UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy recently addressed discussions on reparations for former colonial nations affected by slavery, clarifying that the discourse should not solely revolve around financial transfers. His remarks followed a statement from 56 Commonwealth leaders highlighting the growing momentum for talks on reparatory justice. Lammy indicated that the UK government has previously dismissed the notion of direct reparations in terms of monetary compensation. Instead, he believed that reparations could encompass non-financial forms of justice and emphasized the importance of developing relationships between the UK and African nations through initiatives like skill sharing and scientific collaboration.
During his first visit to Africa as Foreign Secretary, Lammy articulated a nuanced approach to reparations, stating that the current cost of living crisis made financial reparations impractical. He acknowledged the historical significance and trauma of slavery, indicating that discussions concerning reparations are also anchored in considerations of historical acknowledgment and educational reforms. For instance, Caribbean nations have proposed a comprehensive ten-point plan for reparatory justice that includes formal apologies, educational initiatives, healthcare improvements, and direct payments. Lammy’s reference to these proposals illustrates an understanding of the need for a multi-faceted approach to reparations that extends beyond financial compensation.
In his remarks delivered in Lagos, a city intertwined with the legacy of the transatlantic slave trade, Lammy recognized his lineage as a descendant of enslaved individuals and reiterated the necessity for societal acknowledgment of historical injustices. While there has never been an official apology from the UK government for its role in the slave trade, previous leaders, including former Prime Minister Tony Blair, have expressed a semblance of regret. This context sets the stage for Lammy’s assertions that the UK must engage in the historical narrative addressing its colonial past while promoting reconciliation and partnership.
The backdrop for Lammy’s comments includes a summit of Commonwealth leaders held in Samoa, where the topic of reparations was prominent yet met with the UK government’s firm stance against discussing monetary compensation. However, Sir Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour Party, expressed support for conversations surrounding reparatory justice during the meeting, echoing sentiments from other Commonwealth leaders although he too clarified that financial discussions were not on the table.
As Lammy embarked on a multi-nation tour of Africa, which included Nigeria and South Africa, he signalled an intention to pioneer a “new approach” to UK-Africa relations. He proposed to engage in a five-month consultation phase with African nations to explore avenues for enhanced cooperation and collaboration. This interest in revitalizing partnerships stands in contrast to previous years when the UK may have taken a step back from its relationships with developing nations, particularly in continental Africa.
In light of ongoing crises in the region, Lammy underscored the urgent need for international attention, particularly regarding the conflict in Sudan, which he labelled as a pressing issue worthy of priority during the UK’s forthcoming presidency of the United Nations Security Council. He voiced deep concern over the humanitarian impact of the conflict and its broader implications on regional stability. These statements not only reflect Lammy’s commitment to addressing historical grievances related to slavery but also to tackling present-day issues affecting African nations, signalling a comprehensive approach to international relations that intertwines past injustices with current challenges.
