55. The Democratic Discussion Forum (EID) was instituted by Decree No. 96-159/P-RM of 31 May, 1996, as amended by Decree No. 323/P-RM of 26 June, 2009. It is an annual platform which aims at informing the local and international public about the status of human rights in the Republic of Mali, contributing to the attainment of a national democratic culture and giving significant impetus to the policy of promoting and protecting the rights and freedoms of the citizenry. 56. The modalities for its organization and running are set forth by Order No. 09-3825/MJSG of 17 December, 2009. Under Article 5 of this Order, “Any person who deems it necessary may ask questions through the Democratic Discussion Forum.” 57. The EID sessions are held on 10 December, the day on which the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is celebrated. On this day, a reasonably representative sample of Malian civil society may publicly question the authorities on all issues of interest to the life of the Nation, particularly issues relating to human rights. These sessions are broadcast live on radio and national television.  African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM): 58. The African Peer Review Mechanism was established as part of the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) which aims at promoting cooperation between African States in order to ensure the promotion and protection of human rights through an evaluation of the implementation of the obligations contracted by each of the States. 59. Mali was the 9th country to join the African Peer Review Mechanism after it was established on 28 May, 2003. Mali submitted itself to this exercise which actually commenced in June, 2007 and prepared a self-evaluation report as well as a national plan of action with the participation of all stakeholders of society for the following components: (i) political and democratic governance, (ii) socio-economic governance, (iii) corporate governance and economic management, and (iv) socio-economic development. 60. The governance self-evaluation report in 4 thematic areas of the APRM as well as the plan of action for the deepening of governance were submitted to the Heads of State and Government during the African Union Summit held in June, 2009.  Children’s Parliament: 61. The Children’s Parliament is a platform for the free expression of all children in Mali under the Ministry for the Promotion of Women, Children and the Family. 62. Established by Decree No. 96-172/PM-RM of 13 June, 1996, it is tasked with “ carrying out all activities relating to the information and sensitization of children, parents, the public authorities, civil society and all those who can contribute to the expression of true national and international solidarity for the improvement of the physical, mental, social and economic 21