Fifth session of the Permanent Forum on People of African Descent

Representation Matters: Afro-Swiss Communities Advancing the Durban Declaration 
The Durban Declaration and Plan of Action (DDPA) provides a global framework to combat racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance. In Switzerland, awareness of UN anti-racism mechanisms and the DDPA remains limited. At the same time, a slowly growing number of Afro-Swiss individuals are entering political office and economic spaces, signaling progress but also highlighting the need for stronger representation.

Background 
Organizations including Phenomenal Women Global (PWG), the Fédération des Associations d'Afrodescendant.e.x.s et de Noir.e.x.s de Genève- FAANG (Federation of Afro-descendant and Black Associations of Geneva) and the Africa Professionals Network Switzerland are at the forefront of mobilizing communities. Together, they aim to build capacity among Afro-Swiss communities to transform local challenges—such as discrimination and employment inequalities—into global priorities through engagement with UN mechanisms and diplomatic channels.

This dialogue will also look at the critical dimension of women of African descent in general face compounded forms of discrimination, both racial and gender-based, in employment, leadership, and representation. Addressing these dynamics ensures that advocacy is inclusive and that women’s voices are central in shaping anti-racism and equality agendas.

Objectives

• Awareness: Increase knowledge of UN mechanisms and the DDPA among Afro-Swiss communities. Learn how to use UN mechanisms and diplomatic engagement to transform local issues into global priorities.
• Advocacy: Equip communities with tools to elevate national issues into global advocacy agendas.
• Representation: Support and highlight Afro-Swiss participation in political , economic spaces, with attention to gender balance.
• Dialogue: Foster collaboration between Afro-Swiss organizations, youth, women leaders, and international actors to advance anti-racism commitments.
• Gender Inclusion: Ensure women’s perspectives and leadership are integrated into all discussions and outcomes.

Date and time: Thursday 16 April from 12:45 to 13:45

Location: Room XI, building A, Palais des Nations

Key Participants

• Afro-Swiss community leaders
• Youth representatives
• Women leaders and advocates
• Diplomatic missions in Switzerland
• UN experts and representatives
• Local Swiss leaders and policymakers

Organizers

• Phenomenal Women Global (PWG)
• African professionals Network Switzerland (APNS)
• FAANG (Federation of Afro-descendant and Black Associations of Geneva) (FAANG)

Expected Outcomes

• Enhanced awareness of UN anti-racism mechanisms and the DDPA.
• A shared Outcome document on how to use to UN mechanisms and forums to address discrimination, employment inequalities, and gender dynamics.
• Strengthened partnerships between Afro-Swiss communities, diplomatic missions, and UN experts.
• Greater visibility of Afro-Swiss voices—especially women and youth—in global anti-racism dialogues.

Programme
Representation Matters: Afro-Swiss Communities Advancing the Durban Declaration
12:45- 12:50: Welcome and Opening
The moderator, H.E. Ambassador of Gambia, Prof. Muhammadou M.O. Kah, welcomes participants
-Brief overview of the webinar theme and objectives
-Introduction of organizers and speakers
-Introduction of the event and its objectives
12:50 to 1:00 United Nations Permanent Forum on People of African Descent, Martin Kimani
Overview of the Durban Declaration and Plan of Action (DDPA) and how to engage with UN racism mechanisms
13:00- 13:25 Panelist Discussion
-Liza Sekaggya Human Rights Officer, OHCHR, President of PWG 5 min
Ahmed Jama Municipal Councillor 5 min
-Laurent Jimaja Administrative Councillor (Mayor) 5 min
-Maître Ndaté DIENG  Lawyer, Advocate 5 min
-Candace Nkoth Bisseckn President, African Professionals Network Switzerland (APNS) 5 min
13:25- 13:40: Interactive Question & Answer Session
Participants engage with speakers and panelists through chat or live participation
13:40- 13:45: Closing Remarks by H.E. Ambassador of Gambia, Prof. Muhammadou M.O. Kah
Moderator summarizes major insights from the keynote and panel discussion
Final reflections and appreciation of speakers and participants
13:45-14:45
Food and Cocktail hour