Apia, Samoa: Britain’s King Charles stated on Friday that the Commonwealth must recognize its “painful” history as African and Caribbean nations continue to call for reparations for Britain’s role in the transatlantic slave trade.
The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), which began in Samoa on Monday, is hosting representatives from 56 countries, many of which have ties to Britain’s colonial empire.
“I understand from listening to people across the Commonwealth how the most painful aspects of our past continue to resonate,” King Charles said in a speech delivered to the summit. “It is vital, therefore, that we understand our history, to guide us towards making the right choices in future.”
The push for Britain to pay reparations or take other actions to atone for its involvement in transatlantic slavery has long been an issue but has recently gained increased attention. This movement has seen strong advocacy from groups such as the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the African Union.
Opponents of reparations argue that countries should not be held accountable for historical wrongs, while supporters claim that the legacy of slavery has resulted in ongoing racial inequality.
British Prime Minister Kier Starmer, addressing the matter on Monday, said the UK would listen to nations wishing to discuss reparations at the summit. However, he ruled out issuing an apology for Britain’s historical role in the slave trade.
Bahamas Foreign Minister Frederick Mitchell mentioned in an interview with the BBC on Thursday that the summit’s draft conclusion, expected to be released on Saturday, includes paragraphs calling for a discussion on reparations.
Also Read | G20 Trade Talks Highlight Need for Sustainable Development, Women’s Empowerment
Between the 15th and 19th centuries, at least 12.5 million Africans were forcibly taken by European ships and merchants, sold into slavery, and transported across the Atlantic. Those who survived the grueling journey were forced to work on plantations under inhumane conditions in the Americas, enriching others through their labor.
Also Read | E. Coli Outbreak Linked to McDonald’s Leads to Onion Withdrawals Nationwide
“We have demonstrated an unparalleled ability to confound the painful history which brought us together and sit together as equals for 75 years,” said Commonwealth Secretary-General Baroness Patricia Scotland, a British diplomat of Dominican origin, during the summit.
