A/HRC/27/33 freedoms important for civil society actors. It was noted that failure to ensure a safe and enabling environment for civil society to conduct its work undermined States’ existing commitments and obligations under international human rights law, and weakened equality, accountability, responsiveness and the rule of law. In some cases, provisions relating to national security, public morals, defamation, funding and regulation of the Internet had led to the harassment, stigmatization and criminalization of civil society actors. It was stressed that some States imposed unnecessary obstacles to the establishment or financing of nongovernmental organizations or the authorization of peaceful demonstrations. One of the obstacles highlighted was the lack of financial and human resources available to civil society, and the lack of broader awareness about the role of civil society could play. An example was provided about the lack of direct consultations between the Government and civil society actors in the universal periodic review process, which was a matter of concern. 47. Concerns were expressed by some delegations about the serious risks faced by human rights defenders as well as by members of their families. Particular concern about the risks faced by women defenders was highlighted. Journalists and media professionals who attempted to report demonstrations and police violence endured detention, imprisonment and forced dismissal. Forcible closure of newspapers was also a matter of concern. Particular concerns were expressed about the marginalization of groups, such as LGBT persons and organizations in several countries, as well as minority and religious organizations. Children experienced challenges in forming their own organizations, including difficulties in registration. 48. Some participants referred to the creation of “government-organized” nongovernmental organizations created to give visible support to their Government in public and international forums, and noted that such organizations frequently filled the space intended for independent civil society actors. An example was provided of the challenges faced in the implementation of obligations under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities relating to civil society, which included insufficient interaction between Government and independent civil society actors. 49. It was highlighted that, while the Internet contributed to freedom of opinion and expression and the work of civil society across the globe, restrictions on Internet freedom and the activities of civil society were of concern, as they threatened the fundamental elements of democracy, development and peace. Examples were provided of restrictive legislation, expansion of the executive authority’s control over the Internet, and limitations to freedom of expression and information. 50. Some participants drew attention to differences and conflicts within civil society, as well as among interest groups and viewpoints. Donor-driven agendas in the operations of civil society actors were cautioned against. There were concerns that some civil society actors promoted intolerant views or opinions, and, while guaranteeing freedom of expression, States should be able to minimize their negative impact. Some noted the importance of accurate and verifiable information being provided by civil society in their endeavours to promote and protect human rights. 51. Some participants spoke about an alarming trend aimed at curtailing the voice of civil society in its endeavour to contribute to the work of the United Nations and its human rights bodies, including the Human Rights Council and its mechanisms, in particular, through reprisals against human rights defenders, activists or opposition politicians. These included threats to non-governmental organization accreditation, which sought to create a climate of fear and intimidation, undermining the credibility and the functioning of the United Nations system. In this context, the deferral of consideration by the General Assembly of resolution 24/24 adopted by the Council at its twenty-fourth session was noted with concern by some States. 11