A/HRC/28/47 the future. Focal points from each of the participating countries agreed to begin working together on the modalities of the establishment of a regional coalition. 100. A conference on combating religious intolerance is planned for 2015, to contribute to the practical implementation of Human Rights Council and General Assembly resolutions on combating intolerance, negative stereotyping, stigmatization, discrimination, incitement to violence and violence against persons, based on religion or belief, aimed at increasing practical exchange and dialogue on issues of freedom of religion and belief by Governments and other actors. IV. Conclusions 101. The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights received 15 replies to the note verbale sent pursuant to paragraph 12 of Human Rights Council resolution 25/34, in which the Council invited submissions from Member States. Responding States reported broadly on their efforts in relation to the provisions contained in paragraphs 7 and 8 of the resolution. The High Commissioner invites States to consider requesting more focused submissions on a limited number or specific provisions of the resolution. 102. The information provided by States on their efforts and measures for the implementation of the action plan outlined in paragraphs 7 and 8 of the abovementioned resolution indicates that the steps taken by States are largely policy oriented or legal in nature, with many enshrining protection against discrimination on the basis of religion or belief in national constitutions, criminal codes and civil laws and regulations. 103. A number of States are working to address hate crimes at the domestic level. Advocacy of incitement to hatred is for the most part criminalized and often prohibited on several grounds, including religion or belief. It was also noted that protecting freedom of expression and opinion was important to ensuring equality and countering religious intolerance. 104. Extremism and radicalization, often leading to hate crimes and violence, were being addressed through social cohesion and integration programmes and police and security responses, often coupled with regular engagement and interaction with grassroots communities and young people, and data gathering and monitoring. A number of States have governmental strategies or plans in place to address issues of extremism and radicalization. 105. Almost all of the States that contributed information provide for a channel or some form of communication and consultation between religious groups and communities and government authorities. Numerous practical examples were cited of established networks, communication bodies and/or forums between State institutions and religious groups or communities, with some focused on policing and security matters and others serving as general forums of exchange. 106. Intolerance, stigmatization, negative stereotyping and discrimination, in particular, are addressed also through public awareness-raising campaigns and educational measures. States also fund local and national projects aimed at promoting capacity-building, social cohesion and interfaith dialogue and increasing the participation of religious groups and communities. 107. Most States reported that there was religious freedom and pluralism domestically and that members of religious groups and communities were able to manifest their religion and contribute openly and on an equal footing in society. 17