A/HRC/10/65 page 10 society has a role to play in helping to build bridges between people living in extreme poverty and other segments of the society, particularly national and local authorities and public services in appropriate forums and dialogue. 41. The Chairperson-Rapporteur then opened the floor to participants. Representatives of Franciscans International, the International Council for Women, Atlas and the Union nationale de la femme tunisienne made statements on the theme at discussion. It was stated that civil society had been undertaking a great deal of work to combat extreme poverty; a specific example of the work of an organization in India was provided. References were made to the effect of poverty on women, and it was argued that women are disproportionately affected by poverty owing to structural inequalities. Speakers supported the view that strategies to eradicate poverty should not be generalized; they should take into account the gender dimension of poverty. The role and social responsibility of transnational corporations in poverty eradication 42. Filippo Veglio, Business Solutions Leader of the World Business Council for Sustainable Development pointed out that the business sector is part of the solution to development challenges. He presented several case studies of companies carrying out projects in developing countries involving and benefiting low-income sectors and promoting sustainable and inclusive business activities with partners from the development community and civil society. It is crucial that the role of business is viewed beyond the provision of resources and reflected as such in the debate on development cooperation. Business should be brought to the table as a key enabler of social and economic progress and as a key stakeholder in efforts to achieve sustainable development. 43. Gerald Pachoud, Special Adviser to the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on the issue of human rights and transnational corporations and other business enterprises, believed that the private sector can contribute to poverty alleviation, since business is a major source of investment and job creation. The private sector can generate growth and increase demand for rule of law, thus creating conditions conducive to human rights and breaking the cycle of poverty. He also acknowledged the negative impact of the business sector on human rights, and identified as a solution to ease the impact, the tripartite framework of business and human rights, namely the State’s duty to protect human rights and remedy in case of violations, and the duty of business to respect all human rights at all times. 44. The Chairperson-Rapporteur emphasized that the topic under discussion was important and posed a dilemma for the international community, requiring further reflection and examination by the United Nations. He then opened the floor for comments and questions from participants. Statements were made by representatives of South Africa and the Syrian Arab Republic, as well as the Deputy Chairperson of the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and the independent expert on the question of human rights and extreme poverty. 45. Concern was expressed for the duty of the State to protect against abuses of transnational corporations. It was stated that there were a number of States that could not realistically control corporations, because, at times they have more resources than the State itself. Moreover, it was claimed that, with regard to multinationals, there are no clear rules on the responsibilities and areas needing protection by States.