The world remains far from fulfilling the global commitment made 25 years ago to end racial discrimination, Bangladesh’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Irene Khan, has said.

She made the remarks on Monday (September 28) while speaking at a high-level event at the United Nations marking the 25th anniversary of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action (DDPA).

Ambassador Khan said that 25 years ago, the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action made a clear commitment that no one should face discrimination based on race, colour, descent, or national or ethnic origin. However, she said the world is still far from fulfilling that commitment.

She also reaffirmed Bangladesh’s strong commitment to the full and effective implementation of the DDPA.

Khan called for stronger justice, education, development and international cooperation to address structural discrimination resulting from slavery, colonialism and other forms of historical injustice. She also stressed the need to strengthen the protection of the rights of migrants, refugees, forcibly displaced people, minorities, women, children and other people in vulnerable situations.

Speaking about artificial intelligence, Khan said emerging technologies should be used for sustainable development rather than to spread hatred and incite violence. She also stressed the need to ensure human rights, equality and non-discrimination in the development of artificial intelligence.

She said Bangladesh is committed to building a world where the diversity and dignity of all people are respected both online and offline.