Published on: 2026-09-30
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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September 30, 2026 Human Rights
Independent UN experts today warned that Africans and people of African descent often face racism and discrimination during migration.
“The ability to move is not equally available to everyone,” stated experts from the Working Group on People of African Descent.
“For Africans and people of African descent, freedom of movement is still defined by racial hierarchies with deep historical roots,” they added.
While some are accepted as “expatriates,” others face discrimination based on racial stereotypes.
In the report presented to the Human Rights Council, Working Group experts analyzed how historical and contemporary forms of categorizing groups of people as belonging to a certain race affect the experience of migration.
Experts have concluded that people of African descent are disproportionately subjected to racial profiling, discriminatory treatment, placed in unsafe conditions, and face obstacles in accessing protection. They become victims of deportations, violence, and exploitation.
The report also mentions racially motivated migration control practices, including the creation of a certain image of migrants in the media. Artificial intelligence, biometric systems, and digital surveillance are increasingly used in migration management.
“Without proper safeguards, these technologies could exacerbate racial discrimination,” experts stated.
The working group called on states to ensure that migration and border policies are based on human rights, as well as on the principles of respect for human dignity and racial justice.
“Governments must strengthen protections against racial profiling, expand safe and legal migration channels, and enhance the protection of women and girls of African descent,” experts stated.
Working group experts are independent human rights experts appointed by the UN Human Rights Council. They serve on a voluntary basis, are not UN staff, and do not receive a salary for their work.
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