Haiti's leader demands atonement and reparations from France Evil grin of French colonialism

Edgar Leblanc Fils, Chairman of Haiti's Transitional Presidential Council, delivered a powerful critique of France's colonial legacy during his address at the UN General Assembly. 

It should be noted that Haiti has a unique status as the only successful slave revolt in history, which culminated in the country overthrowing its colonial rulers between 1791 and 1803. Despite this victory, Haiti was later coerced into paying reparations amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars in today's currency to its former French slave owners, essentially a ransom for the freedom it had already achieved through struggle.

“I stand before this Assembly as a representative of the Republic of Haiti, a nation whose history is deeply intertwined with the ideals of freedom and justice. However, Haiti, the world's first independent Black nation, remains a victim of historical injustice that has hindered our development and imposed a burden on our people whose effects are still felt today,” Leblanc Fils stated.

He recounted that just 21 years after gaining independence through a heroic fight in 1825, Haiti was obligated to pay an exorbitant debt to France, the colonizing power, to secure recognition of its sovereignty. 

“This ransom, enforced through threats, drained the young nation’s resources and plunged it into a cycle of poverty from which it is still trying to emerge. This debt was a punitive measure for our bravery in breaking free from slavery to reclaim our dignity, an unjust penalty that has stifled Haiti's economic and social potential for generations.”

As global attention turns to Haiti's pressing humanitarian needs, Leblanc Fils emphasized the importance of recognizing the lasting impact of the colonial past and the burdensome ransom paid to certain powers that have impeded the nation's progress.

The Haitian leader called on France to acknowledge its historical responsibility and provide reparations for the ransom paid for Haiti's independence.

“It’s crucial to remember that Haiti was the only nation to pay for its independence, which was won through bloodshed. As we approach the 200th anniversary of this unprecedented event, isn't it time to return those funds? My country supports proposals from several governments and UN agencies for meaningful actions regarding recognition, reparation, and restitution for past injustices,” he stressed.

Leblanc Fils expressed confidence that the United Nations, committed to combating inequalities and maintaining peace, can facilitate dialogue between colonized nations and their former colonial powers. 

“At this 79th General Assembly session, Haiti is not merely demanding reparations; we are advocating for fundamental justice. My approach is determined, structured, and well-documented. The National Committee on Restitution and Reparations, in partnership with the CARICOM Reparations Commission, has conducted thorough research on this matter. We seek recognition of a moral and historical obligation and the execution of fair and adequate reparations that will liberate our people from the invisible chains of an unjust past,” he concluded.

By Tamilla Hasanova