International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination 2025

Rose Mabiza

08-03-2024

International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination 2025

Image by wayhomestudioo via Envato Elements

60 years of international convention on the elimination of all forms of racial discrimination: Achievements and challenges

Observed annually on March 21, the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is an annual global awareness initiative led by the United Nations, rooted in equality, justice, and human dignity. In 2025, the world commemorates a significant milestone: the 60th anniversary of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD).

This year’s theme, “60 Years of ICERD: Achievements and Challenges”, invites individuals, communities, governments, and organisations to reflect on the progress made, recommit to the ongoing struggle against racial injustice, and reform systems that perpetuate discrimination in any form.

Why March 21?

The significance of March 21 lies in the tragic events of 1960, when South African police opened fire on peaceful protestors in Sharpeville, killing 69 people who were demonstrating against apartheid-era pass laws. This massacre drew international condemnation and set the stage for the global movement against racial oppression.

In response, the United Nations General Assembly established this day as a symbol of resistance against racism and a reminder of our collective responsibility to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination.

Understanding ICERD – A historic milestone

Adopted in 1965 and entered into force in 1969, the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD) remains a core international human rights treaty. It defines racial discrimination as:

“Any distinction, exclusion, restriction or preference based on race, colour, descent, or national or ethnic origin that has the purpose or effect of nullifying the recognition, enjoyment or exercise... of human rights and fundamental freedoms.”

Now in its 60th year, the ICERD serves as both a blueprint and a benchmark for member states to develop anti-discrimination laws, policies, and practices. Yet, racism and xenophobia continue to evolve, often manifesting in more covert or systemic ways, highlighting the urgent need for renewed vigilance and commitment.

Current realities - Racial discrimination in 2025

While legal frameworks like ICERD have led to progress, data and lived experiences show that racial inequality persists across key areas:

Employment - Ethnic minorities in the UK are still twice as likely to be unemployed compared to white individuals (ONS, 2024).
Policing and justice - Stop-and-search powers are disproportionately used against Black people in England and Wales.
Education - Disparities remain in access, attainment, and discipline outcomes for racially minoritised students.
Health - Reports from Public Health England and NHS England highlight that Black and ethnic minority groups experience poorer health outcomes, partly due to systemic bias in healthcare delivery.

In the digital age, online hate speech and algorithmic bias are new frontiers of racial discrimination. According to the OHCHR (2023), racialised individuals are more likely to be targeted in online spaces, especially during migration surges, global crises, or political tensions.

2025 theme - “60 years of ICERD: Achievements and challenges”

This year's observance is more than a commemoration; it’s a call to action. The 60th anniversary of ICERD underscores the convention’s legacy of progress and the challenges we still face. It serves as a reminder that policy must be matched by practice, and awareness must translate into accountability and structural change.

The United Nations is encouraging national dialogues, educational initiatives, and cross-sectoral partnerships to tackle racial disparities through systemic reform.

Best practices - Collective action toward equality

Whether you are an individual or part of an organisation, here are key actions to support this year’s theme:

For organisations

Conduct EDI audits and address gaps in recruitment, promotion, and pay.
Provide mandatory EDI training for all staff, including leadership.
Promote transparency through regular reporting.
Celebrate cultural awareness days and encourage inclusive dialogue.

For individuals

Learn about the history of racial injustice and your role in dismantling it.
Speak out against microaggressions and discriminatory behaviour.
Support antiracist charities and movements.
Be an ally - listen, amplify, and act.

Conclusion

The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination 2025 is not just a reflection of past struggles but a moment of reawakening. The 60th anniversary of ICERD challenges us to deepen our understanding, renew our commitment, and act with integrity to build a fairer, more inclusive world.

At The Mandatory Training Group, we support organisations in creating inclusive, respectful workplaces by encouraging open dialogue, raising awareness of unconscious bias, and challenging discriminatory behaviours. Through ComplyPlus™, organisations can effectively implement and monitor their equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) initiatives, ensuring policies are upheld, competencies are tracked, and real-time compliance is maintained.

We can build workplace cultures beyond compliance, championing dignity, fairness, and equity for all.

Last updated on 21-03-2025

About the author

Rose Mabiza

Rose has dedicated over 15 years to improving health and social care quality through practice, targeted education and training. Her extensive experience includes working with older adults, individuals with mental health conditions, and people with autism and learning disabilities.