Press Statement
Attributable to the Spokesperson of the High Representative for the
United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC)
On the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
On the occasion of the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, the High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), Mr. Miguel Moratinos, notes that the global COVID-19 pandemic has exposed deep-seated inequalities and laid bare the pervasive and persistent nature of racism across the world. There is an alarming rise in far-right extremism, anti-Asian violence and other forms of religious intolerance including anti-Muslim hatred, antisemitism and anti-Christian violence. The recent horrific shootings of eight people in the United States, including six Asian women, put into sharp focus calls to end racism and acts of violence.
With this year’s theme, “Youth standing up against racism”, Mr. Moratinos encourages the global youth to join the United Nations’ efforts to foster a global culture of tolerance, equality, and anti-discrimination. He notes that young people are powerful agents of social change and that when youth are engaged, there is hope for a better world.
The High Representative reiterates that the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) upholds and promotes the motto “Many cultures, One Humanity” and will continue to work towards a society where diversity is seen as an asset rather than a threat.
The High Representative stresses that eliminating all forms of racism and discrimination and upholding human dignity is a collective responsibility.