95 Conclusion Margot E. Salomon Inequality in the distribution of wealth and power between and within countries is both persistent and extreme. Those already marginalized – the poor, living without access to basic nutrition, potable water, adequate education, land, equitable conditions of work, and/or the ability to participate effectively in decision-making processes – are also the least likely to benefit from positive developments within their countries. In most parts of the world, minority groups and indigenous peoples are among the poorest, falling below the national average on all human development indicators.1 This exclusion – whether a result of structural or direct discrimination – is both a cause and consequence of denying minorities and indigenous peoples their economic, social and cultural rights. There is, however, an additional component of critical importance. Failure to allow minorities and indigenous peoples to progressively realize their economic, social and cultural rights also undermines their ability to preserve their identities, distinct traditions, languages and ways of life. Threats to their cultural identity, coupled with growing economic and social inequalities, can also be a cause of conflict. This underscores the need to appreciate fully the importance of having minorities and indigenous peoples as the beneficiaries of ESC rights. This guide has attempted to provide a synthesis of key elements and outlets that might assist in this critical endeavour. There are many actors – governments, international organizations, companies – whose actions and decisions impact on the ability of minorities and indigenous peoples to exercise their ESC rights. Under international law, the first responsibility lies with states to enact measures and policies that give meaning to these rights including the establishment of regulatory mechanisms that will prevent other actors (such as corporations) from violating them. A breach of ESC rights, including those affecting disadvantaged and marginalized groups, occurs if states are unwilling to comply with their obligations, including through the use of the maximum available resources to realize these rights.2 If the state is unable to meet its obligations, it has an obligation to seek international assistance and cooperation3 and, those in a position to assist,4 have an obligation to countenance the request. States and others actors, such as the World Bank, International Monetary Fund and World Trade Organization, which greatly influence the decisions taken by individual states in a range of areas, have a duty not to undermine the ability of these states to meet any of their human rights obliga-