UEFA's goal to eliminate racism

Today, 21 March, is the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, in which the world is reminded of the efforts that must be pursued to eliminate all forms of racial intolerance and discrimination.

UEFA mission
UEFA is one of the many organisations contributing to the battle against racism. It has long been a mission of UEFA to stamp out prejudice of all kinds throughout European football and to support all organisations dedicated to that end and a long-standing partnership has been forged with the Football Against Racism in Europe (FARE) network.

Football an example
UEFA has the view that football owes itself to be an example in our societies, and that the game can teach certain values such as honesty, courage, fraternity, tolerance and peace. The European body stresses that football includes, integrates, and welcomes. The game excludes no one, it discriminates against no one, it persecutes no one. A policy of zero tolerance is being operated against those who engage in racist conduct and offenders are punished by UEFA's disciplinary authorities. UEFA is continuing to work together and provide support for organisations at the vanguard of the anti-racism campaign.

Competition platform
UEFA's competitions are also used to promote the message that racism has no place in football. UEFA's flagship club competition, the UEFA Champions League, has been an important platform, with teams displaying their opposition to racism as part of UEFA's contribution to the annual FARE Action Week. The issue has also been highlighted at UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifying matches, and Europe's national football associations and many leading European clubs take a firm stand against racism and intolerance.

EURO campaign
UEFA EURO 2008™ offers another high-profile opportunity to fight against the evil of racism. Unite Against Racism is an awareness campaign that incorporates various activities before and during the tournament, peaking at the semi-finals. The project's profile will be given an added boost by Hublot, a national supporter in both host countries. The Unite Against Racism logo will be displayed not only on the perimeter boards in the stadiums, but also on the captains' armbands and on the kits of the ball boys and girls, the stewards and the substitutes.

Click here to read about UEFA and European football anti-racism activities.

Click here to learn more about the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.