Call for Input: Promotion and protection of the human rights and fundamental freedoms of Africans and people of African descent
Written by Tshepo Tlhacoane
The Amman Center for Human Rights Studies thanks the United Nations and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights for the opportunity to provide an input for the preparation of the 2026 Report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, pursuant to Human Rights Council Resolution 47/21, Promotion and protection of the human rights and fundamental freedoms of Africans and people of African descent against excessive use of force and other human rights violations by law enforcement officers through transformative change for racial justice and equality.
Racial discrimination against all people is a scourge that must be eliminated from all levels of society as soon as possible. The consequences of racial discrimination are many, and range from individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts and behaviours, to the loss of faith in the rule of law, the criminal justice system, and the human rights regime. Racial discrimination undermines inter-racial and inter-cultural relations, and destroys social harmony which leads to division and conflict. It is therefore in our collective interest to eliminate it from all sectors of society in order for all people to enjoy the full realization of their human rights.
The purpose of this submission is to serve as a reminder that the racism faced by African and people of African descent by law enforcement officials is a continuation of the racism that they experience in other parts of society. Africans and people of African descent experience racial discrimination in multiple domains of public life, and this experience has been shown to be consistent in Australia, Brazil, Europe, and the United States of America. Our submission is that the elimination of racism in society at large will lead to the elimination of racism by law enforcement officers against Africans and people of African descent.
