Eliminating Racism

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: Afghanistan
Delegate Name: Rachel Hartman
School: Royal Oak High School

Afghanistan fully acknowledges the problem racism poses to some nations and societies in the world; however, we believe that racism itself is only a small part of the problem. While racism is extremely prevalent in the Western world, discrimination comes in different forms as well, such as tribalism. Tribalism is the division of the population of a nation among ancient lines, often divided by wealth, religion and age-old alliances. While this is similar to racism, it goes much deeper than simply skin-color and much farther back – some tribes trace their ancestry back to when Genghis Khan invaded Afghanistan. Because of the firmly rooted nature of tribalism it is much more difficult to eliminate than racism, yet it poses a greater problem for the nations in which it exists than racism ever has or will.

Tribalism is a huge obstacle to any nation that wishes to promote, sustain, or create democracy. The intense divisions within the population make it almost impossible for any consensus to be made, something that Afghanistan has found incredibly challenging in recent political discussions. National unity is practically an impossibility for Afghanistan and each group has their own ideas as to who should be the Afghan leader. Recently, the Tajiks and Hazaras have expressed disapproval in the election of Hamid Karzai, a Pashtun, and both tribes often speak of the Pashtuns as backwards and blind to the progress being made in Afghanistan. Realistically, Afghanistan – and any other nations experiencing the same divisions and hostility among their population – can have no hope of moving towards democracy until the problem of Tribalism in solved.

In order to ever hope to solve the problem of racism, western nations must be willing to look past the ideas of race and religion and also include a look deeper into the ancestry and tribal identity of tribes stretching back hundreds of years – much farther than the advent of slavery and western imperialism. The problem of racism and tribalism cannot possibly be accomplished without the aid of NGO’s and the United Nations, possibly using Government agencies in individual countries to create and enforce guidelines and laws. These organizations should attempt to provide equity for all groups of people and work closely with the respective nations’ governments to accomplish this goal. In the use of these organizations, attention must be paid to each nations’ culture, political status, and history. Nations that currently are undergoing political turmoil need to be more closely watched than others, as the effects of attempting to eliminate or even decrease racism or tribalism could overturn already unstable governments. The problem of racism, and more importantly tribalism, simply cannot be overlooked as it not only prevents individuals from fulfilling their whole potential, but also is a major hurdle for developing nations who are trying to create and sustain democracy.

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: Austria
Delegate Name: Nicole Iraola
School: Saline High School

Austria doesn’t have a large interest in eliminating racism. Our country believes that a large percentage of crime in Austria comes from immigrants, and has a deeper concern for the safety of our native people. However, Austria is not opposed to the elimination of racism, because the rate of hate crimes due to racism is increasing rapidly in our country. If treated properly, Austria believes that racism can be eliminated throughout the world with the right recommendations.

For example, if the European Social Charter and the UN Convention Against Discrim¬ination are ratified, that will be a step towards a solution to racism. Austria thrives to protect the sovereignty of its people, and is hoping to find a solution to the amount of racism in the world. Austria doesn’t think that it is able to help with racism across the world though, due to the high amounts of racism in our own country. Our government doesn’t support the extensive efforts that other countries are putting into eliminating racism, for the mere fact that Austria has an inherent problem with racism in our own country.

It is important to respect the beliefs and rights of each country’s citizens, and Austria doesn’t have an issue with the beliefs of its people. Our country respects that its people have their own views, however extreme they may be. There is a lack of interest in eliminating from our government and its people; therefore Austria believes that in order to represent its people accurately, it is best that things stay the way they are.

There is a moral obligation of our country to follow the wishes of the majority of our citizens and respect their views, and Austria intends to follow through with this obligation. Austria doesn’t think that finding a solution is important because our country has other problems which we feel the need to prioritize over the elimination of racism.

Even so, Austria believes that if a solution were to be recommended which would protect the views and opinions of our people; while it eliminated racism, Austria would be willing to help.

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: Belarus
Delegate Name: Gabe Appel-Kraut
School: Ann Arbor Community High School

The Republic of Belarus, which holds the highest standards regarding racism, knows how important it is to rid the world of all forms of discrimination. An important quote from the 1963 General Assembly states, “Considering that the United Nations Declaration on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination of 20 November 1963 (General Assembly resolution 1904 (XVIII)) solemnly affirms the necessity of speedily eliminating racial discrimination throughout the world in all its forms and manifestations and of securing understanding of and respect for the dignity of the human person”. This quote is important to consider because it was made in 1963 and still little has been done. Belarus believes that all people are created equal and those who cannot defend themselves should be able to rely on the international community for aid. All countries, including those sitting on the Security Council have a need to address issues of racism. One step to move forward should be aiding groups that are discriminated against in educating themselves, and protecting themselves from discrimination. This can be done with monetary resources or with education and volunteer work.

In 1963, the international community declared an obvious need for immediate action, it is now 2009 and nothing has been done. That is not swift action and the international community needs to respond much stronger. Belarus believes that once countries and groups or organizations that are responsible for these acts are reprimanded, many innocent people will avoid suffering.

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: Cameroon
Delegate Name: Ian Baker
School: Mattawan High School

As an African nation, racism is clearly a very imporant issue to Cameroon. With a society, backed by a government, with overall tolerance, especially religiously, racism is not a large issue within the country. However, racism towards persons of African descent continues to be an issue worldwide, potentially limiting economic trade between predominatly black and mainly white nations. Cameroon feels that while it is in the best interests of all world nations to foster racial cooperation, it also accepts that underlying religious issues, such as the conflict between Christianity and Islam, will make this a difficult struggle.

Because Cameroon is composed mainly of Christians and Muslims, to keep the peace and prevent tribal warfare, religious toleration is a must- have; the southern part of the nation is primarily Christian, but the north is primarily Muslim. The goverment has, in spite of its intense corruption at all levels, made a continuing effort to foster tolerance within the nation; hence, trade is relatively free between members of different religions.

Internationally, however, Cameroon stands with the African Union in fostering international racial tolerance to help foster effective trade. With most exports going to Spain, Italy, the United States, and other primarly "white" nations, cooperation could more easily be fostered between Cameroon and these other nations if their general public was more sensitive to the issues that are present within the African community. Cameroon cannot do much to solve this problem; only the cooperation with the leadership of these nations can opinions be effectively, and permanenlty, augmented.

As has already been stated, Cameroon feels that a reduction in global racial tensions would ease trade and help nations to speak more freely with one another about issues that are mutually important to both nations. Only through fostering good communications between governments and their people, coupled with an overall change in attitudes globally, can a viable solution be reached.

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: Canada
Delegate Name: Natalie Downs
School: Forest Hills Central High School

1.Canada has been promoting multiculturalism since the 1960’s. The Canadian Charter of Rights encourages equality among all people, and supports integration among Canadian citizens. Twenty-six percent of Canada’s population consists of mixed backgrounds, compared to the United States whose population is only made up of 1.61% of mixed races. Preferential hiring does exist in Canada; this is done in order to create a multiracial working environment in order to overcome racial stereotypes. Racism causes many problems among people; the biggest forms of racism can lead to genocides. But segregation is also a major problem around the world where people of minority races are given lower quality health care and other services simply because of their race.

2.Canada believes that racism must be ended throughout the world, and one way to do that is through teaching people to be accepting of others. One way of doing this is encouraging preferential hiring throughout businesses. This may seem racist but the hope is by introducing employees into a working environment of multiple races people begin to realize that a person’s worth is not based upon the color of their skin. Because of this Canada hopes that the United Nations will support their desire to spread preferential hiring. Canada also hopes that the United Nations will work towards ending segregation, particularly in the case of health care.

3.Canada hopes for most developed countries to support their efforts in ending racism. This is because most developed countries have rights of equality for their own people. Countries like the United States along with Canada grant all people equality and because of that they encourage equality for all people of every nation.

4.Countries who are most likely not to support Canada are countries that are considered the least developed. This is because many lesser-developed African countries tend to be run by wealthy officials. Because of this many high quality services are out of reach to the people because it is not affordable. However, officials who benefit from their wealth have no interest in improving their countries if the change could take a hit upon their lifestyles.

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: China
Delegate Name: Kacey Lawniczak
School: Royal Oak High School

Worldwide cooperation is required to battle against any and all forms of racism, racial discrimination, and xenophobia, a lot of which can be considered the enemy to the world community. The People’s Republic of China believes that every community in the world needs to join together in the fight to end racism. Although racism is mainly in the Western idea, China still fights to end racism.

Country’s governments should recognize the effect racism has on human rights and security. The People’s Republic of China wishes to implement a ‘zero tolerance’ policy on racism. The fight against racism will take time to be completed, but with the help of every country in the world, racism can eventually come to an end. If we take on racism one step at a time, addressing the different types of racism, many things in the world will change. Different forms of racism are arising in more aspects than the color of your skin, including your current finance situation, food crises and the risk of climate change.

The People’s Republic of China believes that we can live in a world with no fear of racism, or hatred. If the government and the people in a nation work together, we all can work, and make a difference.

The People’s Republic of China also wishes to redefine, or reinforce the definition of racism. Racism around the world is changing, and with these changes, new standards need to be emplaced. The changes in racism I have stated above are new to the world, and in light of these forms of racism, an international definition needs to be set. The People’s Republic of China is against all forms of racism, and we have been involved in various anti-racist activities.

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: Croatia
Delegate Name: Christine Elias
School: Flint Southwestern Classical Academy

There will always be an issue of racism in any country that is developed. May it be racism of different culture groups within the country or discrimination against people for being a certain way, or of certain beliefs. The issue of eliminating racism is raised in front of the committee. Though every country would love to say that they are for eliminating racism, Croatia has gone through enough wars and diversity that it is almost impossible for them not to be acknowledged as a racist country.

Legally, Serbs living in present day Croatia as well as other minority groups in the same conditions have the right to the same protection of the more common ethnic and religious groups of Croatians. However, in reality, the Serbs undergo cruel discrimination in many different areas. As Croatia, religion is a huge aspect of people’s lives and it is a huge identification for individuals. It is also a way to “single them out for discriminatory practices.” “The Muslim community suffers from discrimination and Croatian Muslims and Bosnian refugees report widespread discrimination in many areas such as citizenship and employment rights.” As an outcome of this, many religious organizations automatically become the targets of violence occurring in the country. “In a March 1998 report, the Zagreb Jewish community said it had protested publicly and voiced complaints to the Croatian government and parliament regarding racist and antisemitic incidents, but without positive results.” Croatia has publicly announced it apologies for crimes that had been committed by the Croatian people during the Second World War. “The Croatian public then, during the Second World War, and today, including the Croatian government and me personally, have condemned the crimes that the Ustasa committed not only against Jews but also against democratic Croats and even against the members of other nations in the Independent State of Croatia.”

The people of Croatia have begun to understand the racism that takes place in their own country. To question it would be to question their beliefs and all that they suffered and sacrificed in order to become the independent state that they are. “The "Eliminating Racism Through Understanding" forum was held to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.” Croatia has been accused of various racist crimes. However, a lot of these are very difficult to prove such a thing. No country wants to openly declare their love for racism. But when you have worked so hard on obtaining a country and rightfully making it your own, then Croats feel it necessary to have such views and to make their voice heard. A lot of the stuff that Croatia gets accused of has to deal with their sports. Croatia was told to have a deep-rooted problem after racist chants were said at Emile Heskey. Croatia has dealt with many other bigger problems then racism for them to worry about such a thing. Croats should stick to themselves and the matter of religion has always been a problem in any country. The issue of completely eliminating racism will not be solved as long as we have diversity and different beliefs.

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: France
Delegate Name: Aaron Bernard
School: Roeper School

The Republic of France is deeply invested in trying to cure the sickness of racism. As a former colonial nation France has had past issues of racism. However for over two centuries, France has been an international pacesetter in the abolition of slavery and in reducing racism in our domestic and overseas territories. We were the first European nation to outlaw slavery. Hundreds of French people of color fought side by side in France of European origin, against repressive regimes in 1789, 1830, 1848, and 1870. France has notable groundbreaking legislation that has been used in the fight against racism. The law on freedom of the press sanctions, passed in 1881, put sanction on racist speech and writings also it prohibited insult or defamation against any group of people.

In the past half century, The Republic of France has again been at the forefront of the fight against racism by using its laws as an example on how to combat this issue.

The “Pleven” anti-racism law (1972)

– extends prohibition to include racist speech or writing perpetrated against individuals;

– creates the offence of provoking discrimination, hatred or “racial violence”;

– prohibits certain racist behavior by creating the offence of discrimination;

– allows anti-racism organizations to act on behalf of the victims as the party claiming damages (provided the organization has been established for five years).

The Labor Code

– since 2001, discrimination is specifically prohibited in: recruitment, sanctions and dismissal, training, remuneration and promotion;

– the rules for the burden of proof have been modified: the victim does not have to prove the facts, but must provide material indications, and the employer must then prove that the measure taken was for reasons other than discriminatory ones;

– takes account of indirect discrimination, where a neutral criterion is likely to create a particular disadvantage for people of a particular origin.

The Republic of France has for over two centuries guaranteed the rights of peoples of differing religious and racial origins. Included in these groups are France’s significant Jewish population, who have from the era of the 1789 Revolution, been guaranteed civil and legal equality. More recently, France has had substantial immigration, not only by people of color from its former Caribbean and sub-Saharan African colonies, but also by people of Arabic origin from North Africa and the Middle East.

A vital topic currently as a subset of racism is anti-Semitism, and stemming from that, the question of Palestine. The Republic of France believes that the Palestinian people have a right to a state, which they are entitled in the name of International Law and Justice. France similarly believes that the people of Israel have the right to live in security, which the tragedies of History have made so necessary for them. At times, the French Republic’s support of these seemingly contradictory positions has brought strife within France, it regions, and its cities, yet France continues to oppose racism against anyone and by anyone. The nations of the world must band together to act in a similar fashion.

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: Germany
Delegate Name: Alycia Pucci
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

The Federal Republic of Germany recognizes that there is a nationwide issue of racism and seeks a future change in the world to put effort in eliminating the separation of people and eliminating racism once and for all. The National Socialist Party, also known as the Nazi Party, focused on nationalist and racist views that previously placed Germany as racial country towards Jewish and non- Germany ethnic groups. The power of this racial group caused severe terror on the groups targeted. In these racial conflicts caused the horrendous genocide led by Adolf Hitler known as the Holocaust. Germany is aware of its past and history that blaming our country’s problems on Germany non-ethnic groups has deeply affected and influenced people that will forever be life changing. However, the Federal Republic of Germany is disturbed by past occurrences and is eager to eliminate institutional racism and all of its form.

The great power of the Nazi party had the authority to deprive the rights of all Germany’s Jews political, economic, and personal rights. The catastrophe of the Holocaust ended after Germany surrendered to the United States on May 8, 1945. At this time Germany considerately took full responsibility for the wrong doings in the administration. Germany would like to raise awareness to the racial issues that have been dramatically changed and eliminated in Germany since the Holocaust time period. At Potsdam, Germany on August 1945 The United States, the United Kingdom, and the Soviet Union agreed to treat Germany as a single economic country unit.

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: Iran
Delegate Name: Eric Brichetto
School: Forest Hills Central High School

Racism is sometimes regarded simply as a phenomenon of individualized bias. Unfortunately, this is an oversimplification; racism exists on multiple levels, and is detrimental to the moral and cultural functionality of any country. Racism is an expression of hatred, and hatred has no place in any place that wishes to attain peace.

Iran has no problems of racism within its borders. However, Iran has been a target of racism in recent decades. For example, a great deal of anti-Iranian racism seems to exist in the morally corrupt society of the United States. In 2007, Debra Cagan commented quite rudely to a group of British politicians that “I hate all Iranians.” Iranian citizens travelling abroad have been interrogated and searched at airports, and Iranians in the Netherlands have been banned from enrolling in college courses relating to nuclear technology. The Islamic Republic of Iran is extremely disappointed and saddened by this, and finds this kind of national behavior unacceptable.

Iran wishes to have good relations with all countries, even the United States, and hopes that the international community is understanding and accepting of Iran’s policies on the matter. Iran would be particularly appreciative of support from Bangladesh, India, Japan, People’s Republic of China, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Georgia, Sudan, Senegal, and Uzbekistan.

Iran is in firm opposition to the tyrannical and illegal Zionist regime of Israel. It also expects opposition from the United States, although Iran would always be happy to have peaceful and friendly talks with the United States once it resolves to commit itself to peace, freedom, and justice.

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: Israel
Delegate Name: Evie Atwater
School: Forest Hills Central High School

The Jewish people have been victims of harsh racism for thousands of years. We have been persecuted and killed by the millions, and even in our own state we are not completely safe. Today, countless extremist groups and governments desire nothing more than to wipe our people and our nation off the face of the earth. Israel wishes to see UN action and involvement against anti-Semitic groups.

At this conference, Israel wishes to work with all countries and member states, regardless of their past treatment of our people. If we can come to an agreeable stance on eliminating racism, we would be happy to forgive and forget past faults. We will bear no grudges against countries who have wronged our people in the past, but rather work with those who share our beliefs on racism today.

On a more global outlook, Israel wishes to especially combat institutionalized racism. Social inequality is best dealt with by individual countries, but governments that are actively racist should receive UN attention. We encourage our member states to follow the example of the United States of America, whose civil rights movement of the 60’s and 70’s resulted in the peaceful elimination of institutionalized racism.

In light of recent events at the UN racism conference, Israel would like to clarify some points about our stance on racism. We are not racist against Muslims or any demographic group, and like many other countries we wish to see racism eradicated. We were very disappointed that unjustified name-calling, mud-slinging, and false accusations at the conference prevented us from participating further. We hope that productive discussion will preside over this session, and that other member states will cooperatively work with us towards the ultimate goal: the elimination of racism.

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: Libya
Delegate Name: Brittany Simpson
School: Flint Southwestern Classical Academy

Racism is something that has been going on for hundreds of years in Libya as well as every country around the world. It can not be stopped and people will continue to kill one another over their ethnicity and religion. Now just because this racial discrimination will not be able to completely be stopped does not mean we should not work on this problem. Libya believes that racism should not be tolerated and should still be viewed as a problem, yet we see it will still exist.

Since we have seen this problem we, Libya, are trying several different methods to help bring the number of “conflicts” around racism down. In our country we have an acute problem with race and the relationship between races. People are killed right in front of our eyes and on the very streets we walk on for no other reason then their race. Of course this is something we would like to stop and naturally we will help and try to bring this disaster down but we should examine the reason why this racism is around. We can not force people to change the manner in which they think about others, so in a sense we can not force them to not be racist. We believe every country has a certain issue with racism but every country does not deal with it the same way. However we can hope that all of these countries end products will look the same way. If there were guide lines set around racism and each country stayed within those guide lines then we believe the problems concerning race relations would severely decline and hopefully people would be better off for it.

The focus we believe for conference should be creating an international set of guidelines to help countries to deal with their internal problems. Also formulating relationship between nations so that an informed opinion can be brought to the United Nations. We should also keep in mind that we cannot punish people for their thoughts nor should we try to. These guidelines should be in place to keep violent acts of racism in check. The goal is to keep people in a safe and happy environment and we should not lose sight of that.

In conclusion Libya recognizes that racism is a problem that needs to be resolved. As we have stated we believe this would be best dealt with a set of international guidelines, much like the millennium development goals. With this in mind we still need to respect the individual’s right to free thought even if we might not agree with them.

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: Malawi
Delegate Name: Kendall Frimodig
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

Malawi is very disturbed with the current state of racism and xenophobia across the world. Xenophobia and Racism among various tribes in Africa is specifically a pressing issue. Elimination of racism and xenophobia in Africa would be beneficial in creating a violence free environment and a positive future for the country. It is obvious the United Nations has been fighting racial discrimination for decades, but as of late, we have been criticized for our lack of action on this issue. As a nation and the country of Malawi, we would like to punish all contributing to racism although, this task will be very difficult to prevent from occurring.

Back in the year of 1963, the international community declared a need for action, now it is 2009 and hardly anything has been done about it. The international community needs to respond to this issue. Malawi believes when countries and groups that are responsible for these actions are brought to justice, many innocent people will avoid suffering.

In 2001 the Durban conference against racism occurred. The declaration passed at this conference outlawed, among other things, the following: Solidarity with the African people in their continuing struggle against racism and intolerance, and that those evils are among the root causes and consequences of armed conflict. We as a nation agree that racism and xenophobia among tribes, religious groups, and nations, are what start major conflicts in Africa. If the United Nations were willing to take action against this issue not just in Malawi but also throughout Africa, then many conflicts could be resolved.

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: Mexico
Delegate Name: Brett Fogel
School: Forest Hills Central High School

For the longest time, racism has been such a negative part of the world. Racism is still apparent in almost every area of the globe. Racism had caused so much harm to the world and it seems as though the racism problem is never patched up until something horrible happens. So many people are hurt, mentally and physically, because of racism. So many people have died because of racism and have died in the fight against racism. All over the world there are majorities of certain races and ethnicities. A lot of times when the majorities feel threatened by certain minorities, there is expression in the form of racism. It is so hard to combat and eliminate racism in the world because it is such a mental trait that exists in certain people. There are so many instances where the only way getting rid of racism is to change a person’s stance that they have had since birth, because racism was all that they knew; it’s not often an acquired trait. Nations all over have had serious racial disputes and often times it takes outside intervention to put a stop to it. Countries have passed legislation that have tried to make sure that human rights are not violated because of racism, but it is so difficult to change someone’s racist mindset and often times this legislation prevents greater racism from developing from the racism that already exists. In recent history there have been less notable threats out of racism in the international community, this is probably in part to all of the effort that has been put towards eliminating racism and passing all of the legislation aimed at putting a stop to racism.

Mexico is home to so many different cultures and ethnicities. We are a large migratory base and get a lot of people of diverse backgrounds in our country. We have had some racism in our country and we are always working to eliminate racism and discrimination of any kind towards groups and individuals. We have passed acts and legislation to make any sort of racism or discrimination a direct human rights violation. We have recently put a large focus on education in the fight against racism. We believe that education is a great tool that can be used to make the necessary cultural changes to eliminate racism. As we move further into the 21st century we believe that great strides can be taken in the process of eliminating racism and we are fully willing to take those steps.

Mexico would definitely be on the side of nations looking to filter racism out of their country. We are in support of nations taking action to see that racism is slowed and that discrimination in general is frowned upon. We are in favor of countries that wish to attack racism at the direct sources and look to their government for help and educate their populations of the harms of racism. We do not agree with nations that believe racism is a big problem and think that all nations should recognize racism as a global threat that needs to be dealt with.

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: Mozambique
Delegate Name: Ian Savas
School: Roeper School

Mozambique has suffered from racism for much of its recent history. Prior to the arrival of the Portuguese, racism was little known, primarily only in Mozambique’s most northern port of Pemba, as the Swahili Indian Ocean slave traders enslaved peoples from Mozambique’s interior. Yet this trade was small compared to that which Portugal brought. From the fifteen hundreds to the eighteen hundreds Mozambique was afflicted by slave exploitation, as Portuguese slavers imprisoned and carried away almost a million of Mozambique’s people to the Americas, primarily to Brazil. Men, women, and children were taken from their native homes and forced to be shipped from the Indian Ocean across the Atlantic Ocean to work as slaves. These people were taken because they were of African descent and for no other reasons. This type of exploitation affects all of Africa, as well as impacts the entire world. These acts of racism from centuries past still have lasting affects today.

Immediately following Mozambique’s 1975 independence, mass amounts of European and mixed ethnic people left the country in fear that they might be treated as Europeans had treated the people of Mozambique for almost five centuries. On the eve of the civil war in Mozambique, there once again was a mass movement of s and mixed ethnic people leaving the country. The causes for these movements are unknown, but it can be deducted that many of these people left in fear of persecution due to their ethnic backgrounds. After the almost two decade civil war, a constitution was written for the country and people of Mozambique. This constitution was agreed upon by both rival factions during the civil war. This constitution contains specific clauses outlawing any and all persecution based on religion, ethnic background, gender, or social status. This clause also states that if there is any violation of these laws then there will be punishment in a criminal court.

Mozambique today has friendly relations with all nations of the world. We are particularly close to the former colonial power of Portugal, to the European Community, to the US, but also to our African neighbors, from South Africa to African nations to the north, and to the Peoples Republic of China, which is today one of our leading donors. Mozambique makes no distinction between any persons: black, brown, yellow, white, or of any difference based on religion or national origin, and wishes that all nations of the world would act in unity to do likewise. Mozambique strongly condemns racism wherever it may exist, and calls on the nations of the UN to act as one to end the global scourge of racism.

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: Netherlands
Delegate Name: Elena Misailedes
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

In many developed nations, the issue of racism has been eradicated in government institutions and is generally perceived by the populace as "bad". In other, less developed parts of the world, however, institutional and cultural racism is not only alive and well but lying at the root of many civil and international conflicts, particularly in unstable regions such as the Middle East. These conflicts, removed by less that a century from such horrific and well-known racial clashes as the Holocaust and the Apartheid system in South Africa, represent the failure of the global population to learn from the past and adapt current policies in order to prevent such tragedies from occurring once again. Recognizing these deficiencies and correcting them before the inception of further violence, then, is absolutely imperative.

In the interest of avoiding violent racial conflict and protecting the world's population from "the scourge of war" (UN Charter: Preamble), it is absolutely the duty of the United Nations organization to regulate, as much as possible, the discontinuation of institutional racism worldwide. Previous UN sponsored attempts at accomplishing such an aim, however, have been inherently misguided and inappropriately conducted. The 2009 Geneva Conference on Racism is an example of such unbecoming attempts to eliminate racism. Under the guise of an unbiased and well-intentioned gathering of member states, the United Nations endorsed the use of speakers such an Iranian President and vehement anti-Semite Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. Under these conditions, such a conference would undoubtedly become a public platform for anti-Israel sentiments, defeating the proposed goal of an anti-racism conference int he first place. It is for this reason that the Kingdom of the Netherlands chose to boycott the Geneva 2009 Racism Conference.

Keeping these prior failures in mind, it is necessary that any discussion surrounding the elimination of racism be conducted only if each member state and its subsequent ideology are represented on equal terms in order to avoid an outburst of anti-Semitic views. This posture is only fitting in keeping with the nobility of the goal of elimination racism.

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: New Zealand
Delegate Name: Ryan Wint
School: Ann Arbor Community High School

In recent years the United Nations has not made many strives to eliminating or helping the issue in New Zealand. New Zealand realizes its racial issues in the country against Asains and would like to find ways to help to problem. In the April 24, 2009 DURBAN REVIEW CONFERENCE CONCLUDES AFTER ADOPTING OUTCOME DOCUMENT WHICH CALLS ON STATES TO TAKE COMPREHENSIVE MEASURES AGAINST RACISM which was “The Durban Review Conference today concluded its five-day session, having adopted by acclamation an outcome document in which it emphasised the need to address with greater resolve and political will all forms and manifestations of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, in all spheres of life and in all parts of the world, including all those under foreign occupation.” And we feel that these issues are important to address.

New Zealand has taken strides on radio, billboards and television to help nip the trend of growing racism. We have been politically active in fighting the racism problems in our country. New Zealand agrees with the moves of the United Nations to promote countries on eliminating racism. We strongly believe racism is not only a problem, but one worth finding a solution for. The issue of racism in our county has gone up along with the immigration rate and it is obvious where the animosity is directed. New Zealand plans to take any strides to reduce and eliminate racism in our country.

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: Nigeria
Delegate Name: Brooke Michelson
School: Roeper School

Racism is classically defined as any unfair, biased or derogatory words or actions by one race or ethnic group directed at another. Racism also includes the hatred, discrimination, or feeling that one ethnic group is superior to another.

In poorer and unstable nations in particular, many diverse ethnic groups live in close contact with each other, and poverty, water scarcity, corrupt governments and other social issues lead to increased tension between races of people, and at times different ethnic, religious, or cultural groups. Yet by far the most pernicious form of discrimination is racism.

Historically, the most destructive form of racism is that of discrimination by whites over blacks. This type of racism defines a human’s personality, character and worth, only by the color of their skin. This discrimination goes against human rights, and the basic morals of humans. The racism against blacks affected both the West and the East. Many believe the African slave trade, which extended over centuries, to be the most inhumane and diabolical act to ever be committed by humans against another group of mankind.

We, the Federal Republic of Nigeria, see the deep roots and scars of racism every day. The slave trade affected our people tangibly and intangibly, from social instability to the dehumanization of the African person. We are not looking to dwell on the past, but to use it to move forward. The main focus of history is to learn from mistakes made, and that is what we call on all nations to do. We, as a world, made it through the struggle of racism and slavery so that never again will humankind have to endure such an outright violation of human rights!

There are even more African struggles and victories when it comes to white-black racism. The most vicious recent form being Apartheid, where the South African state institutionalized and legalized a complex set of laws, policies, and repressive security apparatus to enable a white minority to dominate the black majority. After one of the worst periods in African history, that of the Apartheid era, with our South African brothers and sisters brave and heroic, and through a mainly peaceful struggle, they have attained a multiracial, democratic government. Today all of Africa has its independence and our political freedom from nations outside the continent.

We call upon all nations of Africa, and of the world to see the great leaps of humanity accomplished in such a short time. The president of the United States is a black man. Great Africans and Diaspora blacks alike have become prominent figures and leaders in world culture, arts, and politics. We also, however, call upon all nations to realize that the fight against racism is nowhere near finished. Racism, xenophobia, and discrimination exist prominently to this day. In our own nation, tensions increase between peoples, especially in the strained region of the Niger Delta.

We call upon all nations to recognize that leadership is essential. Leaders of nations, groups, or peoples must stand up to injustices and cruelty. Great men like Nelson Mandela dedicated their lives to fighting injustice, and inspired their people to do the same. The youth of our world is extremely impressionable, and the actions of their role models are crucial to eliminating racism and hatred.

We encourage all nations to realize that education is also a key, not only in literacy and human rights, but by putting young adults in a safe, accepting community, with an emphasis on learning you ensure self-reflection and analysis leading to tolerance and understanding.

We call upon all nations to see the immense progress made in the past, while still looking to a more tolerant future. We urge all nations to act to put an end to racism, a blatant violation of human rights.

Nigeria seeks to work with all nations to further this goal. We applaud the efforts of previous international actions, including UN anti-racism resolutions, the efforts of governments and NGO’s, such as FIFA’s “Say NO to Racism” campaign, yet we call on all nations to continue the fight against racism, and seek to further strengthen the efforts to combat racism.

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: North Korea
Delegate Name: Emma Green
School: Royal Oak High School

The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea strongly supports all actions aimed towards combating racism. This is a clear issue upon which all fair minded countries can agree. There is simply no place in this modern society for racism to take hold. The DPRK strongly urges that we make all haste in cutting racism at its roots, by refusing to tolerate discrimination on any level, and allowing each country to take charge of the education of its youth. Action in this area has been impeded by numerous lexical disagreements and territorial disputes. However this is no place for political tensions to take control. DPRK, in full faith of the United Nations, allows for this issue to be elevated in priority, as it does not wish to alienate any sect of society, or discourage equality on a global level.

However the DPRK would like to illuminate the fact that racism is an invented term. The horrors and implications that follow it can trace it origin directly back to The Americas, Europe, and much of the developed world. The appearance of this topic on the Agenda appears to be a guilty conscience crying out. There is nothing we, as the DPRK, would like to see more than the elimination of racism, in all forms. Yet, this invented term applies to specific situations and regions. Poorly constructed policies and unfortunately executed command strategies are at fault. The international community must commune in a manner that is both civil and lends no greater voice from one country over another.

We look forward to working with the many fine nations at this year’s conference, more specifically, on the topic of eliminating racism. We sense that the swift change that is spoken of will arise out of an attitude adjustment and shift in perceptions from many world powers.

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: Norway
Delegate Name: Alexis Courtney
School: Mattawan High School

Racism is like a disease that affects the lives of millions of people every year. Racism is the belief that race is the primary determinant of human traits and capacities and that racial differences produce an inherent superiority of a particular race. This concept is about looking a human and deciding how they are treated based solely on his/her physical traits and attributes. As superficial and ridiculous as this ideal is, nations all over the globe practice racism every day. Some nations even strongly support this horrid view. Norway is one country who is working to reduce and eliminate this ludicrous ideal.

Even to begin with, Norway has an extremely small amount of racism in the country itself. This is due to the fact that nearly 90% of the countries population is Norwegian and Sami. Only a small 10% of Norway's total population consists of people who are not of the Norwegian ethnic group. Norway has even implicated programs to help prevent racism and its spread. The Antiracist Center in Norway is a nonprofit, politically nonpartisan institution which seeks to promote human rights and equal opportunities, and increase the understanding between the indigenous people and persons of non-Norwegian origin in Norway. The Center also provides individual assistance to persons who have become social, political and economic victims of racism and racial discrimination. This program is just one of twenty seven that Norway has adapted to eliminate numerous forms of racism. Norway is continuing to create new ideas for preventing the spread of racism throughout the nation.

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: Pakistan
Delegate Name: Marcella Pudnos
School: Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy

The Islamic Republic of Pakistan, particularly as an Islamic country, is all fully committed to combating racism and prejudices in all forms. Our state religion promotes openness and acceptance of people with different cultures and religions. Before we can work on a path to end racism, we must admit that as a nation, we have experienced difficulty with racism. Our efforts to combat what racism we still have will use a “bottom-up” approach rooted in our people and not a “top-down” approach that would be entirely dependent upon our government. We believe that increased education, dialogue, and communication about racism are critical components of racial harmony, and these are policies that we are implementing and that we encourage the international community as a whole to implement. Currently, the policies we have set in place are satisfactory to dissuading what little racism our country has. If racism experiences a resurgence, then at that time we could set up an additional committee to further address the problem and make a more contemporary plan of action. Before any of this can happen, as a nation and as a global community, we must admit that racism exists and poses a serious threat to international security.

At this conference we are interested to hear how other nations attempt to diminish racism in their respective countries and how effective their programs have been in practice. From listening to their ideas in this global forum, we can, develop a cohesive plan to combat racism. Moreover, at this conference we would like to see a greater commitment to raising public awareness on racism because we believe that this will motivate many people around the world to work diligently to fight and defeat racism and its unfortunate repercussions.

Respectfully submitted,

The Islamic Republic of Pakistan

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: Palestine
Delegate Name: Mitra Darakhshandeh
School: Flint Southwestern Classical Academy

If we look at different cultures around the world and compare the exposure and acceptance of those various cultures to that that occurred a thousand years ago, we will find a greater acceptance in this day and age. In that light the foreseeable elimination of racism exists. Slavery used to be prevalent in many ancient and historically recent cultures. Slaves were often thought of as sub-human, having no rights or privileges beyond that of what the slave owner extended. Many slaves were of a different race and culture from that of their owners. The gradual recognition of slaves’ humanity has been a contributing factor towards the elimination of racism.

The people of Palestine recognize the need, in order for a society to thrive, for diversity and fairness within a culture. Palestine is a state where Christians and Muslims can reside in harmony; we believe that those of the Jewish state can do that as well. In Jerusalem you have Palestinians, Jews, and Christians living together. The issue between Palestine and Israel is not between white and black, it is a conflict between over domain. At the core of every human being the wants and the needs are all the same; it is happiness and safety for family and children, economic stability to put food upon the table. As a human race we stray from our beliefs of all people deserving these basic rights. It is when people feel they are entitled to more then their fair share when these problems arise. It is this basic premise, this fundamental idea, which is going to create the environment for the elimination of racism.

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: Poland
Delegate Name: Katelyn Coghlan
School: Saline High School

Poland has racism in their country just as all countries do. Poland consists mainly of Caucasians, and has individuals and groups that discriminate against Blacks and people of Asian descent. There is also some discrimination against Jewish individuals. Many of this crime is seen in the form of riots, chants and hate crimes committed against certain groups on individuals.

Many say that the racism is not seen as much in the large cities, due to the diversity in them, as in many European countries. Racism has been mostly in the sporting events of Poland, where hurtful racial chants and banners are shown. Many racist groups use sports as their outlet to discriminate. Graffiti and banners are seen supporting the Ku Klux Klan and “white power”, that are associated with the country’s major sporting team. The chairman of Legia (one of Poland’s major teams) seems to think that 15 to 20 percent of his supporters are neo-Nazis.

There are not many organizations in Poland trying to eliminate racism, and the few that there are, are not supported by the government. There are many hate crimes committed by racist groups against Blacks, Asians and Jewish individuals. There are many neo-Nazi groups, and the numbers of young people joining these groups are alarming. Poland’s government does not feel like there is a problem with racial discrimination in their country, but does not ban anti-racial groups.

Since Poland’s government allows groups and individuals to believe and practice what they want, Poland is open to most reasonable suggestions for reform.

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: Russia
Delegate Name: Chloe Bryan
School: Forest Hills Central High School

The Russian Federation is dedicated to the eradication of racism, in all its forms, at both a national and global level. Although the international community seems to have generally made it clear that racism is unacceptable, we must now supplement our words with action. We must display a common position throughout this body in actively rejecting all manifestations of racism.

The Russian Federation particularly and fervently opposes the propaganda and hate crimes of the Neo-Nazi and white nationalist, or “skinhead” organizations. These groups’ actions, as well as being dangerous and criminal, gravely disrespect the victims of the Holocaust and of World War II. They also pose a threat to immigrants entering our nation and others. Racially-motivated crimes, including several murders per year, have long been present in Russia, and we hope to continue improvement on our path to the elimination of such atrocities. The Russian Federation further recognizes that many other societies have been subject to racism as well, and will fully support the side of fairness and equality in any situation presented to this body.

Nations lacking in laws condemning racist behaviors must certainly implement these laws as quickly as possible. However, it is also imperative that the citizens of the world regard human rights as something integral, something assumed, rather than a belief system to be accepted or rejected. If this is not the case, we are welcoming violence both within individual nations and internationally, as the international community has seen in numerous cases in all parts of the world. The Russian Federation hopes that all nations will make racial tolerance an inherent part of their respective cultures through the media and statements of the national government. Many individuals do not understand that the use of racial slurs, even in casual conversation, promotes an attitude of intolerance and bigotry – an attitude most unlike that of the United Nations.

The Russian Federation looks forward to the support of all nations interested in the eradication of racism from our modern world.

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: South Africa
Delegate Name: Madeline Kayes
School: Cranbrook Kingswood

Racism is an issue that South Africa is very familiar with. South Africa admits to have oppressed people in its past through institutional racism against Blacks within its country, better known throughout the world as the apartheid. The apartheid in South Africa marked an extended period of time in which segregation was legalized in the country. The delegation from South Africa wants to emphasize that, since the apartheid, South Africa has outlawed racism in its constitution. South Africa realizes its past issues with racism and is now an avid supporter of countries trying to eliminate racism within their borders, as South Africa has.

The Durban Conference held in South Africa established many ideas that we the delegation from South Africa believe to be true, accurate, and effective. We believe this committee should work to clarify and make these ideas completely clear and then proceed to create plans of action to implement them. We believe international law should be created establishing what the universal rights of all humans, especially with regard to race. The delegation from South Africa recognizes the UN Charter that states, “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood” and believes this committee should take action by creating international policy banning racism as well as recommend punishment for those who do not abide by this policy. Racism is detrimental to the basic rights of humans as defined in the UN charter. We the people of South Africa see racism as one of, if not the, most important issues of today and encourage all of the delegations in this committee to join us in our stand against racism.

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: South Korea
Delegate Name: Kelsey Marthens
School: Forest Hills Central High School

The Republic of Korea wants to acknowledge that racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, related intolerance, and social tensions and human rights violations are a deep concern of ours. We continue to show support in tackling these current issues. We would also that to acknowledge that globalization is rapid and there is a higher risk of social tensions, no country could honestly say that they are completely immune. Technology is also a victim in spreading racial hatred and xenophobia, racial discrimination and related intolerance. This is a deep concern of ours, and it influences the youth of each country. We are currently growing in migration and our country is changing to become more multi-cultural.

The international community needs to come together and show support in eliminating racism. We each need to show our own countries participation in these issues. In the issue of current technologies, we feel that each country needs to monitor certain aspects of the Internet. We need to enhance positive influence through the media, such as diversity. The act on the Treatment of Foreigners in Korea was passed just last year. Also, there is a Multi-Cultural Family Support Act this act tries to facilitate social integration towards multi-cultural families. We need to find the root of racism, and the Korean Government continues to do so.

We also acknowledge that there are different concerns involving each country. Globalization needs to be taken into consideration and each country needs to show effort in addressing the issue. The Republic of Korea would like to express how fully committed we are in tackling the issue of racism. The only way to resolve an issue as large as this is by joint effort from each country. We once again would like to say how committed we are on achieving these goals.

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: Sudan
Delegate Name: Gillian Lazzarini
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

The elimination of racism has been a major common goal in our country of Sudan for the past seven years (since the start of the war in Darfur). With the war in Darfur on the west side of the country and other racial conflicts throughout, the need for equality has been yearned by all of the people of Sudan along with the rest of the world. The Sudan has taken many big steps in the past few years, with the Darfur Peace Agreement, which was signed by one of the largest rebel groups, and has helped decrease disputes between Sudanese factions. But there are still all sorts of racism happening, just like there is elsewhere in the world. Partly because a large part of our country is Muslim and there are many religious constraints, but we hope to keep an equilibrium between religions and political factions.

With an allotment of different cultures in our large country there is destined to be a clash, but precautions are being taken. The tolerance of others has been promoted, and we the Sudanese government are trying our best to support cultural unity. We the Sudan have accepted the events that have happened in the past, and are looking to fix our perilous issues. The Sudan is open to help from other countries if those countries are willing to respect our culture and ideas. With pieces of legislature and practical, appropriate solutions, we the country of Sudan hopes to find an end to racism suitable to our current situation.

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: Turkey
Delegate Name: Cheyenne Wallace
School: Royal Oak High School

Racism in all its forms has proven harmful to the targeted parties. It has resulted in emotional damage, crime, segregation, and unequal opportunity. Turkey would like to see everything possible, within reason, done to quell this issue.

One of Turkey’s main focuses is on correcting institutionalized racism within our country, and in others. The country of Turkey acknowledges that our government has engaged in racist behaviours towards a minority in our country, the Kurds, but we would like to end this behaviour as soon as deemed possible. We realize that while some in this group have been identified as terrorists, there are still many innocent people that have been unfairly treated by our government. We hope to discuss methods in which we can halt the mistreatment of those innocent individuals. Turkey would like to do this in the most peaceful way. Another form of racism we have recognized within our country is Personally-mediated racism- individual's, of different ethnic group, attitudes towards one another. In order to solve this debacle, we would like to introduce interdependence to the minority and majority of our people, as they are the root of our issue. Small steps must be taken, as racism is deeply rooted in our people’s minds, and it will not disappear immediately.

We strongly encourage other countries to acknowledge their racist behaviour,and racist behaviour within their countries, and move forward, eliminating this problem as soon as possible. The country of Turkey will be happy to work with delegates from many countries, towards achieving peace within our own country, and worldwide.

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: United Kingdom
Delegate Name: Huaitao Zhang
School: Cranbrook Kingswood

Racism means any distinction, exclusion, restriction or preference based on race, color, descent, or national or ethnic origin. In the world we live in today, racism is a tragic event which leads to depression, not believing in oneself, and eventually, suicide. Past and present events that have proved that racism did and still exist. In everyday life, some people laugh and jeer at other races. Recently a Republican staffer named Sherri Goforth sent a racist email to president Barrack Obama. The email included a picture of all 44 USA Presidents, except the portrait of Obama contained only a 2 white eyes and a black background. These events show that racism stands as a major cultural problem that we all need to solve. The delegate of UK strongly believes that we have the responsibilities to extinguish such situations as much as possible. Many governments nowadays ignore racism and categorize it as a minor problem. Yet we must recognize that if racism continues to expand, the future of our world will be at stake. Different groups of people not cooperating together may cause the entire human race to retrogress.

The United Kingdom does admit that racism exists in our land and it is exacerbating. The British National Party exists in order to create fairness for the native people of the United Kingdom, yet they are extremely biased towards the immigrants in parts of the United Kingdom. The BNP wishes to exclude the immigrants from their land and “secure a future for the indigenous peoples of these islands”. The delegate of the United Kingdom realizes this stands as a universal problem, which happens not only in our nation. Every country has a few organizations which discriminates certain existing races.

The United Kingdom recognizes the need to start controlling racism not only in our own land but also in the whole world. We understand that it poses as a strong difficulty for people to forget stereotypes and old ways of thinking. The United Kingdom used to own half of the colonies existing in the world, thus diversity is inevitable for us. We strongly believe that if we influence our next generation to not accept racism, it can be restricted to a certain amount. Anti-racism education can be brought into the schools worldwide and NGOs can hold events to spread this movement.

Topic: Eliminating Racism
Country: United States
Delegate Name: MacKenzie Rennick
School: Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy

The United States is fully cognizant and wary of the threats that racism and ethnic discrimination can pose to the liberties and rights of the citizens of a country. We have taken many steps to promote and ensure racial equality in our nation and we believe the rest of the world should follow our example in order to form a brighter global future. Our goal, as the United Nations, is to promote peace and understanding between the many nations of the world. This cannot be accomplished without first creating such peace and harmony between each the people of each country.

In the United States’ Constitution, the vital document which holds the sovereignty of our nation, there is an amendment abolishing the restriction of suffrage based solely on race. This allows citizens of any race to have an equal say in their government, a policy that we would like the rest of the world to adopt as well. In addition, we do not discriminate within government hiring or policies, domestic or foreign. Both at home and abroad, the United States of America believes in freedom and equality for those of all nationalities.

The United States believes that the United Nations should continue their efforts to condemn racial discrimination and that every nation should attempt to put a halt to government programs that contain racial biases. All men are created equal and should be gauged by who they are, not what they look like.

Most Respectfully Submitted,

Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy

The United States.