United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called on countries around the world to intensify efforts to eliminate racism and discrimination, urging full implementation of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action (DDPA), the UN’s global framework for addressing racial injustice.
He made the call in a video message delivered to the fifth session of the Permanent Forum on People of African Descent on Tuesday in Geneva, where he stressed the need for urgent and coordinated global action.
Guterres described the DDPA as a key blueprint for combating racism, xenophobia, and related forms of intolerance worldwide, adding that stronger political will is required to translate commitments into real change.
“Together, let’s forge a future of dignity, equality, and justice for all people of African descent and for our world,” he said.
The UN chief noted that the struggle against racism is inseparable from the broader fight for human rights and human dignity, warning that historical injustices continue to shape present inequalities.
He said people of African descent continue to face long-standing injustices rooted in centuries of enslavement, colonialism, and exploitation, which he said are still reflected in modern institutions and systems that require urgent reform.
“Injustices rooted in centuries of enslavement, colonialism, and exploitation. Injustices perpetuated by institutions and systems needing urgent reform,” he stated.
Guterres further observed that people of African descent continue to experience widespread violations of their rights globally, with discrimination often manifesting in subtle but deeply damaging forms.
He warned that inequalities in power, wealth, opportunities, and outcomes often follow racial lines, creating persistent gaps across societies.
“Stark inequalities in power, resources, opportunities, and outcomes break down along colour lines,” he said.
The UN Secretary-General commended the Permanent Forum for its work in addressing these issues and promoting discussions around reparatory justice and equality.
He also urged governments and institutions to confront historical wrongs, amplify youth voices, and safeguard cultural heritage as part of broader efforts to achieve racial justice.
“This Forum is a crucial platform for driving meaningful change,” he said, adding that the ongoing International Decade for People of African Descent presents a critical opportunity for action.
Guterres thanked participants for their commitment to advancing equality, dignity, and justice for all people of African descent worldwide.
