A/HRC/22/34 of the African human rights system and to the fact that the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights had started to hear cases of reprisals reported by non-governmental organizations. Mr. Shire Sheikh Ahmed reiterated the need for greater cooperation between stakeholders in terms of protection for those who cooperate with the United Nations, and he encouraged the sharing of best practices in this regard. 79. Mehr Khan Williams, as moderator, thanked the conveners of the panel and the participants for what had been a useful and encouraging session conducted in a positive way, allowing all to discuss a critical issue. She also thanked the Secretary-General, the High Commissioner and her Office, whose support had been indispensable, as well as her fellow panellists for the relevant and important comments that they had contributed to the discussion. The concrete proposals made in the course of the discussion should be recorded and discussed, thereby helping the Human Rights Council to address the problem in the future. She stressed that the primary responsibility to protect civil society actors rested with States, and that it was important for them not only to address the allegations of reprisals but, more importantly, also to create a climate in which such incidents could no longer occur. Many good suggestions had been made about enhancing cooperation, and they should be taken seriously. More importantly, the Council should continue to discuss this issue, as it was only through the exchange of views, clarity and the sharing of good information and practices that progress could be made. 16