The United Nations Commission on Human Rights began its 56th session in Geneva on March 20. "The first session in a new century is a good time to reflect and take stock," said UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Mary Robinson at the opening.

During the current session running from March 20 to April 28, the 53-member commission will carry out studies, prepare recommendations and elaborate draft international instruments on human rights, according to a preliminary agenda.

The commission will examine issues related to racism, racial discrimination and xenophobia, mainly in the framework of preparations for the World Conference Against Racism to be held in South Africa in 2001.

Created in 1946 by the UN Economic and Social Council, the commission will also consider economic, social and cultural rights and the right to development, especially concerning human rights and economic adjustment policies arising from foreign debt, effects of structural adjustment policies, the adverse effects of the illicit movement and dumping of toxic and dangerous products and wastes, the right to education and extreme poverty.