A/HRC/60/62 123. More than half of the States included in the present report apply or continue to apply laws and regulations concerning civil society, counter-terrorism and national security that have had the effect of deterring or hindering cooperation with the United Nations. Some States have amended existing laws or enacted new ones, further increasing restrictions on and complicating the registration of civil society organizations, which results in additional obstacles to civil society’s engagement with the United Nations. 124. As noted in past reports, some cases and situations included in annex II are more than isolated incidents. Recurring allegations of repeated incidents of reprisals may signal patterns, and concerns expressed by multiple United Nations actors about the same cases or situations can indicate the severity and/or widespread nature of reprisals in the States concerned. This and the continued protection challenges facing individuals who have been subjected to reprisals remain a matter of deep concern. 125. I am concerned about reports that continue to underscore the gender-specific nature and severity of reprisals targeting women, particularly in connection with their cooperation with the Security Council and peace operations. 46 In addition, reports continue to show that youth and Indigenous Peoples are at high risk when engaging with the Organization.47 The targeting of these groups not only silences critical voices but also erodes the inclusivity of our collective efforts. 126. I remain committed to making the prevention of and response to reprisals central to United Nations action. Ensuring that interlocutors, partners and civil society actors can engage safely and meaningfully with the Organization is essential for it to be able to discharge its mandate effectively across all pillars of work and requires an enhanced response based on United Nations system-wide documentation and reporting, sustained political will, increased accountability and close collaboration with Member States and affected individuals. 127. Member States bear the primary responsibility for preventing and addressing acts of intimidation and reprisals for cooperation with the United Nations. I urge them to intensify their efforts and response, with particular attention paid to prevention and accountability. At the same time, effective action requires coordinated efforts by Member States, the United Nations and civil society. I remain committed to strengthening our collective capacity to respond, guided by a gender-responsive and victim-centred approach. Together, the Member States, the United Nations and civil society must ensure that all those who engage with the United Nations can do so safely, freely and without fear. 46 47 16 S/2025/556, paras. 40 and 101. E/2024/43-E/C.19/2024/8, paras. 52, 55 and 114.