IBAC

The Durban Process as a Safeguard for Russian Business in Africa

The Durban Declaration and Programme of Action (DDPA), adopted on September 8, 2001, laid the foundation for the international legal fight against racism and discrimination and served as the basis for specialized UN mechanisms, including the Permanent Forum on People of African Descent and the Intergovernmental Working Group. Russia supports the Durban Process and played a key role in the 2009 Review Conference, upholding the integrity of the original agreements. Each year, Russia submits a resolution to the UN General Assembly on combating the glorification of Nazism; the growing number of votes in its favor demonstrates the consolidation of the "Global Majority" against attempts to revise the outcomes of World War II.

The Foreign Ministry’s statement also criticizes neo-colonial revanchism and the promotion of a doctrine of "civilizational exceptionalism" in certain European states. It notes that, under the guise of defending democracy, the rights of indigenous peoples and migrants are being infringed upon—actions that run counter to the Durban agreements.

The conceptual substance of the Durban Process is being translated into practical action within the Russia-Africa agenda. Objectives such as upholding sovereign equality and the distinct identities of peoples, as well as establishing a fair multipolar system, will be central themes of the third Russia-Africa Summit, scheduled for October 28–29 in Moscow. Political and legal support for African partners will be stepped up, thereby mitigating the risk of discriminatory barriers and fostering a predictable environment for long-term business contracts.

Strengthening anti-discrimination norms and expanding cooperation within the UN and BRICS frameworks provide an additional safeguard for Russian projects in Africa. Moscow’s political will reduces the likelihood of administrative hurdles and opens up access to new niches—in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

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