International Decade for People of African Descent (2015-2024)

The International Decade for People of African Descent, proclaimed by UN General Assembly resolution 68/237 and to be observed from 2015 to 2024, provides a solid framework for the United Nations, Member States, civil society and all other relevant actors to join together with people of African descent and take effective measures for people of African descent in the spirit of recognition, justice and development.

The Decade is an operational platform conducive

• to encourage States to implement appropriate policies to reduce injustices, racism and discrimination against people of African descent, and
• to promote cultural diversity by valuing in particular the common cultural legacies that emerged from the interactions provoked by the history of slavery.

Under the theme of « People of African Descent: recognition, justice and development », the Decade also symbolizes the international community’s determination to reveal the history, the memory and the contemporary implications of slavery across the globe. It offers an occasion to reflect upon the dehumanization and deportation of millions of human beings,  but also upon resistance which enabled to redefine the very notions of humanity, dignity, citizenship, equity and freedom.

The main objectives of the International Decade are as follows:

1. Promote respect, protection and fulfilment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by people of African Descent, as recognized in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights;
2. Promote a greater knowledge of and respect for the diverse heritage, culture and contribution of people of African descent to the development of societies;
3. Adopt and strengthen national, regional and international legal frameworks according to the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action and the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination and to ensure their full and effective implementation.