CCPR/C/DOM/CO/6

Dominican Republic (CCPR 27-11-2017)

The Committee considered the sixth periodic report of the Dominican Republic (CCPR/C/DOM/6) at its 3416th and 3417th meetings (see CCPR/C/SR.3416 and 3417), held on 16 and 17 October 2017. At its 3441st meeting (see CCPR/C/SR.3441), held on 3 November 2017, it adopted the present concluding observations.

Concluding observations

C. Principal matters of concern and recommendations

Non-discrimination

9. The Committee is concerned at the lack of a comprehensive legal framework against discrimination and at reports regarding systematic racial discrimination against persons of Haitian descent, the vulnerable situation of Haitian migrants and the violence and assaults to which they are subjected. It is further concerned at reports of discrimination experienced by persons with disabilities in terms of access to basic services, education and employment, as shown, for example, by the low employment rate among women with disabilities. It is also concerned at reports of discrimination, violence and assault, including by the police, against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) persons and, in particular, at the high rate of violence against transgender persons. The Committee regrets the lack of information on investigations, trials and penalties in cases of discrimination and violence against these persons (arts. 2, 3, 25, 26 and 27).
10. The State party should take the necessary steps to ensure full protection against discrimination and to eradicate, in law and in practice, stereotypes and discrimination against persons of Haitian descent, including Haitian migrants, persons with disabilities and LGBTI persons, by inter alia increasing the number of training programmes for law enforcement personnel and awareness-raising campaigns promoting tolerance and respect for diversity. In addition, it should adopt laws to prohibit discrimination and hate crimes on grounds of sexual orientation or gender identity and fully recognize the equality of same-sex couples and the legal identity of transgender persons. It should also ensure that cases of discrimination and violence committed by individuals or State officials are systematically investigated, that those held to be responsible are punished with appropriate penalties and that victims have access to comprehensive reparation.