at the highest level at the UN, we unwittingly continue to strengthen hegemony and marginalisation through ne universalistic approach. The most prominent conflicts that exist today are internal or transnational by communities rather than between nation states. This is because certain communities feel marginalised and are not treated equally- we acknowledge there are a number of UN conventions that exist to make states give rights to minorities and while we acknowledge the progress that has been made, the fact is that tensions still exist, and conflicts still exist between minority communities and larger majorities. So, we need to complement the existing declarations and conventions with other approaches, non-threating, more encouraging and inclusive approach which will come from the adoption of a Declaration on Diversity. The Declaration will do what all the speakers are saying needs to happen to prevent conflict and protect the Human Rights of Minorities. The Declaration will persuade states and society to embrace diversity and push for people to co-exist with one another rather than just tolerate. As the Special Rapporteur said in the Asia- pacific Reginal Forum in September, we are creating a world that is viewing equality as trying to treat everyone as identical rather than recognising people’s differences and ensures that their cultures and worldviews are accepted, accommodated for and protected. This is pluralism. We do not see enough of it in the UN, in States and other international institutions. This declaration will encourage States to bring attention at the UN to the programmes they have adopted to pro-actively and positively make its population comfortable with minorities and diversity. The world community can work together to further take forward the work of its many agencies in the field of inclusion. The only way to truly address gaps in human rights mechanisms to protect minorities and prevent conflicts is by introducing a declaration that recognises all minorities and marginalised groups, a declaration that will encourage states and societies to proactively celebrate diversity amongst humankind and encourage people to live in coexistence rather than merely tolerate, or worse let them suffer and be targeted in times of conflict and civil unrest. If there is acceptance of minorities for what they are, it will reduce tensions and conflicts.