A/HRC/31/CRP.2 IV Conclusions and recommendations 66. In the light of the information received from the workshop, the Special Rapporteur respectfully submits a number of overarching conclusions and recommendations. She understands that many of the concerns raised in the workshop may already be being addressed by the Governments concerned, and that there have been a number of positive developments in the region that are not fully addressed in this report. 67. These recommendations should be read in conjunction with those already published in her “Comprehensive study of the human rights situation of Roma worldwide, with a particular focus on the phenomenon of anti- Gypsyism”.17 A. Conclusions 68. While some governments in the region are beginning to take steps to recognize Roma as a specific population with particular needs and rights, much remains to be done to establish the status of Roma in the Americas as a distinct minority group, so they can fully and meaningfully enjoy all of their human rights. 69. It is in the interests of all the governments of the Americas to step up their efforts to establish the necessary policies and platforms to ensure that all Roma in the region are considered and treated equally, and can live in security and have their rights protected and promoted in accordance with the Declaration on the Rights of Minorities. B. Recommendations 1. Recognition of the Roma as a distinct minority 70. In order to foster a sense of understanding and respect, and to protect and promote their distinct identity, concerted efforts are needed by all governments in the region to acknowledge and raise awareness of the existence of Roma and their rights as distinct minorities within their respective countries. 71. The collection of disaggregated data on Roma populations in the region is of the outmost importance as it will help policymakers to learn about the number of Roma people and their socio-economic situation, and to design effective legal and policy responses. Data collection should be based on self-identification and take place in a sensitive manner, respecting privacy in accordance with international standards on data protection. Roma civil society, individuals and communities should be involved throughout the process, from designing data collection methods to the collection and analysis of the data. 72. States should consider recognizing and celebrating International Roma Day. Efforts must be made to ensure that Roma history is taught and understood in schools, and that all discriminatory or stereotypical references to Roma in educational materials are removed. 17 See A/HRC/29/24, paras 88–109. 13