Written question asked by Baroness Deech (Crossbench) on Tuesday, 11 May 2021, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 25 May 2021. It was answered by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Conservative) on Tuesday, 25 May 2021 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

UN World Conference against Racism

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government what plans they have, if any, to withdraw from events commemorating the 20th anniversary of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action.

Answer: The United Kingdom is committed to combatting all forms of racism, including anti-semitism, both at home and abroad. We believe that one of the most effective ways to tackle injustices and advocate respect among different religious and racial groups is to encourage all states to uphold their human rights obligations. Some of the anti-Semitic actions and speeches in and around the Durban conference and its various follow-up events gave rise to serious concerns. We will consider UK attendance in the light of developments between now and the commemoration event, including the likelihood of any recurrence.

Secondary information