nous peoples, migrants, refugees, minorities, the Roma and others. Durban also put the gender dimension of racial discrimination on the map, as well as the more general question of multiple discrimination. In addition, the importance of involving not only States, but a wide variety of actors including civil society, NGOs and youth, in the implementation of the Durban commitments was emphasized. In reflecting on the World Conference, it is important to note that the Declaration and Programme of Action adopted in Durban are both historic and forward-looking. They provide a new and innovative anti-discrimination agenda, and, as such, constitute an essential element of an emerging global dialogue on how to eliminate the scourge of racial discrimination from our world. People in all parts of the world continue to suffer daily from racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance. They are looking to the United Nations and its Member States to lead the way forward and help them to have the conditions for a better life, a decent life, and one free of discrimination. Durban should be seen as a beginning and not an end. The key to responding to the hopes and aspirations of those who continue to suffer from discrimination is to ensure effective implementation of the commitments made at this landmark Conference. There is an enormous consensus around the world, amongst peoples and Governments alike, on the need to do more to implement the principles of equality and nondiscrimination. The Declaration and Programme of Action adopted at the Conference gave the international community the tools to do this. But the best tools are only of value if they are put to use. 3