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A new chapter for racial equality in Northern Ireland?

Racial Equality Week
Blog by Paul Noonan, Senior Policy Officer, Equality Commission NI






 

With the current Racial Equality Strategy 2015-2025 nearing its end, we now have an opportunity to shape a new and more impactful approach to advancing racial equality in Northern Ireland.
 
It’s clear the Racial Equality Strategy 2015–2025 did not succeed in achieving its intended goals. The recent Independent Review of the Northern Ireland Executive’s Racial Equality Strategy, led by Dr Sabir Zazai OBE and published in December 2024, sets out his view on what is needed to make the next strategy a success.
 

Building on the Review’s findings

The Review emphasised critical steps needed to achieve meaningful change. These include:
  • A fully resourced and action-focused strategy: As Dr Zazai stated, “There is no strategy without a clear delivery plan and resource commitment.”
  • Political leadership and accountability: Progress requires senior-level commitment to ensure racial equality becomes a political priority.
  • Ethnic equality monitoring: Dr Zazai stated, “...you cannot resolve a societal issue such as racial equality without the data …Monitoring is the stepping stone to racial equality. It is not a luxury but a necessity.”
 
These findings align closely with the Commission’s priorities, and we are hopeful about the opportunity to influence the development of a renewed strategy that is practical, inclusive, and effective.
 

A collaborative approach for lasting change

The Equality Commission is committed to playing a key role in shaping the future of racial equality in Northern Ireland, but we know we cannot do it alone. We will continue to press for involvement which includes community leaders, wider stakeholders, and policymakers to create a strategy that reflects the real needs of people.
 

Our vision for the next racial equality strategy

The next Racial Equality Strategy must be ambitious and equipped to tackle the challenges of our time. Here’s what we’re advocating for:
 
  1. A renewed, resourced strategy: A plan with clear, measurable goals, supported by the necessary funding and embraced by political leadership.
  2. Stronger anti-discrimination laws: Delivery of comprehensive equality legislation to address all forms of discrimination, including emerging issues such as caste-based discrimination.
  3. Hate crime protections: Robust legal protections to combat hate crimes and foster safer communities.
  4. Tackling prejudicial attitudes and racism: Actions to tackle prejudicial attitudes and to promote values of acceptance and respect so as to improve good relations and increase representation in public life.
  5. Ethnic equality monitoring to improve public services: The collection, publication and use of data to identify disparities, inform policies, and evaluate their impact on ethnic minority groups.
 

Looking ahead with optimism

The findings of the Independent Review remind us of the work still to be done, but they also present an opportunity to make lasting change. Together, we can create a future where racial equality is not just an aspiration but a reality for everyone in Northern Ireland.
 
We invite you to join us in shaping this vision. Whether by sharing your perspectives, engaging with decision-makers, or supporting our recommendations, your voice can make a difference.
 
Learn more about the Equality Commission’s racial equality policy priorities and recommendations.
 
Posted on 03 Feb 2025 by David Vance