afrol News, 28 August - African delegates to the Abuja conference propose that racism and xenophobia should be criminalised and sanctioned with appropriate sentences.

Representatives of governments and NGOs in 21 African countries are expected to formalise their proposal at the next international racism and xenophobia conference in Geneva in April next year.

Delegates proposed a ban on the spread of ideas aimed at inciting hatred or racial supriority. They also recommended "the protection of the rights of migrants" against criminalization campaigns meted out to them in some countries.

Nigerian government has assured the preparatory meeting for the Durban Review Conference of its commitment to combat racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance seat.

"Nigeria believes that gaps in the existing international instruments to combat racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance should be bridged through a number of measures, including provision of support and technical assistance to states as appropriate," said Nigeria's foreign affairs minister Alhaji Tijani Kaura.

He urged international bodies to reinforce the fight against racism and xenophobia.

"It is only by doing so that we can justify the sacrifices of our heroes past, some of who laid down their lives in the struggle against colonialism, racism, apartheid, racial injustice and other forms of discrimination."

By staff writer

© afrol News

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