The International Development Committee is to launch a sub-inquiry into racism in the aid sector.

The House of Commons committee has made the move as part of its wider inquiry into the philosophy and culture of aid.

This fresh inquiry into racism in the sector follows the committee’s recent investigation into sexual abuse and exploitation in the aid sector.

MPs “found that power dynamics relating to racism and sexism may have impeded efforts to implement effective measures to combat sexual exploitation and abuse”, according to the committee.

The Committee’s aim is to “explore how diversity and inclusion can be promoted in the aid sector” and is inviting written evidence on the issues by midday April 30.

The scope of its sub-inquiry includes looking at why racism in the aid sector needs to be discussed and what are the practical implications around racism in the sector.

Ways of ensuring aid charities can be “actively anti-racist” will also be explored as will steps the government should take to tackle racism in the aid sector.

The diversity of charity staff and actions being taken in the sector to promote diversity and inclusion will also be explored.

We have launched a sub-inquiry into racism in the aid sector. Submit evidence or read more about the scope of the inquiry here: https://t.co/pcxajUkzH0 #UKaid #globaldev pic.twitter.com/md6dsrSNxv

— International Development Committee (@CommonsIDC) March 26, 2021

“The aid sector is here to provide humanitarian and development assistance for diverse communities around the world,” said International Development Committee chair Sarah Chamion MP.

“As we explore the philosophy and culture of aid, our Committee is keen to investigate whether the sector’s culture could be undermining trust within communities and hampering development impact.

“This first sub-inquiry on racism has the potential to challenge our own working practices and use of language as we explore how the aid sector can be more inclusive.”

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