The Human Rights Council is an inter-governmental body within the United Nations created on the 15 of March 2006. It is responsible for the promotion and protection of all human rights around the globe. The Council is made of 47 United Nations Member States, which are elected by the UN General Assembly.  It has the ability to discuss all thematic human rights issues and situations that require its attention throughout the year.

Racism and intolerance towards people of colour are still very prevalent in the world despite the apparent improvements made by governments in addressing the issue. The present lack of discussion and understanding between authorities and minorities may be an obstacle to further progress; building a better relationship between them still seems necessary.

Last year, with the Black Lives Matter movement in the USA, we had a clear example of the consequences of the failure of governments and the people to maintain good relations. The movement arose against racism and intolerance to protest against the unequal way the authorities often treat people of colour. Although this phenomenon is seen in the United States, many other countries are having to face the constant decline of tolerance towards minorities. These expressions of intolerance range from discriminatory attitudes and remarks to institutional or social exclusion, harassment and open forms of interpersonal and collective violence.

By addressing this issue, the Human Rights Council, at the end of the day, may be taking a step forward towards the further establishment of a global society based on values such as respect and tolerance.

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WRITTEN BY: Alessia CERAMI