US pulls out of racism conference

The United States has pulled out of the World Conference Against Racism in protest at a proposed declaration against Israel.

They say the real issues are being ignored by delegates who wish to condemn Israel as a colonialist nation.

The decision by the US to pull out has been called unfortunate and unnecessary by conference hosts South Africa.

They believe the move has overshadowed important discussions on slavery, discrimination and the rights of indigenous people. Israel, who has also abandoned the conference, says it was forced to do so.

Human rights organisations have condemned the withdrawal of both parties and are hoping the remainder of the conference will properly tackle discrimination, however controversial.