Thank you Mr. President,
Norway thanks the delegation of Montenegro for presenting its national report and for the comments and answers provided here today.
Our overall impression is that the human rights situation in Montenegro has improved since the previous review, in line with the overall development since Montenegro's independence. We note that Montenegro has established a range of institutions the recent years contributing to the enforcement of human rights, and that these institutions are actively participating in the public discussion on the issue.
Despite an overall positive trend, there is still a need for increased and sustained efforts in several areas, predominantly related to implementation of international standards and harmonization of the legal framework. We encourage the Government of Montenegro to continue this process as a matter of priority.
The Ombudsman plays an important role in enforcing human rights for the citizens. We recommend that the Ombudsman's office be provided with sufficient resources for exercising its role in accordance with its mandate.
Norway welcomes the adoption in 2010 of a legislative framework for the protection against discrimination. We recommend that the Government further strengthens efforts to implement the principles contained in the in the Law on Anti-Discrimination, including by combatting discrimination against members of the LGBT community.
Advance questions:
Could the delegation of Montenegro please elaborate on steps that will be taken by the Government to ensure the implementation of the principles contained in the Law on Anti-Discrimination adopted in July 2010?
While noting the adoption of the Law on Protection from Family Violence (2010), CEDAW has recommended that Montenegro addresses the high incidence of domestic and sexual violence. How will the Government proceed to combat violence against women and girls in Montenegro?