A/74/215 52. Overall, information on activities undertaken by Member States, OHCHR, the Special Rapporteur on minority issues, relevant United Nations entities and other relevant stakeholders to support the implementation of the Declaration and ensure the realization of the rights of persons belonging to national or ethnic, religious and linguistic minority groups, demonstrates that there are positive initiatives being undertaken at the national level to protect minority rights. At time when racism, xenophobia and hatred are on the rise, however, more sustained and coordinated efforts are needed to protect minority rights. 53. In its resolution 72/184, the General Assembly affirmed that the twentyfifth anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration offered an important opportunity to intensify efforts to promote and protect the rights of persons belonging to national or ethnic, religious and linguistic minority groups, including by taking stock of, and sharing among States and other stakeholders information on, the achievements, best practices and challenges with regard to the implementation of the Declaration. In response to the global context, Member States may wish to consider reinforcing the minority rights architecture and to advance implementation of applicable normative standards, which could include enacting legislation, formulating policies and adopting programmes, including at the subnational level. Empowering minority groups and securing their effective participation in the countries in which they live is critical not only fo r the realization of their rights but also for the important role that it plays in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda, including its central commitment to leave no one behind and to target those left the furthest behind. It will require direct application of article 27 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the Declaration. 54. All States have minority groups living on their territories, and their existence, identity, religion and culture must be protected. The global rise in racism, xenophobia and hatred targeting minority groups in particular requires a redoubling of efforts to protect minority rights at national, regional and international levels. As noted by the Secretary-General in the foreword to the United Nations strategy and plan of action on combating hate speech, by enhancing global resilience against this insidious phenomenon, we can strengthen the bonds of society and build a better world for all. 19-12558 15/15