The Comment discusses the responsibility of States Parties' to ensure protection and enforcement of rights and freedoms guaranteed by the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights for all people in their territory, regardless of citizenship. These rights and freedoms include protection from discrimination. The obligation to respect and ensure the rights that are guaranteed by the Covenant should take effect immediately. The Comment emphasizes that States Parties are not only required to refrain from violating the rights of individuals, but must also prevent the violation of individual rights by private persons. States Parties must adopt and implement various programmes and measures to fulfill their obligations. While adopting these remedies, special categories of persons, such as children, must be taken into account.