UN rights chief call for actions from states on slavery reparations

At a Friday meeting, the UN human rights commissioner added his voice to the demands for justice for the crimes committed during slavery by urging nations to take decisive action regarding reparations for individuals of African origin.

There is growing support in the Caribbean and Africa for the establishment of a tribunal to handle restitution for crimes related to the transatlantic slave trade. Reparations could involve monetary awards as well as other forms of atonement.

United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk pledged his backing in an address at the closing of the four-day U.N. Permanent Forum on People of African Descent (PFPAD).

“I join your demands for action now.”

“On reparations, we must finally enter a new era. Governments must step up to show true leadership with genuine commitments to move swiftly from words to action that will adequately address the wrongs of the past.”

Despite his supports, Turk has not stated how he wants the process to be carried out.

Even while the concept of making reparations has gained support, most former colonial governments still oppose it and find it to be contentious.

In an effort to make amends for its involvement in the transatlantic slave trade, the Netherlands has announced plans to establish a 200 million euro fund and apologised for its role.

A representative for the British Foreign Office admitted that the former empire builders were involved in transatlantic slavery, but stated that there was no intention to make up for the loss and that the main priorities should be applied to “today’s challenges” and historical lessons.