UN Human Rights Council 45: Statement for Item 9 General Debate on racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related forms of intolerance
UK's International Ambassador for Human Rights, Rita French's statement during the Item 9 General Debate on racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related forms of intolerance
Thank you, Madam President.
The United Kingdom remains resolute in our commitment to combating all forms of racism, racial discrimination and xenophobia.
It is fitting that this General Debate falls on the first day of Black British History month in the UK, where we seek to recognise and celebrate the contribution of Black people in the UK, empowering us to confront preconceptions about Britishness.
The UK has made great strides towards becoming a more tolerant society, but we have further to go. The Prime Minister recently announced a new Commission to look at inequality in the UK, which will review the areas of poverty, education, employment, health and the criminal justice system. The Commission will set out a new positive agenda for change - balancing the needs of individuals, communities and society, and seeking to ensure fairness for all.
Internationally, we remain dedicated to participating actively in anti racism-related UN mechanisms. Our efforts will continue to focus on the practical steps that states can take to combat racism. We are committed to working with other countries to share good practice and re-energise our joint efforts on this agenda.
Madam High Commissioner, this year we have witnessed a global movement calling for change.
How can we meaningfully engage in conversations about racism, in order to address these challenges?
Thank you.