Brussels, 14/05/2008 (Agence Europe) - At its meeting in Paris on 13 May, the European Commission against Racism and Intolerance (ECRI) published its declaration “Unite Against Racism”, with French international footballer Lilian Thuram in attendance. The declaration, supported by a video message from Council of Europe Secretary General Terry Davis, was issued ahead of the Euro 2008 football championship, to be held next month. ECRI, which intends this as a demonstration of its commitment to combating racism and racial discrimination in football, has produced guidelines to help national football leagues tackle the problem. The commission recommends not only the effective application of criminal law provisions against racist offences, but also suspension of games in progress when supporters or players display racist behaviour. It wants to see support, including financial support for sports associations and clubs which put anti-racist initiatives in place. (B.C.)