'Impunity' prevails for law enforcement violations against Africans and people of African descent, UN expert

During a protest against police violence in Paris, France, a demonstrator held a sign that read "Stop Systemic Racism."

Systemic racism remains rampant

Systemic racism against Africans and people of African descent in law enforcement and the criminal justice system remains prevalent in many countries and regions, with little impunity, said Akua Kuenyehia, chair of the International Independent Expert Mechanism for Advancing Racial Justice and Equality in Law Enforcement.

The Mechanism's experts noted that in addressing impunity, victims' rights to truth, justice, reparation and guarantees of non-revivals are barely guaranteed.

Proposals to promote reform

In response to the high volume of reports of police violence and misconduct, the experts made concrete recommendations to governments for reforms aimed at ensuring victims' rights to justice, accountability and reparation.

The experts recommended that States establish effective reporting and investigation mechanisms, establish independent and impartial law enforcement oversight bodies, and take measures to support victims and affected communities.

Further reports of racism

The experts will present the report to the Human Rights Council on Wednesday, along with country visits to Brazil and Italy. These reports reveal other racist practices in both countries, including racial profiling, "profiling" and police violence.

At the same time, the reports provide recommendations on how authorities can strengthen the accountability of law enforcement agencies in various countries.

On the Independent Expert Mechanism

The mechanism of independent experts appointed by the UN Human Rights Council is responsible for monitoring and reporting on country-specific situations or thematic issues around the world. These experts are not United Nations staff members and are independent of any government or organization. They perform their duties in their personal capacity and do not receive a salary at the United Nations.