Mr President,
Allow me to extend the gratitude of Sweden to Dr Peter Grech and his delegation for taking an active part in our dialogue here today, and for having replied so extensively to our questions.
Sweden has noted concerns expressed by The Working Group on Arbitrary Detention and UNHCR about detained immigrants and asylum seekers in Malta and we took note of the comments in your national report in this regard. We understand that it poses a challenge for a small country, to receive 2 775 illegal immigrants in a year, but recommend to take all measures possible, with a view to ensure that the detention regime in Malta is brought in line with international human rights law.
In this regard we also recommend to continue your efforts to ensure that those subject to administrative detention are provided free legal assistance.
As was mentioned in your presentation, the CEDAW committee has recommended to organize awareness-raising campaigns to fight the persistence of traditional stereotypes in gender roles. We welcome the information provided today that such awareness-raising is now taking place and that you see a trend of change in the younger generation. We also took note of your explanation regarding the definition of the crimes of rape and violent assault. Sweden would recommend to continue and strengthen the ongoing efforts to combat all sorts of violence against women in society.
Lastly; We would like to ask if any measures have been taken to align Malta’s legislation to prohibit corporal punishment within the family, as have been suggested by the Committees on the Rights of the Child and on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.
Thank you, Mr President.