A/HRC/7/37 page 12 32. Within the United Nations system, the office of the Special Adviser maintains regular contact with the Executive Office of the Secretary-General and all those whose mandates are relevant to his own, including the Department of Political Affairs and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, as well as with human rights special procedures and treaty bodies. At the meeting of the Advisory Committee in September 2007, representatives of various agencies, departments and programmes participated and shared information on ways in which their units could cooperate with the Special Adviser. A follow-up meeting will be held in the near future. IV. CONCLUSIONS 33. By definition, it is difficult to assess the impact of prevention activities. At a minimum, noting the increasing emphasis by United Nations departments on the prevention of crises and on lessons learned, the Special Adviser intends to cooperate closely not only in prediction and prevention activities, but also in assessing the quality and effectiveness of the prevention of genocide. 34. Fundamental contributions to prevention by the Special Adviser could involve ensuring that concerns falling within the scope of the mandate are given due priority within the United Nations, and that opportunities are open for United Nations agencies, departments and programmes to play a preventive role. With regard to both contributions, a key challenge in the past has been ensuring that action is taken early enough to be genuinely preventive. Raising awareness within the United Nations as well as among Member States and regional groups of States is a useful way to prepare for future problems, and is a preventive action in and of itself. The initial focus of the Special Adviser’s mandate on protecting populations at risk, accountability, humanitarian assistance and addressing the underlying causes of conflict remains a valuable basis for analysis. And, lastly, recognizing the sovereignty of a State as the basis for its responsibility, provides a framework for effective engagement. 35. The Special Adviser will continue to work closely with the relevant United Nations operational agencies, departments and programmes, avoiding duplication of activities and filling protection gaps. Efforts will continue to be made towards developing a strategy and methodology that address challenges on the ground. The Special Adviser will continue to monitor and report on situations to the Secretary-General and Member States, as appropriate, and to act as a catalyst for wider international collaboration to promote collective action for a more effective prevention of genocide. -----