Historic Fourth Session of the Permanent Forum on People of African Descent Takes Place at UN Headquarters
By Neneh Bojang
New York, USA – April 16, 2025
The United Nations Headquarters in New York is currently hosting the fourth session of the Permanent Forum on People of African Descent, a landmark gathering aimed at addressing systemic racism, reparatory justice, and the rights of people of African descent worldwide. The forum, which runs from April 14 to 17, has drawn delegates from across the globe, including representatives from The Pan-African Action Network in Norway (PAIN), with Neneh Bojang and Maimouna Lisa Pouye attending as delegates from the Inter African Committee in Norway.
A Platform for Change
The Permanent Forum on People of African Descent was established following the adoption of UN General Assembly resolution 75/314 in August 2021. The forum serves as a consultative mechanism for people of African descent and other stakeholders, providing a platform to improve safety, quality of life, and livelihoods.
Additionally, it functions as an advisory body to the Human Rights Council, working in coordination with existing UN
mechanisms to combat racism.
This year’s session is particularly significant as it coincides with the Second International Decade for People of African Descent, co-sponsored by China 🇨🇳 and Canada. The decade aims to further global efforts to eliminate racial discrimination and promote equality.
Key Themes and Discussions
The primary theme of the 2025 session is: “Africa and People of African Descent: United for Reparatory Justice in the Age of Artificial Intelligence.”
Under this overarching theme, participants are engaging in four thematic discussions:
- Reparatory justice for Africa and people of African descent
- Human rights of women and girls of African descent
- Policymaking and systemic racism: a human rights-based approach
- Artificial intelligence and digital justice for people of African descent
The European Union, African Union, and Nordic states (Norway, Denmark, Finland, and Sweden) have delivered a joint statement welcoming the Second International Decade and emphasizing their concerns, particularly regarding the well-being of women and girls of African descent.
Global Calls for Reparatory Justice
Speakers at the forum have underscored the urgent need for reparatory justice, highlighting the historical legacies of colonialism, enslavement, apartheid, and genocide. The African Union (AU) and Caribbean Community (CARICOM) have strengthened their partnership, advocating for a Global Reparations Fund to address the injustices faced by Africa and its diaspora.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for reparatory justice frameworks grounded in international human rights law, urging governments, civil society, and regional organizations to collaborate on solutions.
Artificial Intelligence and Digital Justice
A major focus of this year’s forum is the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on racial justice. Experts warn that AI systems often perpetuate racial biases, leading to discrimination against people of African descent. Discussions are exploring ways to harness AI for digital justice, ensuring that technological advancements do not reinforce systemic inequalities.
Looking Ahead
As the fourth session of the Permanent Forum on People of African Descent continues, delegates remain committed to advancing global reparatory justice, combating racism, and ensuring digital equity. The forum’s outcomes are expected to shape future policies and initiatives, reinforcing the UN’s commitment to racial justice and equality.
The session will conclude on April 17, marking another milestone in the ongoing fight for justice, dignity, and human rights for people of African descent worldwide.
