UN Chief Calls for Justice and ‘Real Change’ for People of African Descent
UN Secretary-General Calls for Global Action to Advance Justice and Equity for People of African Descent On the occasion of the International Day for People of African Descent, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres issued a powerful call to the international community to intensify efforts toward achieving justice, equality, and transformative change for people of African descent worldwide. The annual observance serves as a moment to reflect on both the remarkable contributions of African descendants and the persistent challenges they face due to historical and ongoing inequalities. In his statement, Mr. Guterres lauded the “extraordinary” contributions of people of African descent across diverse fields, including culture, science, politics, and the arts, which have profoundly enriched global societies. However, he underscored the enduring impact of historical injustices, noting that “the long shadows of slavery and colonialism” continue to manifest in systemic racism, economic disparities, and exclusion from equitable opportunities, including in the digital realm. The Secretary-General highlighted the alarming persistence of harmful ideologies in the modern era, particularly the amplification of white supremacy and dehumanizing narratives through social media platforms. He also pointed to the pervasive issue of racial bias embedded in algorithms, which exacerbates discrimination in digital spaces. In this context, Mr. Guterres welcomed the adoption of the Global Digital Compact in 2024, a key component of the Pact for the Future, which includes commitments to combat discrimination, hate speech, and bias in digital technologies, fostering more inclusive digital ecosystems. This year’s commemoration coincides with significant milestones: the 80th anniversary of the UN Charter, which enshrines equal rights and human dignity for all, and the 60th anniversary of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination. Reflecting on these landmarks, Mr. Guterres declared, “It is long past time to right historic wrongs,” urging global leaders to take decisive action to dismantle systemic barriers and promote equity. The 2025 observance marks the launch of the Second International Decade for People of African Descent (2025–2034), themed “Recognition, Justice, and Development.” This decade builds on progress achieved during the First International Decade (2015–2024), which saw advancements such as the enactment of new anti-discrimination laws, the establishment of the Permanent Forum on People of African Descent, and the designation of international days to celebrate diaspora communities. The UN is now calling for accelerated efforts to drive systemic reforms that address structural inequalities and promote inclusive development. Central to Mr. Guterres’ message was a call for all nations to collaborate on a United Nations Declaration that unequivocally affirms the human rights of people of African descent. Such a declaration would serve as a global commitment to recognizing, respecting, and celebrating their aspirations, ensuring their full inclusion in social, economic, and political spheres. The Secretary-General’s remarks underscore the urgency of collective action to address the legacies of historical injustices and contemporary challenges. By prioritizing recognition, justice, and development, the international community has an opportunity to create a more equitable world where the rights and contributions of people of African descent are fully honored and upheld.
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