A row over the traditional Dutch Christmas custom of "Black Pete" has reached the UN as the international organisation's human rights body opens an investigation into whether the character is a "racist stereotype".
Every November 17, Sinterklaas, the Dutch Father Christmas, who is white, brings presents for children helped by mischievous servants dressed as pageboys, wearing black make-up, curly wigs and with large, painted on red lips.
It has emerged that the UN's high commission for human rights has written to the Dutch government expressing concerns over the tradition and accusing the authorities of failing to react to complaints of racial discrimination.
"Some practices, which are part of cultural heritage, may infringe upon human rights," said the letter. » | Bruno Waterfield | Monday, October 21, 2013
