Canada was among 41 countries that last month opposed allocating US$6.8-million in UN funding to help pay for preparatory meetings for Durban II. The measure carried in the 192-member General Assembly.

"No one can stop Durban II because countries that are classified as less than democratic hold a majority in the General Assembly, and they are for it," said Ms. Bayefsky.

"But Canada's move would not only be consistent with its opposition at the General Assembly, but also encourage other democratic countries to follow suit, and send a strong signal de-legitimizing the final gathering."

Gearing up for another Durban TheStar.com
January 20, 2008

Canada is domestically committed to anti-racism and is dedicated to working through international organizations to further that objective globally. It is in our national interest to see world bodies work toward eradicating discrimination and hatred. It is, therefore, incumbent on us to figure out whether Durban II will advance these goals or set them back.

http://www.thestar.com/printArticle/295480