The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) held in Apia, Samoa, has concluded with a significant agreement that marks a pivotal moment in discussions surrounding reparatory justice. Caribbean leaders have long advocated for an open dialogue on the issue, despite facing pushback from the United Kingdom. Ultimately, consensus was reached to establish a framework for advancing these crucial discussions.
While the primary agenda of the meeting centred around resilience and climate change, Caribbean representatives underscored that many contemporary challenges are deeply rooted in the historical legacies of chattel slavery and the transatlantic slave trade.
“I am pleased with the respectful and considered way in which leaders approached this important matter of reparatory justice during both the Executive Session and the Retreat,” Dr. Douglas remarked.
FM Douglas further welcomed the decision to continue exploring reparatory justice by preparing a comprehensive report for further discussion next year. He emphasised that reparatory justice transcends mere financial compensation; it encompasses addressing historical injustices that continue to impact descendants of enslaved Africans in the Caribbean today.
“It also involves enacting practical solutions to confront structural inequities that afflict our region,” he said.
In addition to these pivotal discussions, Heads of Government released a Leaders’ Statement and agreed on a Communiqué and an Ocean Declaration. The meeting also saw the election of Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Shirley Botchwey, as the next Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Secretariat.
This gathering not only sets the stage for ongoing dialogue about reparative measures but also reinforces the Commonwealth’s commitment to addressing historical injustices and fostering cooperative governance among its member states.
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