Racism and racial discrimination hinder progress and cause suffering for millions of people in all countries around the world. Lasting improvements to counter racial discrimination at the national level require political will and a sustained and comprehensive approach. This publication is a tool for national human rights institutions (NHRIs), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), as well as individuals and groups affected by racial discrimination. It focuses on the need for comprehensive strategies and policies in the fight against racial discrimination, provides background information on the concept of national human rights action plans, and describes in detail the different phases for producing a national action plan with examples on how to set realistic objectives, clear targets and specific goals.