A woman dressed as Zwarte Piet (Black Piet) takes part in the arrival of Sinterklaas (Saint Nicolas) during the traditional move-in 'Intocht Sinterklaas' event in Groningen, The Netherlands | Remko De Waal/AFP via Getty Images Ombudswoman: Dutch Black Pete infringes on children’s rights Controversial black-face character could be perceived as racist and should be changed, Margriet Kalverboer said.

The portrayal of the Dutch character Zwarte Piet (Black Pete) contravenes U.N. conventions and could lead to discrimination, bullying and the exclusion of children of color, the Netherlands' ombudswoman for children said Friday.

In her non-binding opinion, Margriet Kalverboer said the way the minstrel-like Zwarte Piet is presented, often in blackface with a curled black wig and gaudy red lips, is contrary to the right to equal treatment and should be changed so it no longer negatively impacts the December 5 Dutch celebration of Saint Nicholas (Sinterklaas).

While some in the Netherlands staunchly defend Zwarte Piet, arguing he is a harmless children's character who is only portrayed with black make-up because he comes down chimneys to bring presents, it is not the first time he has come under fire. The U.N. committee on the elimination of racial discrimination in 2015 said the character was seen as "a vestige of slavery" by many people.

“By removing discriminatory and stereotypical features he can become a figure that will make everyone enjoy the Saint Nicholas tradition and which is in line with the rights of all children in the Netherlands,” Kalverboer said in her report.

The ombudswoman decided to investigate Zwarte Piet after receiving complaints from parents who believed the figure was harmful to their children. She interviewed children aged 10 to 16, some of whom indicated they felt discriminated against during the festivities.