UNITED NATIONS A Word.Picture.8 General Assembly Distr. Distr. \* MERGEFORMAT GENERAL Symbol \* MERGEFORMAT A/CONF.189/PC.2/9 Date \* MERGEFORMAT 10 April 2001 Original: Orig. Lang. \* MERGEFORMAT ENGLISH WORLD CONFERENCE AGAINST RACISM, RACIAL DISCRIMINATION, XENOPHOBIA AND RELATED INTOLERANCE Preparatory Committee Second session Geneva, 21 May1 June 2001 Item 5 of the provisional agenda REPORTS OF PREPARATORY MEETINGS AND ACTIVITIES AT THE INTERNATIONAL, REGIONAL AND NATIONAL LEVELS Report of the Asian Preparatory Meeting (Tehran, 1921 February 2001) Note by the SecretaryGeneral The SecretaryGeneral has the honour to transmit to the Preparatory Committee the report of the Asian Preparatory Meeting. GE.0112596 (E) CONTENTS Paragraphs Page I. DECLARATION AND PLAN OF ACTION 3 II. ORGANIZATION OF THE MEETING 1 - 27 16 III. SUBMISSION OF THE REPORT OF THE CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE 28 19 IV. SUBMISSION OF THE REPORT OF THE DRAFTING COMMITTEE 29 20 V. ADOPTION OF THE DRAFT DECLARATION AND PLAN OF ACTION 30 20 VI. ADOPTION OF THE REPORT OF THE ASIAN PREPARATORY MEETING 31 20 Annexes I. Agenda 21 II. List of attendance 23 III. List of documents issued for the Asian Preparatory Meeting 26 I. DECLARATION AND PLAN OF ACTION DECLARATION Preamble We, the Representatives of the Governments of Asia participating in the Asian Preparatory Meeting for the World Conference against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance, convened in Tehran, from 19 to 21 February 2001, Expressing our appreciation to the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran for hosting the Asian Preparatory Meeting for the World Conference against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance, Emphasizing the will and determination of all Governments of the region to combat racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance in all their forms and manifestations, Reaffirming that genuine acceptance of cultural diversity, as a permanent feature of our societies, is a cherished asset for the advancement and welfare of humanity at large, Reiterating the need to intensify the struggle to eliminate all forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance throughout the world, especially its most brutal forms, Recognizing that, while the significance of national and regional particularities and various historical, social and cultural particularities must be borne in mind, it is the duty of States, regardless of their political, economic and cultural systems, to adopt appropriate strategies and policies in combating all acts of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, Taking note of the conclusions and recommendations of the Asia-Pacific seminar of experts in preparation for the World Conference against Racism on migrants and trafficking in persons, with particular reference to women and children, which was held in Bangkok from 5 to 7 September 2000, Taking note with interest of the regional meetings held in Strasbourg, Santiago and Dakar in preparation for the World Conference against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance, Recalling General Assembly resolution 52/111 and Commission on Human Rights resolution 1997/74, which call, inter alia, for the convening of the World Conference against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance, Recalling also the outcome of the two World Conferences to Combat Racism and Racial Discrimination, held at Geneva in 1978 and 1983, Noting with grave concern that, despite the efforts of the international community, the principal objectives of the three Decades to Combat Racism and Racial Discrimination have not been attained and that millions of human beings continue to the present day to be the victims of varied forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, Recalling that the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action adopted by the World Conference on Human Rights in June 1993 regards the elimination of racism and racial discrimination, in particular resulting from doctrines of racial superiority or exclusivity or contemporary forms and manifestations of racism, as a primary objective for the international community, Emphasizing that racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance are affronts to the dignity of humankind and constitute a flagrant violation of human rights, Stressing the importance of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination and other relevant international conventions and declarations which contribute to the fight against racism and racial discrimination, Noting with concern the continued and violent occurrence of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, and that theories of superiority of certain races and cultures over others, promoted and practised during the colonial era, continue to be propounded in one form or another even today, Bearing in mind that the adequate and clear resolution of past problems caused by racially and ethnically discriminatory policies and practices could contribute to preventing the recurrence of such policies and practices and to friendship and peaceful relations among peoples and nations, Alarmed by the emergence of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance in its more subtle contemporary forms, and other ideologies and practices based on racial or ethnic discrimination or superiority, Condemning any kind of discrimination, exclusion or preference on the ground of race, colour, descent, culture, language, or national or ethnic origin, which constitutes an offence to humanity and an obstacle to friendly and peaceful relations among peoples and nations, Reaffirming our commitment to combat contemporary manifestations of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, Recognizing that the historical, social and cultural contribution of all the people of Asia, which has always been characterized by respect, tolerance and mutual understanding, has enriched the civilizational and cultural diversity of the world and the common heritage of humanity, Welcoming the decision of the General Assembly to proclaim the year 2001 as the United Nations Year of Dialogue among Civilizations, as well as the holding of the Asian Conference on Dialogue among Civilizations on 17 February 2001 in Tehran, Welcoming also the adoption by the General Assembly, in its resolution 53/243, of the Declaration and Plan of Action on a Culture of Peace and its proclamation, in resolution 53/25, of the International Decade for a Culture of Peace and Non-violence for the Children of the World, to begin in 2001, Emphasizing the importance of the equitable participation of all peoples and nations, without any discrimination, in their domestic as well as global decision-making, Expressing concern at the forms of intolerance exhibited towards some of the Asian communities and minorities living in other continents, Recognizing the need to protect and promote the rights of ethnic, racial, cultural, national and linguistic minorities, as well as the need to counter the social exclusion and marginalization of such minorities, Reaffirming the right of all peoples to live in a society free of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, as well as the duty of Governments to take prompt, decisive and appropriate measures to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination, Recalling the United Nations Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples of 1960, Reaffirming that colonization by settlers and foreign occupation constitute sources, causes and forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, Expressing concern that racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance are among the root causes of many internal and international conflicts, including armed conflicts, Sources, causes, forms and contemporary manifestations of racism 1. Reaffirm that all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights, and that any doctrine of racial superiority is, therefore, scientifically false, morally condemnable, socially unjust and dangerous, and has no justification whatsoever; 2. Recognize that colonialism and slavery have been the prime sources and manifestation of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, and stress the need for all States which engaged in such practices to acknowledge the grave human suffering caused by colonialism and slavery and the heinous racist acts committed in the context of colonialism and the slave trade; 3. Condemn all forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance in the context of the realization of civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights; 4. Also condemn past and current policies, practices, propaganda and organizations based on ideas or theories of racial and national superiority, hatred, discrimination and xenophobia, which are massive and flagrant violations of all human rights and fundamental freedoms, comprising civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights and the right to development; 5. Strongly condemn the resurgence of fascism in all its forms and manifestations; 6. Condemn all acts and practices of social violence arising out of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance; 7. Reject the concept of regional fortresses, bolstered by political and economic accords amongst some developed countries, that generate a climate in which foreigners are racially discriminated against and are regarded as rivals or competitors and a threat to local prosperity, culture and identity; 8. Recognize the economic, social and cultural injustice emanating from racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, and call for concerted and continuous efforts to eradicate these evils; 9. Emphasize that poverty and economic disparities between various parts of the world which owe their existence in part to colonial exploitation contribute significantly to the persistence of racist attitudes; 10. Recognize that although globalization, as an ongoing process, remains a powerful and dynamic force with the potential to assist in achieving the goal of development and prosperity of all humankind, there is a need to manage it properly to guard against adverse trends, including growing economic disparity and cultural homogenization, which, by marginalizing certain countries and groups, could, inter alia, contribute to sustaining and strengthening racist attitudes; 11. Recognize that interregional migration has increased as a result of globalization and stress that policies towards such migration from the South to the North should not be based on discrimination on the grounds of race, colour, descent, or national or ethnic origin; 12. Resolve to extend cooperation to maximize the benefits of globalization with a view to the realization of economic, social and cultural rights and the right to development as a major contribution to the fight against racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance; 13. Recognize that equitable participation by all groups and countries in the formulation of a just, equitable, democratic and inclusive international order can contribute to a world free from racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance; 14. Call for international efforts to promote an understanding between different civilizations and cultures so as to counter attempts at cultural and civilizational domination and imposition motivated by racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance; 15. Reaffirm that dialogue among cultures and civilizations facilitates the promotion of a culture of tolerance and respect for diversity through cooperation and mutual enrichment in various fields of human endeavour; 16. Express our conviction that ideologies based on racial superiority contradict the letter and spirit of international human rights instruments and endanger regional and international peace and security; 17. Emphasize that racist and exclusive ideologies based on race, colour, descent, culture, language or national or ethnic origin are responsible for fomenting, promoting and spreading racial discrimination, xenophobia and stereotyping; 18. Express our conviction that political platforms and systems based on racism, xenophobia or doctrines of racial superiority and discrimination must be condemned as incompatible with democracy and transparent and accountable governance, and that racial discrimination condoned by governmental policies violates human rights and may endanger friendly relations between peoples, cooperation among nations, and international peace and security; 19. Recognize Jerusalem as a city of reverence and religious sanctity for three major religions of the world and call for an international effort to bring foreign occupation, together with all its racial practices, to an end, especially in holy shrines dear to the three religions; 20. Affirm that a foreign occupation founded on settlements, its laws based on racial discrimination with the aim of continuing domination of the occupied territory, as well as its practices, which consist of reinforcing a total military blockade, isolating towns, cities and villages under occupation from each other, totally contradict the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations and constitute a serious violation of international human rights and humanitarian law, a new kind of apartheid, a crime against humanity, a form of genocide and a serious threat to international peace and security; 21. Recall with deep regret the practices of racial discrimination against the Palestinians as well as other inhabitants of the Arab occupied territories which have an impact on all aspects of their daily existence such as to prevent the enjoyment of fundamental rights, express our deep concern about this situation and call for the cessation of all the practices of racial discrimination to which the Palestinians and the other inhabitants of the Arab territories occupied by Israel are subjected; Victims of racism 22. Recognize the individuals, groups and nations affected by policies and practices, such as colonialism, slavery and ethnic cleansing, that are based on theories of racial or national superiority, hatred and distinction as to race, colour, descent, culture, language, or national or ethnic origin as victims of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance; 23. Underscore the need to promote at the national level strategies, programmes and policies, including affirmative action, for the full realization of the civil and political rights of victims of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, including through more effective access to political, judicial and administrative institutions, as well as the need to promote access to justice free from racial discrimination of any kind; 24. Recognize that States shall, when the circumstances so warrant, take special and concrete measures in the social, economic, cultural and other fields to ensure the adequate development and protection of certain racial groups or individuals belonging to them, for the purpose of guaranteeing them the full and equal enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms; these measures shall in no case entail as a consequence the maintenance of unequal or separate rights for different racial groups after the objectives for which they were taken have been achieved; 25. Underscore the need to promote at the national level strategies, policies and programmes, including affirmative action, for the promotion and protection of the economic, social and cultural rights of all victims of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance and for affording greater opportunities to them to share in the prosperity and wealth of the societies they live in, as well as for guaranteeing that the benefits of development, science and technology contribute effectively to the improvement of the quality of life of such victims; 26. Stress the importance of the promotion and protection of the human rights of ethnic, national, linguistic, racial and cultural minorities, indigenous people and migrants, including their rights to maintain their cultural identity and observe their values and traditions; 27. Welcome the creation of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues within the United Nations system, giving concrete expression to major objectives of the International Decade of the World’s Indigenous People and the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action; 28. Condemn manifestations and acts of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance against migrants and stress the need for fair, just and equitable treatment of migrants in society and in the workplace; 29. Reiterate the need for all States to fulfil, without any racial discrimination, their obligations under the Vienna Conventions on Diplomatic Relations and on Consular Relations; 30. Recognize that while the formulation of immigration and citizenship laws is the prerogative of the States concerned, those laws that are motivated by racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance ought to be condemned and repealed; 31. Recognize that refugees, asylum-seekers and internally displaced persons are, under certain circumstances, vulnerable to manifestations of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance; 32. Reiterate that the international response and policy, including financial assistance, towards refugee situations in different parts of the world should not be guided by considerations of race, colour, descent, culture, language, or the national or ethnic origin of the refugees concerned and, in this context, urge the international community to extend assistance as requested by concerned States towards resolving the refugees’ situation, especially in the developing countries, through economic and financial assistance aimed at, inter alia, removing the root causes of the displacement of such people; 33. Express deep concern at the plight of Palestinian refugees and displaced persons who were forced to leave their homes because of war and racial policies of the occupying power and who are prevented from returning to their homes and properties because of a racially based law of return, and recognize the right of return of the Palestinian refugees as established by the General Assembly in its resolutions, particularly resolution 194 (III) of 11 December 1948, and call for their return to their homeland in accordance with and in implementation of this right; 34. Re-emphasize the responsibility of the international community to provide international protection for the Palestinian people under occupation against aggression, acts of racism, intimidation and denial of fundamental human rights, including the right to life, liberty and self-determination; 35. Recognize that special attention needs to be given to the elaboration of strategies, policies and programmes for persons subject to multiple discrimination which combines racism and racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance with other forms of discrimination; 36. Also recognize that racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance manifest themselves in an aggravated and differentiated manner for women, causing their living standards to deteriorate, generating multiple forms of violence and limiting or denying them the benefit and the exercise of their human rights, and in this regard urge States to consider this phenomenon in formulating strategies and programmes against racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance; 37. Note with concern that instances of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance lead to trade in and/or sexual exploitation of women and girls; 38. Also note with concern the large number of children, especially girls, and young people among the victims of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance and stress the need to consider this factor in designing strategies and programmes for child welfare, as well as the importance of incorporating the principle of the best interests of the child in strategies and programmes against racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance; Prevention and education 39. Recognize that education is the key to the promotion of respect for the racial, ethnic, cultural and linguistic diversity of societies and for promotion and protection of democratic values which are essential to prevent the spread of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance; 40. Reaffirm that education is one of the principal means of preventing and eradicating racism and racial discrimination and of raising awareness of human rights, particularly among children and young people, and in this context stress the need to amend suitably the textbooks that perpetuate racial stereotypes or encourage xenophobia; 41. Emphasize the importance and necessity of teaching about the past and recent history of colonialism, racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance in order to prevent the recurrence of such policies and practices; 42. Recognize the necessity of increasing appropriate preventive measures in order to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination, and the important role that Governments, international organizations, the media, non-governmental organizations and civil society can play in developing such measures and building confidence between different racial and ethnic groups; 43. Reaffirm the responsibility of Governments for safeguarding and protecting the rights of individuals within their jurisdiction against crimes perpetrated by racist or xenophobic individuals or groups; 44. Express deep concern at the use of new information technologies, such as the Internet, to propagate racial hatred, xenophobia, racial discrimination and related intolerance and that children and youth have access to this material; 45. Recognize that the use of the new information technologies, including the Internet, should contribute to combating racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance and that they should also be used to promote tolerance and respect for diversity; 46. Note with concern the widening use by some groups and organizations of the opportunities provided by print, audio-visual and electronic media as well as scientific and technological progress, such as the Internet, to promote racist and xenophobic propaganda aimed at inciting societies throughout the world to racial hatred and in this connection urge all Governments to take necessary measures against such incitement; 47. Recognize the important role played by civil society in the fight against racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance by proposing and assisting Governments in the implementation of strategies against such forms of discrimination; 48. Also recognize that international exchange and dialogue among youth is an important element in building intercultural understanding and respect and will contribute to the elimination of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance; 49. Resolutely condemn any ideologies and practices based on racial discrimination or superiority which entail abuse of human rights and fundamental freedoms, and affirm that all States have the obligation to take all available measures to combat ideologies, activities and practices based on racial discrimination or superiority; Remedies/reparation/compensation/humanitarian law 50. Recognize that States which pursued policies or practices based on racial or national superiority, such as colonial or other forms of alien domination or foreign occupation, slavery, the slave trade and ethnic cleansing, should assume the responsibility therefor and compensate the victims of such policies or practices; 51. Also recognize the need to adopt, and implement strictly, stringent laws, administrative measures and action plans aimed at countering all forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, to carry out exhaustive, timely and impartial investigations of all acts of racism and racial discrimination, to penalize those responsible according to the law and to secure prompt and fair reparation for the victims; 52. Further recognize the importance of national human rights institutions, Ombudspersons and other similar entities in the struggle against racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance and reaffirm the need for such entities to be established where they do not exist, and the need, as provided by law, for the authorities and society in general to cooperate with such institutions to the maximum extent in those countries where they do exist; 53. Reaffirm that racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance need to be addressed both in times of peace and during armed conflict, and note that States and the international community should be especially vigilant during periods of armed conflict and continue to combat all forms of racial discrimination; 54. Recall that freedom from discrimination on the ground of race is a fundamental principle of international humanitarian law and urge all parties to armed conflicts to abide scrupulously by the rules laid down in this body of law prohibiting adverse distinction; Regional and international cooperation/regional and international instruments 55. Express our solidarity with the peoples of Africa in their continuing struggle against racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance and recognize the sacrifices made by them as well as their efforts in raising international public awareness of this inhuman tragedy; 56. Recall the importance of international cooperation to promote (a) the achievement of the objectives of the fight against racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance; (b) the effective implementation of international treaties and instruments that forbid these practices; and (c) the implementation of the United Nations and of States’ obligations in this regard; 57. Reiterate our determination to promote respect for the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Vienna Declaration and Plan of Action and the implementation by States parties of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination and other related instruments that oppose and combat racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance; 58. Recognize that a worldwide strategy formulated by States against racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance can only succeed with the cooperation of States, regional and international organizations, non-governmental organizations, individuals and communities; the formulation of such a strategy should take into consideration the opinions and demands of the victims of such discrimination. PLAN OF ACTION Recognizing the urgent need to translate the objectives of the Declaration into a practical and workable Plan of Action, we therefore recommend that the World Conference: 1. Urge States to adopt or strengthen as required, as a matter of high priority, laws, policies and measures aimed at countering and eradicating racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance; 2. Urge States, regional and international organizations and civil society to promote respect for multiracial, multicultural, and multi-ethnic aspects of societies and to spread human rights awareness, with a view to combating all forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance; 3. Urge States to respect justice and equity at both national and international levels and to reject policies of double standards, particularly in regard to racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance; 4. Urge States to amend, rescind or nullify, as required, laws and regulations which create, perpetuate or contribute to racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance; 5. Urge States to adopt, and implement strictly, stringent laws against political platforms and ideologies based on racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance or doctrines of racial or national superiority; 6. Urge States to establish and strengthen, where required, national human rights institutions, Ombudspersons and other similar entities to address problems connected to endemic racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance and to assist victims of such discrimination in areas of their jurisdiction; 7. Request States to take necessary measures to denounce, actively discourage and prohibit the transmission of racist and xenophobic messages through all communications media, including new communications technologies such as the Internet; 8. Invite the world media to establish and disseminate through their relevant associations and organizations a code of ethical conduct with a view to prohibiting the proliferation of ideas of superiority and the justification of racial hatred and discrimination in any form, and promoting mutual respect and tolerance among all peoples; 9. Urge all actors on the international scene to build an international order based on inclusion, justice and equity, mutual understanding and respect, and to reject outdated doctrines of exclusion based on racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance; 10. Urge States to take the necessary legislative, administrative and judicial measures, in accordance with their obligations under relevant international human rights instruments, to combat and actively discourage all forms or manifestations of racial hatred, xenophobia or racial discrimination as an affirmation of their commitment to democracy; 11. Call upon States parties to respect fully and comply with the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination and encourage all States that are not yet parties to consider acceding to this Convention; 12. Urge States to establish national programmes to promote the access, without any discrimination, of migrants and other racial, ethnic, national, cultural and linguistic groups or minorities and indigenous populations, where they exist, to basic social services, including primary education and basic health care; 13. Propose special measures, for consideration by States, for the victims of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance to rectify their disadvantaged position in their society; 14. Call upon States to adopt or strengthen, as required, laws, strategies, programmes and policies, including affirmative action, to promote and protect the rights of victims of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, including their effective access to justice and judicial remedies free from racial discrimination of any kind; 15. Strongly urge States which pursued policies or practices based on racial or national superiority, such as colonial or other forms of alien domination or foreign occupation, slavery, the slave trade and ethnic cleansing, to assume their full responsibility therefor and provide prompt, adequate and fair reparation and compensation to those States, communities and individuals who were victims of such policies or practices, regardless of when they were committed; 16. Urge States to adopt necessary measures, as provided by national law, to ensure the rights of victims to prompt, adequate and fair reparation and compensation for acts of racism and racial discrimination; 17. Strongly urge States to take effective international measures to guarantee the implementation of human rights standards and the elimination of all forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, apartheid and related intolerance in respect of peoples under colonial or other forms of alien domination or foreign occupation, particularly those under an occupation based on racist, ethnic and settler ideology, in accordance with the rules of international law, international humanitarian law and the international conventions in relation to the elimination of all forms of racism and racial discrimination, xenophobia, apartheid and related intolerance as they constitute a crime against humanity; 18. Urge States to give special attention to the promotion and protection of the human rights of persons subject to multiple forms of discrimination which combine racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance with other forms of discrimination; 19. Urge States to provide protection to and address the situation of children, women and young people who suffer from racial discrimination in the formulation of national programmes of action against racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance; 20. Urge international organizations, within their mandates, to contribute to the fight against racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance; 21. Urge States to prevent, through all appropriate means, stereotyping of any ethnic, racial, national, cultural and linguistic group, and encourage objective and balanced portrayals of people, events and history, especially in the media, recognizing the profound influence that such portrayals have on societal perceptions of groups whose members are frequently victims of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance; 22. Urge States to prevent, and eliminate where they exist, racially discriminatory policies and practices in access to employment and occupation; 23. Encourage States to formulate policies, where necessary, to promote and protect the human rights of ethnic, national, linguistic, racial and cultural minorities, indigenous people and migrants, including their rights to maintain their cultural identity and observe their values and traditions; 24. Encourage States, regional and international organizations, including financial institutions, as well as civil society to develop a mechanism to address those aspects of globalization which may lead to racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance; 25. Urge States to commit themselves to the progressive realization, without discrimination, of full access to free primary education for all their nationals, particularly children, without any discrimination based on race, colour, descent, culture, language, or national or ethnic origin; 26. Urge States to harness the power of education and adopt, as appropriate, training programmes and develop educational materials aimed at combating racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, and in this context call upon States to amend suitably textbooks and other such educational materials that perpetuate racial stereotypes or encourage xenophobia; 27. Urge States to develop social policies, as appropriate, in order to encourage stable and harmonious relationships between different nations, peoples and groups, fostering mutual understanding, solidarity, tolerance and the development of a culture of peace; 28. Urge States to promote the implementation of the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace and the objectives of the International Decade for a Culture of Peace and Non-Violence for the Children of the World, to begin in 2001; 29. Request States, wherever appropriate through cooperation with intergovernmental organizations and national institutions, to organize and facilitate training courses or seminars on racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance for prosecutors, law enforcement officials, members of the judiciary and other public employees; 30. Urge all States to adopt and implement, as necessary, national legislation and administrative measures that expressly and specifically counter racism and prohibit racial discrimination in all spheres of public life; 31. Encourage all States and relevant international organizations to initiate and develop cultural and educational programmes aimed at countering racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance and enhancing mutual understanding amongst various cultures and civilizations; 32. Urge States to disseminate information, through appropriate means, including the use of the media and school curricula, to promote a spirit of respect for diversity and inclusiveness amongst the various racial, ethnic, national, linguistic and cultural groups; 33. Recommend that high-level international meetings be held successively in each region of the world on the Dialogue among Civilizations; 34. Encourage the creation of an international foundation for the Dialogue among Civilizations to initiate educational, scientific and cultural plans aiming at the promotion of intercultural dialogue and beneficial exchanges between different civilizations which will consequently promote tolerance and friendship amongst various racial, ethnic, national, linguistic and cultural groups; 35. Recommend that the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, within its mandate and in consultation with States, specialized agencies, regional and intergovernmental organizations and non-governmental organizations, propose a creative, inexpensive and efficient information strategy to increase the level of awareness about the goals and objectives of the World Conference; 36. Request the High Commissioner for Human Rights, in the context of the International Year of Mobilization against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance, to organize high-level world cultural meetings involving relevant organizations in the field of sports, culture, music, art and literature, as well as universities and national institutions; 37. Request the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights to create a database on its Web site which would contain information on the struggle against racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, particularly in relation to international and regional instruments and national legislation, educational and preventive programmes implemented in various countries and regions, opportunities for technical cooperation, academic studies and specialized documents; 38. Invite the Inter-Parliamentary Union to contribute to the activities of the International Year of Mobilization against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance by encouraging debates in national parliaments on the objectives of the World Conference; 39. Encourage States to adopt policies to address the issue of social violence based on racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance; 40. Urge States to initiate public information campaigns to promote respect for the values of diversity, pluralism, tolerance, mutual respect, cultural sensitivity, integration and inclusiveness; 41. Urge States, non-governmental organizations, cultural institutions, communications media and all sectors of society to contribute to the elimination of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance; Call upon the General Assembly to undertake a comprehensive review of the implementation of the Declaration and Plan of Action adopted by the World Conference. II. ORGANIZATION OF THE MEETING 1. The Asian Regional Meeting in preparation for the World Conference against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance was held in Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran, from 19 to 21 February 2001, as mandated by the Commission on Human Rights in paragraph 55 of its resolution 1999/78. It held six plenary meetings. A. Opening ceremony 2. The Meeting was opened by the High Commissioner for Human Rights and SecretaryGeneral of the World Conference against Racism, Mrs. Mary Robinson. 3. The High Commissioner for Human Rights invited H.E. Dr. Kamal Kharrazi, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran, to address the Meeting. 4. The High Commissioner for Human Rights and Secretary-General of the World Conference made a statement. 5. H.E. Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, Minister for Foreign Affairs of South Africa, addressed the Meeting. 6. Also at the opening meeting, His Royal Highness, Prince Hasan bin Talal of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, made a statement. 7. Ambassador Shambhu Ram Simkhada, Chairperson of the fifty-sixth session of the Commission on Human Rights also made a statement. B. Attendance 8. The Conference was attended by delegations of States Members of the United Nations in the region; observers (Member States not from the region, representatives of specialized agencies, United Nations bodies, United Nations human rights treaty bodies and special rapporteurs, intergovernmental organizations, national institutions, and other entities); and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). For the list of attendance, see annex II. C. Election of officers 9. At its 1st plenary meeting, on 19 February 2001, the head of the delegation of Indonesia, speaking as Coordinator of the Asian Group, announced that the Group had nominated the following officers: Bureau Chairman: H.E. Dr. M. Javad Zarif (Islamic Republic of Iran) Vice-Chairmen: H.E. Mr. Wang Guang-Ya (People’s Republic of China) H.E. Ambassador Savitri Kunadi (India) H.E. Ambassador Taher Al Hussimi (Syria) Rapporteur: Mr. I. Gusti Wesaka Puja (Indonesia) Credentials Committee Chairman: Malaysia Vice-Chairmen: Indonesia and Islamic Republic of Iran Drafting Committee Chairman: H.E. Ambassador Ali Khorram (Islamic Republic of Iran) D. Adoption of the agenda and rules of procedure 10. Also at the first meeting, the Plenary adopted with some amendments the provisional agenda, including conduct of business (WCR/RCONF/TEHRAN/2001/1) as the agenda for the meeting. See annex I. 11. At the same meeting, the Meeting adopted as its rules of procedure, as decided by the Asian Group, insofar as applicable, those of the functional commissions of the Economic and Social Council. E. Organization of work and other matters 12. Also at the 1st meeting of the Plenary, it was agreed to divide work between the Plenary and the Drafting Committee. The Plenary would listen to a general debate on the five themes of the provisional agenda of the World Conference. The Drafting Committee, open to all Member States, would undertake the elaboration of the draft declaration and plan of action and report back to the Plenary. 13. The Credentials Committee would meet, whenever required, to examine the credentials of government representatives and report back to the Plenary. 14. For the list of documents issued for the Meeting, see annex III. F. Plenary meetings 15. For the proceedings of the1st meeting, please see paragraphs 9 to15 above. At the 2nd meeting of the Plenary, also on 19 February, statements were presented by the following dignitaries: H.E. Mr. Athauda Seneviratine, Minister of Ethnic Affairs, Integration and Mineral Resources of Sri Lanka; H.E. Mr. Sukru Sina Gurel, Minister of State of the Republic of Turkey; H.E. Mr. Wang GuangYa, Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China; H.E. Mr. N. Hassan Wirajuda, Deputy Foreign Minister of Political Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia and H.E. Mr. Rosario G. Manalo, UnderSecretary of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines. 16. Ambassador Claudio Moreno (Italy), Chairman of the European regional preparatory meeting and Ambassador Alejandro Salinas (Chile), representative of the host Government for the Regional Conference of the Americas, also addressed the meeting. 17. Also at its 2nd meeting, the following delegations made statements: Palestine, Iraq, India, United Arab Emirates, Syrian Arab Republic, Thailand. 18. At its 3rd meeting, the Plenary continued consideration of agenda item 5. The following delegations made statements: Republic of Korea, Nepal, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Pakistan, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Malaysia, Bangladesh. 19. The following observers made statements at the 3rd plenary meeting: Mr. Michael Sherifis, Chairman of the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, Ms. Gabriella Rodriguez, Special Rapporteur on Migrants, Ms. EricaIrene Daes, ViceChairperson/Special Rapporteur of the SubCommission on the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights. Representatives of the International Organization for Migration, the International Committee of the Red Cross and the International Labour Office also made statements. 20. At the 4th plenary meeting, the Chairman, after consultations, invited NGOs to make statements to the Meeting. All members of the Drafting Committee were present. Representatives of the following NGOs took the floor: International Movement against All Forms of Discrimination and Racism; AsiaPacific Forum on Women, Law and Development; Migrant Rights International; ISIS International (Manila); Arab Organization of Human Rights; Asian Women’s Human Rights Council; National Campaign on Dalit Human Rights. 21. At the 5th plenary meeting, the consideration of item 5 concluded with statements from the following delegations: Viet Nam, Mongolia, Afghanistan, Qatar, Lebanon, Cambodia, Sudan. 22. The following observers also made statements under item 5: Mr. H.R Sorabjee, member of the SubCommission for the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights, Mr. Abid Hussain, Special Rapporteur on the freedom of opinion and expression. Statements were also made by the representatives of UNHCR and the AsiaPacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions. 23. At the 6th and final plenary meeting, the Chairman called upon Mr. A. Shahi, a member of the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination to make a statement. The meeting then took up consideration of agenda item 6, “Adoption of the report”. The Chairpersons of the Credentials and Drafting Committees presented their reports to the meeting (see paras. 29 to 30 below). A representative of the International Movement against All Forms of Racial Discrimination provided an overview of the outcome of the NGO forum that had preceded the intergovernmental meeting. 24. The High Commissioner for Human Rights presented her closing remarks to the meeting. 25. The Minister for Foreign Affairs of South Africa, H.E. Dr. Nkosazana DlaminiZuma made a closing statement. 26. The representative of Indonesia (on behalf of the Asian Group) made a statement. 27. The Chairman made a closing statement. III. SUBMISSION OF THE REPORT OF THE CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE 28. At the 6th plenary meeting, Ms. Ainon Kunton presented the report of the Credentials Committee, on behalf of its Chairman. Thirtyfive Asian States and 14 observer States had been represented at the meeting. IV. SUBMISSION OF THE REPORT OF THE DRAFTING COMMITTEE 29. Also at the 6th plenary meeting, the Chairman of the Drafting Committee presented the final text of the draft declaration and plan of action contained in document WCR/RCONF/TEHRAN/2001/L.1/Rev.1. He also presented oral amendments to the draft text for consideration by the meeting. These amendments were adopted without a vote. V. ADOPTION OF THE DRAFT DECLARATION AND PLAN OF ACTION 30. At the 6th plenary the draft declaration and plan of action, as orally amended by the Chairman of the Drafting Committee, was adopted without a vote. (See sect. I above.) VI. ADOPTION OF THE REPORT OF THE ASIAN PREPARATORY MEETING 31. At the 6th plenary meeting, the report of the Asian Preparatory Meeting to the second session of the Preparatory Committee was adopted without a vote. Annex I Agenda 1. Opening of the session. 2. Election of officers. 3. Adoption of the agenda and rules of procedure. 4. Organization of work. 5. General debate: Sources, causes, forms and contemporary manifestations of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance; Victims of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance; Measures of prevention, education and protection aimed at the eradication of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, at national, regional and international levels; Provision of effective remedies, recourse, redress, compensatory and other measures at the national, regional and international levels; Strategies to achieve full and effective equality, including international cooperation and enhancement of the United Nations and other international mechanisms in combating racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, and follow-up. 6. Adoption of the report and the final outcome of the session. Conduct of business A. Rules of procedure The rules of procedure of the Functional Commissions of the Economic and Social Council are applicable for the Asian Regional Preparatory Meeting, bearing in mind the decision adopted by the Asian Group concerning the participation of representatives of non-governmental organizations at the regional meeting in Asia. B. Duration and frequency of statements and right of reply Members: one statement of 10 minutes or two statements of 5 minutes per item. All observers including Governments (non-members of the Asian Group): one statement of five minutes per item. Some NGO statements might be delivered in one plenary meeting: a statement of two minutes each per NGO. Special rapporteurs, independent experts, chairpersons of working groups: 10 minutes. Dignitaries: up to 15 minutes. Rights of reply: limited to two replies, three minutes for the first and two minutes for the second. All rights of reply will be exercised at the end of the normal working day or at the end of the general debate. C. List of speakers The list is opened at the beginning of the session for all participants for inscription under agenda item 5 (general debate). Speakers are inscribed on three separate lists: for member Governments; for observer Governments; and for special rapporteurs, independent experts and chairpersons of working groups. If the list of speakers has not been exhausted during a particular meeting, the remaining speakers will be given the floor, in the same order, as the first speakers at the next meeting. The closure of the list of speakers will be announced by the Chairman in good time. Annex II List of attendance Asian States Afghanistan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, China, Cyprus, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, India, Indonesia, Iran (Islamic Republic of), Iraq, Japan, Jordan, Kuwait, Laos People’s Democratic Republic, Lebanon, Malaysia, Mongolia, Nepal, Oman, Palestine, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Republic of Korea, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Syrian Arab Republic, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, Viet Nam, Yemen. Observer States Belgium, Canada, Chile, Denmark, France, Greece, Italy, South Africa, Sudan, Sweden, Turkey, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Other observers Palestine. United Nations Human Rights Mechanisms and United Nations Bodies and Specialized Agencies Commission on Human Rights, Committee against Torture, Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, Special Rapporteur on the human rights of migrants, Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression. International Labour Organization, SubCommission on the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights, United Nations Development Programme, United Nations Information Centre. Other organizations International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. National institutions for the promotion and protection of human rights AsiaPacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions (Australia), Fiji National Human Rights Commission, Human Rights Commission of Nepal, Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka, Human Rights Commission of the Philippines, Indian National Human Rights Commission, Indonesian National Commission on Human Rights, Malaysian Human Rights Commission, Palestinian Independent Commission for Citizens’ Rights. Intergovernmental organizations European Commission, International Organization for Migration. Non-governmental organizations in consultative status with the Economic and Social Council Afro-Asian Peoples’ Solidarity Organization, Arab Organization of Human Rights, Asian Legal Resource Centre, Asian Women’s Human Rights Council, Asia-Pacific Forum on Women, Law and Development, Cairo Institute for Human Rights Studies, Coalition against Trafficking in Women, Commission of the Churches on International Affairs of the World Council of Churches, Franciscans International, Group for International Solidarity, Human Rights Internet, Human Rights Watch, Indian Council of Education, International Confederation of Free Trade Unions, International Federation of Human Rights Leagues, International Fellowship of Reconciliation, International Human Rights Association of American Minorities, International Human Rights Law Group, International Institute For Human Rights, Environment And Development (INHURED International), International Institute for NonAligned Studies, International Institute for Peace, International Movement against All Forms of Discrimination and Racism, International Work Group for Indigenous Affairs, ISIS International, Islamic Women’s Institute of Iran, Lutheran World Federation, Network of Women’s NonGovernmental Organizations in the Islamic Republic of Iran, Organization for Defending Victims of Violence, Peace Trust, Penal Reform International, South Asia Human Rights Document Centre, Third World Movement against the Exploitation of Women, Third World Network, World Federation of Democratic Youth. Other non-governmental organizations American Friends Service Committee, Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development, Asian Indigenous and Tribal Peoples, Asian Migrant Centre, Asian Students Association, Association for Supporting Socially Vulnerable Groups, Association for the Protection of Refugees and Displaced Women and Children, Association of Graduates of Teheran University, Association of Iranian Jurists Defending Human Rights, Association of Islamic Women Jurists, Association of Islamic Women Researchers, Association of Journalists for Women’s Rights, Association of the Women of the Islamic Revolution, Association of Women Sports, Bashra Centre, Caram Asia, Centre for Indonesian Migrant Workers, Centre for New Thinkers Of Civil Society, Centre of School Builders, Coalition against Trafficking in Women in Asia-Pacific, Communion of Churches in Indonesia, Community Trust Fund, Cordillera Peoples Alliance, Environment and Justice Society, Family Planning Association, Fathayat Nu, Ford Foundation, Gandhi Indonesian Anti-discrimination Movement, Gerakan Gerjuangan Anti-discrimination, Global Alliance against Traffic in Women, Humanitarian Workers Group from East Timor, INFORM, International Campaign against Terrorism, International Institute for the Defence of Muslim Minorities, Investing in Women in Development, Jewish Iranian Women’s Organization, Kanoone Noandishan, Krushi Samstha, Malika Association, Mehr White Home, Migrant Assistance Programme, Migrant Forum in Asia, Migrant Rights International, National Campaign on Dalit Human Rights, National Network for Solidarity with Migrant Workers, Navsarjan, Noandishan Javan Jameeh, Peace Centre of Iran, Prajwala Sangam, Rural Education for Development Society (REDS), Shajara Tooba Cultural Institute, Sikh Human Rights Group, South African National NGO Coalition, South Asia Forum for Human Rights, Tebtebba Foundation, Tebtebba Indigenous Peoples’ International, Te Kawau Maro, Third World Network Features, Waman Sudama Nimbakar, Welfare Association of Repatriated Bangladeshi Employees, Women’s Association Defending Human Values in the World, Women’s Association Loving Peace and Social Justice. Annex III List of documents issued for the ASIAN PREPARATORY Meeting WCR/RCONF/TEHRAN/2001/1 Provisional agenda WCR/RCONF/TEHRAN/2001/2 Provisional programme of work WCR/RCONF/TEHRAN/2001/L.1 Draft declaration and plan of action WCR/RCONF/TEHRAN/2001/L.2 Draft report of the Meeting Reference documents General Assembly resolution 52/111 of 12 December 1997 on the Third Decade to Combat Racism and Racial Discrimination and the convening of a world conference against racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance Report of the Expert Seminar on Racism, Refugees and Multi-Ethnic States A/CONF.189/PC.1/9 Report of the Preparatory Committee on its first session A/CONF.189/PC.1/21 Report of the Special Rapporteur of the Commission on Human Rights on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance A/55/304 Report of the Expert Seminar on Remedies available to the Victims of Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance and on Good National Practices in this Field A/CONF.189/PC.1/8 Report of the Regional Seminar of Experts (Warsaw, Poland - 5-7 July 2000) Declarations and Programmes of Action of the two World Conferences Conclusions and recommendations of the Bangkok Expert Seminar, 5-7 September 2000 Conclusions and recommendations of the Addis Ababa Expert Seminar, 5-7 October 2000 Conclusions and Recommendations of the Santiago Expert Seminar, 25-27 October 2000 Declaration and Plan of Action, Santiago Regional Intergovernmental Conference of the Americas WCR/IC/2001/Misc.5 Declaration and recommendations for a programme of action, Regional Meeting for Africa, Dakar Model national legislation for the guidance of governments in the enactment of further legislation against racial discrimination Report of the Special Rapporteur on the Promotion and Protection of the Right to Freedom of Opinion and Expression, Mr. Abid Hussain E/CN.4/2000/63 Report of the Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights of Migrants, Mrs. Rodriguez Pizarro E/CN.4/2000/82 -----   A/CONF.189/PC.2/9 page \* MERGEFORMAT 2 A/CONF.189/PC.2/9 page \* MERGEFORMAT 3