taking into

account the principles and recommendations included in the most recent report

of the Special Rapporteur on adequate housing as a component of the right to

an adequate standard of living, and on the right to non-discrimination in this

context (Uruguay);

142.167 Comply with its commitment to guarantee the human right to

drinking water and sanitation, and implement strategies to promote access to

drinking water and to improve sanitation facilities in remote areas (Spain);

142.168 Continue promoting the living conditions of ethnic and racial

minorities, especially in the areas of health care and decent housing (Holy See);

142.169 Take action to ensure equal access to abortion and comprehensive

sexuality education across provinces and territories (Norway);

5 See footnote 3.

142.170 Develop people- and community-centred mental health services that

do not lead to institutionalization, over-medicalization or practices that do not

respect the rights, will and preferences of all persons (Portugal);

142.171 Strengthen special measures to increase the level of educational

achievements of African Canadian children, in particular by preventing their

marginalization (Serbia);

142.172 Put in place specific programmes to ensure better education for

people of African descent and other indigenous peoples to lift them out of

poverty (Senegal);

142.173 Further strengthen its efforts to improve access to quality education

for its indigenous peoples, particularly women and girls (Myanmar);

142.174 Continue efforts to ensure access to every level of education for all

indigenous girls and women (Bosnia and Herzegovina);

142.175 Continue providing resources for the full and effective classroom

support needed to ensure inclusive education for children with special needs

(Bulgaria);

142.176 Take measures to promote greater political participation of women in

legislative bodies (Costa Rica);

142.177 Continue its work towards enhancing gender equality and women’s

political and economic empowerment (Iceland);

142.178 Continue adopting programmes and measures that seek to address

the inequalities that women and girls suffer in the country (Cuba);

142.179 Continue efforts to combat discrimination and violence against

women (Morocco);

142.180 Continue to combat violence against women (France);

142.181 Continue efforts to curb violence against women (Nepal);

142.182 Further strengthen its efforts in addressing issues regarding gender-

based violence against women (Indonesia);

142.183 Strengthen measures taken to prevent and punish all forms of

violence against women and girls (Mali);

142.184 Step up efforts in order to make more efficient the legal framework

to protect women of all age groups against all forms of violence and from sexual

abuse (Lebanon);

142.185 Step up efforts to protect victims of violence and ensure a sufficient

number of adequate shelters for them (Czechia);

142.186 Enhance the efficiency of measures aiming at better preventing all

forms of violence against indigenous women and girls (Kazakhstan);

142.187 Take immediate steps to ensure safe emergency shelter with adequate

support in northern communities for those seeking protection from violence, in

line with needs (Denmark);

142.188 Reinforce the existing mechanisms to prevent violence against women

and girls as well as human trafficking, particularly for vulnerable populations

(Angola);

142.189 Continue efforts to reduce violence against indigenous women and

girls, including by implementing the recommendations of the United Nations

Special Rapporteur on violence against women, its causes and consequences,

after her recent visit (New Zealand);

142.190 Strengthen measures to protect victims of violence against women

and girls, particularly among minority communities, including through

ensuring access to quality multisectoral responses for survivors covering safety,

shelter, health, justice and other essential services (Rwanda);

142.191 Introduce a concrete action plan to combat all forms of violence

against women and girls (Norway);

142.192 Adopt a comprehensive, measureable, well-resourced, time-bound

national action plan to address all forms of violence against women and girls

and make adequate shelters available to all victims (Germany);

142.193 Adopt a national action plan, in consultation with civil society

organizations, to combat gender-based violence against women (Albania);

142.194 Convert the federal strategy on gender-based violence into a national

action plan (Australia);

142.195 Adopt a national action plan, in consultation with civil society

organizations, especially indigenous women’s organizations, to combat gender-

based violence against women (Zambia);

142.196 Adopt a national action plan on violence against women and girls,

consulting in line with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of

Indigenous Peoples on specific provisions for indigenous women (Denmark);

142.197 Adopt a comprehensive and time-bound national action plan to

address all forms of violence against women, including indigenous women and

girls (Finland);

142.198 Take effective legal measures to combat violence against women,

especially indigenous and ethnic minority women (China);

142.199 Ensure effective investigation of cases of violence against women and

girls, especially those belonging to indigenous peoples, and bring the

perpetrators to justice (Russian Federation);

142.200 Continue all efforts to combat discrimination against women and to

combat violence against women, particularly indigenous women and women of

African descent (Tunisia);

142.201 Step up efforts to reinforce existing measures for combating violence

against women, especially indigenous women (Honduras);

142.202 Take immediate legal measures in order to stop the ongoing violence

against indigenous and aboriginal peoples, especially women (Islamic Republic

of Iran);

142.203 Continue its efforts to prevent and punish all forms of violence

against indigenous women and girls, as well as to redress victims (Myanmar);

142.204 Continue to investigate, prosecute and prevent cases of violence

against aboriginal women and girls (Estonia);

142.205 Ensure relevant authorities record the aboriginality of victims of

gender-based violence (Australia);

142.206 Continue to strengthen protection of the rights of indigenous women

and girls against violence, in particular by systematically conducting

investigations and ensuring the collection and dissemination of data on violence

against indigenous women (Belgium);

142.207 Continue working with partners at all levels to address the significant

levels of violence against aboriginal women, and its root causes (United

Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland);

142.208 Reinforce efforts to investigate cases of missing and murdered

aboriginal women (Republic of Korea);

142.209 Extend the mandate of the National Inquiry into Missing and

Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls by two years to allow all victims to be

heard (Sri Lanka);

142.210 To help provide greater transparency regarding missing and

murdered indigenous women, appoint a permanent government interlocutor to

report to the Assembly of First Nations on the status of the ongoing inquiry into

the cases of missing and murdered indigenous women (United States of

America);

142.211 Arrange a follow-up visit from the Special Rapporteur on the rights

of indigenous peoples to gauge progress, with a particular focus on missing and

murdered indigenous women (United States of America);

142.212 Take the necessary steps to investigate complaints lodged regarding

the forced sterilization of women from vulnerable groups and, where

appropriate, punish those responsible and assist affected women (Argentina);

142.213 Explicitly prohibit corporal punishment of children in all settings,

including at home (Montenegro);

142.214 Enact and implement Bill S-206 as soon as possible (Sweden);

142.215 Continue current efforts to protect children from sexual exploitation

(Tunisia);

142.216 Continue efforts to complete implementation of the remaining

recommendations, including the promotion of human rights education and the

establishment of a federal children’s ombudsman or commission (Bhutan);

142.217 Develop and apply mechanisms for combating inequality and

discrimination affecting persons with disabilities and for gathering data on

progress made (Panama);

142.218 Fully implement the rights of persons with disabilities, whose

grievances make up almost 50 per cent of all discrimination complaints filed in

Canada (Hungary);

142.219 Remove inequality and discrimination faced by persons with

disabilities in realization of the rights to education, work, employment, health

care, affordable housing and other basic needs (India);

142.220 Allocate the necessary resources to enable persons with disabilities to

be afforded opportunities to improve their overall well-being and live in dignity

(Malaysia);

142.221 Continue to tackle the issues related to persons with disabilities and

poverty, as pointed out by relevant treaty bodies (Japan);

142.222 Ensure equal opportunities and accessibility for persons with

disabilities (Bahrain);

142.223 Promote the harmonization of legislation for the implementation of

accessibility rights for persons with disabilities in all jurisdictions (Mexico);

142.224 Take further steps to extend welfare services and assistance to all

persons with disabilities (Bulgaria);

142.225 Consider all options and measures to ensure the legislation

encompasses all aspects of the obligations under the Convention on the Rights

of Persons with Disabilities (Slovakia);

142.226 Establish official and standing mechanisms to consult with

organizations of persons with disabilities (Spain);

142.227 Broaden the legislative framework as well as programmes and

policies for improving the promotion and protection of the rights of people of

African descent (Plurinational State of Bolivia);

142.228 Develop and implement, in collaboration with Canada’s various

government entities and civil society, a national action plan to follow up on the

recommendations of the Working Group of Experts on People of African

Descent, following its visit to Canada in 2016 (Haiti);

142.229 Continue taking steps to address the gaps in the promotion and

protection of the rights of minorities and indigenous peoples (Bhutan);

142.230 Implement further actions to promote the rights of, respect for, and

cooperation and partnership with indigenous peoples (Cuba);

142.231 Intensify efforts aimed at alleviating the challenges faced by

indigenous peoples (Georgia);

142.232 Intensify efforts aimed at addressing the persistent economic

challenges faced by indigenous peoples throughout the country (Namibia);

142.233 Continue efforts to protect the rights of indigenous peoples (Republic

of Moldova);

142.234 Continue efforts to guarantee the rights of indigenous people (Gabon);

142.235 Continue strengthening policies, programmes and legislative reforms

for the recognition of the rights of indigenous peoples (Plurinational State of

Bolivia);

142.236 Take effective legislative and administrative measures to concretely

improve the living conditions of indigenous people and ensure all their rights

(China);

142.237 Promote and protect the human rights of its indigenous people, in

particular economic, social and cultural rights (Sudan);

142.238 Take further steps to promote, protect and fulfil the rights of

indigenous peoples, particularly regarding their economic, social and cultural

rights, on an equal basis with non-indigenous populations (Brazil);

142.239 Enable vulnerable persons, including indigenous peoples, to enjoy

their basic rights: access to water, health, education and a fair justice system

(France);

142.240 Ensure full equality for indigenous peoples in the protection of their

international human rights to health, education and welfare (Norway);

142.241 Make additional efforts to ensure equitable access to quality health,

education and other social services for those belonging to indigenous

communities and to those racialized individuals and groups (Qatar);

142.242 Intensify efforts to provide equitable access to health, education,

social services, quality water and food security for indigenous people (Trinidad

and Tobago);

142.243 Strengthen and enlarge its existing programmes and take more and

specific measures towards improving the situation of indigenous persons, in

particular with regard to the improvement of housing, employment and

education opportunities especially after elementary school, and better

safeguard women’s and children’s rights, in consultation with civil society

(Netherlands);

142.244 Implement effective measures to reduce the high levels of poverty and

food insecurity among indigenous peoples and to ensure better access for them

to health care, education, adequate housing and other basic necessities (India);

142.245 Continue to develop and implement a comprehensive national

strategy to provide indigenous peoples with access to education and health-care

services, and improve the living standards and housing conditions of families

with children (Belarus);

142.246 Take additional steps in order to improve the standard of living of

indigenous peoples in Canada (Kazakhstan);

142.247 Step up efforts to improve the living conditions of indigenous peoples

(Mali);

142.248 Continue to revise and adapt legislation to improve the living

conditions of the First Nations (Spain);

142.249 Continue the important work on reconciliation with Canada’s

indigenous peoples by fulfilling the Government’s promise to implement all of

the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in a timely

manner (Sri Lanka);

142.250 Implement all of the “calls to action” from the Truth and

Reconciliation Commission (Australia);

142.251 Take all decisions concerning First Nations peoples in consultation

with them (Slovenia);

142.252 Adopt measures to provide access to indigenous peoples to land and

natural resources and to preserve their culture and languages (Russian

Federation);

142.253 Provide public documentation of consultation and contracting

agreements with First Nations (United States of America);

142.254 Ensure that indigenous communities can express their free and

informed consent prior to any measure that may affect their land (Holy See);

142.255 Ensure the creation of transparent mechanisms for receiving the free

and informed consent of indigenous peoples in order to carry out economic

activities in their traditional territories of residence (Russian Federation);

142.256 Re-establish the right to a healthy environment, prohibiting the

destructive exploitation of the environment, particularly in the territories of

indigenous peoples (Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);

142.257 Prohibit the environmentally detrimental development of resources

on the territories of indigenous peoples without the free, prior and informed

consent of those communities (Ireland);

142.258 Invest in the preservation of endangered languages spoken by people

belonging to First Nations (Israel);

142.259 Consider taking further necessary measures to ensure adequate

protection of the rights of migrants and refugees (Nigeria);

142.260 Take legislative and administrative actions to reform current policies

to ensure the protection of all migrants (Islamic Republic of Iran);

142.261 Improve the conditions of migrant workers (Iraq);

142.262 Continue to take steps to improve the conditions of migrant workers,

including temporary and seasonal workers, and their welfare (Sri Lanka);

142.263 Enable migrant workers, especially those of African descent, to access

basic health services (Senegal);

142.264 Ensure that temporary and migrant agricultural workers are covered

under the protection of labour legislation and have access to health and

employment benefits (Trinidad and Tobago);

142.265 Revise its national legislation with a view to guaranteeing respect for

and protection of migrant workers, particularly as regards access to health care

and social protection for seasonal workers and their protection against all types

of exploitation or trafficking (Honduras);

142.266 Give attention to the issue of immigration detention for an indefinite

period and seek to amend legislation to set a time limit for detention (Costa

Rica);

142.267 Take steps to limit the use and prorogation of immigration detention

(Mexico);

142.268 Ensure that all individuals who attempt to enter the country are

provided with equal access to asylum proceedings (Mozambique);

142.269 Reinforce strategies aimed at reducing the backlog faced by the

Immigration and Refugee Board, which causes delays in asylum procedures

(Zambia);

142.270 Prevent additional delays in asylum procedures (Afghanistan);

142.271 Continue to improve the condition of refugees and asylum seekers in

accordance with Canada’s international human rights obligations (Indonesia);

142.272 Eliminate or improve the two exceptions in subsection 115.2 of the

Law on Immigration and Protection of Refugees in order to safeguard the

principle of non-refoulement, as provided for by international law (Ecuador);

142.273 Put an end to the detention of child refugees and asylum seekers, with

alternatives to detention that respect the best interest of the child (Bolivarian

Republic of Venezuela);

142.274 Put an end to the detention of refugee and asylum-seeking children,

through alternatives that fully take into consideration the best interest of the

child (Ecuador);

142.275 Establish a statelessness determination procedure and a protected

stateless person status that facilitates the naturalization procedure for persons

in that situation (Chile).

143. 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.

III. Voluntary pledges and commitments

144. Canada assumed the following voluntary commitments:

144.1 Canada voluntarily commits to strengthening intergovernmental

collaboration and public dialogue on human rights, through the development of

a protocol for following up on the recommendations Canada receives from

international human rights bodies and a stakeholder engagement strategy;

144.2 Canada also commits to enhancing our federal-provincial-territorial

collaboration on human rights implementation through the creation of a senior

intergovernmental mechanism;

144.3 Canada also commits to holding future federal-provincial-territorial

human rights ministerial meetings.

145. In addition, the Government of Canada is pleased to make the following

voluntary commitments:

145.1 To conduct human rights analyses to support the implementation of

our international human rights obligations;

145.2 To improve the promotion and public awareness of international

human rights in Canada;

145.3 To initiate a transparent process for ongoing consideration by federal,

provincial and territorial governments of adherence to human rights treaties

that Canada is not yet a party to;

145.4 To continue to take legislative and other steps to progressively realize

the right to adequate housing as part of an adequate standard of living for its

citizens;

145.5 To end, by March 2021, all long-term drinking water advisories

affecting public systems on reserve;

145.6 To co-developing distinctions-based Indigenous housing strategies

with First Nations, Inuit and Métis partners to ensure that future housing

reform is reflective of their specific needs;

145.7 To continuing to improve services delivered to Indigenous Peoples —

such as education, clean water, housing, and health services. We aim to achieve

this through: the full implementation of Jordan’s Principle to ensure that First

Nations children receive the same health and social services and supports as

other Canadian children; the full implementation of all the orders of the

Canadian Human Rights Tribunal; and the co-development and

transformation of the delivery of Indigenous child welfare.

Annex

Composition of the delegation

The delegation of Canada was headed by The Honourable Jody Wilson-Raybould,

Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, and composed of the following

members:

• Ms. Laurie Wright, Alternate Head of Delegation, Assistant Deputy Minister, Public Law and Legislative Services Sector, Justice Canada;

• H.E. Ms. Rosemary McCarney, Ambassador and Permanent Representative, Permanent Mission of Canada to the United Nations Office and other international

organizations in Geneva;

• Mr. Jeff Moore, Sr. Assistant Deputy Minister, Policy and Strategic Direction, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs;

• Ms. Jenifer Aitken, Assistant Deputy Minister, Strategic Policy, Planning and Corporate Affairs, Canadian Heritage;

• Ms. Nancy Othmer, Director General and Senior General Counsel, Human Rights Law Section, Justice Canada;

• Mr. Mark Potter, Director General, Strategic Policy, Research, Planning and International Affairs, Public Safety Canada;

• Ms. Shelley Whiting, Director General, Office of Human Rights, Freedoms and Inclusion, Global Affairs Canada;

• Mr. Keith Smith, Director of Policy, Justice Canada;

• Ms. Whitney Morrison, Special Advisor to the Minister, Justice Canada;

• Ms. Natalie St. Lawrence, Director, International and Intergovernmental Affairs, Status of Women Canada;

• Ms. Catherine Godin, Deputy Permanent Representative, Permanent Mission of Canada to the United Nations and other international organizations in in Geneva;

• Mr. Donald Cochrane, Minister Counsellor, Migration and Refugees, Permanent Mission of Canada to the United Nations Office and other international

organizations in Geneva;

• Ms. Lorraine Anderson, Legal Adviser, Permanent Mission of Canada to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva;

• Ms. Josée Filion, Counsel, Human Rights Law Section, Justice Canada;

• Ms. Liane Venasse, Manager, Human Rights Policy, International and Intergovernmental Affairs and Human Rights, Canadian Heritage;

• Ms. Alessandra Giuliano, Policy Analyst, Human Rights Policy, International and Intergovernmental Affairs and Human Rights, Canadian Heritage;

• Mr. Peter Sharp, Policy Analyst, Intergovernmental and International Relations Directorate, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs;

• Ms. Lara Thorpe, A/Manager, International Affairs Division, Public Safety Canada;

• Mr. Doug Murphy, Special Advisor to the Sr. ADM, Strategic and Service Policy Branch, Employment and Social Development Canada;

• Ms. Jacinthe Arsenault, Manager, Strategy and Intergovernmental Relations, Employment and Social Development Canada;

• Mr. Patrick Pickering, Policy Advisor, Office of Human Rights, Freedoms and Inclusion, Global Affairs Canada;

• Ms. Susan Marrie, Solicitor, Legal Services Division, Department of Justice, Government of Newfoundland and Labrador;

• Ms. Lily Pol Neveu, Chef d’équipe aux droits de la personne et affaires autochtones, Direction des organisations internationales et des enjeux globaux, Ministère des

Relations internationales et de la Francophonie, Gouvernement du Québec.