A/RES/54/176 Page 4 14. Recognizes the important and constructive role that non-governmental organizations may play, in cooperation with national institutions, for the better promotion and protection of human rights; 15. Encourages all Member States to take appropriate steps to promote the exchange of information and experience concerning the establishment and effective operation of national institutions for the promotion and protection of human rights; 16. Encourages all United Nations entities, funds and agencies to work in close cooperation with national institutions in the promotion and protection of human rights; 17. Requests the Secretary-General to report to the General Assembly at its fifty-sixth session on the implementation of the present resolution. 83rd plenary meeting 17 December 1999