A/HRC/20/38 human rights and the principle of non-discrimination, it is equally essential to sensitize parents and teachers. Indeed, reports received indicate that youth are also influenced by extremist ideas based on racial superiority and hatred at homes. V. The need for preventive measures to address extremism in sport 16. The presence of extremist groups, including neo-Nazis and skinhead groups in the field of sport, in particular football, is also an important concern that arises from information received by the Special Rapporteur. In this regard, he is concerned about reported cases of Nazi symbols and banners deployed during football matches, as well as the shouting and show of Nazi slogans and gestures on those occasions, often directed at players or supporters of African origin.15 The Special Rapporteur calls on States and all relevant actors, including football federations, to deal with the presence of extremist groups, including neo-Nazi and skinhead groups, as well as hooligans at sports events, including football matches. Indeed, in light of upcoming sports events, including the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) Euro 2012 championship and the Olympics, it is crucial that preventive measures be taken to avoid acts of racial violence, abuse and incitement to racial hatred by extremist individuals or groups. In this regard, initiatives, such as a handbook to assist law enforcement officials in identifying racist symbols used by supporters and fans, including neo-Nazi and skinhead members, as well as preventive measures aimed at fostering tolerance and respect are encouraged by the Special Rapporteur. He also encourages national and international sports organizations and federations to develop and implement codes of conduct that would address the issue of extremist ideologies and behaviours among supporters. In addition, such events could be used as an opportunity for host States to further promote human rights, democracy and the rule of law, and to address human rights and democratic challenges posed by extremist political parties, movements and groups. VI. Conclusions and recommendations 17. The rise in extremist political parties, movements and groups, including neoNazi and skinhead groups and similar extremist ideological movements, continue to pose major human rights and democratic challenges. The Special Rapporteur notes with concern that the economic crisis in different parts of the world may have further aggravated this trend. He acknowledges that a number of efforts have been taken by States and civil society actors to address the problem, but he is of the view that more needs to be done in order to effectively counter such phenomenon which threaten democracy, affect vulnerable groups and have spread its roots among the young generation. Greater efforts and increased vigilance from States and all relevant actors are therefore required. In this regard, the Special Rapporteur shares the view that a comprehensive approach based on a solid legal framework that also includes key complementary measures should be developed and implemented. The Special Rapporteur emphasizes that the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action, the outcome document of the Durban Review Conference and the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination constitute a major comprehensive framework to be implemented in this respect. 15 Ibid. 9