The United Nations marked the 25th anniversary of the Durban Declaration by adopting a new political declaration against racism and racial discrimination, reaffirming commitments to combat racism, xenophobia, and related intolerance while emphasizing reparatory justice, accountability, and data-driven policy.

At a high-level UN meeting, speakers outlined specific forms of racial discrimination, including inequalities, discriminatory laws, and denial of rights, framing the issue within the Durban framework and broader equality debates.

Algeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs urged renewed international action against racism during the anniversary proceedings.

Digital platforms came under scrutiny for amplifying hate speech and misinformation, with calls for clear definitions, transparent enforcement, and accountable moderation that respects freedom of expression.

Data disaggregation is highlighted as essential to reveal persistent inequities beyond national averages, while safeguarding privacy and preventing misuse of sensitive information.

Africa’s stake in AI governance and reparations was underscored, noting underrepresentation in datasets and Africa’s interest in shaping global standards and governance.

The Durban framework was placed within broader debates on equality, historical responsibility, and protection of fundamental rights, including the growing role of digital technologies in public discourse.

A comprehensive structural approach to reparative justice was urged as a path toward reconciliation, equity, and mutual respect.

Governments were urged to strengthen anti-discrimination laws and invest in inclusive societies, while tech companies were called to identify and address bias in AI to promote equality.

Artificial intelligence was identified as a new frontier in racial justice, requiring representative data, transparency, human oversight, and accountability to prevent bias.

UN figures warned of biased datasets and platform amplification of hate, calling for safeguards across the technology lifecycle—representative data, transparency, human oversight, accountability, remedies—and greater platform accountability for profit from hate.

Experts noted that progress depends on budgets, institutions, and political will to implement structural change in law, institutions, technology, and daily life, beyond mere international commitments.