-3Protecting and promoting human rights and averting conflict are two sides of the same coin. There cannot be any meaningful and sustainable conflict prevention or resolution without upholding minority rights within a robust, democratically legitimate, non- discriminatory, and human rights-compliant, rule of law system. This is a precondition for a just, equal and cohesive society that can withstand tensions and avoid conflict at the earliest stage. This year in September, in Slovenia, my institution commemorated the 10th Anniversary of The Ljubljana Guidelines on Integration of Diverse Societies. The key takeaway from this event came back to one single point: that society as a whole, not just one specific group, benefits from diversity and sound integration policies. Integration-based policies not only strengthen States from within but it also contribute to improving inter-State relations. This, in turn, makes States more resilient to conflicts within and between their borders. As responsible members of the international community, we can and should consistently promote this approach, as well as identify and address any relevant issues along the way. Currently, my office is working on the tenth set of HCNM recommendations, which focus on the socio-economic participation and inclusion of national minorities and conflict prevention, with a special emphasis on youth and women. Dear guests, Concluding my remarks, I would like thank the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, as well as the Special Rapporteur on minority issues Dr. Fernand de Varennes, for their excellent co-operation with my Institution and for the invitation to address this forum. My Institution remains committed to its role in tackling the challenges ahead and it gives me great comfort that so many of us, as representatives of the International community, have demonstrated our willingness to not only recognize, but also share responsibility to promote and protect rights of all people, including national minorities, in order to ensure lasting peace and stability in the world. Thank you for your kind attention.