Experts and UN leaders have emphasised reparatory justice to tackle the grave human rights violations deeply entrenched in the legacy of colonialism and enslavement.

The experts and leaders said this while addressing the General Assembly on Thursday, the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, which is annually marked on March 21.

While the decade ends in 2024, much work remains to be done, General Assembly President Dennis Francis told the world body.

To galvanise action-based efforts, he announced a meeting focusing on the issue of reparatory justice, to be held on Monday on the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slaves Trade globally marked on March 25.

People of African descent face many prejudices and injustices through legacies of slavery and colonialism, from police brutality to inequalities, he said, stressing that the world must take action to protect their human rights fully.

“Racism and racial discrimination are a flagrant violation of human rights,” he said. “It is morally wrong, has no place in our world and must therefore be roundly repudiated.”

The results of the legacy of enslavement and colonialism are “devastating,” UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a statement delivered by UN chef de cabinet Courtenay Rattray.

Pointing to opportunities stolen, dignity denied, rights violated, lives taken, and lives destroyed, he said, “Racism is an evil infecting countries and societies around the world.”

While racism is “rife”, it impacts communities differently.

“People of African descent face a unique history of systemic and institutionalised racism and profound challenges today,” the UN chief said. “We must respond to that reality, learning from and building on the tireless advocacy of people of African descent.”

Mr Rattray said racism was entrenched in social structures, policies and the realities of millions today, violating people’s dignity and rights while fuelling silent discrimination in health, housing, education and daily life.

“It is high time we shook ourselves free,” he said, calling for action.

“Commemoration is not enough. Eliminating discrimination requires action.”

That included countries and businesses delivering reparatory justice, he said. 

(NAN)