The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (CERD) was adopted by the United Nations in 1965 in response to a growing awareness of racial discrimination around the world. It defines racial discrimination as different (negative) treatment towards a person or group as a result of their national or ethnic origin. This discrimination restricts the human rights of the person/group.
Under this agreement, states are obliged to ensure equality under the law for all people, regardless of race or ethnicity. The convention also requires its parties to outlaw hate speech. CERD has gained near-universal acceptance in the international community, with 179 states being party to the convention.
Signing of the convention (Teddy Chen via UN Photo)