Statement by India under Agenda Item 9: General Debate on Racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related forms of intolerance, follow-up to and implementation of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action, at the 48th Session of Human Rights Council (13 September – 08 October 2021) delivered by Mr. S. Senthil Kumar, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India (Geneva, 04 October 2021) Statement by India under Agenda Item 9: General Debate on Racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia ..
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Statement by India under Agenda Item 9: General Debate on Racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related forms of intolerance, follow-up to and implementation of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action, at the 48th Session of Human Rights Council (13 September – 08 October 2021) delivered by Mr. S. Senthil Kumar, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India (Geneva, 04 October 2021)

 

Statement by India under Agenda Item 9: General Debate on Racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related forms of intolerance, follow-up to and implementation of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action, at the 48th Session of Human Rights Council (13 September – 08 October 2021) delivered by Mr. S. Senthil Kumar, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India (Geneva, 04 October 2021)

Madam President,

Racism goes against the basic grain of ancient Indian Philosophy which considers the whole world as one family.

Our fight against colonialism also fashioned the thinking of our Constitution makers. Our nation rests on the principles of democracy, pluralism, equality and justice. The Indian Constitution enshrined safeguards against racism and racial discrimination.  These safeguards are further strengthened by our comprehensive legal framework with independent and impartial judiciary, a pluralistic polity, a vibrant civil society and free media.

The Durban Declaration and Programme for Action (DDPA) provide a comprehensive framework and basis for combating racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance. Today, as we commemorate the 20th anniversary of the adoption of this important instrument, we realise that we have much ground to cover.

The establishment of Permanent Forum of People of African Descent which we have supported, will further strengthen the UN anti-racism architecture.

In an interconnected world, new forms of media, especially social media, have emerged as a platform for amplifying racial hatred and discriminatory ideas.  We need to tackle infodemic with all our might to ensure social cohesion.

The COVID-19 pandemic has further aggravated these divisions and existing inequalities and reinforced racial discrimination.

We firmly believe that the most definitive guarantee against racial prejudice, discrimination and xenophobia is nurturing of democracy and pluralism with the inculcation of values of tolerance, understanding and respect for diversity.

I thank you, Madam President.