This weekend, African leaders are meeting in Ethiopia to begin a fresh attempt to obtain compensation for colonialism and slavery. Nonetheless, they encounter strong resistance from former colonial powers, many of whom have rejected the notion of redressing past wrongs.
The reparations movement has encountered growing opposition even as it has garnered international traction. Many European politicians have refused to even address the issue, and former US President Donald Trump has voiced his skepticism.
The African Union’s (AU) meeting in Addis Ababa aims to establish a “unified vision” for reparations, encompassing financial compensation, formal acknowledgment of historical injustices, and necessary policy reforms. According to the Economic, Social, and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC) of the African Union, “Reparations are the most pressing issue being discussed in Addis Ababa.”
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Between the 15th and 19th centuries, at least 12.5 million Africans were forcibly transported and sold into slavery by predominantly European merchants. The debate surrounding reparations seeks to address the lasting impact of colonialism and slavery, including racism and economic disparities between Africa and wealthy Western nations, according to ECOSOCC.
“It is increasingly becoming impossible to not acknowledge the damage caused by slavery and colonialism,” stated Zimbabwean lawyer and reparations expert Alfred Mavedzenge.
Alleged Aftermath Of Slavery
The continent’s debt crisis, climate change vulnerability, and economic disadvantages are all linked to the legacies of colonialism and slavery.
While much of the discussion around reparations has focused on financial payments, advocates emphasize that making amends can take many forms. “Reparations are more than just compensation,” said ECOSOCC’s head of secretariat William Carew. “It is about… ensuring future generations inherit a world that acknowledges their past and propels them towards a brighter future.”
The AU has suggested that reparations could include land restitution, the return of cultural artifacts, policy changes to address inequalities, and holding former colonial powers accountable through diplomatic pressure or legal action at international courts.
In 2023, the AU partnered with CARICOM to demand reparations. CARICOM’s plan includes technology transfers and investments to address health crises and illiteracy.
Despite the issue being raised 30 years ago by the AU’s predecessor, the Organisation of African Unity, progress has been limited. Cape Verde President Jose Maria Neves has attributed this to the rise of right-wing populism, which has made it challenging to have serious discussions about reparations.
In Portugal, the far-right party Chega even proposed charging the president with treason for suggesting the need for reparations. In Britain, right-wing populist Nigel Farage criticized the Prime Minister for engaging in talks on the issue, while French President Emmanuel Macron has ruled out reparations, advocating for “reconciliation” instead.
“My greatest concern is that there will just be a conversation at this (AU) summit but the resolutions will not be implemented,” Mavedzenge expressed.
Africa arise
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