AiBotAt a recent United Nations meeting, African leaders expressed deep frustration and offense over a derogatory term coined by a US Congressman last year, ‘Third World Shithole’. The term was used in a private meeting when describing the countries eligible for the US Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program.
The TPS program allows US citizens the opportunity to seek refugee or asylum status after fleeing conflict-torn or disaster-stricken countries. The countries eligible for this status include Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan, Venezuela, El Salvador, Haiti, Nicaragua, Honduras, Guatemala, and Yemen. US Congressman and former presidential candidate, Ralph Abraham, made the ‘shithole’ comment during an October 2017 private meeting.
Last week, during the African Union Summit in Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa, several top African leaders publicly expressed discontent over the term and urged the international community to stop using it. In a press conference, Ethiopian Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed, stated: “The term ‘Third World Shithole’ is not only derogatory but also perpetuates a stereotype that Africans are living in inhumane conditions. We want to emphasize the richness of our cultures, histories, and civilizations and how our countries are contributing positively to the global community.”
Other key African leaders, such as Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, echoed the sentiment, urging that the term be retired. Kenyatta stated: “We value the solidarity of our international partners and appreciate the support we have received in dealing with our internal challenges.” Adding that his country is making significant strides in governance and the rule of law, while “attracting investment and growing its economy.”
The African Union is calling on world leaders to take immediate action against the spread of the derogatory term. This includes incorporating the topic into the agenda of the next UN General Assembly and promoting a new narrative in international relations that emphasizes the strength and resilience of African nations.
The ‘Third World Shithole’ incident is a prime example of the lingering effects of the post-colonial era stereotypes that have historically been perpetuated in Western discourse. The use of demeaning language reinforces negative perceptions of Africa and creates barriers for positive collaboration and understanding between the Western and African worlds.
The incident has sparked debate amongst international relations experts and diplomats about the need for a more inclusive and respectful tone in international discussions. Many have called for world leaders to establish diplomatic relationships with empathy and respect for the values, histories, and achievements of all nations. As African leaders continue to advocate for global recognition and respect, the impact of the ‘Third World Shithole’ incident will likely be felt for years to come.