Bahamian national appointed Chair of United Nations Permanent Forum on People of African Descent

For Immediate Release – 5 May 2026. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs extends its congratulations to Ms. Gaynel Diana Curry on her appointment as Chair of the United Nations Permanent Forum on People of African Descent. Ms. Curry was formally appointed during the opening of the Fifth Session of the Forum, held at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland, from 14–17 April 2026.

The Fifth Session convened under the theme: “Expanding the human rights of people of African descent under the Second International Decade for People of African Descent.” The session brings together global stakeholders to address critical issues including reparatory justice, the return of cultural artefacts, the human rights of youth of African descent, and the 25th anniversary of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action, with a focus on translating commitments into tangible outcomes.

Ms. Curry’s appointment reflects both the confidence of the international community in her leadership and The Bahamas’ continued commitment to advancing justice, equality, and dignity for people of African descent worldwide. She will serve as Chair for a one-year term.

In her acceptance, Ms. Curry expressed appreciation to the Government of The Bahamas and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) for their support and affirmed her commitment to ensuring that the Forum remains focused on addressing the aspirations and human rights concerns of people of African descent, particularly vulnerable and marginalized groups.

The United Nations Permanent Forum on People of African Descent, established by the UN General Assembly in 2021, serves as a vital platform to promote the full inclusion, equal treatment, and human rights of people of African descent globally. The Forum comprises ten members and engages diverse stakeholders on issues such as economic empowerment, education, health, cultural recognition, reparatory justice, and climate change.

Ms. Curry brings more than two decades of distinguished service within the United Nations system, having held senior roles across multiple regions, including Afghanistan, South Sudan, and Timor-Leste. Most recently, she served as Human Rights Advisor with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in Geneva. Her extensive experience also includes contributions to global human rights mechanisms and international policy development.

At the national level, Ms. Curry has served The Bahamas in several senior capacities, including Director of the Department of Gender and Family Affairs. She currently serves as Head of the Law Department and Associate Professor of Law at the University of The Bahamas and continues her work as an independent human rights consultant.

The Ministry commends Ms. Curry on this significant achievement, which highlights the leadership and expertise of Bahamians on the global stage. Her appointment underscores The Bahamas’ ongoing commitment to promoting human rights, social justice, and international cooperation.

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(Back row L-R: Ms. Tezel Lightbourne, President of the Youth Senate; Dr. Niambi Hall-Campbell-Dean, Chair of Bahamas National Reparations Committee; Ms. Sasha Dixon, Chargée d’affaires; Ms. Bianca Brown, Foreign Service Officer; Front row: Ms. Gaynel Curry, Chairperson, PFPAD)

At centre: Ms. Gaynel Curry presides over PFPAD’s Fifth Session after her appointment in the opening ceremony.