Over 40 Nations Boycott UN Durban Conference, Citing Anti-Semitism

More than 40 countries boycotted a United Nations conference marking the 25th anniversary of the Durban Conference, according to Israel's UN mission. This represents an increase from the 38 nations that boycotted a similar follow-up event in 2021. Israel's Foreign Ministry actively lobbied countries worldwide to expand the boycott, while Israel's UN delegation, led by Ambassador Danny Danon, worked with the General Assembly presidency to scale back the conference's program. The delegation reported that the event was limited to official working hours, additional panel requests were denied, and the interactive discussion was restricted to one hour.

The original Durban Conference, held in South Africa in 2001, was intended as a conference against racism. However, Israel views it and its subsequent follow-up events as platforms for anti-Semitism and attacks against the country, leading to its consistent refusal to participate. Over the years, more countries have joined the boycott of these follow-up gatherings.

"The world is sending a clear message to the UN: we do not celebrate anti-Semitism and do not legitimize hatred of Israel under the guise of fighting racism," stated Ambassador Danon. He added, "It is time for the UN to bury the toxic legacy of Durban instead of continuing to revive it."