Displaying 45376 - 45400 of 58160 recommendations found
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State Under Review:Sierra LeoneSierra LeoneRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUOICCommonwealthSource Of Reference:CanadaCanadaRegional groupWEOGPolitical groupOASOIFCommonwealthIssue:
- Discrimination based on sexual orientation
- Discrimination based on gender identity
Type:RecommendationSession:11th session, May 2011Status:RejectedContents:Bring its legislation into conformity with its commitment to equality and non-discrimination for all by prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.ImplementationNational Report:
Para 44) The GOSL maintains that the Constitution affords fundamental guarantees for all whilst acknowledging that there are certain groups that are vulnerable. Sierra Leone has carefully prioritized the groups, especially those within the treaties it has already signed or ratified. Sierra Leone therefore continues to note recommendations. -
State Under Review:Sierra LeoneSierra LeoneRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUOICCommonwealthSource Of Reference:National ReportIssue:
- Sexual violence
- Domestic violence
Type:Review DocumentationSession:11th session, May 2011Status:N/AContents:"The area of policing through a family friendly way the Family Support Unit was established in 2001 within the Sierra Leone Police to address sexual and domestic violence. The success of this programme is been lauded with appeals for the creation of more of the units nationwide. [Para 91]" -
State Under Review:Sierra LeoneSierra LeoneRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUOICCommonwealthSource Of Reference:Stakeholder SummaryIssue:
- Women's and / or girls' rights
Type:Review DocumentationSession:11th session, May 2011Status:Reference AddressedContents:"CGG recommended that the Government should domesticate all aspects of CEDAW and other instruments that promote and protect the rights of women. [Para 7]" -
State Under Review:Sierra LeoneSierra LeoneRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUOICCommonwealthSource Of Reference:MexicoMexicoRegional groupGRULACPolitical groupOASOEIACSIssue:
- Women's and / or girls' rights
Type:RecommendationSession:11th session, May 2011Status:AcceptedContents:Remove obstacles preventing women having effective access to justice and adopt appropriate measures to promote basic legal assistance and knowledge of women's rights, including the right to obtain redress in the courts. -
State Under Review:Sierra LeoneSierra LeoneRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUOICCommonwealthSource Of Reference:AngolaAngolaRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUIssue:
- Female genital mutilation / cutting
Type:RecommendationSession:38th Session, May 2021Status:Unclear ResponseContents:Put in place specific measures with all stakeholders to increase the fight against female genital mutilation and hold perpetrators accountable.
ExplanationNoted. Sierra Leone has in place several measures to address the human rights concerns of female genital mutilation (FGM). Despite those measures, the right to associate and freedom of assembly conflict with some of the recommendations that call for a complete ban on FGM.
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State Under Review:Sierra LeoneSierra LeoneRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUOICCommonwealthSource Of Reference:EswatiniEswatiniRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUCommonwealthIssue:
- Female genital mutilation / cutting
- Women's and / or girls' rights
Type:RecommendationSession:38th Session, May 2021Status:Unclear ResponseContents:Continue improving the rights of women and girls- by prohibiting female genital mutilation.
ExplanationNoted. Sierra Leone has in place several measures to address the human rights concerns of female genital mutilation (FGM). Despite those measures, the right to associate and freedom of assembly conflict with some of the recommendations that call for a complete ban on FGM.
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State Under Review:Sierra LeoneSierra LeoneRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUOICCommonwealthSource Of Reference:NetherlandsNetherlandsRegional groupWEOGPolitical groupEUIssue:
- Female genital mutilation / cutting
Type:RecommendationSession:38th Session, May 2021Status:Unclear ResponseContents:Adopt and implement legislation and policies to end the practice of female genital mutilation, including through awareness-raising campaigns.
ExplanationNoted. Sierra Leone has in place several measures to address the human rights concerns of female genital mutilation (FGM). Despite those measures, the right to associate and freedom of assembly conflict with some of the recommendations that call for a complete ban on FGM.
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State Under Review:Sierra LeoneSierra LeoneRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUOICCommonwealthSource Of Reference:South SudanSouth SudanRegional groupAfrica GroupIssue:
- Women's and / or girls' rights
Type:RecommendationSession:38th Session, May 2021Status:AcceptedContents:Redouble efforts of the Government to strengthen policies that bolster basic education, including education for girls and education for children with disabilities.
ExplanationThese recommendations focus on education, which forms part of the Government's flagship programme for human capital development. Government has substantially increased budgetary allocation to all sectors of education. The ban on pregnant girls has been lifted.
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State Under Review:Sierra LeoneSierra LeoneRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUOICCommonwealthSource Of Reference:BoliviaBoliviaRegional groupGRULACPolitical groupOASOEIIssue:
- Gender equality
Type:RecommendationSession:38th Session, May 2021Status:AcceptedContents:Continue increasing gender equality.
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State Under Review:Sierra LeoneSierra LeoneRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUOICCommonwealthSource Of Reference:AlbaniaAlbaniaRegional groupEEGPolitical groupOICOIFIssue:
- Gender equality
Type:RecommendationSession:38th Session, May 2021Status:AcceptedContents:Accelerate the enactment of the Bill on gender equality.
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State Under Review:Sierra LeoneSierra LeoneRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUOICCommonwealthSource Of Reference:BrazilBrazilRegional groupGRULACPolitical groupOASOEIIssue:
- Violence against women / gender-based violence
- Sexual violence
- Domestic violence
Type:RecommendationSession:24th session, January 2016Status:AcceptedContents:Ensure the effective implementation of the Domestic Violence Act and the Sexual Offences Act, specially by promoting access to justice.ExplanationSierra Leone is actively pursuing the review of its constitution to bring it in line with international human rights standards and to meet the general democratic aspirations of its people.ImplementationNational Report:
Para 28) Launched in December 2018, the Office of the First Lady led a rigorous campaign titled ‘Hands Off Our Girls’. As part of a national response against sexual and gender-based violence and related violations in the country, the Sexual Offences Act of 2012 was amended. Also, the first ‘Sexual Offences Model Court’ has been set up and launched on 24 July 2020 to try sexual violence offenders. In further fulfilment of the Government’s mandate and its determination to address this heinous crime, the Office of the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice has established a team to process speedy trial of cases involving sexual and gender-based violence and related violations. Also, State Counsel have been instructed to oppose bail from perpetrators of sexual offences and to ensure that convicted sex offenders do not benefit from the power of the prerogative of mercy.
Para 29) There has been a sexual amendment (Amendment) Act, 2019. The Act increases the punishment for conviction of rape or sexual offences of minors. Before this, there was a state of emergency on rape and other offences in 2019.
Para 40) As demonstrated in the national reports Sierra Leone submitted to the First and Second Cycle reviews, significant work has been undertaken, including the passing of the undermentioned instruments, to implement many of the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) and to provide legislative safeguards for human rights: … • The Sexual Offences Act 2012; as amended by the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act, 2019;
Para 104) As a preventive measure, the GoSL formulated the National Male Involvement Strategy for the Prevention of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence. It aims at, among other things, eradicating sexual and gender-based violence, promoting gender equality and upholding the rights and dignity of women and girls. The strategy adopts a socially transformative approach that focuses on the participation of men and boys as change agents and champions for protecting women and girls in their families, communities, schools and workplaces. It treats men not just as perpetrators of violence but as allies in changing power relations and systems in society that sustain gender inequality and violence.
Para 105) In 2019, the Government reviewed the Sexual Offences Act of 2012 and enacted the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act 2019 to increase the maximum penalty for Rape and Sexual Penetration of a child from 15 years’ imprisonment to a sentence of life imprisonment and introduced the new offence of aggravated sexual assault and an alternative conviction of aggravated sexual assault. Also, a ‘Sexual Offences Model Court’ has been set up to try sexual violence offenders. In 2020, the GoSL instituted a free health line for rape and SGBV victims to report the incidences. Between April and October, 2020, a total of 48,147 calls were processed.
Para 106) In further fulfilment of the Government’s mandate and its determination to address this heinous crime, the Office of Attorney-General and Minister of Justice has established a team to process speedy trial of cases involving sexual and gender-based violence and related violations. Also, State Counsel have been instructed to oppose bail from perpetrators of sexual offences and to ensure that convicted sex offenders do not benefit from the power of prerogative of mercy. The FSU of the SLP is being strengthened to adequately respond to sexual and gender-based violence cases.
Para 107) From 11 to 20 May 2017, the Decentralisation Secretariat in partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) held consultative meetings with all 149 Paramount Chiefs in the country. These meetings addressed issues of violence against children and women. The Paramount Chiefs prepared action plans on how to prevent violence against children and women and promoting children welfare in their communities.
Para 119) Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) which is a perennial source of human rights violations is itself a complex mix of traditional beliefs and poverty that are experienced more by women, particularly by women in the rural areas and within the urban-rural enclaves.
UN Compilation:
Para 53) The United Nations country team commended Sierra Leone for the steps taken to address the increasing rate of reported cases of sexual and gender-based violence, including the launch of the “Hands off our girls” campaign in 2018, the development of a national strategy for the involvement of males in the prevention of and response to sexual and gender-based violence, and the establishment of a toll-free hotline to report cases of such violence. It also noted the assistance provided to victims.
Para 56) The United Nations country team remained concerned over the continuous prevalence of rape and other forms of sexual violence, including against children, and about the prolonged investigation and trial of cases reported to the police.
Stakeholder Summary:
Para 34) JS2 and JS3 welcomed that the Sexual Offenses Act was amended in 2019 to include additional sexual crimes and increased penalties for perpetrators of sexual violence against children. JS2 also welcomed the establishment of the Family Support Unit of the Police; the free toll line, the One-Stop-Centres, and related awareness raising campaigns. However, the organisations highlighted that significant issues should still to be addressed, such as rape, commercial child sexual exploitation.
Para 35) CUMG-SL stated that, while policies have been developed to combat sexual abuse against girls in school, those policies were challenged by inadequate support to ensure effective implementation.
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State Under Review:Sierra LeoneSierra LeoneRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUOICCommonwealthSource Of Reference:DjiboutiDjiboutiRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUOICALOIFIssue:
- Gender equality
- Violence against women / gender-based violence
- Women's and / or girls' rights
Type:RecommendationSession:24th session, January 2016Status:AcceptedContents:Continue efforts to end discrimination and violence against women by taking all necessary measures to guarantee equal and effective access to justice for women and to ensure access to all levels of education.ExplanationSierra Leone will ensure that discrimination of any class of its citizens is prohibited. Knowing that a review of the constitution is ongoing and changes most likely in those areas noted, we remain confident in the process and we know a more robust protection for all disadvantaged groups will emerge.ImplementationNational Report:
Para 27) The ban on pregnant girls in school that was introduced in 2015 was lifted on 30 March 2020. This is in conformity with recommendation of ending measures that excluded young pregnant girls from the mainstream educational system.
Para 28) Launched in December 2018, the Office of the First Lady led a rigorous campaign titled ‘Hands Off Our Girls’. As part of a national response against sexual and gender-based violence and related violations in the country, the Sexual Offences Act of 2012 was amended. Also, the first ‘Sexual Offences Model Court’ has been set up and launched on 24 July 2020 to try sexual violence offenders. In further fulfilment of the Government’s mandate and its determination to address this heinous crime, the Office of the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice has established a team to process speedy trial of cases involving sexual and gender-based violence and related violations. Also, State Counsel have been instructed to oppose bail from perpetrators of sexual offences and to ensure that convicted sex offenders do not benefit from the power of the prerogative of mercy.
Para 29) There has been a sexual amendment (Amendment) Act, 2019. The Act increases the punishment for conviction of rape or sexual offences of minors. Before this, there was a state of emergency on rape and other offences in 2019.
Para 40) As demonstrated in the national reports Sierra Leone submitted to the First and Second Cycle reviews, significant work has been undertaken, including the passing of the undermentioned instruments, to implement many of the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) and to provide legislative safeguards for human rights: … • The Sexual Offences Act 2012; as amended by the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act, 2019;
Para 44) Gender discrimination is largely a result of long-standing social and cultural norms and gender stereotyping that dictate relationships, roles, and responsibilities between men and women, as well as access to power, resources, and privileges. These are further reinforced by a range of discriminatory laws, including statutory and customary laws. Even when national laws are enacted to address these inequalities, effective enforcement has always been the major challenge for some sociological reasons.
Para 46) Sierra Leone signed the OP-CEDAW in September 2008 but has not ratified it. The Ebola Virus Disease in 2014 and the concurrent economic meltdown hampered the ratification process. With the election of a new government, came the Corona Virus pandemic. However, the Government has responded positively to the implementation of its contents.
Para 47) On 23 March 2017, the Government launched its new National Land Policy to address land-based discrimination, especially against women. The National Land Policy 2017 guarantees equal rights for both women and men, and the elimination of all forms of discriminations against women regarding equitable access and control over land resources. The policy calls for the amendment of the Sierra Leone Constitution to include provisions that ensure that women have the right to full and equal protection by the law and have the right not to be discriminated against based on their gender or marital status.
Para 57) On the 30 March 2020, the GoSL through its MBSSE lifted the ban on pregnant girls from participating in school education and this has been replaced by a new policy. The new policy of “radical inclusion and comprehensive safety” which under its treaty obligation under the ICESC article 2(1) encourages a progressive realisation of universal education for all children without any discrimination.
Para 58) Accordingly, the new policy “is building a radically inclusive Sierra Leone where all children – regardless of class, ethnicity, tribe, disability, location, gender reproductive or parental status – can live and learn in safety and dignity.’’ The Free Quality School Education (FQSE) framework lays out an overarching vision and holistic set of principles, towards a Sierra Leone where all children are entitled to meaningful and equitable opportunities to learn and prosper. This is an eloquent testament to the Government’s commitment to accessible and quality education (SDG 4), and gender equality (SDG 5).
Para 104) As a preventive measure, the GoSL formulated the National Male Involvement Strategy for the Prevention of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence. It aims at, among other things, eradicating sexual and gender-based violence, promoting gender equality and upholding the rights and dignity of women and girls. The strategy adopts a socially transformative approach that focuses on the participation of men and boys as change agents and champions for protecting women and girls in their families, communities, schools and workplaces. It treats men not just as perpetrators of violence but as allies in changing power relations and systems in society that sustain gender inequality and violence.
Para 105) In 2019, the Government reviewed the Sexual Offences Act of 2012 and enacted the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act 2019 to increase the maximum penalty for Rape and Sexual Penetration of a child from 15 years’ imprisonment to a sentence of life imprisonment and introduced the new offence of aggravated sexual assault and an alternative conviction of aggravated sexual assault. Also, a ‘Sexual Offences Model Court’ has been set up to try sexual violence offenders. In 2020, the GoSL instituted a free health line for rape and SGBV victims to report the incidences. Between April and October, 2020, a total of 48,147 calls were processed.
Para 106) In further fulfilment of the Government’s mandate and its determination to address this heinous crime, the Office of Attorney-General and Minister of Justice has established a team to process speedy trial of cases involving sexual and gender-based violence and related violations. Also, State Counsel have been instructed to oppose bail from perpetrators of sexual offences and to ensure that convicted sex offenders do not benefit from the power of prerogative of mercy. The FSU of the SLP is being strengthened to adequately respond to sexual and gender-based violence cases.
Para 107) From 11 to 20 May 2017, the Decentralisation Secretariat in partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) held consultative meetings with all 149 Paramount Chiefs in the country. These meetings addressed issues of violence against children and women. The Paramount Chiefs prepared action plans on how to prevent violence against children and women and promoting children welfare in their communities.
Para 119) Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) which is a perennial source of human rights violations is itself a complex mix of traditional beliefs and poverty that are experienced more by women, particularly by women in the rural areas and within the urban-rural enclaves.
UN Compilation:
Para 7) The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the United Nations country team welcomed the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2017, which provided transmission of citizenship also by mothers.
Para 52) The United Nations country team noted that Sierra Leone had ratified major international and regional treaties and conventions that upheld equality and prohibited discrimination based on gender. However, Sierra Leone was ranked 153rd out of 162 countries in the 2018 gender inequality index. Gender inequalities were exacerbated by discriminatory cultural norms that impinged on women’s access to power, resources and privileges. The prohibition of discrimination based on gender in the areas of marriage, divorce, adoption and devolution of property on death was established in the Constitution.
Para 53) The United Nations country team commended Sierra Leone for the steps taken to address the increasing rate of reported cases of sexual and gender-based violence, including the launch of the “Hands off our girls” campaign in 2018, the development of a national strategy for the involvement of males in the prevention of and response to sexual and gender-based violence, and the establishment of a toll-free hotline to report cases of such violence. It also noted the assistance provided to victims.
Para 54) The United Nations country team stated that, as a response to a decision of the Court of Justice of the Economic Community of West African States, in 2019, Sierra Leone had established a sexual and reproductive health task force to advise on issues relating to the inclusion of adolescent girls and other vulnerable groups into the education system and on how to integrate comprehensive sexuality education into the basic education curriculum. In 2020, the ban on visibly pregnant girls attending schools had been lifted, and two policies, on radical inclusion and on comprehensive safety, for all children in the education system, had been developed. The United Nations country team commended Sierra Leone for the steps taken to facilitate the return of pregnant girls to school.
Para 56) The United Nations country team remained concerned over the continuous prevalence of rape and other forms of sexual violence, including against children, and about the prolonged investigation and trial of cases reported to the police.
Stakeholder Summary:
Para 23) CUMG-SL noted with satisfaction that the Citizens Act of 1973 was repealed in 2017 in order to recognize the right of women to transfer citizenship.
Para 24) JS3 regretted the lack of legislative reforms to guarantee the right of women to transmit citizenship to their foreign spouses on an equal basis with men.
Para 34) JS2 and JS3 welcomed that the Sexual Offenses Act was amended in 2019 to include additional sexual crimes and increased penalties for perpetrators of sexual violence against children. JS2 also welcomed the establishment of the Family Support Unit of the Police; the free toll line, the One-Stop-Centres, and related awareness raising campaigns. However, the organisations highlighted that significant issues should still to be addressed, such as rape, commercial child sexual exploitation.
Para 35) CUMG-SL stated that, while policies have been developed to combat sexual abuse against girls in school, those policies were challenged by inadequate support to ensure effective implementation.
Para 37) JS8 regretted that women detained are not offered legal advise, and due to strong patriarchal cultures, they may lack the skills necessary to bring a complaint and enforces their rights.
Para 39) JS8 was concerned that petty offences, including “loitering” are enforced under outdated and vague laws that are incorrectly applied, which give the police wide discretion for enforcement. It regretted that women are disproportionally affected …
Para 50) NaCFoHRD was concerned that a very high number of people in Sierra Leone lack basic safe drinking water and food, and faced poor housing facilities, particularly women and children in rural areas.
Para 58) JS4 noted that according to a report of UNICEF, three out of every ten school girls are excluded from education as result of teenage pregnancy.
Para 59) CUMG-SL noted that payment of tuition fees was a major hindrance to school completion rate in the country, especially for girls …
Para 61) JS3 indicated that, as a response to the ban on 2015 on pregnant girls attending school, in a decision of December 2019, the ECOWAS Court of Justice found that the policy barring girls from attending school, amounted to discrimination and human rights violations. JS2 and JS3 noted, however that deep seated challenges still remain, including policy measures to reverse the societal attitudes that support discrimination against pregnant girls.
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State Under Review:Sierra LeoneSierra LeoneRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUOICCommonwealthSource Of Reference:SlovakiaSlovakiaRegional groupEEGPolitical groupEUIssue:
- Violence against women / gender-based violence
- Sexual violence
Type:RecommendationSession:24th session, January 2016Status:AcceptedContents:Implement a zero-tolerance policy on sexual and gender-based violence and ensure the prosecution of all perpetrators of violence against women, rehabilitation and support for victims of violence.ExplanationWe continue to reaffirm our commitment to improve human rights ...ImplementationNational Report:
Para 28) Launched in December 2018, the Office of the First Lady led a rigorous campaign titled ‘Hands Off Our Girls’. As part of a national response against sexual and gender-based violence and related violations in the country, the Sexual Offences Act of 2012 was amended. Also, the first ‘Sexual Offences Model Court’ has been set up and launched on 24 July 2020 to try sexual violence offenders. In further fulfilment of the Government’s mandate and its determination to address this heinous crime, the Office of the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice has established a team to process speedy trial of cases involving sexual and gender-based violence and related violations. Also, State Counsel have been instructed to oppose bail from perpetrators of sexual offences and to ensure that convicted sex offenders do not benefit from the power of the prerogative of mercy.
Para 29) There has been a sexual amendment (Amendment) Act, 2019. The Act increases the punishment for conviction of rape or sexual offences of minors. Before this, there was a state of emergency on rape and other offences in 2019.
Para 40) As demonstrated in the national reports Sierra Leone submitted to the First and Second Cycle reviews, significant work has been undertaken, including the passing of the undermentioned instruments, to implement many of the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) and to provide legislative safeguards for human rights: … • The Sexual Offences Act 2012; as amended by the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act, 2019;
Para 104) As a preventive measure, the GoSL formulated the National Male Involvement Strategy for the Prevention of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence. It aims at, among other things, eradicating sexual and gender-based violence, promoting gender equality and upholding the rights and dignity of women and girls. The strategy adopts a socially transformative approach that focuses on the participation of men and boys as change agents and champions for protecting women and girls in their families, communities, schools and workplaces. It treats men not just as perpetrators of violence but as allies in changing power relations and systems in society that sustain gender inequality and violence.
Para 105) In 2019, the Government reviewed the Sexual Offences Act of 2012 and enacted the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act 2019 to increase the maximum penalty for Rape and Sexual Penetration of a child from 15 years’ imprisonment to a sentence of life imprisonment and introduced the new offence of aggravated sexual assault and an alternative conviction of aggravated sexual assault. Also, a ‘Sexual Offences Model Court’ has been set up to try sexual violence offenders. In 2020, the GoSL instituted a free health line for rape and SGBV victims to report the incidences. Between April and October, 2020, a total of 48,147 calls were processed.
Para 106) In further fulfilment of the Government’s mandate and its determination to address this heinous crime, the Office of Attorney-General and Minister of Justice has established a team to process speedy trial of cases involving sexual and gender-based violence and related violations. Also, State Counsel have been instructed to oppose bail from perpetrators of sexual offences and to ensure that convicted sex offenders do not benefit from the power of prerogative of mercy. The FSU of the SLP is being strengthened to adequately respond to sexual and gender-based violence cases.
Para 107) From 11 to 20 May 2017, the Decentralisation Secretariat in partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) held consultative meetings with all 149 Paramount Chiefs in the country. These meetings addressed issues of violence against children and women. The Paramount Chiefs prepared action plans on how to prevent violence against children and women and promoting children welfare in their communities.
Para 119) Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) which is a perennial source of human rights violations is itself a complex mix of traditional beliefs and poverty that are experienced more by women, particularly by women in the rural areas and within the urban-rural enclaves.
UN Compilation:
Para 53) The United Nations country team commended Sierra Leone for the steps taken to address the increasing rate of reported cases of sexual and gender-based violence, including the launch of the “Hands off our girls” campaign in 2018, the development of a national strategy for the involvement of males in the prevention of and response to sexual and gender-based violence, and the establishment of a toll-free hotline to report cases of such violence. It also noted the assistance provided to victims.
Para 56) The United Nations country team remained concerned over the continuous prevalence of rape and other forms of sexual violence, including against children, and about the prolonged investigation and trial of cases reported to the police.
Stakeholder Summary:
Para 34) JS2 and JS3 welcomed that the Sexual Offenses Act was amended in 2019 to include additional sexual crimes and increased penalties for perpetrators of sexual violence against children. JS2 also welcomed the establishment of the Family Support Unit of the Police; the free toll line, the One-Stop-Centres, and related awareness raising campaigns. However, the organisations highlighted that significant issues should still to be addressed, such as rape, commercial child sexual exploitation.
Para 35) CUMG-SL stated that, while policies have been developed to combat sexual abuse against girls in school, those policies were challenged by inadequate support to ensure effective implementation.
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State Under Review:Sierra LeoneSierra LeoneRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUOICCommonwealthSource Of Reference:Cape VerdeCape VerdeRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUOIFIssue:
- Early marriage
- Harmful practices based on cultural / traditional values
- Female genital mutilation / cutting
- Women's and / or girls' rights
- Empowerment of women
Type:RecommendationSession:24th session, January 2016Status:Unclear ResponseContents:Adopt pertinent measures for economic empowerment of women, and intensify actions against female genital mutilation and early marriage.ExplanationNoted. We continue to reaffirm our commitment to improve human rights. However, we will continue to consult local stakeholders on a clear and definitive policy regarding harmful cultural practices such as female genital mutilation.ImplementationNational Report:
Para 30) According to the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) assessment report of 2020, Sierra Leone has registered remarkable strides in the improvement of policies with human rights implications. The policies calculated in percentage terms are as follows: … Gender in the economy, 61% …
Para 39) Some of the recommendations by CRC, which are accepted include, … the criminalisation of FGM.
Para 59) There is a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Government and the ‘Sowei’ Council is in place as a strategy to ending FGM, which calls for girls under the age of 18 years not to be circumcised. The Government is using the free quality school education as an entry point to sensitise girls of the harms of FGM and eventually eliminating its prevalence. The Government is also working closely with campaigners on ending FGM to engage the practitioners and to work towards finalisation of the National Strategy for Reduction of FGM. Despite the MoU that children should consent to initiation, the practice is on-going regardless.
Para 60) In this regard, much has been done through collaborative engagement between state and non-state actors with the MGCA taking the lead in reaching to the general public on the continuous promotion of awareness against FGM in the Country. Girls and women aged between 15–49 years who have undergone FGM dropped from 89% in 2011 to 86.1 % in 2019.
Para 87) In December 2018, the National Strategy for the Reduction of Adolescent Pregnancy and Child Marriage was officially launched by the GoSL. Full implementation of this Strategy will be followed by Regional launches.
Para 118) Some violations have always been inherent within the structures of the society for decades, predicated upon dubious traditional practices and beliefs. FGM, as a harmful practice on the girl child, is difficult to eliminate or legislate out of existence because of the traditional and cultural belief systems.
Para 122) In February 2019, the Government launched the MTNDP as the fourth-generation Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper (PRSP). The key objective of the Plan is to achieve and improve education, hence a Free Quality School Education, as a basis for the development of human capital to facilitate the transformation of women’s empowerment, …
UN Compilation:
Para 20) The United Nations country team noted that traditional harmful practices, such as female genital mutilation, remained prevalent in Sierra Leone. While noting successful efforts to include practitioners of female genital mutilation in the fight against such mutilation, the Committee on the Rights of the Child was seriously concerned that female genital mutilation was still not prohibited in law for children.
Para 21) The United Nations country team regretted that, despite measures taken, secret societies continued to practise female genital mutilation, including on underage girls. It noted that in 2019, following reports of misuse of secret societies, the Minister of Local Government and Rural Development had banned the activities of secret societies.
Para 57) The CRC was concerned that, although the minimum age for marriage was set at 18 years, the Registration of Customary Marriage and Divorce Act, 2009 allowed for exceptions, and child marriage, especially of girls, remained highly prevalent in Sierra Leone.
Para 58) The United Nations country team welcomed the approval of the National Strategy for the Reduction of Adolescent Pregnancy and Child Marriage (2018–2022) …
Stakeholder Summary:
Para 32) European Centre for Law and Justice (ECLJ) was alarmed that, despite efforts deployed by the Government, Sierra Leone still had one of the highest rates of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in the word, with an estimated 90% of women and girls having suffered mutilation. Plan International (PI) regretted the lack of legislation criminalizing FGM. According to JS2, CUMG-SL and ECLJ, Sierra Leone continued to face challenges in combating FGM because it is rooted in cultural and traditional practices. ECLJ emphasized the negative role of the Bondo society who encouraged and carried out FGM ceremonies, and noted that, while initiations are illegal, there was still not a law against the pervasive practice of FGM itself in force.
Para 67) JS3 and PIwere concerned at the high prevalence of child marriage in Sierra Leone. JS3 noted the low rate of birth registration, which poses a threat to the protection of children regarding early marriage and harmful practices.
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State Under Review:Sierra LeoneSierra LeoneRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUOICCommonwealthSource Of Reference:MalaysiaMalaysiaRegional groupAsia-Pacific GroupPolitical groupASEANOICCommonwealthIssue:
- HIV and AIDS
Type:RecommendationSession:38th Session, May 2021Status:AcceptedContents:Strengthen efforts to eliminate discrimination against children in vulnerable situations, among others children with disabilities and children living with HIV/AIDS.
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State Under Review:Sierra LeoneSierra LeoneRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUOICCommonwealthSource Of Reference:ArmeniaArmeniaRegional groupEEGPolitical groupCISOIFIssue:
- Sexual abuse
Type:RecommendationSession:24th session, January 2016Status:AcceptedContents:Take the necessary steps to combat girls' sexual abuse, in particular at school.ExplanationWe continue to reaffirm our commitment to improve human rights.ImplementationNational Report:
Para 28) Launched in December 2018, the Office of the First Lady led a rigorous campaign titled ‘Hands Off Our Girls’. As part of a national response against sexual and gender-based violence and related violations in the country, the Sexual Offences Act of 2012 was amended. Also, the first ‘Sexual Offences Model Court’ has been set up and launched on 24 July 2020 to try sexual violence offenders. In further fulfilment of the Government’s mandate and its determination to address this heinous crime, the Office of the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice has established a team to process speedy trial of cases involving sexual and gender-based violence and related violations. Also, State Counsel have been instructed to oppose bail from perpetrators of sexual offences and to ensure that convicted sex offenders do not benefit from the power of the prerogative of mercy.
Para 29) There has been a sexual amendment (Amendment) Act, 2019. The Act increases the punishment for conviction of rape or sexual offences of minors. Before this, there was a state of emergency on rape and other offences in 2019.
Para 40) As demonstrated in the national reports Sierra Leone submitted to the First and Second Cycle reviews, significant work has been undertaken, including the passing of the undermentioned instruments, to implement many of the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) and to provide legislative safeguards for human rights: … • The Sexual Offences Act 2012; as amended by the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act, 2019;
UN Compilation:
Para 56) The United Nations country team remained concerned over the continuous prevalence of rape and other forms of sexual violence, including against children, and about the prolonged investigation and trial of cases reported to the police.
Stakeholder Summary:
Para 34) JS2 and JS3 welcomed that the Sexual Offenses Act was amended in 2019 to include additional sexual crimes and increased penalties for perpetrators of sexual violence against children. JS2 also welcomed the establishment of the Family Support Unit of the Police; the free toll line, the One-Stop-Centres, and related awareness raising campaigns. However, the organisations highlighted that significant issues should still to be addressed, such as rape, commercial child sexual exploitation.
Para 35) CUMG-SL stated that, while policies have been developed to combat sexual abuse against girls in school, those policies were challenged by inadequate support to ensure effective implementation.
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State Under Review:Sierra LeoneSierra LeoneRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUOICCommonwealthSource Of Reference:MadagascarMadagascarRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUOIFIssue:
- Women's and / or girls' rights
Type:RecommendationSession:24th session, January 2016Status:AcceptedContents:Strengthen all policies to bolster basic education, including education for girls ...ExplanationWe are convinced that building a strong economy and a democratic and politically stable society require capable and educated citizens. We will continue to expand the boundaries of education as part of our democratic development and post-Ebola future.ImplementationNational Report:
Para 30) According to the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) assessment report of 2020, Sierra Leone has registered remarkable strides in the improvement of policies with human rights implications. The policies calculated in percentage terms are as follows: … completion of primary education by girls, 68% …
Stakeholder Summary:
Para 59) CUMG-SL noted that payment of tuition fees was a major hindrance to school completion rate in the country, especially for girls …
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State Under Review:Sierra LeoneSierra LeoneRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUOICCommonwealthSource Of Reference:Stakeholder SummaryIssue:
- Gender equality
- Women's participation
Type:Review DocumentationSession:24th session, January 2016Status:Reference AddressedContents:... TCC recommended further consideration of alternative steps to ensure greater numbers of women candidates ... [Para 54] -
State Under Review:Sierra LeoneSierra LeoneRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUOICCommonwealthSource Of Reference:UN CompilationIssue:
- Violence against women / gender-based violence
- Sexual violence
Type:Review DocumentationSession:24th session, January 2016Status:Reference AddressedContents:... The CEDAW recommended that Sierra Leone ensure the full enforcement of ... the 2012 Sexual Offences Act ... [Para 32] -
State Under Review:Sierra LeoneSierra LeoneRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUOICCommonwealthSource Of Reference:UN CompilationIssue:
- Maternal health / morbidity / mortality
- Women's and / or girls' rights
Type:Review DocumentationSession:24th session, January 2016Status:Reference AddressedContents:The CEDAW and the Human Rights Committee noted with concern the very high maternal mortality rate. The CEDAW urged Sierra Leone to facilitate women's access to affordable health care, reduce maternal mortality, address its causes and increase the number of skilled health-care personnel, in particular in rural areas. [Para 63] -
State Under Review:Sierra LeoneSierra LeoneRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUOICCommonwealthSource Of Reference:UN CompilationIssue:
- Early marriage
Type:Review DocumentationSession:38th Session, May 2021Status:Reference AddressedContents:The United Nations country team … urged the Government to enforce the Child Rights Act and enact the bill on the prohibition of child marriage. [Para 58]
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State Under Review:Sierra LeoneSierra LeoneRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUOICCommonwealthSource Of Reference:Stakeholder SummaryIssue:
- Gender equality
- Women's and / or girls' rights
Type:Review DocumentationSession:38th Session, May 2021Status:Not Followed up with a RecommendationContents:PI recommended that Sierra Leone eliminate discrimination against women and girls in law and in practice, including by accelerating the constitutional amendments in the area of gender equality. JS4 recommended to carry out awareness raising campaigns for both men and women, on the rights of women. [Para 62]
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State Under Review:Sierra LeoneSierra LeoneRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUOICCommonwealthSource Of Reference:National ReportIssue:
- Violence against women / gender-based violence
Type:Review DocumentationSession:11th session, May 2011Status:N/AContents:"The government, as part of its commitment to the full implementation of the TRC
recommendations, came out with a white paper and since then efforts have been made by
the government to implement them. The following have been achieved: legal reforms aimed
at addressing human rights, establishment of the Human Rights Commission, reparation for
war victims, Presidential apology to women, constitutional review process commenced and
GOSL has collaborated with its national moral guarantors in drawing-up the criteria for the
International moral guarantors, the request has been forwarded to the latter. [Para 25]" -
State Under Review:Sierra LeoneSierra LeoneRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUOICCommonwealthSource Of Reference:National ReportIssue:
- Maternal health / morbidity / mortality
Type:Review DocumentationSession:11th session, May 2011Status:N/AContents:"In an effort to address maternal and child mortality rates, the Government recently launched a Health Sector Strategic Plan 2010-2015. The plan aims to ensure successful implementation of the Basic Package of Essential Health Services (BPEHS) in order to improve service delivery. This package will ensure the provision of minimal essential quality of care for all and includes services that have the greatest impact on the major health problems (especially that of maternal and child health). The objective of this strategy is to abolish all financial charges to pregnant women, lactating mothers and children 5 years of age and under. In the longer term, the aim is to provide accessibility to quality health care for all vulnerable groups. [Para 75]" -
State Under Review:Sierra LeoneSierra LeoneRegional groupAfrica GroupPolitical groupAUOICCommonwealthSource Of Reference:UN CompilationIssue:
- Women's and / or girls' rights
Type:Review DocumentationSession:11th session, May 2011Status:NeglectedContents:"In 2010, CRC recommended that Sierra Leone: take effective measures to monitor the situation of former child combatants who were not included in the disarmament, demobilization and reintegration process, particularly girls, with a view to providing them with the assistance necessary to facilitate their full reintegration ... [Para 35]"