A comprehensive framework

In 1997, the General Assembly decided to hold the World Conference against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance.  The Conference was held four years later from 31 August to 7 September 2001, in Durban, South Africa.

The outcome document of the 2001 Conference was the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action, a comprehensive framework for addressing racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance. It encompassed far-reaching measures to combat racism in all its manifestations, calling for tougher anti-discrimination legislation and administrative measures; for better education, access to health and administration of justice; for greater efforts to fight poverty and secure development; for improved remedies and resources available to victims of racism; and for greater multiculturalism and respect for the rule of law and human rights.

In presenting a Programme of Action, conference participants said:

We affirm that our global drive for the total elimination of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance is undertaken, and that the recommendations contained in the Programme of Action are made, in a spirit of solidarity and international cooperation and are inspired by the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations and other relevant international instruments. These recommendations are made with due consideration for the past, the present and the future, and with a constructive and forward-looking approach. We recognize that the formulation and implementation of these strategies, policies, programmes and actions, which should be carried out efficiently and promptly, are the responsibility of all States, with the full involvement of civil society at the national, regional and international levels."