A/65/262 independent institutions on children’s rights, and further consolidating national information and data systems on violence against children. 113. This collaborative framework was further strengthened during the thematic debate on violence against children, held in 2010 by the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child. The meeting identified three key areas for follow-up, namely: advocacy on the protection of children from violence and the promotion of positive alternatives to violent discipline; support to legislative and policy reforms to prohibit all forms of violence; and development of an African report on this topic. 8. Cooperation with the Council of Europe 114. In the European region, significant developments have also taken place, with violence against children being given increasing attention in policymaking within the Council of Europe and the European Union. The Special Representative consolidated collaboration with those institutions and took part in strategic policy forums addressing elements of her mandate. The Special Representative participated in meetings which led to the adoption of the Council of Europe Strategy for 20092011: Building a Europe for and with Children, within which the protection of children from violence is a key priority concern. Under the Strategy, the Council acts as the regional initiator and coordinator of national and regional initiatives to combat violence against children, and as the European forum for follow-up to the recommendations of the United Nations study and cooperation with the Special Representative. 115. Important regional standards and initiatives provide a framework for the protection of children from violence. To support progress in this area, the Council of Europe established a Platform on Children’s Rights with national focal points from countries across the region and a network of experts from key partner organizations. The Special Representative participates in this high-level policy forum, which plays a crucial role in the promotion of information-sharing, advocacy and debate, and in monitoring progress within the European region. 116. In November 2009, the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe adopted Policy Guidelines on Integrated National Strategies for the Protection of Children from Violence to guide national efforts for the development of a comprehensive national agenda for violence prevention and response. The Special Representative participated in the process leading to the adoption of the guidelines and continues to collaborate with the Council of Europe in advancing their dissemination and implementation. In May 2010, the Government of Austria hosted a follow-up meeting, in Vienna, to share experiences among national governments, international organizations, independent institutions and civil society partners, and advance progress in the development of national strategies and law reform, and in the consolidation of information on violence against children. 9. Cooperation with the European Union 117. Violence against children is high on the policy agenda of the European Union and was identified in a 2009 survey as a priority concern for young people within the 27 member States. The Special Representative participated in two high-level conferences held under the Swedish Presidency of the European Union and devoted to the protection of children from violence, namely, the European Union-NGO 22 10-47898