Commonwealth leaders are preparing to defy the UK by pushing for discussions on reparatory justice for the transatlantic slave trade at the upcoming summit in Samoa. While Downing Street insists reparations are not on the official agenda, diplomatic sources suggest that a draft agreement is being negotiated to initiate meaningful conversations and further research on the issue. Caribbean countries, particularly the Bahamas, are leading the call for reparations, including financial compensation, educational programs, and official apologies. Nevertheless, the UK remains opposed to the idea with Prime Minister Keir Starmer stating he would rather focus on future-facing challenges like climate change. Despite this, reparatory justice is expected to feature prominently in future Commonwealth discussions, especially since the three candidates contesting to be the Commonwealth’s next secretary general all support it.
SOURCE: BBC
