194. Racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance are forms of
discrimination based on historically unjust social, economic and political orders. These
phenomena mutate, re-invent and continue to manifest themselves in contemporary societies,
causing severe psychological scars and perpetuating deep inequality and poverty. Therefore, this
Programme of Action, whilst acknowledging the past and its impact on the present, is forward
looking, and requires a concerted and sustained effort from members of the global community in
order to succeed.
195. Racism and racial discrimination are founded on ideologies of racial supremacy that have
historically and systematically denied certain groups of people full enjoyment of their human
rights and fundamental freedoms. The restoration of dignity to those who have suffered the
consequences of these ideologies is central to our humanity.
196. The proliferation of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance is
sustained by a lack of political will on the part of governments and other political, economic and
social actors. This indicates the magnitude of the task and the difficulties that lie ahead in
eradicating racism.
197. The eradication of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance,
particularly contemporary forms of slavery, calls for a radical transformation of society, and for
a re-ordering of global institutions which are presently dominated by rich countries and which
have created a framework within which racist and other discriminatory practices can continue to
flourish.
198. Within this context, the UN should, as a priority, initiate and engage in a process of
restructuring that could more effectively implement the universal values of equality and justice
as envisaged by the UN Charter, and work towards redressing current imbalances in global
structures with a focus on addressing the core issue of poverty and inequality.
199. In light of the above, the NGO Forum for the WCAR salutes the courage of all those who
have resisted and who continue to resist racism and all other forms of discrimination and
commits to support all efforts aimed at redressing past and present violations through reparations
and other remedies, based on the acknowledgement of racism derived from historical privileges
and prevailing in every part and country of the world.
