IIMSAM Middle East Regional Office Marks International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

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IIMSAM Middle East Director & Goodwill Ambassador Dr. Naseer Homoud’s message on International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. Dr. Naseer Homoud calls upon the world for unified approach for fighting racial discrimination.

Marking the UN International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, Dr. Naseer Homoud, Goodwill Ambassador and Director of Middle East office for the Intergovernmental Institution for the use of Micro-algae Spirulina against Malnutrition (IIMSAM), the Permanent Observer to the United Nations Economic and Social Council while addressing the media said “The crusade to make racism to books of history is only possible if the approach towards fighting the same is unified and organized with collective contribution of governments, organizations and over and above individuals. On this International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, I urge everyone to join hands for this crusade. I am sure, together; we can make real and ample progress for curbing racial discrimination from our civilization”.

March 21, is the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. It commemorates the day, in 1960, in South Africa, when sixty-nine demonstrators, including ten children, were gunned down for protesting peacefully against Apartheid. This event was recorded in history as the Sharpeville Massacre, marking the beginning of the end for the Apartheid regime in South Africa. It has been commemorated by the United Nations since 1966 as the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

Speaking on the occasion Dr. Homoud urged that the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination aims to increase awareness of the harmful effects of racism on an international scale. By recognizing the importance of this day, IIMSAM demonstrates its commitment to fostering respect, equality and diversity. “Whether it’s in the workplace, the schoolyard or elsewhere, racial stereotypes and prejudices impose a cost on all society,” said Dr. Homoud. “IIMSAM has firm stand against racial discrimination to ensure that all people across the globe can make a strong contribution to a productive economy and a cohesive society” he added.

"The commemoration of March 21 as the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is an opportunity to renew our personal commitment to overcome all forms of racism and discrimination and to show that we respect, accept and celebrate the cultural diversity of the whole world.” Dr. Homoud said while speaking on the occasion.

Expressing his concern over prevailing racism in some part of world Dr. Homoud said “racial discrimination denies its victims the most fundamental of all human rights – the right to equality. Further racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance are insidious, corrosive and sometimes explosive forces that devastate the lives of many individuals and, if left to fester, can undermine societies as a whole. They present a threat to security and often feature among the root causes of violent conflict”.

While speaking on the relevance of observing this day Dr. Homoud said new forms of racism have taken shape in the wake of globalization, the formation of multi-ethnic societies and the fight against terrorism affecting in particular ethnic or religious minorities, immigrants, refugees or asylum-seekers. He added “we strongly condemns all forms of racism, racial discrimination, intolerance and discrimination and urges states to adopt effective measures to combat the symptoms and causes of racism and discrimination and to effectively guarantee the freedom of thought, conscience, religion and belief to all without distinction. Based on the conviction that all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights, such discrimination must not be allowed”.

Combating racism and xenophobia remains a global challenge and requires an equally global response. IIMSAM urges all states to take effective action at both the national and international level to this end and confirms its readiness to work together and support with all countries to oppose racism, xenophobia, discrimination and related forms of intolerance wherever they occur. “International human rights standards relating to non-discrimination underpin the fight against racism. I reiterate my call on all states that have not yet done so to sign, ratify and implement as a matter of priority the International Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Racial Discrimination as the core international legal instrument in this respect. We can also push the issue and bring it to the top of the political agenda by challenging governments to create the economic, political and social conditions to eliminate racism from our society” Dr. Homoud said.

Answering a question on modus oprendi to eliminate racism Dr. Homoud contended that the elimination of racial discrimination and racism can be accomplished if we allow ourselves to live with understanding and respect for those around us. “This is a social and moral responsibility of us all. We all want to make our world a more tolerant and respectful place. If we sustain the momentum of this day throughout the rest of the year, we are well on our way towards a society that is more dynamic, inclusive and prosperous for all peoples”. Dr. Homoud said. He went on saying “We must remain united in the fight against racism and win. We are damaging our future and denying our common values if we allow the racists to create an agenda in which their actions are acceptable”.

Reaffirming IIMSAM commitment to fight against any type of racial discrimination Dr. Homoud contended that IIMSAM under leadership of His Excellency Ambassador Remigio M. Maradona, its Director General has firm stand against racial discrimination. IIMSAM believes that racism must be eradicated from all corners of the world at any cost and under any circumstances. The direct adverse affect of such discrimination is often visible on marginalized section of our society who are even deprived of their basic rights. “Firm rejection of the racist ideology is an imperative for us all. Equality, justice and respect for the human rights of all are common threads in our societies that reinforce the fight against racism. They are a central part of our commitment to each other. It is not just a matter for institutional action”. Dr. Homoud said.