Mr Chair,

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union.

The EU reaffirms its unwavering commitment to combating racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance in all its forms. In the year of the 60th anniversary of the International Convention to Eliminate Racial Discrimination, we renew the call to its effective implementation, upholding dignity, inclusion and equality. This will also be the aim of our new EU Anti-Racism Strategy, that will be presented later this year.

We recall the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action (DDPA) as a blueprint which lays down both vision and concrete measures for eradicating racism globally. This work goes together with our resolute fight against antisemitism, anti-Muslim hatred, and all other forms of discrimination.

The EU participates actively in all anti-racism mechanisms. Because of this, we have noticed a sharp decline in attendance and participation. This is regrettable, and it may have to do with the proliferation of mechanisms and overlap of mandates. What we need is not more meetings but the implementation of the goals we have set ourselves. This can only happen if there is good ownership of the work we do, which will be facilitated by a more strategic organisation of our work, allowing for better participation.

We stand ready to continue engaging on substance, and to address the urgent need to concentrate expertise, increase ownership, and enhance the impact of our work, starting with discussions in the IGWG in October.

I thank you.