Durban Declaration and Programme of Action
Durban Declaration and Programme of Action
2021 marks the 20th anniversary of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action (DDPA)
This is an important milestone and offers an opportunity to reflect on
- progress made in efforts to eliminate racism, racial discrimination xenophobia and related intolerance
- good practices and challenges with regard to the implementation of the Plan of Action
The DDPA called for concrete actions by states and other actors related to people of African descent.
Concrete actions include
- Investments in health systems, education, housing, electricity, drinking water and environmental control measures and promoting equal opportunities in employment
- Ensuring access to education and to new technologies, in particular to women and children
- Inclusion of the history and contribution of Africans and people of African descent in the education curriculum
What is the DDPA?
The Durban Declaration and Programme of Action (DDPA) is the UN’s blueprint to combat racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance globally.
- It is a milestone that marks a fundamental development in human rights
- It offers a holistic vision and proposes practical measures, not just for member states, but for civil society
Although the DDPA is a political commitment that is not legally binding, it embodies the firm commitment of the international community and has a strong moral value, serving as a basis for advocacy efforts worldwide.
The DDPA is a victims centred document that emphasises the plight of victims of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance. It reaffirms that States have the duty to protect and promote the human rights of all victims and should apply a gender perspective, recognising the multiple forms of discrimination.
The DDPA recognizes that no country can claim to be free of racism, that racism is a global concern, and that tackling it requires a universal effort.
