B. FOREWORD As a country that upholds the universal values of democracy, the rule of law and the respect for human rights, Botswana became a State Party to the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights on 17th July 1986. In line with her reporting obligations, Botswana submitted the Initial Periodic Report in 2010. However, due to capacity constraints, Botswana failed to submit the Second and Third Reports. Accordingly, we found it fitting to combine the Second and Third Reports in this Report to highlight progress made during the period 2011- 2015. This Report, thus, highlights significant progress made during the stated period, especially in areas such as education, health, economic empowerment, democracy, good governance and the rule of law. Botswana’s readiness to improve the human rights situation in the country has been demonstrated by implementing the recommendations from the Initial Report. I wish to emphasise the fact that Botswana remains committed to honour her human rights obligations under the African Charter and other related human rights instruments. Although the country aims to be compliant in its reporting obligations, especially at international level, competing priorities and capacity constraints continue to inhibit our ability to complete reports on time. This critical challenge occasionally results in combined Reports, like the present case. That notwithstanding, we will henceforth, ensure timely submission of our periodic reports. I wish to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the Drafting Team of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Treaties, Conventions and Protocols, for their tireless effort and dedication in compiling this Report. I also wish to extend special thanks to the various stakeholders, both within Government as well as the Non-Governmental Organisations who made invaluable contribution towards the completion of this Report. Pelonomi Venson-Moitoi Minister of International Affairs and Cooperation 7|Page