4 Please keep in mind that we are here to enter into a dialogue between all participants, state representatives, international organisations, and others to not only identify the problems and their consequences, but to try to suggest ways and make recommendations on the importance to recognise and accommodate minority languages in education as far as is practical, identify how this has been addressed effectively in practice in a number of situations. There are many cases around the world where minority languages are not only taught but also used as the main language of instruction in education, even including tertiary level education where this is reasonable and feasible. Instead of being a factor of division of exclusion, it can in fact be clear acceptance that linguistic minorities are full fledged members of society and encourage their participation since their languages and cultures are also accommodated as part of the reality of social life, and be conducive to harmony and stability. I would invite you also to take into account the recommendations which we have already received from three regional forums which have been organised thanks to the assistance of the Tom Lantos Institute and many other organisations and networks too numerous to name in Asia, Africa, the Middle east and Europe which are accessible right now on the website of the forum and a searchable online tool for minority rights protection and documentation called Minority Forum Info. I hope, I am convinced, that this Forum will generate better understanding and perhaps approaches and opportunities in these trying times for many minorities around the world. Many of you, governments, committed individuals working with international human rights or organisations are committed to the universality of human rights – including the promotion and the protection of the human rights of minorities. Help us, work with us during this forum’s discussions with ideas and suggestions that could be used in finalising this forum’s recommendations on how to make the world a better place for many of its most vulnerable and marginalised. I look forward to your insights and suggestions, and wish you fruitful – and I am sure very animated – discussions and exchanges.