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encouraged to consider facilitating birth registration procedures through mobile units
for remote areas. In line with its previous recommendations (ibid., paras. 28 and 34), the
Committee recommends that the State party abolish the categories of citizens, as well as
the statement on the national identity card of the religion and ethnic origin of citizens,
including children.
Access to information
36.
The Committee notes that article 22 of the 1993 Child Law refers to access to
information, but is concerned that many children, notably those living in remote and border
areas, do not have adequate access to appropriate information.
37.
In light of article 17, the Committee recommends that the State party take all
appropriate measures to ensure that all children, in particular those in remote and border
areas, are provided with adequate access to information.
Corporal punishment
38.
The Committee is deeply concerned that article 66 (d) of the 1993 Child Law provides
for possible “admonition by a parent, teacher, or other person having the right to control the
child” and that corporal punishment continues to be regarded as acceptable in society. The
Committee is also concerned that the State party has not repealed the Whipping Act and that
the orders prohibiting corporal punishment in schools do not seem to be effective.
39.
The Committee strongly recommends that the State party repeal article 66 (d) of
the 1993 Child Law and prohibit corporal punishment in the family, the schools and other
institutions, and undertake education campaigns to educate families and professionals on
alternative forms of discipline.
Torture or cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment
40.
The Committee notes the lack of information regarding ill-conduct by law enforcement
officials and army personnel, especially in the light of numerous reports received of torture,
serious ill-treatment and sexual abuse, including rape of children by law enforcement officials
and army personnel.
41.
The Committee recommends that the State party:
(a)
Assess the scope, nature and causes of violence against children, in particular
sexual violence against girls, with a view to adopting a comprehensive strategy on effective
measures and policies and on changing general attitudes;
(b)
Duly investigate cases of violence through a child-sensitive judicial
procedure, notably by giving appropriate weight to children’s views in legal proceedings,
and sanction perpetrators, giving due regard to guaranteeing the right to privacy of the
child and ensuring that the child is not revictimized during the legal proceedings;
(c)
Undertake public education campaigns to promote a culture of non-violence;