The UN General Assembly decided in 1997 that an international Conference should be convened to review progress made in the fight against racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerances; to consider ways and means to ensure the application of standards and the implementation of instruments to combat these phenomena; to increase the level of awareness; and to formulate recommendations for action-oriented measures to combat these phenomena.

Last year, the UN General Assembly adopted the following as the theme of the Conference: "United to Combat Racism: Equality, Justice, Dignity."

"It is indeed momentous that the United Nations has chosen SA to host the 3^rd World Conference Against Racism, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance (WCAR), and the first of its kind in this new millenium," said Mr Pahad

Mr Pahad also said, "We have been selected as the host country because of the historic struggle against racism, ethnicity and gender. However, while these issues are addressed at a Constitutional level within our country, it is an excellent opportunity for South Africans to appreciate the extent of racism, xenophobia and related intolerances experienced around the world."

"The Conference," said Mr Pahad, "must therefore conclude with a definite international programme of action in dealing with growing incidences of racism, xenophobia and related intolerances in the world."

Ten to twelve thousand delegates are expected to attend the Conference - half of whom will attend the NGO forum (28^th August – 1^st September) preceding the Conference, the other half to attend the main governmental plenary which runs from 31^st August to 7^th September. The main plenary will also be preceded by a Youth Summit (26^th-27^th August)

At this time, we have received confirmation that a number of heads of state and ministers will be participating in the Conference.

On the 1^st September there will be a "Global March Against Racism" in Durban. While we acknowledge that these demonstrations will reflect some of our own concerns, we ask that these be conducted peacefully so that the issues will be focused on by the media and role-players and not the demonstrations themselves.

Even before the Conference, SA has conceptualised and will implement a programme of anti-racism that will show the world our commitment to the fight against racism and related intolerance.

On the 21^st August 2001, each South African is asked to light candles, torches, lanterns and any other light form to symbolise our commitment as a country to the ideals of non-racism and tolerance.

Municipalities across the country are expected to organise the "Torches of Tolerance" event to mobilise people behind the upcoming World Conference Against Racism, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance (WCAR). At noon, Torches of Tolerance will be lit and burn until the official closing of WCAR.

Mayors will lead the event and municipalities should mobilise communities, religious and traditional leaders, youth, women, the disabled and people living with HIV/AIDS to participate in this programme.

All South Africans, black and white from all walks of life are invited to join in this event of hope. We appeal to the churches to ring their bells at midday nationally and to host special services for tolerance. We urge motorists to light their headlights at noon to show harmony will all other South Africans participating in the event.

We ask that those who cannot join the marches to light a candle and observe a personal moment to reflect upon the issues and recommit themselves to achieving tolerance in this country.

If every South African participates in this event, once again we would have demonstrated to the world that we are committed to the fight for a better world for all.

Let us truly make tolerance and diversity the vision for the 21^st century through this national event led by our mayors and community leaders.

For further information, please contact Ronnie Mamoepa at 082 990 4853.

Issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs
Private Bag X 152
Pretoria
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