FOREWORD Member States of the United Nations adopted these texts at the World Conference against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance, held from 31 August to 8 September 2001 in Durban, South Africa. They represent the hard-won results of a landmark occasion. The terrible attacks in the United States just three days later, with their aftermath of rising fear and xenophobia, make these anti-discrimination texts all the more relevant. They consist of a Declaration and Programme of Action. The Declaration represents the commitments arising from the complex global dialogue which took place. It addresses past manifestations as well as contemporary forms of racial discrimination. The Programme of Action is a road-map illustrating how the international community will follow up on these commitments. It indicates the steps to be taken to put an end to racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance and to prevent their future occurrence. If pursued with energy and goodwill by all actors – States, the United Nations, national institutions, intergovernmental organizations, and non-governmental organizations – this anti-discrimination agenda can bring new hope and change to the lives of the millions of human beings the world over who are victims of racial discrimination and intolerance. Mary Robinson, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and Secretary-General of the World Conference against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance vii