International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, 21 March
60 Years of the Anti-Racism Convention: Progress and Challenges in the Fight Against Racial Discrimination
The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, observed annually on March 21, marks the 60th anniversary of the groundbreaking International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD). Adopted by the UN General Assembly on December 21, 1965, ICERD (Resolution 2106 [XX]) was a pivotal moment in the global fight against racism. As the UN's first core human rights treaty, it set a precedent for future advancements, committing to eradicating racial discrimination and promoting equality. This anniversary prompts a crucial examination of progress, while acknowledging the ongoing challenges in achieving a world free from racial segregation. [Link to learn more about the Convention]
Background
The annual observance of the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination commemorates the tragic 1960 Sharpeville Massacre in South Africa, where police opened fire on peaceful protestors opposing apartheid's discriminatory "pass laws," killing 69 people.
Significant progress has been made since then. The apartheid system in South Africa has been dismantled, and racist laws and practices have been abolished in many parts of the world. ICERD has guided the development of an international framework for combating racism. While the Convention is approaching universal ratification, racial injustice and stigma remain pervasive in all regions, impacting individuals, communities, and societies.
In 1979, the UN General Assembly established a program of activities for the latter half of the Decade for Action to Combat Racism and Racial Discrimination. This initiative included the annual week of solidarity with anti-racism movements, commencing on March 21st.
Looking Ahead
The 60th anniversary of ICERD compels us to reaffirm our commitment to equality and redouble our efforts to eliminate racism. We must continue the fight to ensure equal treatment for all.
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