A/63/339 the absence of racial discrimination cases in the courts and the lack of statistical data disaggregated by ethnicity. 52. Finally, the former mandate holder noted the correspondence in Mauritanian society between the map of socio-economic marginalization and the map of ethnic groups and communities, a strong indication of long-term discrimination. He also noted the flaws in the intellectual and ethical strategy aimed at tackling the root cultural causes of discrimination and the lack of practical follow-up to laws, in particular those on slavery. In that regard, he emphasized the importance of taking into account, in parallel to the adoption of the bill making slavery a punishable offence, the profound long-term impact of slavery on sensitivities and behaviour patterns, which manifested itself as a sort of tacit acceptance of relations of servitude. In that connection, he noted the limited benefits of legally freeing slaves who did not have the material or financial means to support themselves and find a place in society. 6. Mission to the United States of America 53. The former mandate holder visited the United States of America from 18 May to 6 June 2008 at the invitation of the Government. The report containing his conclusions and observations on the visit will be submitted at a forthcoming session of the Human Rights Council in 2009. V. Conclusions and recommendations 54. The present report outlines the main vision and objectives of the Special Rapporteur for the implementation of his mandate and the key normative instruments that will guide his work. 55. In his future reports to the General Assembly and the Human Rights Council, the Special Rapporteur will be able to submit precise conclusions and recommendations to Member States. 56. The Special Rapporteur would like to note the request of the Human Rights Council for Member States to cooperate fully with the Special Rapporteur in the discharge of his/her mandate, including by responding promptly to communications, including urgent appeals, and by providing the information requested, and urges all Governments to seriously consider responding promptly and favourably to the requests of the Special Rapporteur to visit their countries, including for follow-up visits. 08-49342 13