United Nations Commits to Advancing Equality and Combating Racial Discrimination in Somalia
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Synopsis
The United Nations celebrated the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, reaffirming its commitment to equality, dignity, and respect in Somalia. James Swan emphasized the importance of uniting against racial discrimination to promote peace and social progress.
Key Takeaways
- UN's Commitment: The UN is dedicated to promoting equality in Somalia.
- Racial Discrimination: It undermines peace and social progress.
- ICERD's Anniversary: Celebrating 60 years of the convention against racial discrimination.
- Collaboration: The UN partners with local and international entities.
- Historical Significance: March 21 commemorates a tragic event in South Africa's history.
Mogadishu, March 21 (NationPress) The United Nations commemorated the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on Friday by reaffirming its dedication to fostering equality, dignity, and respect for all individuals in Somalia.
James Swan, the acting special representative of the UN Secretary-General for Somalia, emphasized that racial discrimination has no place in any community as it jeopardizes peace, security, justice, and social advancement.
"It constitutes a violation of human rights that tears apart individuals and disrupts the social fabric of society, necessitating a unified effort to eliminate it," Swan stated in a press release issued in Mogadishu, the capital city of Somalia.
This year's observance also celebrates the 60th anniversary of the adoption of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD), which remains a fundamental element in the worldwide battle against racial discrimination and the advocacy for equality.
"As the inaugural treaty among the UN's core international human rights treaties, ICERD paved the way for future advancements in human rights," according to the report from the Xinhua news agency. Its commitment to eradicating racial discrimination and fostering equality promotes global understanding and unity devoid of racial segregation," the statement continued.
In Somalia, the UN collaborates with the government, civil society organizations, and international stakeholders to cultivate an inclusive and respectful society where everyone can prosper, feel secure, and express themselves freely, thus contributing significantly to the nation's progress, Swan added.
The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is recognized annually on March 21, commemorating the day in 1960 when police in Sharpeville, South Africa, opened fire on a peaceful protest against apartheid "pass laws," resulting in the deaths of 69 individuals.
