46th session of the Human Rights Council. Statement delivered by Ambassador Anna Jardfelt.
Madame President,
I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway and my own country Sweden.
Let me begin by re-affirming our firm commitment to combat all forms of racism.
The inherent dignity and equal rights of all individuals, as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights clearly states, should be self-evident.
Yet, racism and discrimination continue to occur in all parts of the world, including in our own countries. Racism and discrimination are exacerbated by the COVID-19 crisis. This needs to be taken into account when responding to the pandemic.
Racism, and discrimination, in all its forms and manifestations are unacceptable. Wherever this exists, and however it is expressed.
The fight against racism needs to be persistent and relentless. Adequate and pervasive measures must be adopted. This includes fighting prejudices and combatting incitement to hatred and violence. This can only be achieved through strong Government leadership in close cooperation with all relevant stakeholders, including civil society.
We as States, have a responsibility to fulfil our commitments to ensure inclusive, tolerant, and equal societies.
I thank you