entrenched inequality, discrimination and exclusion are the root cause of many conflicts, particularly where the State is considered to be failing to act to remedy the situation or is deliberately excluding minorities. Refugee, returnee and internally displaced minorities are often left out of the peace and reconciliation process. Effective prevention should encompass dialogue among all sectors of society, confidence-building and a fair distribution of resources. Effective participation by minorities in public life is an essential component of a peaceful and democratic society and should take place across a wide range of areas. Where minorities are systematically excluded from decision-making, efforts should be made to facilitate their representation at all levels, for example in parliaments and other legislative bodies, including through the allocation of seats. The promotion of rights, identity and culture can be strengthened through the introduction and promotion of certain forms of self-governance, including territorial or cultural autonomy. Ensuring the promotion of meaningful and informed consultation and participation and the management by minorities of matters directly affecting them as a way of protecting and promoting their interests and identities, is an effective means for promoting stability and integration in societies where minorities live. E. How to better ensure the effective participation of minorities in the work of the United Nations? Effective and meaningful participation is crucial in any work of the United Nations but particularly relevant to minorities. Participation cannot be separated from capacity-building and empowerment. The success of any planning, monitoring, review and evaluation programme addressed to minorities depends on involving their representatives at the right time and ensuring the inclusion of their views in all stages. There is an expectation that, before any programmes and projects are designed, their targeted beneficiaries will be consulted. Representatives of minorities also expect that any consultative civil society body set up to advise or cooperate with the United Nations will be composed of representatives of all segments of the population, including minorities. There are a number of ways in which the United Nations can support the effective participation of persons belonging to minorities. Below is a checklist of issues to be promoted in this respect. In particular, a stakeholder analysis may help to decide how to establish the widest possible consultation. Suggestions for ensuring that this happens can also be found in the checklist. 41