10 6) It promotes diversity The loss of linguistic diversity is a loss for humanity’s heritage. States should not just favour one official language or a few international languages, but value and take positive steps to promote, maintain and develop, wherever possible, essential elements of identity such as minority languages. Respectfully and actively accommodating linguistic diversity is the hallmark of an inclusive society, and one of the keys to countering intolerance and racism. Embracing language rights is a clear step in promoting tolerance and intercultural dialogue, as well as building stronger foundations for continuing respect for diversity.   Language is the key to inclusion. Language is at the centre of human activity, self-expression and identity. Recognizing the primary importance that people place on their own language fosters the kind of true participation in development that achieves lasting results. Source: UNESCO, Why Language Matters for the Millennium Development Goals (Bangkok: UNESCO, 2012).