Brussels, 3 June 2020/OACPS: In the last week, the world was again rocked by incidences of racial discrimination and violence, notably the death of Mr. George Floyd in Minneapolis, United States of America. On behalf of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), I extend my deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those affected by these events.

The OACPS is anchored on a commitment to diversity as a source of strength and the promotion of mutual understanding among peoples. The Organisation is determined to combat racism, discrimination, xenophobia and all forms of intolerance and injustice. In line with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, there is a need to build inclusive societies, promote equality and build a world where “no one is left behind”.

On 21 March, at the observance of “The International Day for Elimination of Racial Discrimination”, focusing on the mid-term review of the International Decade for People of African Descent, I reaffirmed the commitment of the OACPS to strongly promote justice and equality in accordance with the United Nations Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. In my statement, I called on all countries to renew their commitment to adopting action-oriented policies that promote diversity, equity and social justice.

“We can no longer tolerate racism and race-based violence, and it has to stop today!”