Statement by Petra Bayr (Austria, SOC), PACE General Rapporteur on combating racism and intolerance, on the occasion of the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination:

“Each year, the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is a chance to take stock of the situation in Europe and to realise that there is still a long way to go in the fight against racism. Discrimination based on ‘race’, ethnic or national origin, skin colour and religion continues to pose significant challenges, undermining our peaceful living together.

This year, we mark the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, a landmark document which solemnly states that all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. The Declaration remains a powerful inspiration and a reminder that human rights are universal and indivisible.

Recently, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, called on all States to take urgent action against racial discrimination. The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe strongly supports this call and renews its commitment to redoubling efforts to combat racism and intolerance. To this end, the Assembly urges member States to implement its most recent recommendations on forms of discrimination such as Afrophobia, anti-Gypsyism, antisemitism and anti-Muslim racism, and reiterates its call on democratic political parties to adhere to the Charter for a non-racist and inclusive society.

I trust that members of the No Hate Parliamentary Alliance and all other members of the Parliamentary Assembly will play their part in this crucial endeavour.”

Link PACE: Petra Bayr: there’s still a long way to go in the fight against racism (coe.int)