-3forced assimilation, and to enjoy the principle of substantive equality, including participatory rights. My approach and the experiences of successive High Commissioners on National Minorities have been systematically documented and published in nine sets of thematic guidelines and recommendations which are available on our website. They reflect policy areas that States should have at heart when constructing a comprehensive framework for minority protection – linguistic rights, education, access to justice, policing in multi-ethnic societies, effective participation in public and political life, and more. Today’s forum provides not only a platform to discuss the human rights of minorities in conflict prevention contexts, but also constitutes a unique opportunity for member States to share their own positive experiences and initiatives – which can, in turn, serve as good practices for others. I am especially pleased to learn that a gender perspective will be integrated in our discussion, taking into account the particular vulnerability and marginalization of minority women in conflict and post-conflict contexts. Once again, I would like to emphasize that inclusion and ensuring the participation of minorities in public, economic and social life is key to conflict prevention: when minorities and their rights are visible in national legislation, education, socio-economic and regional development, this lays a solid foundation for building peaceful, prosperous and resilient societies. This Forum, together with the four regional forums conducted earlier this year, offers us an exceptional opportunity to reinforce our understanding of the importance of human rights obligations in the peacebuilding and peacekeeping process. I would therefore like to take this opportunity to call upon the UN Special Rapporteur on Minority Issues, the UN Human Rights Council members, and the international community at large, to continue our joint efforts and work to create a better and more peaceful tomorrow for everyone, including minorities.