International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination

Definition

The International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD) is a key human rights treaty adopted by the United Nations in 1965, aimed at combating racial discrimination and promoting equality. It obligates signatory countries to eliminate racial discrimination in all its forms and to promote understanding among different races, thereby forming a crucial part of the international legal framework against discrimination. The convention highlights the need for countries to enact legislation, develop policies, and create practices that protect individuals from racial discrimination and also emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing the rights of indigenous peoples.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. ICERD was adopted by the UN General Assembly in 1965 and came into force in 1969, currently having 182 state parties.
2. The convention requires states to report regularly to the UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on measures taken to implement its provisions.
3. ICERD defines racial discrimination broadly, including any distinction, exclusion, restriction, or preference based on race, color, descent, or national or ethnic origin.
4. The treaty encourages states to engage in public education and awareness campaigns to combat prejudices and promote equality among all races.
5. It emphasizes the need for effective remedies for individuals who have experienced racial discrimination, including access to justice and redress.

Review Questions

• How does ICERD contribute to the international legal framework for combating racial discrimination?
  • ICERD serves as a foundational document in the international legal framework against racial discrimination by providing a comprehensive definition of racial discrimination and outlining obligations for state parties. It requires countries to take proactive steps to eliminate such discrimination through legislation and policies. By establishing clear guidelines and responsibilities, ICERD strengthens international efforts to promote equality and safeguard human rights for all individuals regardless of their racial background.
• Discuss the relationship between ICERD and the rights of indigenous peoples as outlined in the convention.
  • ICERD recognizes the unique challenges faced by indigenous peoples regarding racial discrimination. The convention explicitly calls for measures to eliminate racial prejudice and ensure that indigenous populations enjoy equal rights and protections under the law. This relationship highlights how ICERD not only addresses broad racial issues but also emphasizes the importance of respecting the specific rights and cultural identities of indigenous groups within state policies aimed at combating discrimination.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of ICERD's mechanisms in addressing ongoing issues of racial discrimination globally.
  • The effectiveness of ICERD's mechanisms can be assessed through its reporting system and state obligations, which promote accountability among signatory nations. However, challenges remain in enforcement and compliance due to varying degrees of commitment from countries. While ICERD has laid a solid foundation for international standards against racial discrimination, ongoing global issues such as systemic racism, hate crimes, and discrimination against marginalized groups underscore the need for stronger implementation measures. Further advocacy for human rights education and support from civil society organizations is essential to enhance ICERD's impact and address these persistent challenges.

Related terms

Discrimination: Unequal treatment based on characteristics such as race, gender, or religion that results in unfair disadvantages.

Indigenous Peoples: Ethnic groups who are the original inhabitants of a given territory, often facing marginalization and discrimination.

Human Rights Treaty: An agreement between countries that establishes international standards for human rights protection and enforcement.