Established by the United Nations in 1966 following the Sharpsville massacre in South Africa, the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is an occasion to reaffirm our commitment to the prevention and eradication of racism and racial discrimination. This is both a moral imperative, and a key element in achieving democracy and stability in our multi-ethnic and multicultural societies.

Regrettably, racism continues to afflict the lives of millions of people around the world. All too frequently, we see how racism can manifest itself in extreme violence, causing widespread suffering and death. This is why the fight against racism must remain at the centre of the United Nations and UNESCO agenda.

Eight years ago, in 2001, governments, international organizations and civil society came together in Durban, South Africa, under the auspices of the United Nations, for the World Conference against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance. This year, from 20 to 24 April 2009, those same bodies will reconvene in Geneva to evaluate progress towards the goals and promises set out in the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action, including the specific recommendations addressed to UNESCO in areas where the Organization has a recognized leadership and expertise.

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