Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
October 1, 2025 Human rights
Colonialism, slavery, and the slave trade are more than just dark chapters of history. Their impact is felt today, fueling inequality and perpetuating systemic racism against people of African descent. This was the statement made by UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk during an interactive dialogue on racial justice held by the Human Rights Council.
Around the world, people of African descent face entrenched barriers and stereotypes in many areas, including education, healthcare, the labor market, and even the digital space, Türk noted.
“Systemic racism against Africans and people of African descent has been building for generations and can – and must – be eradicated,” the High Commissioner said.
He declared the need for "the truth to be revealed and accepted." "The damage caused must be compensated," Türk declared.
He noted that countries have acted differently in recent years. Some states, including Belgium, Brazil, Germany, and the Netherlands, have issued official apologies to affected communities or other countries.
In some countries, truth-telling initiatives have led to research. In others, such as Colombia, France, Mauritius, Mexico, Qatar, Senegal, and South Africa, museums have opened and commemorative days or months have been observed.
Photo by UN
In Belgium, Ghana, Mexico, Portugal, Spain, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the Caribbean, monuments or place names associated with people involved in the slave trade or colonization have been identified, removed, or contextualized, although in some cases the opposite has been observed.
A number of museums, universities, religious groups, and companies have apologized for their past. Türk stated that more such initiatives should be undertaken.
They identified five areas of action that could contribute to the eradication of racism.
First, he believed that states must make specific commitments to promoting reparative justice. Second, consultations with affected communities must be conducted. He also emphasized the need for cooperation between countries and regions.
“I am encouraged by the growing number of such initiatives, including those of the African Union and CARICOM (Caribbean Community – editor’s note),” Türk said.
The High Commissioner also called for support for civil society organizations and for reforms at the global level, in particular by strengthening Africa's representation on the UN Security Council.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
.