About the Statement:

The Union Association for Human Rights delivered an oral statement under Item 9 – General Debate during the 57th session of the Human Rights Council. The statement underscored the importance of strengthening international efforts to eliminate racial discrimination, highlighted ongoing challenges, and emphasized the need for states to review national legislation and practices in line with UN principles. It also praised the UAE’s legislative and institutional role in combating discrimination and racism while promoting values of tolerance and human fraternity.

Content of the Statement:

• The statement emphasized the importance of the Council’s efforts to combat racial discrimination and the need for all states to review their laws to eliminate all forms of intolerance, xenophobia, and systemic discrimination.
• It called for enhanced international cooperation to counter governmental policies and practices that perpetuate racial and sectarian discrimination, which exacerbate civilian suffering and threaten social peace.
• The statement commended the UAE’s experience in combating discrimination, noting that the country:
  • Has ratified the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination;
  • Enacted Federal Law No. 34 of 2023 on Combating Discrimination, Hatred, and Extremism;
  • Promoted principles of tolerance, coexistence, and equality; and
  • Played a key role in the UN’s adoption of the International Day of Human Fraternity.

Importance of the statement:

• Warning against the escalation of racial discrimination globally: The statement highlights the rise of discriminatory and racist practices worldwide as a direct threat to peace and human dignity, calling for a stronger and more impactful UN response.
• Calling for national policy reforms: The statement urges states to review and align domestic laws and systems with international human rights standards on justice and equality.
• Showcasing the UAE’s experience as a global model: The statement presents the UAE’s legislative and institutional framework as a successful international example in embedding a culture of tolerance and peaceful coexistence.
• Linking national initiatives to UN frameworks: By referencing the UAE’s role in establishing the International Day of Human Fraternity, the statement demonstrates how national initiatives can shape the global human rights agenda.