A decade of recognition of justice and development

Today, racial discrimination and the legacies of slavery and colonialism continue to destroy lives and curtail opportunities, preventing billions of people from enjoying their full human rights and freedoms. In proclaiming this Decade, the international community recognises people of African descent as a distinct group whose human rights must be promoted and protected. 

Background 

The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is observed each year in remembrance of the day when the police opened fire on peaceful demonstrators protesting against the apartheid “pass laws” in South Africa on March 21 1960, killing 1960 people. In response to this terrible event, the United Nations General Assembly decided that a week of solidarity with the people struggling against racism and racial discrimination began on 21 March. 

Since the apartheid system has been dismantled. Racist practices and laws have been abolished. However, despite significant progress in the struggle against racial discrimination, inequalities and prejudices persist.

Better Internet for Kids' perspective

At Better Internet for Kids, we believe that the fight against racial discrimination extends to the online sphere, where hate speech, cyberbullying and racial stereotypes become problematic to the well-being of children and young people. Today, we recognise the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment for all, free from racial discrimination. 

Here on the Better Internet for Kids portal, we are fully committed to ensuring that children are respected online. We fight against hate speech and promote digital resilience. Explore our articles and resources: 

• On Safer Internet Day 2024, the Slovenian Safer Internet Centre organised a series of activities about cyberbullying. They produced a handbook addressing the issue of cyberbullying and provides school staff with a range  of information on how to deal with it and when they must cooperate with the police and social workers. 
• If you or another young person is confronted with racial discrimination online, you can contact your national helpline for further information, guidance and support. Helplines provide information, advice, and assistance to children, youth, and parents in dealing with harmful content, contact, and conduct. 

More information

Please check the United Nations website for more information about the International Day for Elimination of Racial Discrimination.