In relation to Uganda, participants: Note that the human rights situation in Uganda has recently deteriorated with the recent attacks on free political expression and intolerance of opposition. Further note that the next CHOGM is expected to be hosted by Uganda in 2007 and that holding a CHOGM in a country where the Harare Commonwealth Principles are being disregarded risks making a mockery of the Commonwealth’s commitment to its founding principles and standards. In relation to the Maldives, participants: Note that the Maldives has persistently failed to fulfill its obligations in the Commonwealth by not abiding by the Harare Principles, and should be on the agenda of the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group. Note the ongoing engagement by the Commonwealth with the reform processes in the Maldives, but state that more is needed to be done by Commonwealth groups and other actors. Further note that on some points there have been improvements on paper, but that these have not always been implemented; for instance concern was raised over the refusal to register non-governmental organizations, and the restrictions on freedom of expression, particularly political expression. In relation to Zimbabwe, participants: Note the ongoing crisis situation in Zimbabwe, the deteriorating state of human rights evidenced by restrictive media laws, politically targeted evictions, unreasonable restrictions on the right to associate and assemble and harassment and intimidation of civil society. Recognize that while the government of Zimbabwe has withdrawn from the Commonwealth to avoid continued suspension it is important that the Commonwealth and civil society groups remain engaged with the Zimbabwean government, opposition and people. Participants of the 2005 Commonwealth Human Rights Forum made the following recommendations to the Commonwealth Heads of Government, that they: Call on all member governments to ratify and domesticate core human rights treaties. Implement past commitments to human rights to ensure that the realization of human rights is a reality in all Commonwealth countries. Further their past recognition of the value and importance of civil society by providing appropriate Commonwealth fora and processes for engagement and partnership with civil society. Consider practical suggestions for such engagement, such as meeting with civil society as part of the CHOGM events to develop a joint statement with agreed action by both government and civil society to be reported on by both parties after two years. Develop a mechanism to keep members accountable for commitments made in Commonwealth fora, such as reporting at CHOGM on progress made since last CHOGM. Provide the in-country environment required for the effective functioning of civil society groups, particularly those engaged in human rights and advocacy. This involves: - updating legal frameworks (using participatory processes) to ensure they are in accordance with international standards and best practices; and 48