Racial discrimination in politics

Racial politics

Nature

Discrimination in politics on the grounds of race, colour, national or ethnic origin leads to the domination of one group by another. Discrimination may be legalized and take the form of the denial of the right to vote, the right to organize political parties, stand for election, or enter the civil service.

Background

Racial discrimination in politics gained global attention during the decolonization era of the mid-20th century, as newly independent nations and civil rights movements exposed systemic exclusion of racial minorities from political participation. Landmark events, such as the U.S. Civil Rights Movement and the anti-apartheid struggle in South Africa, highlighted the persistence of racially biased policies. International bodies, including the United Nations, increasingly recognized and documented these injustices, prompting worldwide scrutiny and calls for reform.

Incidence

A few countries still have legalized discrimination of this kind, but in a larger number it is more discrete, taking the form of voting qualification, the violation of electoral procedure, or intimidation by employers and other members of a dominant group. In the civil service top posts may be withheld from naturalized citizens, or a 'national' policy may be followed, as in Kenya's Africanization policy. Political parties on the basis of race may be banned.

Claim

Racial discrimination in politics is a deeply troubling and urgent problem that undermines the very foundation of democracy. When people are excluded or marginalized because of their race, it silences vital voices and perpetuates injustice. This not only distorts representation but also fuels division and inequality. Ignoring racial discrimination in politics is unacceptable—addressing it is essential for a fair, just, and truly representative society. We must confront and eradicate this injustice now.