18.The State party should consider reinstating the Council or establishing an alternative multi stakeholder institution with the objective of preventing discrimination and intolerance.

Violence against women and equal rights of men and women

19.The Committee reiterates its concern about the high number of women victims of domestic violence and the lack of adequate protection mechanisms. The Committee is particularly concerned about: a) the lack of mechanisms providing immediate protection, b) the small number of restraining orders issued, c) the insufficient number of emergency shelters and specialised assistance centres and d) the low number of prosecutions and sentences. (arts. 2, 3, 6, 7 and 26)

20.The State party should adopt a comprehensive strategy to prevent and address domestic violence, in particular by:

(a)Ensuring that cases of domestic violence are thoroughly investigated, alleged perpetrators prosecuted and, if convicted, punished with appropriate sanctions; and that victims have access to effective remedies and means of protection, including restraining orders with immediate effect;

(b)Increase the number of emergency shelters and specialised centres in all parts of the country; and

(c)Continue carrying out awareness-raising campaigns to sensitize the population.

21.The Committee reiterates its concern about: a) the limited participation of women in public and political life and the private sector, b) the wage gap between women and men and c) the prevalence of gender biases and stereotypes. (arts. 2, 3 and 26)

22.The State party should further strengthen its efforts to:

(a)Increase the participation of women in public and political life, and if necessary, through temporary special measures, to give full effect to the provisions of the Covenant. The State party is encouraged to further support the participation of women in high-level and managerial positions and on boards of private enterprises, including through enhanced cooperation and dialogue with partners in the private sector;

(b)Continue adopting measures to eliminate the wage gap and to ensure equal remuneration for work of equal value; and

(c)Strengthen the measures to eliminate gender biases and stereotypes.