A/HRC/32/20 encourage creativity, combining theoretical and practical approaches.37 Similarly, artists often contribute to social activism (see A/HRC/27/33, paras. 28-29). Free artistic expression can communicate beyond boundaries, provoke, challenge ideas and prejudices, expose injustice, human rights abuses or corruption and foster community interests and cooperation. 2. Consultation processes 46. States’ formal and informal consultations with civil society have increased mutual understanding, built trust and enhanced the potential for collaboration.38 Good practices regarding participatory processes are reflected in numerous United Nations reports, including those regarding participation in public affairs (A/HRC/30/26) and the right to participation of people living in extreme poverty (A/HRC/23/36). Predictability of processes, an inclusive approach and diverse means of communication, accompanied by realistic time frames, are prerequisites for meaningful consultation and debate. Making documents available in minority languages, for example, and in formats accessible to persons with disabilities enhances inclusiveness and facilitates participation. 47. In El Salvador, to enhance diversity and participation, institutional mechanisms facilitate consultation. These include the President’s Economic and Social Council, which is a space for broad-based participation involving those who have traditionally been excluded or marginalized. 48. The Coordination Council of the Government of Kazakhstan holds two meetings per year on interaction with NGOs, with representatives of NGOs and relevant government officials. The Council develops instructions for the implementation of decisions on social issues discussed during its sessions.39 49. According to the Government, in the Russian Federation steps to regulate and facilitate interaction between civil society organizations and State institutions include the formation of a council of independent experts under the authority of the President to provide advice on human rights and propose measures to strengthen citizen participation in public affairs, as well as a government commission to coordinate activities of “open government” and facilitate interaction between the executive authority and civil society. 40 50. Regional institutions, mechanisms and meetings provide invaluable opportunities for civil society engagement, particularly where national space is restricted. Regional meetings can assist cooperation among civil society actors facing similar challenges and provide support for civil society in countries in crisis, offering a safe environment in which to express solidarity and brainstorm on ways forward. 41 51. Multiple online participation platforms and social media services enable the public at large to initiate or participate in discussions that concern them.42 According to the Government, in Bahrain such services are provided for young people in particular.43 In Finland, an innovative project was piloted to encourage consultation and address poor levels of participation in traditional political life. This consisted of forming a citizens’ 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 Right Livelihood Award Foundation. Permanent Mission of Switzerland to the United Nations Office at Geneva. Permanent Mission of Kazakhstan to the United Nations Office at Geneva. Permanent Mission of the Russian Federation to the United Nations Office at Geneva. Asia Democracy Network. Permanent Mission of Finland to the United Nations Office at Geneva. Permanent Mission of Bahrain to the United Nations Office at Geneva. 11