Community Discussion about Racism in Scotland

Anti-Racism Interim Governance Group (AIGG)

Established in April 2022, the AIGG was a short-term working group initiated by the Scottish Government in response to recommendations from the Expert Reference Group on COVID-19 and Ethnicity. The group's primary objective was to develop a more effective accountability and governance infrastructure to address systemic racism in Scotland.

Comprising individuals with lived experiences of racial discrimination, as well as experts in equality, data, and public policy, the AIGG aimed to ensure that anti-racism efforts were informed by those most affected. The group's work emphasized the importance of community-led accountability processes to support the Scottish Government and other public bodies in addressing systemic racism.

Anti-Racism Observatory for Scotland (AROS)

Building upon the AIGG's recommendations, the Scottish Government is in the process of establishing the Anti-Racism Observatory for Scotland (AROS). AROS is envisioned as an independent body dedicated to:

• Monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of anti-racism policies and initiatives.

• Ensuring accountability within public institutions regarding racial equality.

• Facilitating community engagement and amplifying the voices of marginalized groups.

• Providing data-driven insights to inform policy development and implementation.​

The observatory aims to serve as a central hub for anti-racism efforts in Scotland, fostering collaboration among government bodies, communities, and stakeholders to create a more equitable society.

AWWATF recently took part in a pivotal and timely conversation on anti-racism in Scotland, joining a community-led event hosted by @moveforward_movement and @heartofafricauk. The gathering brought together community organisations, and residents from across the city of Glasgow to unpack the ongoing realities of racism in Scotland—and more importantly, to co-create solutions that centre lived experience, accountability, and systemic change.

A central focus of the discussion was the forthcoming Anti-Racism Observatory for Scotland (AROS)—an independent, community-driven body set to launch in early 2025. AROS was one of the key recommendations from the Anti-Racism Interim Governance Group (AIGG), established by the Scottish Government to propose new accountability structures capable of tackling systemic racism in a measurable and effective way.

Importantly, the event was also attended by a representative from the Scottish Government’s AIGG and AROS advisory board, who engaged directly with the community and shared insights on how the new observatory is being shaped to reflect Scotland’s diverse voices and lived experiences. Their presence highlighted the significance of community dialogue in shaping future policy and ensuring that public institutions remain accountable to the people they serve.

By joining this conversation, AWWATF continues to advance its mission of equity, inclusion, and empowerment for ethnic minority communities. We believe true change begins when affected communities are not only consulted but are positioned as leaders in the development and monitoring of the systems that govern their lives.

We are proud to stand with our partners and peers in shaping a future where anti-racism is embedded in Scotland’s institutions—not just as a value, but as a practice grounded in transparency, action, and measurable outcomes.

🟣 Let’s keep showing up, speaking out, and building together. Because change doesn’t just happen—it’s made.

📍 Learn more about AROS: antiracismobservatoryforscotland.org
📲 Follow the discussion: @moveforward_movement | @heartofafricauk | @awwatfuk