Qatar Committed to Human Rights As 'Strategic Option'

Geneva, July 04 (QNA) - The State of Qatar reaffirms its strong condemnation of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related forms of intolerance, urging the international community to put an end to such practices, which violate human rights and fundamental freedoms. This came in a speech delivered by First Secretary, Permanent Mission of Qatar to the United Nations in Geneva, Mr. Khalid Fahad al-Haijri before the 20th regular session of the Geneva-based UN Human Rights Council Item.9: 'Racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related forms of intolerance.' Qatar's keenness to combat all form of racism and racial discrimination stems from its Constitution, which stipulates principles and rules that guarantee human rights and freedoms, explained Mr. al-Hajiri. Despite the international community's common commitment to the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action as well as the outcome of the 2009 Review, the world is witnessing a rise of contemporary forms of racism and racial discrimination, he said. The State of Qatar expresses deep concern over the growing manifestations of racism and racial discrimination across the world since the economic and financial crisis has deepen new forms of racism and discriminatory practices in many countries, the UN official went on saying. It also condemns extremist political parties, movements and group, which are leading activities aimed at creating negative stereotypes of Arabs and Muslims and committing offenses against the sanctity of Islam by targeting holy sites, books and the sanctity of Prophets condemned by international law and the relevant UN resolutions, he added. Al-Hajiri also reaffirmed his country's commitment to fight any form of discrimination on the basis of race or ethnic origin or gender, calling for equal treatment in employment, education and health. Presenting his country's strategy for fighting racism and discrimination, Al-Hajiri said that promoting and protecting respect for human rights has been always a 'strategic option' for the State of Qatar and a basis for the comprehensive reform policy being implemented since HH the Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani came to power. To achieve this target, Qatar has integrated human rights concepts into the school curriculum and hosted numerous international forums aimed at mobilizing the international community to address the political and religious conflicts, he said. The State of Qatar, which will host major sporting events, believes that sport plays a pivotal role in spreading the values of diversity, tolerance and equality, concluded Mr. al-Hajiri. (QNA)