Elimination of Racial Discrimination: The Necessary Protection of Afro-descendant Rights

Published at: 21/03/2026 08:22 AM

Every March 21, the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is celebrated around the world, with the purpose of promoting actions to put an end to this inhumane practice.

Since the adoption of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, in 1965 by the United Nations General Assembly (UN), and the Durban Declaration and Plan of Action, in 2001 by the World Conference against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance, there has been an international regulatory and action framework to protect and promote rights of people of African descent.

However, the world requires greater efforts in the face of situations of racism, stigma and discrimination that still exist in countries where skin color makes the difference with respect to the rights and treatment of citizens.

Other initiatives, such as the International Decade for People of African Descent (2015-2024) and the Second Decade (2025-2034), have helped to raise public awareness and promote policies focused on recognition, justice and development of communities historically affected by racial discrimination.

Mazo News Team