Intersessional high-level panel discussion on the incompatibility between democracy and racism 53/21 

 26th August 2025

Joint Statement with International-Lawyers.Org and Geneva International Centre for Justice

Delivered by Naji Haraj 

Thank you, and thanks to the Human Rights Commission, for holding this high-level discussion on the incompatibility between democracy and racism. Democracy is not merely a procedural system; it inherently embodies moral values. Its legitimacy is rooted in the fair treatment of every individual, regardless of race, belief, or background. Certainly, when racism infiltrates public policies and becomes entrenched in legal systems and social structures, it undermines the very foundations of democratic governance.

Discriminatory practices also marginalises communities and weaken trust in institutions. Racist ideologies erode pluralism and limit individuals’ opportunities to fully contribute to society. In this context, strengthening anti-discrimination civic education, in all its forms, is essential to building collective resilience against racism and intolerance. Institutions and government officials who practice exclusion on racial, ethnic, or sectarian grounds must be held accountable.

 It is important to recall here the significance of working seriously to continue disseminating the Durban Conference documents, educating about them, and, most importantly, effectively implementing the Durban Action Plan of Action. I defending democracy, I would also like to add that the unrestrained spread of hate speech based on racial or religious racism fuels division and violence, while discriminatory laws or practices undermine the rule of law and erode the legitimacy of institutions.

The practices currently taking place in the Republic of Iraq stand as a clear example of this, where discriminatory, exclusionary hate speech is escalating without limits within electoral campaigns. In this regard, we call upon states and relevant international bodies to implement comprehensive legislation to combat racism and hatred if they wish to uphold a sound democratic approach. This includes dismantling discriminatory systems and ensuring equal opportunities for access to justice, education, housing, and political participation.

 Thank you