The global fight against anti-Black racism and systemic inequality remains a critical challenge in the 21st century, according to the latest annual report from the United Nations Permanent Forum on People of African Descent.
Speaking at the Human Rights Council in Geneva, the Forum’s chairperson emphasized that the “colour line” — the racial divide that fuels discrimination, segregation, and social inequality — continues to shape the lives of millions across the world.
“We are still seeing deep-rooted hierarchies that deny Black communities equal opportunities and dignity,” the Forum reported. “It’s time for human rights movements to come together more strongly than ever before.”
A Decade of Change and Opportunity
This year marks the beginning of the Second International Decade for People of African Descent, a global initiative that aims to accelerate progress in three key areas:
- Recognition of systemic racism and the contributions of people of African descent.
- Justice, particularly in addressing historical and ongoing discrimination.
- Development, by ensuring inclusive participation in social and economic frameworks.
The Forum is calling for concrete reparatory justice measures, including public acknowledgement of past injustices, legal restitution, and full integration of African-descended populations in decision-making processes.
Digital and Climate Justice Now
As the world advances technologically, the Forum warns that digital systems and artificial intelligence risk replicating and amplifying historical inequities. It has urged global institutions to ensure:
- Digital equity, especially in the use and design of AI.
- Protection from racial bias embedded in emerging technologies.
- Environmental and climate justice for marginalized communities.
The Unique Struggles of African Women and Girls
The report highlights the intersecting discrimination faced by women and girls of African descent, rooted in the legacy of enslavement and continued devaluation. It stresses that:
“True development and justice cannot be achieved without explicit reparatory measures for African women and girls.”
Haiti’s Crisis in Focus
The Forum also spotlighted the crisis in Haiti, linking its current instability to historical injustices such as colonial exploitation and the infamous “independence debt” imposed by France. The Forum calls for:
- International recognition of these historical wrongs.
- A reparatory justice framework to address both the past and present.
- Urgent support tailored to the Haitian people’s unique historical context.
Looking Ahead: Unity for Action
As the Forum concluded its report, it issued a powerful call to action:
“The global African diaspora is crying out for dignity, justice, and freedom. This is a moment for unity — among human rights groups, governments, civil society, and citizens — to uphold the promise of equality for all.”
