At a historic gathering in Algiers, African leaders are spearheading a concerted effort to secure formal recognition of colonial-era atrocities and pursue reparations. The conference builds on an African Union resolution passed earlier this year, calling for slavery, deportation, and colonization to be officially classified as crimes against humanity. In his opening speech, Algeria’s foreign minister emphasized that Africa has the right to demand acknowledgment for the enduring impacts of these historical injustices, which continue to affect the continent economically and socially. Between the 15th and 19th centuries, at least 12.5 million Africans were enslaved and forcibly transported, while the broader economic costs of colonization are estimated in the trillions of dollars. The push for reparations has received support from UN Secretary-General António Guterres, though most former colonial powers continue to resist.
SEMAFOR
