A/HRC/43/28 IV. Conclusion 85. During 2019, intolerance, racism and religious hatred directed at members of ethnic and religious minorities were on the rise globally, posing a serious challenge to efforts to make progress on human rights and at times reversing hard won past gains. 57 The increasing use of divisive language exacerbated existing patterns of exclusion. Minorities, including Roma, continued to be subjected to discrimination, segregation, prejudice, social exclusion and hate speech. Human rights defenders focusing on minority rights were victims of harassment and attacks from both State and non-State actors. 86. In a challenging global environment, OHCHR redoubled its efforts to support countries by developing strategies for the promotion and inclusion of minority rights to assist with the full implementation of the Declaration on the Rights of Persons Belonging to National or Ethnic, Religious and Linguistic Minorities and obligations related to minority rights. In addition to its continued support for United Nations processes dedicated to minority issues, OHCHR helped to make the special circumstances and needs of minorities more visible through extensive work on the 2030 Agenda and on leaving no one behind. That work included its contribution to the United Nations system’s guidance material on translating the commitment to leave no one behind into action at the country level. 87. OHCHR adopted a range of country, regional and global strategies to support dialogue, measures and activities with a wide variety of stakeholders. Those efforts were taken with a view to combat hate speech, promote respect for religious diversity and dialogue, reflect on the importance of investing in minority youth and encourage their participation in decision-making. 88. The report shows that positive action and important initiatives were taken to implement the Declaration on the Rights of Persons Belonging to National or Ethnic, Religious and Linguistic Minorities and human rights obligations related to minority rights. However, considering the rise of racism, xenophobia and hatred globally, more sustained and coordinated efforts are required to counter the waves of human rights abuses that are threatening to reverse past progress. The promotion of dialogue, together with the celebration of diversity and the genuine inclusion and participation of minorities, is essential in developing a truly inclusive society and safeguarding peace and security. Human rights defenders must be able to promote minority rights locally and internationally in safe and enabling environments, free from any form of violence, harassment or reprisal. 89. In 2019, minority youth leaders played a key role in promoting minority rights. Empowering them is critical in fostering a more peaceful, inclusive and stable society. OHCHR continued to support minority youth, including through its Minority Fellowship Programme, to play this critical role as active members of society and of minority communities. 57 See www.ohchr.org/EN/NewsEvents/Pages/DisplayNews.aspx?NewsID=24662&LangID=E. 15