New racism report: Clear measures for fair administration!

New racism report: Clear measures for fair administration!

Today, March 19, 2025, preparations are underway for the International Day Against Racism on March 21. In this context, the Anti-Racism Expert Council has published a comprehensive definition of racism in order to create a clear basis for effective anti-racism measures in authorities and institutions. This important document was largely designed by Professor Yasemin Karakaşoğlu, who has been teaching at the University of Bremen since 2004.

The Expert Council, which was convened by State Minister Reem Alabali-Radovan, consists of twelve members from science, administration and practice. The aim of the committee is to develop a definition that is specifically tailored to the actions of administrations. This aims to create a sustainable strategy to combat racism in public institutions.

The definition of racism

The newly formulated definition includes both conscious discrimination and unconscious, structural mechanisms that come into play in institutional processes, norms and routines. Racism often manifests itself in forms that are more difficult for those affected to recognize than obvious insults or attacks. Institutional racism, as described by the Anti-Discrimination Agency, refers to discrimination that comes from social institutions such as the police, schools or authorities. The causes here do not lie in the prejudices of individual people, but in the interpretation and application of rules and regulations.

The Council of Experts explains that it is crucial to recognize and dismantle racist structures. The definition is aimed primarily at employees in administration, politics and practice who are supposed to act as pioneers in the fight against racism. Professor Karakaşoğlu emphasizes that the work of the Expert Council supports a robust democracy and administration. In addition, a focus is placed on reviewing and reforming institutional routines and procedures in order to develop effective countermeasures.

The effects of racism

Structural racism can result in deep-rooted social inequalities. It is reflected in the underrepresentation of certain population groups, such as people with a migration background or people of color, in important positions in politics, administration or business. This shows that racist practices not only affect individual actions, but also systemic aspects.

The definition and the measures proposed by the Expert Council are of fundamental importance in combating these deep-seated discriminations and inequalities. It is essential that government institutions take proactive and consistent action against racism in order to promote a more just society.

The upcoming International Day Against Racism provides an opportunity to highlight these issues and raise awareness of the need for anti-racism strategies. By integrating the new findings of the Expert Council into their practices, administrations and institutions can actively contribute to creating a society based on equality and respect for all.

uni-bremen.de reports that the definition sets clear goals for public administration. Explained at the same time antidiscriminationsstelle.de, how institutional racism must be combated through specific approaches.