International Day for People of African Descent

The International Day for People of African Descent celebrates the heritage, culture and contributions of people of African descent around the world, while highlighting the need to advance equality, human rights and social justice.

This day also serves as a reminder that people of African descent continue to face racism, discrimination and exclusion in many parts of the world.

In December 2024, the United Nations General Assembly launched the Second International Decade for People of African Descent (2025–2034) under the theme “People of African Descent: Recognition, Justice and Development”, reaffirming the international community’s commitment to addressing persistent inequalities and advancing human rights.

Portugal supports the United Nations Secretary-General’s appeal to States to take concrete steps, with the full participation of people of African descent and their communities, to tackle old and new forms of racial discrimination; and to dismantle entrenched structural and institutional racism.

On this day, we celebrate the diversity, resilience and achievements of people of African descent and reaffirm our shared commitment to dignity, equality and inclusion for all.