But is macro-economic framework or are macro-economic policies enough? The answer is ‘no’. The policies have to be translated into social sectors. The policies have to be translated in terms of targeted measures for some of the groups. The policies need to be translated in to some of the [royal] issues going beyond resources. And there the whole question of the legal framework the institutions come into play, because if the legal framework has an inherent bias and discrimination against minorities, then they cannot participate effectively in economic life. If there are no institutions, which support the minorities in order to enhance their capabilities handing advantage of the opportunities then basically their wellbeing is not ensured. Therefore, in a nutshell, the policy framework involved in a particular country, the institutions, the legal framework, the whole structure of it have to geared towards a non-discriminatory dimension, and should be geared to enhancing the capabilities and opportunities of minorities. Definitely the governments have a role to play there, but the role should be extended to civil society, to the media, NGOs and to international organisations. It is in this broader context that we are now having this particular discussion on the issues of minorities and effective economic participation for their wellbeing. I am pretty sure, that the delivered issues of the next two days would basically focus on different important aspects of the issues that will be discussed. And at the end of it will come up with very concrete action plans that would basically ensure their wellbeing. UNDP has always been and is committed to human development from all walks of life and in that context we have very much supportive of the work that the independent expert is doing and we want to take the agenda forward in the coming years. Thank you.

Select target paragraph3