CCPR/CO/78/SVK page 4 14. The Committee reiterates its concern, expressed in its previous concluding observations, over the fact that civilians may be tried by military courts, albeit in fewer situations than earlier (art. 14) The State party should continue to revise its laws to the effect of excluding military courts’ jurisdiction over civilians. 15. The Committee is concerned about the threat by governmental authorities of criminal prosecution of the authors of the publication “Body and Soul” under article 199 of the Criminal Code, for “spreading false rumours”. While having been assured by the delegation that the Office of the Prosecutor General has dismissed the charges against the authors, the Committee is nevertheless concerned at the impact of the case on the exercise of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, particularly by human rights defenders (art.19). The State party should ensure that provisions of the criminal code are not used in such a way as to deter individuals from exercising their right to freedom of expression, and in particular for human rights defenders to carry out independent research and publish the results. 16. The Committee is concerned about discrimination against the Roma. The Committee notes that the delegation acknowledged the problem and has stated that the situation of the Roma is a short term and long term priority of the Government. The Committee takes note of the measures aimed at ameliorating the situation of Roma in various areas such as employment, health care, housing and education. The Committee also welcomes educational campaigns to reduce stereotypes amongst the general public. However, the steps taken by the State party to improve the socio-economic condition of the Roma and to change attitudes of society vis-à-vis the Roma do not appear to be sufficient to address the situation, and de facto discrimination persists (arts. 2, 26). The State party should take all necessary measures to eliminate discrimination against the Roma, and to enhance the practical enjoyment of their rights under the Covenant. The State party should also make greater efforts to provide opportunities for Roma to use their language in official communications, to provide readily accessible social services, to provide training to Roma in order to equip them for employment, and to create job opportunities for them. The Committee would like to receive full details on policies adopted and their results in practice. 17. The Committee reiterates the concern expressed in its previous concluding observations, about reports that Roma are often victims of racist attacks, without receiving adequate protection from law enforcement officers. It further notes continued reports of statements by prominent politicians reflecting discriminatory attitudes vis-à-vis the Roma (arts. 2, 20, 26). The State party should take all necessary measures to combat racial violence and incitement, provide proper protection to Roma, and establish adequate mechanisms to receive complaints from victims and ensure adequate investigation and prosecution of cases of racial violence and incitement to racial hatred. 18. The Committee notes the introduction of programmes such as pre-school grades at elementary schools, the inclusion of Romani language education, and positions of teacher’s assistants for Roma pupils. However, the Committee is concerned about the grossly disproportionate number of Roma