Annual Report against Racism and Intolerance
7th May 2012The Council of Europe's Committee against Racism and Intolerance (ECRI) published its annual report on 3rd May. It observes that in many countries there are "worrying trends" such as the rise of intolerance towards immigrants and minorities that are linked to reductions in social budgets and job opportunities. It also notes that "xenophobic discourse is now part of a general attitude" and that discrimination against Roma is growing. It also mentions the over hasty dispatch of migrants and the poor "reception conditions" provided to them. It encourages governments to increase the resources of the institutions which defend human rights, recalling that it is vital to fight racism and intolerance to "build strong societies" and "not to deprive oneself of a source of talent".
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