Statement by India under Item 4 at the 19th session of the Intergovernmental Working Group on the Effective Implementation of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action (11-22 October 2021) delivered by Mr. S. Senthil Kumar, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India (Geneva, 11 October 2021)

Madam Chair,

   My delegation would like to join other delegates in congratulating on your election as Chairperson – Rapporteur of this important session of the Intergovernmental Working Group.

Madam Chair,

2. We condemn Racism and Racial Discrimination in all its forms and manifestations.

3. The notion of racial superiority was at the bedrock of colonialism. Millions suffered from it and bore the brunt of inhuman, violent and degrading treatment. It also marked the advent of the peaceful mass movement pioneered by Mahatma Gandhi, who began his fight against colonialism with the struggle against racial discrimination in South Africa.

4. This has inspired our founding fathers to build in adequate safeguards in our Constitution and the Indian Penal Code against racism and racial discrimination, and to enshrine the basic value of equality.

5. While Article 14 of the Constitution of India clearly states that the principle of equality cannot be denied, Article 15 expressly prohibits discrimination on the grounds of race. These two articles are reflective of the fundamental principles and values that are an integral part of the fabric that binds together a diverse country like India.

Madam Chair,

6. The Durban Declaration and Programme for Action (DDPA) adopted in 2001 was a reminder to the world that the challenge of Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance was far from over. This year, as we commemorate the 20th anniversary of that historic meeting, the journey is not yet over.
7. We believe that the recent establishment of Permanent Forum of People of African Descent will further strengthen the UN anti-racism architecture.

Madam Chair,

8. 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.

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

10. 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.

Madam Chair,

11. In conclusion, we express our firm commitment to the work of the Intergovernmental Working Group and looks forward to the constructive discussions in the coming days.

          I thank you, Madam Chair.

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