A/HRC/33/25 technologies in disseminating information, and provided examples of the use of technologies that did not require an Internet connection to increase opportunities for participation. In that regard, tools such as smartphone applications used by OHCHR in Cambodia and in Africa were mentioned as practical ways to overcome communication barriers. It was suggested that best practices in using technologies to support the exercise of the right to participate in public affairs be collected and further disseminated. Participants emphasized that ICT tools for participation may require further regulation, particularly in order to ensure respect for the right to privacy, including through adequate protection of personal data. IV. Main observations and recommendations 33. The right to participate, as provided in article 25 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, is the foundation of a democratic government based on the consent of the people. States should ensure that all individuals, from all sectors of society, can exercise their right to participate in public affairs. Effective implementation of this right goes beyond periodic elections, and resilient democracies require meaningful participation. 34. Shrinking democratic space, violence and conflict, insufficient political will, and attempts by incumbents to hold on to power, as well as underlying structural inequalities such as poverty, illiteracy, discrimination and exclusion, remain major challenges for the implementation of the right to participate. 35. Therefore, States should ensure the elimination of discrimination, including intersectional and multiple forms of discrimination, and of other challenges that often prevent the full participation of women and members of marginalized groups such as indigenous peoples, minorities, and persons with disabilities. Such discrimination ranges from gender stereotyping to a lack of representation of women and members of minorities in State institutions including executive and legislative bodies, to physical and communicational barriers that render polling stations inaccessible to persons with disabilities. 36. An enabling environment that permits an active civil society to develop and institutions that effectively and impartially enforce the rule of law constitute preconditions for the implementation of the right to participate in political life and public affairs. Respect for the right to freedom of opinion and expression, the right of peaceful assembly and the right to freedom of association is also a fundamental prerequisite for the exercise of the right to participate in public affairs. The right of access to information, together with communication and accessibility of such information, is also crucial. In addition, consultation with concerned individuals and specific groups and their direct participation in the drafting of laws and policies affecting their human rights are essential for the full exercise of the right to participate. 37. ICT tools enhancing participation in political life and public affairs should be explored further and good practices on how these tools can be used to foster participation should be compiled and disseminated. These tools should be made widely accessible, including for persons in remote areas and for persons with disabilities. Further work may be needed, however, to ensure that these tools comply with human rights norms and standards, in particular with regard to the right to privacy. 12