16th session of the United Nations Forum on Minority Issues (30 November 2023 to 1 December 2023) Agenda Item: Challenges to Inclusion & Equality submitted by: Institute of Sustainable Development Mr. President Although ethnic and religious minorities officially fall under the protection of human rights, the rights and freedoms of these people face challenges, regardless of respect for religions and cultural diversity. Religious hatred is seen as a systemic and structural challenge and discrimination against minorities that has increasingly disrupted peaceful dialogue and coexistence through speech and actions aimed at dividing, inflaming and spreading hatred. Religious hatred and discrimination against minorities undermine human dignity and can incite violence. It is essential to take effective measures and create conditions for the promotion and protection of the rights of minorities, that ensure effective, non-discrimination and equality for all, as well as full and effective participation in matters affecting them, and contribute to the prevention and peaceful resolution of human rights problems and situations affecting minorities. Mr. President the international community should, exercise due diligence to prevent, investigate and punish acts of violence against members of religious minorities and to recognize signs of intolerance that may lead to discrimination on the basis of religion or belief. It should be emphasized that expressions of intolerance, must be countered so that they do not encourage further acts of intolerance or even violence. I thank you