By outdoor-nature-child.com During a recent summit in Samoa, Commonwealth leaders have acknowledged that the “time has come” for discussions regarding reparations related to the slave trade. This came despite the UK government, led by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, wanting to keep the topic off the agenda.
A signed document by 56 heads of government included Sir Keir, highlighting the need for “discussions on reparatory justice” in response to the “abhorrent” transatlantic slave trade. The statement emphasizes the importance of a “meaningful, truthful and respectful conversation.”
When asked about the discussions at the summit, Sir Keir clarified that no financial reparations were discussed, asserting that the UK holds a “very clear” stance against paying reparations. The UK’s historical involvement in the slave trade has led to increasing demands from Commonwealth leaders for an apology and reparations.
Reparations could take various forms, from financial compensation to symbolic gestures. Prior to the summit, the UK government maintained that the issue would not be part of their discussions.
At a press conference, Sir Keir described the two-day meeting as a “positive” experience while downplaying the focus on reparations. He noted that discussions primarily revolved around resilience and climate, mentioning that reparations constituted “one paragraph in 20-something paragraphs” of the joint statement. He reiterated, “None of the discussions have been about money. Our position is very, very clear in relation to that.”
Chancellor Rachel Reeves had previously stated that the UK would not be providing reparations for slavery, and according to a Downing Street source, the government’s position remains unchanged. However, some countries advocating for reparations expressed frustration over the UK’s straightforward stance on the matter.
Diplomacy often involves keeping dialogue open on sensitive topics, even if significant change seems unlikely. Advocates for reparations can take solace in the fact that the communique acknowledges ongoing conversations, while the UK maintains its position against reparations, citing other pressing topics such as trade, climate change, and security as priorities for the Commonwealth.
Interestingly, Sir Keir hinted at the possibility of future discussions regarding reparatory justice at the upcoming UK-Caribbean forum, set to take place in London next March. Frederick Mitchell, the Bahamas’ foreign minister, expressed hope that leaders would produce a “comprehensive report” on reparations during that forum, suggesting a belief that the UK may eventually offer financial reparations to Caribbean nations.
When asked about the clarity of the joint statement’s language, Mitchell remarked, “Behind the language is an attempt to go in a particular direction.” Diplomats anticipate that reparatory justice will be a focal point at the next Commonwealth summit scheduled in two years.
Last year, a UN judge indicated that the UK might owe over £18 trillion in reparations for its involvement in slavery across 14 Caribbean countries. Nonetheless, reparatory justice could manifest as a formal apology, educational programs, or public health support.
Support for reparations has also been echoed by the incoming Commonwealth Secretary-General, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, who was appointed recently and serves as Ghana’s foreign minister. She expressed her commitment while also recognizing the considerable work that lies ahead.