Rights experts call for a second UN Decade for People of African Descent
Addis Ababa, 31 August 2023 (ENA): - Human rights experts have urged the UN General Assembly to declare a second international decade for people of African descent starting in 2025, as more action is needed to combat racism and other intolerance.
The experts said this in a statement they issued in conjunction with today's International Day of People of African Descent to recognize and commemorate the historic and ongoing triumphs as well as the struggles of people of African descent to uphold their human rights. . In their statement, they emphasized that the world more than ever urgently needs humanity to unite and work together in a spirit of equality and non-discrimination.
"This requires the political will to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination, inequality and stratification both domestically and internationally," they said in a statement. The General Assembly declared 2015 to 2024 as the International Decade for People of African Descent, with actions at national, regional and global levels.
The goals include promoting the respect, protection and fulfillment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by people of African descent and better knowledge of their diverse heritage, culture and contribution to society. "The cause of recognition, justice and development of people of African descent is a cause for humanity," the experts said.
They said the UN Decade, together with the International Convention on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination and the Durban Declaration and Program of Action, had made significant contributions to the fight against racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance. "However, much more work needs to be done and the momentum gained must be maintained," they said.
They urged the General Assembly to consider declaring a second International Decade for People of African Descent from 2025 to 2034, "to take further steps to address systemic discrimination and the legacy of the past to achieve full recognition, justice and development." for people of African descent around the world."
In his message for the day, UN Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted the "tremendous impact" that the African continent and people of African descent have had on the development, diversity and richness of the world's civilizations and cultures that make up the common heritage of humanity.
"At the same time, we recognize the pervasive discrimination faced by people of African descent around the world and the many obstacles they face in exercising their full human rights," he said. He noted that in recent years there has been renewed momentum for change based on the global anti-racism movement of 2020. Millions of people took to the streets of major cities around the world after the police killing of George Floyd, an African-American, in May.
The Secretary-General has also made the fight against racism a management priority at the United Nations, appointing a Special Adviser and a team tasked with overseeing the implementation of the Strategic Plan of Action to Address Racism and Promote Dignity for All.
The UN chief called on countries to take concrete steps to address old and new forms of racial discrimination, with the full participation of people of African descent and their communities; and eliminate entrenched structural and institutional racism. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.
In a landmark move, human rights experts and activists are uniting in a loud call for a second UN Decade for People of African Descent. Building on the success of the first decade, which ran from 2015 to 2024, this proposed initiative aims to further address the ongoing challenges facing people of African descent around the world. In this article, we delve into the meaning of this challenge and the key words that are central to this vital global discussion.
The first UN Decade for People of African Descent, which ends in 2024, was a historic effort to promote the recognition, justice and development of people of African Descent. He emphasized the importance of combating racial discrimination, promoting inclusion and recognizing the valuable contribution of African diaspora communities. However, while progress has been made, a number of challenges still remain.
The call for a second UN Decade for People of African Descent is driven by the need to build on the achievements of the first decade and address ongoing challenges. Racial discrimination, systemic inequalities and violence against people of African descent continue to run rampant around the world, experts say. A renewed global effort is necessary to achieve equality and justice.
The proposed Second UN Decade will focus on several key areas that will bring about tangible change. Ensuring equal access to quality education, eliminating stereotypes and promoting African history and culture in the curriculum.
Addressing economic disparities, promoting entrepreneurship and enhancing economic opportunities for people of African descent. Combating racial profiling, reforming criminal justice systems, and addressing police brutality and discrimination. Improving access to health care, eliminating disparities in health care outcomes, and addressing discrimination in health care.
The call for a second UN Decade for People of African Descent has received widespread international support. Nations, organizations and individuals stand in solidarity with this cause and emphasize the need for joint efforts to combat racial discrimination and promote human rights for all.
The call for a second UN Decade for People of African Descent reflects a global commitment to eradicating racial discrimination, promoting equality and advancing human rights. As experts and activists unite on this issue, it is clear that the key words that encompass this initiative – equality, justice, inclusion and solidarity – will remain at the forefront of discussions to shape a more just future for people of African descent and indeed, for all of humanity.
The UN's First Decade for People of African Descent He usually turns to his family for reassurance. "When I look at them, I draw strength and realize that what I am doing now is not in vain." United Nations Decade for People of African Descent
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