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Summary: On 20 March, the Human Rights Council held a general debate on racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related forms of intolerance
On 20 March, the Human Rights Council held a general debate on racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related forms of intolerance, including follow-up and implementation of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action. It also heard a presentation from the Intergovernmental Working Group on the effective implementation of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action. Presenting the report of the Working Group on the effective implementation of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action, Mohamed Siad Douale, Chair of the ninth session of the Working Group, said racism was a concern for all peoples and countries, and that individuals had a responsibility to contribute to its eradication in every way possible. During its ninth session, which was held from 17 to 28 October 2011, the Working Group discussed and stressed the importance of States adopting national plans of action and the role sports and education played in the prevention of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance. Another important area concerned measures to combat impunity for instances of racism and xenophobia in sport. During the general debate, speakers said encouraging progress on the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action had been made. However, the fight against racism and xenophobia remained a global challenge that demanded a multilateral response. Speakers appreciated the active role played by the United Nations in combating racial discrimination and actively supported the future direction of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action. It was disappointing that the ninth session of the Working Group had been closed to non-governmental organizations. Governments, civil society, traditional media, electronic media and the business community had to work together to combat all stereotypes and racism. Racist and xenophobic speech, from public figures and in the media, still persisted. Speakers said education and training were necessary and positive tools for promoting principles of tolerance, equality and respect for diversity, particularly for youth. Sports could assist in spreading the values of diversity and equality, and combating racism and racial discrimination, while education played a significant role in promoting tolerance. Several speakers said the international community should recognize that Islamophobia in particular and discrimination on the basis of religion and belief were contemporary forms of racism. Discrimination and violence increasingly affected immigrants and remained a serous challenge. Perverse forms of racism could fuel prejudice and hatred against ethnic minorities and migrants, leading to discrimination in many areas of social and economic life. Speakers supported the suggestion for a decade for people of African descent and the creation of a standing forum.