In response to the escalating issues of racial discrimination and xenophobia worldwide, human rights experts from the United Nations (UN) and the European Union (EU) gathered to advocate for comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation and institutional reforms.
On October 21, an international conference titled 'Combating Racial Discrimination and Xenophobia: Ensuring Migrant Rights' was held at the Korea Press Center in Jung-gu, Seoul, co-hosted by the EU Delegation to Korea, the Asia-Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions (APF), and the National Human Rights Commission of Korea.
During the keynote address, Ashwini K.P., UN Special Rapporteur on Racism, outlined international trends in addressing racism and xenophobia, noting, "This year marks the 25th anniversary of the adoption of the Durban Declaration for the Elimination of Racism," and emphasized the need for countries to strengthen their efforts to combat discrimination and enhance international cooperation.
In expert sessions, criticisms were raised regarding the institutional limitations and legislative gaps in South Korea. Professor Kim Cheol-hyo of Gyeongsang National University highlighted the urgent need for comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation to address issues of discrimination and hate speech. Michaela Moua, the EU Anti-Racism Coordinator, introduced the EU strategy for 2026-2030, stressing the importance of specific policy implementation responsibilities at both central and local government levels.
Participants also shared personal testimonies, including experiences of discrimination from migrant workers, migrant women, and youth. The ongoing conflict over the construction of a mosque in Daegu, which has persisted since 2021, was cited as a key issue requiring intervention and action from administrative authorities to combat local xenophobia.
Furthermore, Ibrahim K. Gise, Vice Chair of the UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, emphasized the need for the practical implementation of international standards to eradicate xenophobia. Jisamin, Chair of the Gyeonggi Province Anti-Discrimination and Human Rights Guarantee Committee, suggested shifting the focus of migrant policies from charitable support to comprehensive 'rights protection' and enhancing cooperation between central and local governments.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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