UN Human Rights Council 48: UK statement for the interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism
UK International Ambassador for Human Rights Rita French gave a statement reiterating that the UK remains resolute, and steadfast, in our mission to combat all forms of racism, xenophobia and related intolerance.
Thank you, Madam President,
The United Kingdom remains staunchly committed to tackling all forms of racism, whether that be at home or abroad. We remain resolute, and steadfast, in our mission to combat all forms of racism, xenophobia and related intolerance.
Discrimination and intolerance of any kind has no place in society, and we will continue to treat all forms of intolerance with equal seriousness. That is why we are proud of Britain’s strong legal framework, which penalises offences such as incitement to racial hatred and racially aggravated offences.
In addition to this strong framework, we also recently conducted a detailed, data-led examination of racism and inequality across the United Kingdom, and set out a positive agenda for change.
The examination, led by the Commission on Race and Ethnic Disparities, made 24 recommendations that will change for the better the lives of millions across the UK, whatever their ethnic or social background.
Internationally, we will continue to participate actively in anti-racism related mechanisms - such as this dialogue - to share best practice on upholding human rights obligations to tackle discrimination.
Madam President,
What steps should we, as an international community, take to foster healthy dialogue about racism and bolster our joint efforts on this agenda?