Statement by India under Debate on the Midterm Review of the International Decade for People of African Descent in the 46th Session of the Human Rights Council (22 February – 23 March 2021) delivered by Mr. S. Senthil Kumar,
First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India
(Geneva, 12 March 2021)

Madam President,

            We appreciate convening of this Panel and views shared by the eminent Panelists.

2. My delegation strongly believes that the racism and racial discrimination are the most pervasive acts that often lead to serious violation of human rights. The principle of equality enshrined in the Indian Constitution expressly prohibits any discrimination on the grounds of racism. The International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination provides a strong legal framework in addressing many of these contemporary practices.

3. The UN Secretary General’s report to the General Assembly (A/75/363), which we have taken note of, had illustrated how the children and young people of African descent, experience racial discrimination manifested in its various dimensions, including on employment, education and training and mental well-being.

4. It is unfortunate that the COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the underlying structural inequalities and fundamental problems in access to health care and treatment, leading to racial disparities in health outcomes and increased mortality and morbidity for people of African descent.

5. Currently there exists a glaring disparity in accessibility of vaccines globally. Equity in access to vaccine is important for mitigating the impact of pandemic on the marginalized people.  Under our initiative Vaccine Maitri, which translates into Vaccine Friendship, India is providing vaccines to the world. So far, about 68 countries have received Made in India vaccines.

Madam President,

6. We support the Council’s efforts to ensure equality and non-discrimination for youth and children, including people of African descent in the COVID-19 recovery approach. This would fulfil the objectives set forth by the 2030 Agenda and the programme of activities for the implementation of the International Decade for People of African Descent.

I thank you, Madam President.

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