African Affairs newsletter - August 2026

25 Years On: The Legacy of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action

2026 marks the 25th anniversary of the adoption of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action (DDPA), the landmark outcome of the World Conference against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance, held in Durban, South Africa, from 31 August to 7 September 2001.

The conference was convened following the United Nations General Assembly's 1997 decision to organize a global forum to address racism and related forms of iintolerance. Adopted by consensus, the DDPA remains the most comprehensive international framework for combating racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance. It sets out far-reaching commitments to strengthen anti-discrimination laws and policies, improve access to education, healthcare, and justice, combat poverty and inequality, enhance remedies for victims of racism, and promote multiculturalism, the rule of law, and respect for human rights.

Twenty-five years later, the DDPA continues to provide a vital roadmap for advancing equality, inclusion, and dignity for all. The 25th anniversary provides an important opportunity not only to reflect on the progress made since Durban but also to acknowledge the persistent and emerging challenges that continue to undermine equality worldwide.

Structural racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, hate speech, and intolerance remain deeply entrenched in many societies, while new forms of discrimination have emerged in digital spaces and through evolving technologies. This milestone therefore serves as a timely reminder that the commitments made in Durban require renewed political will, effective implementation, and sustained international cooperation to ensure that the vision of equality, justice, and human dignity becomes a reality for all.

The sixth issue of the African Newsletter continues the conversation on the 25th anniversary of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action (DDPA), reflecting on whether it has lived up to its expectations and commitments it generated. The issue explores the persistent challenges and gaps in implementation, and the ongoing relevance of the DDPA in addressing racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance. 

To read the 6th issue of the African Newsletter click on the image below: