E/2008/27 E/CN.6/2008/11 (c) The failure by States, in contravention of their human rights obligations, to exercise due diligence so as to prevent all forms of violence against women, in particular girls, and adequately investigate such crimes, punish perpetrators and provide compensation; (d) The continued existence of legislation or practices in many areas either intended to discriminate, or with the effect of discriminating, against women, despite States’ international obligations and commitments and constitutional provisions to outlaw such discrimination. 8. The Working Group appreciated the cooperation by those Governments that had submitted replies to, or observations that clarified, the communications received, and it encourages all others to make such submissions in the future. The Working Group considered that such cooperation is essential for it to discharge its duties effectively. From some of the replies received, the Working Group was encouraged to note that some Governments had improved services provided to women, carried out awareness-raising activities, enacted new legislation and taken other steps to promote gender equality and the advancement of women in accordance with relevant international standards. 08-29062 51