Statement by Iceland on Contemporary Forms of Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerances

Human Rights Council – 56th session

Item 9: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerances

Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries

8 July 2024

Mr. President,

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries.

We thank the Special Rapporteur for her report.

We are deeply alarmed by the rise in hate crimes and incitement to violence against ethnic, racial and religious minorities around the world.

These not only threaten the safety and wellbeing of individuals but undermine social cohesion, the stability of societies and the fundamental principles of equality and human dignity.

Resurgence and glorification of Nazism and neo-Nazism represent a significant regression in human rights, perpetuating grave historical injustices and deepening divisions within communities.

Combating Nazism and neo-Nazism should not be politicized or misappropriated by States as a pretext for other ulterior motives. We strongly believe such misuse undermines the genuine fight against these heinous ideologies, and we categorically reject any use of false narratives in this regard.

To eradicate racial injustice, robust measures must be adopted, within and among countries, that comprehensively address all forms of racism, including Nazism and neo-Nazism.

Through education and awareness campaigns and strengthened legal frameworks, the international community must work collectively towards combating racism and upholding universal human rights standards, leaving no one behind.

I thank you.