Public Service and Administration Minister, Ms Noxolo Kiviet, will represent South Africa, in the UNESCO Global Forum Against Racism and Discrimination. The event, scheduled to take place from 29 November to 1 December 2023 in São Paulo, Brazil, aims to address the pressing issues of racism and discrimination and explore strategies for racial equity and justice in the development agenda.
The UNESCO Global Forum Against Racism and Discrimination is an initiative that has gained significant momentum in the global fight against these societal ills. Serving as a flagship event of UNESCO's Roadmap against Racism and Discrimination, the Global Forum has been instrumental in elevating the anti-racism global movement and fostering concrete commitments from high-level representatives.
Themed "Race to the Top: Putting Racial Equity and Justice at the Forefront of Development Agendas," the third edition of the Global Forum will focus on the importance of placing race at the centre of socio-economic development strategies. It will bring together government officials, policymakers, practitioners, civil society representatives, and discriminated communities to engage in interactive sessions, share knowledge, and design anti-racism strategies aligned with socioeconomic development goals.
Minister Kiviet's participation in this influential event highlights South Africa's commitment to combating racism and discrimination while promoting equality and justice within its own borders. As a representative of the South African government, Minister Kiviet will have the opportunity to address systemic racism as a barrier to achieving equity and justice in societies and contribute to the ongoing dialogue on effective anti-racist policies.
The Global Forum presents a significant platform for South Africa to showcase its efforts in combating racism and discrimination, drawing from its own experiences and sharing success stories. The event will also provide a valuable opportunity for networking, collaboration, and learning from international best practices in the fight against racism.
The Global Forum aligns with South Africa's upcoming milestones, including the 30th anniversary of the UNESCO project "Routes of Enslaved Peoples: Resistance, Liberty, and Heritage" in 2024 and the culmination of the International Decade for People of African Descent (2015-2024). By highlighting history and memory as vital pillars in combating racism and discrimination, the event will contribute to shaping South Africa's ongoing efforts to promote peace, human dignity, equality, non- violence, and non-discrimination.
The participation of Minister Noxolo Kiviet in the UNESCO Global Forum Against Racism and Discrimination underscores South Africa's commitment to fostering a more equitable society, promoting social cohesion, and eliminating all forms of racial discrimination. Through meaningful engagement and collaboration, South Africa aims to contribute to the global movement against racism and discrimination, ultimately building a more just and inclusive world.
As Minister Kiviet joins the gathering in São Paulo, South Africa anticipates fruitful discussions, valuable insights, and concrete partnerships that will further strengthen its resolve in the fight against racism and discrimination.
For Media Interviews:
Mr Dudley Moloi, Deputy Director Media, Department of Public Service and Administration/ Dudley@dpsa.gov.za0724209946/
For further information please contact:
Mr Moses Mushi/Director Communication/Department of Public Service and Administration
E-mail: mosesm@dpsa.gov.za
Cell: 082 972 6595
