UN Secretary-General Calls for Joint Efforts to Combat Racism and Eliminate Discrimination

UN Secretary-General António Guterres called yesterday for strengthened joint action and concrete measures to combat racism and eradicate discrimination in all its forms, warning that racism continues to “poison societies” and deprive people of their fundamental rights and freedoms.

His remarks came during a high-level event at the United Nations headquarters, marking the 25th anniversary of the adoption of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action, which serves as a global roadmap for combating racism, discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance.

Guterres stated that racism is “deeply rooted in the entrenched legacy of colonialism, enslavement, and oppression,” takes multiple forms within and between countries, and is exacerbated by hate speech and disinformation fueled by digital technologies and tools.

He emphasized the need for governments to strengthen institutions and effectively implement laws aimed at combating discrimination, and to invest in inclusive and just societies. At the same time, he cautioned that responsibility does not rest solely with governments, as “everyone has a role to play.”

Guterres urged technology companies to identify, address, and mitigate biases in artificial intelligence systems, and to ensure that digital technologies contribute to promoting equality, inclusion, and digital justice rather than undermining them.

He stressed the necessity of addressing the ongoing consequences of slavery, colonialism, and racial discrimination through concrete measures to achieve restorative justice grounded in international human rights law.

The UN Secretary-General concluded his address by calling for joint action to uphold the dignity and rights of all people, reject injustice, and build societies “where there is no place for racism and discrimination.”