UN creates 'Anti-Racism Office' to combat 'systemic racism'

The United Nations has released a statement from Secretary-General António Guterres calling on governments to embrace "anti-racism."

Guterres issued the call Wednesday as part of his "message for the International Day for People of African Descent, observed on 31 August," according to a UN press release.

"The leadership, courage, and activism of people of African descent have helped overcome profound injustices, saved lives, improved societies, and brought crucial issues to the world’s attention," Guterres said.

"Yet the intolerable legacies of enslavement and colonialism endure," Guterres continued. "Systemic racism is rife and continues to mutate into new forms – including in new technologies, where algorithms can amplify discrimination."

To combat "systemic racism," the UN has "established a new Anti-Racism Office."

The office "will drive implementation of our strategic plan to address racism in the workplace."

Guterres said the UN could not accomplish this mission alone and called on "Governments to take the lead — by advancing and implementing policies and laws to tackle systemic racism and ensure inclusion."