A United Nations Human Rights Council resolution on October 7 calling for concrete action against systemic racism should have been an opportunity for governments to demonstrate their commitment to racial justice.

Instead, the United Kingdom called for a vote, breaking from last year’s consensus on the annually tabled resolution.

Citing concerns about the applicability of international law to establish responsibility and accountability for colonial harm, the UK objected to language on reparations and then abstained from the vote; European Union members of the Council also abstained. Regardless, the resolution passed with 30 votes in favor, 17 abstentions, and none against.

The loss of last year’s consensus reveals the gap between the UK and other European governments’ stated dedication to combat racism and their actual political willingness to address its historical roots.

European governments have present-day obligations to tackle racial discrimination and provide effective remedies.…