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motivated by racist, xenophobic, anti-Semitic or homophobic biases. Comprehensive
and mandatory human rights training, including training with a specific focus on
racist and xenophobic crimes perpetrated by individuals linked to extremist political
parties, groups and movements, should be provided to public officials, including law
enforcement agents, who should also be provided with the necessary guidelines and
procedures to be able to identify, investigate and register such crimes. He emphasizes
that States should also ensure that law enforcement agents engage with vulnerable
groups particularly at risk of racist, xenophobic or anti-Semitic crimes, in order to
mitigate their legitimate fears and concerns, restore confidence in the application of
the rule of law, and encourage them to report such crimes adequately.
F.
Racist or xenophobic discourse online
26.
The Special Rapporteur notes with concern the increased use of the Internet
and social media to promote and disseminate racist content. States should take all
opportunities to counter the dissemination of ideas based on racial superiority or
hatred, and to promote the values of equality, non-discrimination, diversity and
democracy, while respecting their obligations under articles 19 and 20 of the
International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. While taking measures to
counter extremist ideas and biases, States should endeavour to strengthen freedom of
expression, which plays a crucial role in promoting democracy and combating racist
and xenophobic ideologies.
G.
Sport
27.
The Special Rapporteur recalls his recommendations on strengthening
measures to prevent racist and xenophobic incidents at sporting events, noting the key
role of sport in promoting cultural diversity, tolerance and harmony. He also recalls
paragraph 218 of the Durban Programme of Action, which urges States, in
cooperation with intergovernmental organizations, the International Olympic
Committee and international and regional sports federations, to intensify the fight
against racism in sport by educating the youth of the world through sport practiced
without discrimination of any kind.
H.
Civil society
28.
The Special Rapporteur recalls the importance of cooperating closely with civil
society and international and regional human rights mechanisms. In particular, the
role played by civil society in collecting information, working closely with victims and
promoting democratic principles and human rights should be emphasized. He calls
upon national human rights institutions to develop appropriate programmes to
promote tolerance of and respect for all, and to collect relevant information thereon.
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