Geneva: The UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD) released its findings on Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, the United Kingdom, and Venezuela, detailing substantial concerns and providing recommendations for each country. The committee evaluated the adherence to the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination by these nations during its latest session.
According to Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, the report highlighted various issues across the countries, including severe violations at borders, discrimination against minorities, and misuse of authority by state forces. In Belarus, the committee criticized the harsh treatment of migrants at the EU border and urged the government to protect individuals seeking asylum and to provide necessary human rights training to border and law enforcement officials.
In Bosnia and Herzegovina, the persistent discrimination against Roma communities was noted as particularly concerning, with calls for the government to improve living conditions and access to services for Roma individuals. The situation in Pakistan was also troubling, with the committee condemning the ongoing blasphemy accusations leading to mob violence and the significant deportation of individuals under the Illegal Foreigners’ Repatriation Plan.
Iran and Iraq were admonished for the treatment of ethnic minorities, particularly in handling protests and the displacement of people, respectively. The committee urged Iran to undertake fair legal processes and abolish the death penalty, while Iraq was instructed to ensure the voluntary and safe return of internally displaced persons.
The United Kingdom faced criticism for hate crimes and systemic racism within its policing and criminal justice systems. The committee emphasized the need for strict measures to curb racial profiling and ensure accountability for such acts.
Lastly, Venezuela was highlighted for its negative impact on indigenous lands due to mining activities, with calls for the cessation of military operations without consultation with indigenous communities and for protection against human rights abuses.
Each country was provided with specific recommendations aimed at improving their practices to better conform to international standards on racial discrimination, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding human rights across diverse societies.