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Abstract

Communities of African descent worldwide experience persistent structural discrimination, manifested in poverty, underdevelopment, marginalization, social exclusion, and economic disparities. The historical crimes of enslavement, the transatlantic trade of enslaved Africans, apartheid, and colonialism, recognized as crimes against humanity and potentially constituting genocide, have left enduring trauma and systemic repercussions. These atrocities are demonstrably linked to current disparities in health, welfare, and the fulfillment of human rights for people of African descent. The International Decade for People of African Descent (2015 to 2024), proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015 under the theme “People of African Descent: Recognition, Justice and Development,” concluded in December 2024. In its wake, the Permanent Forum on People of African Descent (PFPAD), established in 2021, has emerged as a crucial mechanism to address the structural inequalities faced by Afro-descended communities globally. Serving as both a dialogue platform and an advisory body to the UN Human Rights Council, the PFPAD plays a vital role in amplifying the voices of people of African descent on issues of racism, discrimination, and marginalization. This paper analyzes the PFPAD’s function in this regard and critically reviews the draft UN Declaration on the promotion, protection, and full respect of the human rights of people of African descent. Furthermore, as the initial decade concludes, this paper critically examines the call for a second decade, considering the proposed themes of systemic racism, reparatory justice, and sustainable development. By analyzing the PFPAD’s mandate and the ongoing need for dedicated international attention, this paper argues for the PFPAD’s significance in advancing racial justice and equity for Afro-descended communities worldwide.

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