Ban Ki-moon: No racism at WC 2010

  1. Posted on Monday 22 March 2010 - 12:15
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    Kent Mensah, AfricaNews editor in Accra, Ghana
    The UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said there is "no room for racist and xenophobic acts" at this summer's soccer World Cup in South Africa - the first time the event will ever be held in Africa. His statement coincided with the 50th anniversary of the Sharpeville massacre in 1960.
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    The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is observed every year on 21 March to commemorate the gunning down of the dozens of protestors in Sharpeville, South Africa against apartheid.

    On this "solemn anniversary," the worst must reaffirm its commitment to "guard against a repeat of the horrors rooted in racism," ranging from slavery to ethnic cleansing and genocide, Ki-moon said in a message to commemorate the Day.

    This year's observance takes on added significance as South Africa prepares to hold the World Cup, and he stressed that the world has a collective responsibility to make sure that no racist or xenophobic acts take place, either inside or outside football stadiums.

    "More broadly," the Secretary-General said, "we must push for all sports organizations to adopt stringent anti-discrimination policies, as well as frameworks for punishing the perpetrators of racist incidents and justice for the victims."

    The International Day is also an opportunity to highlight the powerful role played by sports to bring people of all backgrounds and cultures closer together, he pointed out. "Sports can empower disenfranchised communities, influence our perceptions and inspire millions of people around the world."

    The memory of the Sharpeville massacre's victims, the UN boss said, should be honoured by stepping up efforts worldwide to stamp out all forms of racism and racial discrimination.

    "Let us cherish the rich diversity of humankind and respect the inherent dignity and equality of every human being."

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