Statement by India under Agenda Item 9: General Debate on Racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related forms of intolerance 60th Session of the Human Rights Council, delivered by Mr. K.S. Mohammed Hussain, Counsellor, Permanent Mission of India, Geneva
2 October 2025
Mr. President,
- Any kind of racism goes against the basic tenets of Indian Civilization which considers the whole world as one family and has advocated welfare of entire humanity. Respect for and celebration of diversity has been the guiding principle of multi-religious, multi-ethnic and multi-lingual India. Our Constitution upholds the principle of equality and expressly prohibits discrimination on account of race and any other ground. These constitutional provisions are embodied in our legal framework, and safeguarded by the judiciary, human rights institutions, civil society and media.
- It is especially meaningful that we are discussing this topic today, on the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, who devoted his life to the fight against all forms of discrimination, including racism.
Mr. President,
- Despite the efforts made in combating racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerances, these pernicious ills continue to persist in different forms and manifestations today.
- We need comprehensive legal and administrative responses to counter these emerging challenges. We must hold the perpetrators accountable, build awareness among people, train law enforcement officials, and monitor and review efficacy of various measures.
- Complementary domestic action and international cooperation is necessary to effectively to implement the Convention on Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination and the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action to realize inclusive growth envisaged in 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which leaves ‘no one behind’.
I thank you.
