Resumed 43rd session of the Human Rights Council. Statement delivered by Minister-Counsellor Karin Bolin.
Madame President,
Sweden aligns itself with the statement made by the EU.
Let me begin by reaffirming our determination to combat all forms of racism.
Racism, xenophobia and prejudice restrict people's lives and create a breeding ground for violence and hate crime. This is unacceptable. Ultimately, these acts constitute threats not only to individuals but also to our societies and to democracy.
As partners, we have watched recent events in the US with pain. We all have a responsibility to fight racism. None of our countries is immune. Safeguarding journalists is key, as well as protecting the rights and safety of people to voice their concerns. We take note that the competent authorities in the US have taken steps to investigate the circumstances surrounding George Floyd's death and to ensure full transparency.
We as States, need to become better at identifying all forms of discrimination, racism and similar forms of hostility in order to expose, confront and adopt measures to combat it. We will continue to work tirelessly to this end.
I thank you.