A/HRC/23/34/Add.1 109. The Special Rapporteur appreciates that the Constitution and laws of the Russian Federation contain far-reaching provisions relating to cultural and linguistic rights, including of minorities and indigenous peoples, and that many projects have been adopted in this regard. She encourages the federal and regional authorities to increase their efforts to ensure better application of these provisions, including for groups which do not fit into the definition of numerically small indigenous peoples. In the light of the prevailing influence of the ethnic Russian culture and the Russian Orthodox Church in cultural matters, the Special Rapporteur recommends that the authorities: (a) Clarify the term “cultural values”, taking into consideration the multiplicity of views by various groups, religious and non-religious; (b) Review the reform on the new unified school examination and the pilot project on the teaching of the basics of religious culture or secular ethics, taking into consideration the concerns expressed by representatives of minorities and indigenous peoples, as well as alternative proposals prepared by regional authorities; (c) Recognize the right to take State examinations in a minority language; (d) Adopt a more proactive policy towards the Roma community. 110. With regard to education and educational activities for students, the Special Rapporteur recommends that the teaching of history be disconnected from patriotic education, and that no competence be attributed to the Ministry of Defence in any educational programmes for children and youth. Noting with great interest the efforts already made in Tatarstan to teach history from a multi-perspective point of view, she recommends that the teaching of history enable all children to learn of the diverse histories and perspectives on the history of the various people and groups in the Russian Federation. 111. The Special Rapporteur encourages the city of Saint Petersburg to continue its “Tolerance programme” as a good example for other cities. More efforts should be made to ensure that not only migrants learn of the cultural heritage of the Russian Federation but that all Russian citizens learn of the rich diversity of the cultural heritage of migrants. 112. The Special Rapporteur encourages the private sector, including the media and institutions supporting cultural activities and artistic creativity, to offer more space to the recognition of the cultural diversity in the Russian Federation, and to address the specific needs of persons with disabilities. 113. The Special Rapporteur commends the considerable efforts made to ensure the rights of persons with disabilities, including children, in particular in terms of physical access to cultural and sport institutions, as well as access to education. She encourages the Government: (a) To consult with and involve persons with disabilities, including parents of disabled children, in all policy discussions and decision-making; (b) To consider hosting an international conference with neighbouring countries and civil society organizations, including parents’ associations from these countries, on the issue of inclusive education, so as to contribute to the development of best practices in the area; (c) To increase support for the Mimic and Gesture Theatre. The Government is encouraged to promote the establishment of a network of similar theatres across the Russian Federation; 21