Race Equality Network speaks at United Nations in Geneva

The Race Equality Network [REN] presented its report on the current reality of racial disparities across the UK.

Created more than two decades ago, the REN was made to unite community groups under one banner, bring cultures together and bridge divides.

It has now issued a warning that racism needs to be challenged in all ways - from changing Government policies to inequality in the healthcare system. 

REN Chair Yusuf Karolia said “REN has been challenging racism and inequalities for almost 25 years with our focus firmly on rooting out racism at all levels of society and across all institutions.

From the left, Prof. Tina Stavrinaki (Member of the UN), Humma Nizami, Executive Director of REN, and Prof. Gün Kut (Member of the UN Committee) (Image: UGC)

"We know that racial disparities are avoidable, but I believe that by incorporating racial equity into operations and service delivery, not only will the United Kingdom be able to enhance the quality of work that creates these disparities in the first place, but we will be able to root out racism more effectively”.

The REN’s report concluded that much of UK legislations and policies are in breach of numerous key articles of the UN treaty, International Convention for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (ICERD).

(Image: UGC)

Their findings were presented to the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination in Geneva at its 113th session.

REN’s Executive Director Humma Nizami and Projects & Comms Officer Fatima Mahmood represented Bradford at the meeting.

Fatima and Humma next to the UN flag (Image: UGC)

'Look beyond individual acts of prejudice'

Reflecting on the milestone moment, Humma said: “It was a great honour to meet the UN rapporteurs, committee members and all the civil society organisations from the UK who are delivering vital work to combat racism and inequalities faced by people of colour. 

Outside the UN in Geneva (Image: UGC)

“Racial discrimination and racial injustice are often baked into the structures of institutions and have been left unchallenged for far too long. 

“If we are to challenge institutionalised racism, we must look beyond individual acts of prejudice and look at the systemic barriers that are built into policies, practices and structures. 

“In light of the recent far right riots in the UK which displayed outright racism, an increase in Islamophobia and the demonisation of migrants, REN stands in solidarity with those communities affected.”

Fatima Mahmood said “In the current political climate, the work of Race Equality Network and other civil society organisations is crucial now, more than ever. We look forward to working in collaboration with our members and other civil society organisations on a range of matters such as health inequalities and civil liberties in order to contribute to a world built upon hope, justice and solidarity”.