establishment of independent anti-discrimination bodies, ombudspersons or other specialized institutions. It also requires ensuring that there are effective instruments of participation in all areas of life.35 The effectiveness of these instruments must be monitored continuously and they need to be updated periodically, as required.36 Furthermore, it requires that information is provided in the languages of national minorities, to the extent possible, about the remedies available against discrimination, including indirect or multiple forms of discrimination, and about the instruments that encourage participation. Rights and duties 10. Integration policies should be cognizant of the interests of and consistent with the rights of all members of society, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities. In addition to holding rights, all members of society share the duties of obeying the laws and the responsibilities of contributing to society and to the integration of society. Based on the experience of the HCNM, lasting peace, stability, security and prosperity can only be achieved in societies that promote the integration of society while respecting diversity.37 Integration with respect for diversity is the guiding principle of the HCNM’s work. It requires respecting the right of minorities to maintain and develop their culture and to preserve the essential elements of their identity, such as their religion, language, traditions and cultural heritage. Simultaneously, it requires working towards a cohesive society where every person has the opportunity to participate in and influence the political, economic, social and cultural life of society as a whole. This entails balancing the rights and interests of all groups, minorities and majorities alike. The appropriate balance is different in each society and can never be achieved once and for all because societies are inherently dynamic. It rather needs constant monitoring and rebalancing through adaptation to changing circumstances. As a result, integration policies need to be designed and implemented through a continuous and democratic process that contributes to good governance. This requires recognition, acceptance and commitment from all sides. Integration 35 36 37 See Guidelines 38–41. Lund Recommendations, Recommendation 22. The Bolzano/Bozen Recommendations on National Minorities in Inter-State Relations (hereinafter: “Bolzano/Bozen Recommendations”), Explanatory Note to Recommendation 7. 20 Guidelines on Integration of Diverse Societies