Honorable Chair and Distinguished delegates,

A very Good Morning to all ,

As the representative of the Republic of South Africa, a nation that is overcoming

challenges of racial injustice to emerge with an undying dedication to equality and
reconciliation, I am here today to address one of the most pressing issues: the
fight against racism and discrimination.
As the words of Nelson Mandela goes,

“TO DENY PEOPLE THEIR HUMAN RIGHTS IS TO CHALLENGE THEIR VERY

HUMANITY”

Since the advent of democracy in 1994, South Africa has undertaken significant
strides to dismantle the legacy of apartheid and institutionalized racism. While
many dutch and british made South African laws rooted in white supremacy have
been abolished, we acknowledge that deep-rooted economic and social inequalities
still persists. The scars of apartheid still have its effects on our social landscape,
yet we are dedicated towards our constant efforts to overcome these challenges
both Nationally and Internationally.
As we stand at the forefront of the global fight against racism and discrimination,
South Africa reaffirms its dedication to upholding the principles outlined in
international conventions such as the ICERD, ICCPR, ICESCR, and the Durban
Declaration and Programme of Action.

Racial discrimination had a profound and pervasive impact on South Africa,

particularly during the era of apartheid, which lasted from 1948 to the early
1990s. Under apartheid, the government enforced strict racial segregation,
denying black South Africans basic rights and opportunities. This system led to
widespread poverty, limited access to education and healthcare, forced removals
from their homes, and the systematic disenfranchisement of black citizens. The
effects of apartheid continue to reverberate in South African society, despite the
official end of apartheid in the early 1990s and the establishment of a democratic
government. Efforts to address the legacy of racial discrimination include
initiatives aimed at redressing historical injustices, promoting reconciliation, and
building a more equitable society.

Our National level policy framework as enshrined in the Constitution and

reinforced by statutes such as the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair
Discrimination Act and the Employment Equity Act, demonstrates our commitment
towards combating racial discrimination in all its forms.

Here are some of the key treaties and charters that South Africa is a party to,
which aim to abolish racism, apartheid and discrimination:

1. United Nations Charter (1945)

- Article 1(3) promotes respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms for all
without distinction.

2. Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948)

- Article 1 declares dignity and equality for all humans.

3. International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination

(1965)
- South Africa ratified in 1998. Aims to eliminate racial discrimination and promote
understanding between races.

4. African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights (1981)

- Article 2 guarantees rights without discrimination of any kind.

5. Convention on the Rights of the Child (1990)

- South Africa ratified in 1995. Prohibits discrimination on any grounds.

6. Constitution of South Africa (1996)

- Chapter 2 guarantees equality and freedom from unfair discrimination based on
race, gender etc.

Thus, through ratifying these treaties and adopting a progressive post-apartheid

Constitution, South Africa has committed to international principles of equality,
human rights and non-discrimination.

We condemn any acts of violence or discrimination against migrants and

non-citizens, as witnessed in recent times. Through legislative measures and
judicial processes, we are actively pursuing justice and safeguarding the rights of
all individuals within our borders.
Moreover, we recognize the importance of awareness in promoting tolerance and
understanding. Initiatives such as the Anti-Racism Week and the integration of
human rights values into our school curriculum aim to foster a culture of respect
and inclusivity from a young age.

In our pursuit of a more just society, we have undertaken comprehensive reforms,

including Project 25, aimed at eliminating discriminatory provisions from colonial
and apartheid-era laws. The Constitutional Court stands as a beacon of hope,
empowered to order the revision of laws with negative racial undertones.
Furthermore, we are committed to addressing the historic imbalances reflected in
racial classifications and promoting inclusivity in all sectors, including sports. By
abolishing the quota system and ensuring that national sports teams reflect the
diversity of our society, we are taking concrete steps towards unity and
reconciliation.

In the future, South Africa aims to address socioeconomic disparities, foster

social cohesion, strengthen institutions, empower marginalized communities,
confront racism and hate speech, and engage in international cooperation. Through
these efforts, it strives to create a society where all citizens live with dignity,
equality, and mutual respect.
And as the representative of the republic of south africa we take the intiative to
request all member states to pledge our collective efforts to combat racism and
discrimination, uphold the dignity and equality of all individuals, and build a world
where justice and respect prevail.
Thankyou