minimal or no redress altogether when conflicts break out, minorities become the primary targets and victims of atrocity crimes. I am convinced that ensuring respect for the rights of minorities and protecting those rights play an important role in the prevention of conflicts which is the major source of atrocity crimes. Societies in which the rights of all population groups including those of minorities — are guaranteed and protected and where diversity is celebrated and coexistence cherished, chances are higher that conflicts are less likely to occur, I say this because there is an obvious connection between the protection of minority right's and the prevention of conflict. This connection emanates from the reality that when the society can guarantee the rights of its entire people, especially the weaker and the marginalized, it is evident that such society will live in harmony and coexist peacefully. Despite this connection between conflicts and atrocity crimes, it is also true that, atrocity crimes can happen in a non-conflict situation especially where minorities are persecuted on religious, or ethnic basis or beliefs. I therefore believe that by developing a comprehensive strategy for the protection of minorities we will also contribute towards preventing mass atrocities. In other words, the role of minority rights' protection and , dedicated minority rights mechanisms in promoting social stability and cohesion will also serve to build resilience against atrocity crimes. Although the State bears the primary responsibility for the protection of minorities within its territory, it is also true that other actors have a responsibility. For example, the State is responsible for establishing and maintaining protective structures within state institutions, to guarantee the rule of law and . human rights, equal access to justice, and participation, in public life for its entire people. On the other hand, civil society plays an essential role in monitoring and reporting on the situation of minority groups and holding the State accountable, while community and religious leaders are fundamental in fostering, inter-communal relations and coexistence. Finally, the media have a key role to play in upholding ethical standards when reporting and disseminating information. It is these roles that make the protection of minorities a shared responsibility. Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guest, In order to explore ways to prevent incitement to violence that could lead to atrocity crimes, the Joint Office on Genocide Prevention and the Responsibility to Protect organised an expert meeting in Geneva on the margins of the 22nd session of the Human Rights Council, in February 2013. The meeting followed a call for the Rabat Plan of Action - the outcome document of a series 'of regional workshops on preventing incitement to national, racial or religious hatred organised by the Office of