A/HRC/22/29 100. The international community should continue supporting transitional processes. Constructive dialogue among Member States would enrich their understanding of the challenges specific to each process. Lessons drawn from the recent experiences in the Middle East and North Africa could be of particular interest in this regard. 101. International cooperation strategies for the promotion of a “holistic” democracy should focus on the advancement of all human rights, including civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights and the right to development. Special attention should be devoted to promoting equality and combating discrimination, and to protecting the rights of women and disadvantaged and vulnerable groups, including poor people, indigenous peoples, minorities and persons with disabilities. 102. By weakening the social fabric of societies, the global economic crisis represents a threat to democracy. Efforts should be invested in alleviating the debt burden of the countries confronted with drastic austerity measures. The protection of human rights should be taken into account in devising financial remedies and aid packages. 103. International exchanges, such as the World Forum for Democracy, held in Strasbourg in October 2012, and the fifth Bali Democracy Forum, held in November 2012, must be encouraged in order to foster links and to provide further opportunities for experience-sharing and comparative learning on democracy and the promotion of human rights. 18