OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities addresses conference on combating xenophobia, antisemitism and racism in Moscow

OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities Kairat Abdrakhmanov participated in the Third Moscow International Conference on Combating Xenophobia, Antisemitism and Racism — Protecting the Future on 22 and 23 November in Moscow.

In his opening remarks, the High Commissioner highlighted that: “We must actively stand together against any form of discrimination, stereotyping and prejudice, which includes actively striving for and creating a positive and inclusive social space in our society for any disadvantaged group.”

The High Commissioner noted that in order to support the integration of diverse societies, we need long-term approaches that address the root causes of discrimination, xenophobia and anti-Semitism. With reference to his conflict prevention mandate, Abdrakhmanov stressed the importance of promoting inter-cultural dialogue, tolerance and education to ensure a socially cohesive and resilient society.

The High Commissioner also took the opportunity to continue his comprehensive dialogue with high-level government and civil society interlocutors on national minority issues inside and outside the Russian Federation.

He exchanged views on minority issues related to language, education and citizenship with Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin, the chairs of two State Duma Committees and the chair of the Federation Council Committee.