A/HRC/34/21
Sustainable Development must benefit all people, including minorities, without
discrimination. As the 2030 Agenda advances, it is vital for OHCHR to continue
influencing action by both United Nations partners and States with regard to the
rights of national, ethnic, religious and linguistic minorities so as to ensure that no one
is left behind and that minorities, whose voices are frequently excluded from policy
dialogue on minority issues, participate fully and effectively in public life.
102. OHCHR continues to provide support to States, national human rights
institutions and civil society, including by helping strengthen the capacity at the
national level to tackle the exclusion and lack of participation of minorities. The
Minorities Fellowship Programme is as a prime example in this regard, as it serves as
an important catalyst for strengthening the capacity of minorities to engage in key
processes. However, it is vital for these steps to be taken in concert. States must do
more, including by moving towards a major and comprehensive effort to address the
entrenched discrimination against minorities, especially those who have suffered as a
result of impunity for serious violations of their rights. Minority issues are complex
and must be addressed through contextualized measures. Practices that work at the
national level tend also to involve legislative and policy measures that take into
consideration the circumstances on the ground and encourage inter-ethnic and
interreligious interaction and dialogue, while protecting distinct identities.
103. Overall, efforts to improve protection and prevent tension must involve society
at large — majorities and minorities and the dominant and non-dominant sectors of
society — while ensuring the participation of minority women.
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