UN Begins Racism Conference in Geneva

(20 Arp 09 - RV) The United Nations has begun a conference on Racism in Geneva, which UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said is necessary to confront simmering racial tensions that could otherwise trigger social unrest and violence. However, the original working document has been criticized for its antagonism towards Israel, and several countries, including the United States, Italy, Germany and Australia are boycotting the event.
The Holy See’s Delegation is attending, and yesterday Pope Benedict urged participants to work with a spirit of dialogue and reciprocal acceptance, and to put an end to every form of racism, discrimination and intolerance. The Holy See’s Permanent Representative to the UN Offices in Geneva, Archbishop Silvano Tomasi, says boycotting the conference is counter-productive.