UN expert on Australia’s racism
UN says indigenous intervention is discriminatory, racism entrenched in Australia
THE AUSTRALIAN By Julian Drape | August 27, 2009
Article from: Australian Associated PressTHE United Nations special rapporteur on indigenous rights says the intervention into remote Aboriginal communities in the Northern Territory is clearly discriminatory, and that there is “entrenched” racism in Australia.
James Anaya didn’t pull any punches after his two-week visit of the country.
He says the Rudd Government should reinstate the Racial Discrimination Act in the NT “right away” because the intervention is discriminatory.
“It undermines the right of indigenous peoples to control their own destinies, their right to self-determination,” he said.
He also slammed Labor’s policy of demanding 40-year leases over indigenous land ….The Racial Discrimination Act was suspended in the NT by the former Howard government……………….
The Rudd government has promised to introduce legislation to reinstate the act in the Spring session of parliament, but wants to continue many of the compulsory measures.
Prof Anaya says while there’s no doubt special efforts are required to combat indigenous disadvantage and abuse of women and children, the intervention’s “broad sweep” goes too far and is incompatible with various international conventions, covenants, treaties and declarations. ……………..
Prof Anaya praised Labor for taking “significant steps” to try and improve the human rights and living conditions of indigenous Australians.
He also congratulated the government for supporting the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples earlier this year and officially apologising to the stolen generations in 2008.
UN says indigenous intervention is discriminatory, racism entrenched in Australia | The Australian
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