On December 17, 2024, the United Nations General Assembly officially adopted Resolution 79/193, marking the start of the Second International Decade for People of African Descent. This decade, beginning on January 1, 2025, and ending on December 31, 2034, will operate under the theme “People of African descent: recognition, justice and development.”
This move builds on the first decade (2015–2024) and reaffirms the UN’s commitment to ending racial discrimination and improving the lives of people of African descent globally. Through the extension of activities first outlined in Resolution 69/16 (2014), the UN aims to continue its efforts in three main areas:
1. Rights and Inclusion: Promote full and equal participation of people of African descent in all areas of society while ensuring access to economic, social, cultural, civil, and political rights.
2. Cultural Awareness: Celebrate and promote respect for African heritage, history, and contributions to global development.
3. Legal Frameworks: Strengthen national and international laws aligned with the Durban Declaration and the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination.
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights** serves as the official coordinator of the decade. The office supports countries in implementing the program, raises awareness on racial issues, and promotes policies to combat discrimination. It also leads initiatives like the Fellowship Programme for People of African Descent, which has empowered over 80 fellows from 32 countries.
UN High Commissioner Volker Türk welcomed the decade with a call for “bold action to deliver real change,” urging nations to take measurable steps toward racial justice.
As this new decade unfolds, the UN encourages governments, organizations, and individuals to join efforts that affirm dignity, equality, and justice for people of African descent worldwide.
