Racial discrimination (article 1 of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination - Adopted and opened for signature and ratification by UN General Assembly resolution 2106 (XX) of 21 December 1965 entry into force 4 January 1969)

Is any distinction, exclusion, restriction or preference based on race, colour, descent, or national or ethnic origin which has the purpose or effect of nullifying or impairing the recognition, enjoyment or exercise, on an equal footing, of human rights and fundamental freedoms in the political, economic, social, cultural or any other field of public life.