Every year March 21 marks observance of International Day for Elimination of Racial Discrimination, reminding the global community of the urgent need to confront and eliminate racism and racial hatred. This day also underscores the importance of promoting equality, dignity, and human rights for all.
Theme for 2025 International Day : “60th Anniversary of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD)” – commemorating six decades of this landmark international treaty dedicated to eradicating racial discrimination.
Historical Background and Significance
Origin of the Day: The International Day was established to remember the Sharpeville Massacre in South Africa on March 21, 1960, when police opened fire on peaceful demonstrators protesting against apartheid’s oppressive “pass laws”, killing 69 people.
ICERD Adoption:
- On December 21, 1965, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD) through Resolution 2106 (XX).
- ICERD became the first of the UN’s core international human rights treaties, setting a precedent for future human rights advancements.
- It entered into force in 1969 and remains a key global framework for fighting racism.
1979 Programme of Activities:
- The UN General Assembly adopted a programme of activities as part of the Decade for Action to Combat Racism and Racial Discrimination.
- It also designated March 21 as the start of an annual week of solidarity with people fighting against racism and discrimination worldwide.
Progress Since 1960:
- The apartheid system in South Africa has been dismantled.
- Many countries have abolished racist laws and practices.
- An international framework to combat racism, primarily guided by ICERD, has been developed.
Current Challenges and Global Realities
Despite these achievements, racism continues to persist in many forms:
- Stigma and Inequality: Many individuals, communities, and societies still face the injustice, exclusion, and stigma caused by racial discrimination.
- Need for Continued Action: The nearing universal ratification of ICERD signals progress, but efforts to eliminate racial discrimination must be strengthened at both national and international levels.