The International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (CERD) is a legally binding treaty adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1965. CERD is considered to be one of the core international human rights treaties that aim to combat racial discrimination and promote equality among all individuals, regardless of their race, color, descent, or national or ethnic origin.
The convention has been ratified by the majority of countries, and its main objective is to eliminate racial discrimination in all its forms. CERD defines racial discrimination as any distinction, exclusion, restriction, or preference based on race, color, descent, or national or ethnic origin that has the purpose or effect of nullifying or impairing the recognition, enjoyment, or exercise of human rights and fundamental freedoms on an equal basis.
CERD establishes a committee, the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, which monitors the implementation of the convention, provides guidance to states parties, and reviews periodic reports submitted by member states on the progress made in implementing their obligations under the convention.
The convention also calls on states parties to adopt measures, both legislative and practical, to combat racial discrimination and promote understanding, tolerance, and equal treatment of all individuals. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of educating and promoting awareness about the principles of racial equality and respect for diversity to eliminate racial discrimination.
