A/65/295 human rights-compliant. He also highlighted the critical role of awareness-raising and education to create societies which are tolerant and harmonious, ensuring mutual respect for all. 34. While education demands long-term investment by States, the benefits clearly outweigh any costs. Societies that live in harmony and enjoy prosperity as a result certainly reap higher dividends than those in turmoil and conflict. The Special Rapporteur therefore pointed out that States need to educate their own population to emphasize that migrants do not represent a threat to national identity or security, but that they contribute in a positive manner to the socio-economic development of the country. It is, however, also important for States to provide relevant training and information to migrants so that they are aware of their rights and the ways to access the mechanisms that will guarantee their protection, as well as to make them aware of the societies in which they reside. 35. Finally, the Special Rapporteur recalled that civil society organizations at large, international and regional organizations should also take part in the broad efforts to combat negative stereotypes of, and discrimination against, migrants, and to promote understanding and tolerance. It is only through common approaches, coordinated strategies and joint initiatives that migrants will be offered enhanced protection against racism and xenophobia. 36. The situation of migrants was also raised by the Special Rapporteur in two joint press releases on the events in Rosarno, Italy, 6 and on the immigration law in Arizona (United States of America). 7 37. On 12 January 2010, following two days of unrest during which at least 53 people were injured, the Special Rapporteur urged the Italian authorities to take all necessary measures to curb the growing xenophobic attitude towards migrant workers, which had led to the tragic events in the city of Rosarno. He stressed that violence, whether perpetrated by Italians or by migrant workers, had to be addressed in the most vigorous manner through the rule of law and that human rights should always be protected, regardless of immigration status. 38. In the Special Rapporteur’s view, the violence that erupted in Rosarno was extremely worrying since it revealed serious and deep-rooted problems of racism against migrant workers. He called upon the Italian authorities to show their firm commitment to creating a safe and peaceful environment for all, including by finding ways to improve the very poor living and working conditions of migrant workers. He also urged the authorities to implement an immigration policy in full conformity with international human rights standards. While welcoming the initial steps taken by the authorities to enquire into the events, the Special Rapporteur stressed that it was more urgent than ever for the Italian authorities to strengthen their anti-racism activities and provide human rights education, as well as to swiftly denounce hate speech and prosecute the racist and violent actions perpetrated by some individuals. 39. On 10 May 2010, the Special Rapporteur expressed serious concern over an immigration law that may allow for police action targeting individuals on the basis __________________ 6 7 10 Available from http://www2.ohchr.org/english/issues/racism/docs/PR_Italy_12January2010.pdf. Available from http://www.ohchr.org/EN/NewsEvents/Pages/DisplayNews.aspx?NewsID= 10035&LangID=E. 10-48481