38 PROMOTING AND PROTECTING MINORITY RIGHTS Thematic studies An important part of the work of the Independent Expert is to conduct thematic studies relevant to minority issues in any region. The Expert selects specific issues upon which to focus in consultation with various constituencies, including NGOs, and in response to priorities which emerge in the course of the mandate. These studies include analysis of global minority issues and recommendations to United Nations Member States and others, and form the thematic content of the Expert’s annual report to the Human Rights Council. In 2006, the Expert conducted a thematic study on minorities in the context of poverty alleviation and reduction strategies and the Millennium Development Goals.45 In 2007, she undertook research and convened a seminar on the issue of minorities and discriminatory denial or deprivation of citizenship.46 In 2010, she presented a report to the General Assembly and the Human Rights Council focusing on the role of minority rights in conflict prevention.47 NGOs contribute to the thematic work of the Independent Expert in various ways. NGOs from all regions have attended the Forum on Minority Issues (discussed in chap. III) and have contributed specialized knowledge to conferences and seminars convened by the Independent Expert. If unable to attend, NGOs may provide written materials and research either before an event or as soon as possible after it has taken place. Regional conferences and seminars convened by the Independent Expert and OHCHR provide further opportunities for NGOs to contribute to the mandate. In compiling studies, the Independent Expert has used information provided by NGO experts on both the challenges facing minorities and positive practices. NGO analyses and suggestions have also contributed to the formulation of thematic recommendations in the annual reports of the Independent Expert to the Council. Additional activities In common with other special procedures mandate holders, the Independent Expert conducts a number of additional activities in support of the mandate and to promote implementation of the Minorities Declaration. The Independent Expert may issue press releases or public statements in order to highlight situations of concern; attend conferences and other public events, including those organized by NGOs in their countries or regions; deliver speeches and statements; and participate in training sessions on minority rights standards and protection mechanisms. The Forum on Minority Issues (discussed in chap. III) meets annually for two working days allocated to thematic discussions. The Independent Expert on minority issues is required by the resolution to guide the work of the Forum, prepare its annual meetings and report on the thematic recommendations of the Forum to the Human Rights Council. Thus, the Independent Expert has an important role in the thematic work of the Forum and a strong and cooperative relationship is established between the only two mechanisms of the United Nations system dedicated to minority issues. The Independent Expert actively promotes implementation of the Forum’s recommendations, including through country visits, regional seminars and conferences. Providing information to the Independent Expert Information received by the Independent Expert is given careful consideration and may be disseminated to United Nations staff who deal with related issues or have country-specific responsibilities within OHCHR. As is true of all mandate holders, the Independent Expert A/HRC/4/9. 45 A/HRC/7/23. 46 A/65/287. 47