State of Kuwait reaffirms its firm rejection of all forms of racism and racial discrimination

New York, Oct 9 (KUNA) -- Kuwait expressed its firm rejection of all forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance, emphasizing that human dignity is an inherent right for all, which must not be diminished or denied in its enjoyment for any reason. This was stated in Kuwait’s address delivered by Diplomatic Attaché Omar Al-Sa'id before the Third Committee of the United Nations General Assembly, which deals with social, humanitarian, and cultural affairs, during the discussion of the agenda item on "Elimination of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance." Al-Sa'id stressed the need for the full and effective implementation of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination and the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action, as they constitute two fundamental pillars of international efforts to combat racism and address its root causes and its impact on individuals and societies. He underscored the necessity of confronting ideas and practices that fuel racism, foremost among them hate speech and incitement to discrimination and violence, warning that hate speech and incitement to discrimination and violence pose a growing threat to the cohesion and stability of societies. He highlighted the importance of dialogue, education, and respect for cultural and religious diversity in countering intolerance and fostering a culture of tolerance and mutual respect, particularly among younger generations, alongside strengthening national legislation aimed at protecting national unity and preserving social peace. On the national level, Al-Sa'id noted that Kuwait had presented its combined report on its 25th and 26th periodic reports to the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination in Geneva last August, reaffirming its commitment to continuing cooperation with UN human rights mechanisms. He concluded Kuwait’s address by emphasizing that eliminating racism requires genuine political will and concrete measures that ensure equality and safeguard human dignity, and cannot be limited to slogans and declared commitments alone. (End) A.S.T. / M.A.H.A.