GA/AP/580, July 19, 1976
Following is the text of a statement issued today by the Chairman of the Special Committee against Apartheid, Leslie O. Harriman (Nigeria), concerning the entry into force yesterday of the International Convention on the Suppression and Punishment of the Crime of Apartheid:
The coming into force of the International Convention on the Suppression and Punishment of the Crime of Apartheid represents a further advance in international efforts to eradicate apartheid and in the struggle of peoples for human rights and freedoms.
It is a renewed warning to the racist regime in South Africa and its supporters to desist from their crimes against the black people, a warning which is most timely after the recent inhuman massacre of African schoolchildren in Soweto and other areas. It is also a warning to those who collaborate with the racist regime, especially the so-called Bantustan leaders who are acting in collusion with the Vorster regime to deprive the African people of their inalienable rights.
Under the Convention, apartheid has been declared an international crime and criminal responsibility has been extended to individuals, members of organizations and institutions, and representatives of the State.
On behalf of the Special Committee, I appeal to all States which have not yet done so to ratify or accede to the Convention. At the same time, steps must be taken to implement the Convention without any delay. The Special Committee will co-operate with the parties to the Convention and the Commission on Human Rights towards this end.