Kuwait has reiterated its firm opposition to all forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance during a recent address to the United Nations General Assembly’s Social, Humanitarian and Cultural Issues Committee. The statement was delivered on Friday by Omar Al-Saeed, Kuwait’s diplomatic attaché, in a session focused on eliminating racial discrimination and promoting social cohesion.

Al-Saeed emphasized that human dignity is an inherent right that must not be undermined or denied on any basis. He called for the full and effective implementation of key international instruments, including the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination and the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action. These frameworks, he noted, are essential in addressing both the roots and consequences of racism on individuals and communities.

Highlighting the increasing threat posed by hate speech and incitement to discrimination and violence, the Kuwaiti diplomat warned that such practices undermine social stability and cohesion. He stressed the importance of confronting these challenges through dialogue, education, and respect for cultural and religious diversity. Al-Saeed particularly underscored the need to engage younger generations in fostering a culture of tolerance and mutual respect.

In addition to promoting societal dialogue, Al-Saeed called for strengthening national legislation aimed at protecting unity and maintaining social peace. He pointed to Kuwait’s recent engagement with international human rights mechanisms, referencing the country’s submission of its combined 25th and 26th periodic reports to the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination in Geneva in August. This move reflects Kuwait’s ongoing commitment to cooperating with UN bodies to advance human rights initiatives.

Concluding his remarks, Al-Saeed asserted that the eradication of racism requires genuine political will coupled with concrete actions to ensure equality and uphold human dignity. He cautioned against relying solely on rhetoric and declared commitments, urging policymakers and stakeholders to translate promises into effective measures.