In other political parties we see some Batwa representing others in the communal and other local councils. All this gives us a sign of hope and we would like to invite the other States of the Great Lakes region to follow this path. The electoral code recently adopted by the Parliament sheds more light upon the system of cooptation of the Batwa since the representation of the Batwa in the Parliament as well as the representatives of the Batwa in the communes and the hills or localities. For the Representatives in Parliament the lists are made in consultation with the most representative organisations. In the communes a Mutwa will be coopted where they are more representative. In the hills the presentation of candidacy of the leader of the hill is free. UNIPROBA is called upon to make the Batwa aware and mobilise them to get elected. To be able to ensure the sustainability of this process we would like to recommend that:  Minorities themselves defend with energy their rights and strengthen their solidarities,  Minorities spread widely their rights in collaboration with the media and increase their activities of advocacy and lobbying to the States, and fight against poverty and discrimination. To the Forum we ask to encourage States that have already started the process of promoting and protecting minorities at national level, while calling upon those that have not begun to do so as soon as possible, in order for minorities to be able to enjoy all the rights as recognised by international instruments. To financially and morally support NGOs defending minorities, To facilitate visits and sharing of experiences in order to mutually strengthen each other. To conclude, Madame President, it is a long-winded work that will require your strength and patience. We wish you good luck and we join your efforts. Thank you.

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