of this Forum. He indicated that the key fundamental principles of equality, nondiscrimination, human dignity are the foundation on which we can build our intellectual and practical endeavours. He highlighted that equality is not antagonistic to diversity, rather it embraces diversity through our common humanity and that this reminds us the fundamental principles entrenched in the Declaration: the protection of existence and identity, equality, non-discrimination and participation of minorities which are, among others, the normative foundations of this Forum. He stressed the importance for all to hold firm on this intellectual normative substratum in order to address challenges and ultimately overcome them. He acknowledged that there are no easy answers to the issues at stake, that much of the work on conflict prevention and building peace is slow and detailed, thus the importance of stressing the relevance of accurate data, of constitution and laws prohibiting discrimination and a legal framework in favour of equality, the importance of affirmative actions, law against hate speech, remedies for discrimination, education and appropriate inclusive institutions. He said that the measures suggested during the session are all essential if we want to have a chance of sustaining this diversity that we enjoy globally. He expressed the hope that the recommendations, which gather the voices of the Forum, will facilitate the achievement of these goals. He recalled that the UN is not indifferent to the faith of minorities; it never was and never can be and that ultimately the voice of the UN is the voice of compassion, hope and the antithesis of hatred and despair. He thanked all participants to the Forum, the Special Rapporteur on minority issues, the Secretariat and the work of the interns, conference service and interpreters. He finally expressed great appreciation for the experience of chairing the Forum and for the possibility he had to listen to the variety of voices and narratives coming from the Forum. 21