The annual commemoration of the Sharpeville massacre on 21 March 1960 reminds the world that racism, in all its forms, continues to persist globally. General Assembly President Annalena Baerbock noted that racism can be both overt and subtle, causing deep and lasting harm that extends beyond individuals.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized that racism fuels social, economic, and political inequalities, and warned that anti-racist policies are being undermined as governments fail to act and xenophobia spreads online and in political discourse. He called for solidarity among governments, institutions, businesses, and communities to protect the dignity, equality, and rights of every person.
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk highlighted historical acts of resistance, from Sharpeville to Ruby Bridges and contemporary activists, as pivotal in advancing equality, stressing that political will, robust laws, and accountability are essential in combating racial discrimination.
Experts like US law professor Justin Hansford underscored the sacrifices of those who fought for racial justice, affirming that global vigilance is necessary until equality and justice are fully realized.
