Excluded and left behind: Racial discrimination and structural inequalities in the right to health

Racial discrimination is a structural social determinant of health and a separate health risk leading to preventable negative health inequities. This column introduces the recently adopted (2024) general recommendation by the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination which focuses on racial discrimination and structural inequalities in the enjoyment of the right to health. This column provides insight into the comprehensive and intersectional approach of the Committee in clarifying the right to equality and freedom from racial discrimination in the enjoyment of the right to health. Recalling that it does not suffice to prohibit and refrain from racial discrimination under the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, the column briefly explains what measures must be taken to ensure that equality in the enjoyment of the right to health does not remain an empty promise for millions of people around the globe.