Addressing the fifth session of the UN Permanent Forum on People of African Descent on Tuesday, Türk acknowledged the progress made over recent decades toward racial justice and equality. He cited the adoption of anti‑discrimination legislation, the establishment of independent human rights and equality bodies and initial steps toward reparations.
However, he warned that these gains remain uneven and fragile, with progress stalling or even reversing in some parts of the world. “For people of African descent, daily realities still include poverty, discrimination and racism,” Türk said, pointing to unequal treatment in workplaces, hospitals, classrooms and interactions with law enforcement.
He noted that poverty rates remain consistently higher among people of African descent across all regions, particularly affecting women, young people and those experiencing intersecting forms of discrimination. “Racism and dehumanising rhetoric continue to permeate public institutions, communities and online platforms,” he said.
Türk also warned that emerging digital technologies, including artificial intelligence, are reproducing and amplifying existing racial biases against people of African descent. “These daily realities are the direct legacy of colonialism and enslavement,” he said.
–UN/ChannelAfrica–
