By Tiana Cole | HGPTV Nightly Newsroom
The fourth session of the United Nations Permanent Forum on People of African Descent commenced this week at UN Headquarters in New York, uniting global leaders, activists, and policymakers to tackle critical issues affecting people of African descent, including reparatory justice, systemic inequality, and the implications of artificial intelligence (AI).
Under the theme “Africa and People of African Descent: United for Reparatory Justice in the Age of Artificial Intelligence,” the forum aims to confront the enduring legacies of slavery and colonialism and their modern manifestations in digital technologies.
Calls for Reparations and Accountability
In her opening address, Colombian Vice President Francia Márquez urged former colonial powers to acknowledge their historical roles and support a global reparations fund to address the lasting impacts of slavery and colonialism. Márquez emphasized that many Afro-Colombians still face systemic barriers to basic rights, such as healthcare, housing, and education .
UN Secretary-General António Guterres, represented by his Chief of Staff, reiterated the call for reparations and highlighted the need to eliminate racial biases embedded in AI systems. He stressed that AI technologies often mirror and amplify existing societal inequalities .
CARICOM’s Advocacy for Reparatory and Digital Justice
CARICOM Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett addressed the forum, emphasizing the importance of reparatory justice and digital equity. She highlighted the risk of widening digital divides and called for inclusive digital policies and investments in technology to prevent further marginalization of people of African descent .
Focus on Ethical AI and Intersectional Rights
The forum’s agenda includes discussions on developing ethical and inclusive AI systems that protect the human rights of people of African descent. Panels will also explore the intersectional challenges faced by women and girls of African descent, advocating for policies that address both racial and gender-based disparities .
The session is part of the broader initiative marking the Second International Decade for People of African Descent (2025–2034), aiming to promote recognition, justice, and development for people of African descent worldwide .
