The Organization of the Islamic Conference welcomes and expresses its satisfaction at the adoption of the final text by consensus at the Durban Review Conference on the second day of its session. It feels that the success of the conference
in coming up with a consensus text is a testimony to the fact that the international community can work together to fight racism in all its forms towards a better world.

From the very beginning the OIC had been constructively engaged with an open and positive mindset in the preparatory process of the Conference. The OIC Group’s active role, substantive inputs and flexible approach was commended by all quarters including the High Commissioner for Human Rights, which has contributed enormously in reaching a consensus on the text. The adoption of the final text, therefore, has aptly signifies the commitment of the OIC to the true objectives of the Conference and the success of its efforts in identifying a reasonable common ground for all the stakeholders.

The OIC believes that the limits of discrimination and racism have already been defined by existing international human rights instruments. It also acknowledges Freedom of Expression as a fundamental right which must be exercised with responsibility and respect. However, it feels the need to have a proper mechanism to assure the implementation of such norms with full respect and to this end supports the proposal of the UN Special Rapporteur and the UN High Commissioner to establish national, regional and international monitoring bodies for racist, xenophobic and discriminatory acts.

The OIC has always emphasized that the international community should act in the spirit of moderation and dialogue and not confrontation. As such, the consensus text adopted by the Durban Review Conference would further strengthen its conviction to continue to work in the same line with the international community towards a world free of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance.