‘Racial Justice Demands Collective Action’, Says UN Rights Chief, Ushering In New Decade For African Diaspora

Thursday, 26 December 2024, 1:58 pm
Press Release: UN News

17 December 2024 

The new
decade of action starting in January, will build on the
progress of the past 10 years to advance the human rights of
the diaspora worldwide.

“Racial justice
demands collective action,” Mr. Türk
said.

“To secure the full rights and freedoms of
people of African descent, States and all of us must
effectively confront the legacies of enslavement and
colonialism, dismantle systemic racism and deliver
reparatory justice. We need bold action to deliver real
change,” the High Commissioner added.

As coordinator
for the International Decade, he said another important
objective is the elaboration and adoption of a draft UN
declaration on the respect, protection and fulfilment of the
human rights of people of African
descent.

Countries change
course

During the first ten years of action
– despite persistent challenges – more than 30 countries
changed their laws and policies to tackle racial
discrimination and address specific issues faced by people
of African descent – in some cases for the first
time.

This included the creation of the Permanent
Forum on People of African Descent, as well as
International Days to celebrate the contributions of the
diaspora, including women and girls.

Strong
leadership, political will and increased financial and human
resources are crucial to deliver on the ultimate goals of
recognition, justice and development for people of African
descent.

Advertisement – scroll to continue reading

It is also essential to ensure their
meaningful participation in policies and decisions affecting
Africans’ lives.

The UN rights office, OHCHR,
will continue working to foster concrete and meaningful
action, including support for the High
Commissioner’s Agenda towards transformative change for
racial justice and equality, as well as the eight
UN human rights anti-racism
mechanisms.

© Scoop Media

Using Scoop for work?

Scoop is free for personal use, but you’ll need a licence for work use. This is part of our Ethical Paywall and how we fund Scoop. Join today with plans starting from less than $3 per week, plus gain access to exclusive Pro features.

Join Pro Individual
Find out more

Find more from UN News on InfoPages.

_{Images are for reference only.Images and contents gathered automatic from google or 3rd party sources.All rights on the images and contents are with their legal original owners.}