The UN General Assembly convened a high-level meeting on Monday to mark the 25th anniversary of the adoption of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action. This international framework is a cornerstone in the fight against racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance. The meeting, themed "Mobilizing Global Popular Support for the Full and Effective Implementation of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action," featured a plenary session and an interactive discussion focusing on the role of youth in embedding anti-racism in policymaking, institutions, and technologies.
In his address to the session, UN General Assembly President, Khalil Rahman, stated that 25 years ago, the international community gathered in Durban, South Africa, with a shared conviction that racism is an assault on human dignity and that racial discrimination perpetuates injustice. He noted that xenophobia and related forms of intolerance threaten peace. Rahman highlighted that the Durban Declaration was born in South Africa, which has demonstrated that it is possible to overcome institutionalized racism.
Rahman emphasized that the Durban Declaration did not view racism merely as individual practices but as a structural force. It called for the strengthening of laws and institutions, the establishment of national action plans, education, the collection of classified data, equal participation, justice, redress, and enhanced international cooperation. However, he warned that significant gaps remain in implementing international commitments, citing that 78 out of 182 states parties to the Convention are significantly behind in submitting their reports, some for decades.
The UN General Assembly President stressed that international commitments cannot be fulfilled without providing resources, follow-up mechanisms, and political will. He urged states to adopt national action plans, comprehensive legislation, independent human rights institutions, and effective remedies. Education and the active participation of communities affected by racism and discrimination in policymaking and implementation were also underscored as crucial.
The commemoration of the 25th anniversary of the Durban Declaration should serve as an opportunity to transition from commitments to practical implementation, Rahman said. He highlighted the importance of youth in this process, emphasizing their role in shaping policies and institutions that combat racism.
The high-level meeting included participation from various stakeholders, reflecting the global commitment to eradicating racism and discrimination. It showcased efforts to breathe new life into the Durban Declaration's objectives, ensuring its relevance and implementation in contemporary society.
As the international community reflects on the progress made since the adoption of the Durban Declaration, it also acknowledges the challenges that lie ahead. The fight against racism, discrimination, and xenophobia requires sustained efforts, political commitment, and the active engagement of all stakeholders.
Key points
- The UN General Assembly President emphasized the need for national action plans and comprehensive legislation to combat racism.
- The Durban Declaration was adopted 25 years ago as a key international framework to combat racism and discrimination.
- The commemoration highlighted the role of youth in embedding anti-racism in policymaking and institutions.
