Commission was also developing materials for use in Australian schools. I 7. The emphasis placed in the Council on system­ wide activities was of interest, and his delegation would welcome a consolidated list of system-wide activities to combat racial discrimination. United Nations activities had changed attitudes towards racial discrimination. The Organization should con-30 Economic and Social Council-First Regular Session, 1986 tinue to play an inspirational role despite the current crisis of confidence. The maintenance of consensus on the Decade in recent years had been a significant achievement. 18. It was imperative for the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD) to be put back on a stable financial footing. In that connection, his delegation would appreciate an expla­ nation of why the recommendation that CERD should meet at Geneva for the foreseeable future on the ground of economy seemed to have been brushed aside. Further, CERD should review the current reporting procedure in order to ensure that the backlog of reports was cleared up. The current requirement of a comprehensive report every other year was unrealistic. The need for further requests for information should be reconsidered since much material was already on record and could be used more effectively. 19. Turning to the question of the abhorrent apart­ heid system, he noted that, according to official South African statistics, almost 800 people had been killed during the state of emergency which had ended in March 1986. Many others had been injured or detained. It was incumbent upon the international community to bring apartheid to a speedy end by peaceful means. In that connection, the Common­ wealth group of eminent persons had been entrusted with the task of facilitating dialogue and negotiation for prompt and peaceful change. The aim was not to 
**Analysis**
This text appears to be a diplomatic statement discussing international relations, human rights, and the elimination of racial discrimination. It mentions specific organizations, such as the United Nations and the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, and references events and issues related to apartheid and racial discrimination. The tone is formal and diplomatic, suggesting that the text is part of a formal document or report.

**Category**
Education, Humanitarian aid and relief