In many countries there will be individuals who have developed particular expertise in human rights issues, whether as representatives of NGOs, in the legal profession or as academic experts. Even though they may not play a formal role in any of the organizations involved in the consultation process, they are an important repository of information and wisdom on human rights matters. The coordinating committee should make provision for such persons to be brought into the consultation process where possible, for example to assist in preparing the baseline study. 6.6 Representatives of the private business sector With globalization and a trend towards smaller government, there is increasing recognition that social outcomes depend in part on non-governmental actors in society, including business. In some countries, multinational mining and industrial enterprises may constitute an important actual or potential channel for delivery of social benefits such as infrastructure, education and health facilities. There is a slowly increasing awareness among business corporations that their mission is not only to deliver benefits to shareholders but also to demonstrate commitment to environmental responsibility and the promotion of social values, particularly for stakeholders. Of course, care must be taken not to be associated with corporations or business leaders who are identified with questionable or abusive human rights practices. 6.7 Representatives of philanthropic and other private funding organizations For reasons parallel to the growth in the importance of the corporate sector, private funding organizations are playing an increasingly important part in the delivery of social benefits, which can usually be expressed in human rights terms. Some of them may be associated with corporations. In addition, such organizations are often led by individuals who have a prominent standing in the community and are thus well placed to make a useful contribution to the national action plan process. While such organizations would not normally take a leading role in the national action plan process, it may be useful to involve them in consultations, particularly through the provision of information. 6.8 The media The success of a national action plan will very much depend on public awareness and support. The media should therefore be encouraged to involve themselves in the planning process in two broad roles. One is to provide accurate information about human rights and the national action plan to the general public. The other is to provide input for the planning process as a sector with a direct interest in human rights, particularly freedom of information. 54