E/CN.4/2006/74 page 21 85. The independent expert recognizes that insufficient resources and capacity affect the activities of minorities in promoting and protecting their rights, and limit the work of other bodies, including United Nations mechanisms, in regard to minority issues. In the light of such restrictions, she welcomes Economic and Social Council decision 2004/278 of 22 July 2004 to recommend to the General Assembly that it give favourable consideration to the establishment of a voluntary fund on minority-related activities. She encourages the adoption of such a decision as a means of supporting the implementation of the goals of protection and empowerment as set out in the OHCHR Plan of Action. 86. The independent expert reiterates the principle provided in the commentary to the Declaration on the Rights of Minorities that States have positive obligations not only [to] tolerance “but a positive attitude towards cultural pluralism on the part of State and the larger society. Not only acceptance but also respect for the distinctive characteristics and contribution of minorities to the life of national society as a whole are required”. The independent expert will draw from the wealth and variety of existing positive experiences and practices to assist her in fulfilling the requirements of her mandate. -----