E/CN.4/1997/71
page 19
must be included in educational curricula in a manner which takes into
account the levels, age and specialization of the students. Similar
courses must be incorporated also in professional training, particularly
for security and customs personnel.” 25
IV.
COMMUNICATIONS RELATING TO ALLEGATIONS OF RACISM,
RACIAL DISCRIMINATION AND XENOPHOBIA
41.
In accordance with established practice, the Special Rapporteur, when
receiving allegations of racism, racial discrimination or xenophobia,
transmits them to the Governments concerned and expects reply three months
later. In the absence of a reply, or if he believes the reply received to be
complete, he issues an opinion, then brings the information in his possession
to the attention of the Commission.
42.
In 1996 the Special Rapporteur transmitted allegations of racism, racial
discrimination or xenophobia to 12 Governments in order to obtain information
as required by Commission resolution 1996/21, paragraph 13. The Governments
concerned were those of Angola, Australia, Austria, Canada, Côte d'Ivoire,
France, India, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, the Russian Federation and the
United States of America.
A.
1.
Angola
Communication dated 9 September 1996
43.
The press and spoken media have recently been reporting the
repatriation, mainly to Mali, of foreigners living in Angola. It is pointed
out that the people expelled include foreigners whose presence in Angola was
legal and regular.
44.
This action is said to have been motivated by xenophobia.
45.
No reply has been received from the Angolan Government.
2.
Special Rapporteur's observation
46.
The Special Rapporteur would like to hope that the Angolan Government
will give this matter due attention and supply the information and
clarifications requested, rectifying the situation of those people who had
been lawfully in Angola but were nevertheless expelled.
B.
1.
Australia
Communication dated 28 May 1996
47.
It has been reported that “Australia’s criminal justice system remains
heavily weighted against Aboriginal people”. Since the start of March 1996 it
was found that indigenous Australians still run a disproportionately high risk
of arrest, detention and death in custody. A pattern of ill-tratment and
arbitrary arrest occurs against a backdrop of systematic discrimination
against Aborigines.