HRC/FMI/2009/2 Page 4 Cultural autonomy and self-governance: applied in certain countries with respect to linguistic rights, education, religion, cultural identity, etc. Related issues include: • • • • • Freedom of expression, assembly and association; Freedom of the press and minority access to the media; Open, participatory and transparent law-making process; Freedom to engage in political activity individually or through political parties or other organizations; Freedom to debate public affairs, to hold peaceful demonstrations and meetings. III. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE UNITED NATIONS FORUM ON MINORITY ISSUES 10. The aims and objectives of the Forum on Minority Issues were established in Human Rights Council resolution 6/15 which requires that under the guidance and preparation of the independent expert on minority issues, the Forum shall: • • • • • Meet annually to provide a platform for dialogue and cooperation on issues pertaining to persons belonging to national or ethnic, religious and linguistic minorities; Provide thematic contributions and expertise to the work of the independent expert on minority issues; Identify and analyse best practices, challenges, opportunities and initiatives for the further implementation of the Declaration on the Rights of Persons Belonging to National or Ethnic, Religious and Linguistic Minorities; Produce thematic recommendations to be reported to the Human Rights Council by the independent expert; Contribute to efforts to improve cooperation among United Nations mechanisms, bodies and specialized agencies, funds and programmes on activities related to the promotion and protection of the rights of persons belonging to minorities, including at the regional level. 11. The Forum offers a unique opportunity for engagement and dialogue on minority issues with a wide range of stakeholders including United Nations Member States and bodies, specialized agencies, intergovernmental and regional organizations, and minority representatives and civil society. The Forum is open to the active participation of all stakeholders and will pursue creative forms of collaboration and modalities of engagement. IV. FORMAT AND AGENDA 12. The views of experts and participants from minority communities will be given a high priority within the proceedings of the Forum.