UK foreign secretary rules out financial reparations, focuses on skill-sharing with Africa

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy has clarified the UK’s position on reparations for former colonies affected by slavery, stating that reparations should not focus on financial compensation.

Lammy, speaking during his inaugural visit to Africa as Foreign Secretary, emphasised that the UK is aiming to build relationships with African nations through skill-sharing and scientific collaboration, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

His comments come shortly after 56 Commonwealth leaders signed a statement calling for discussions on reparations.

The UK government, which has consistently rejected the notion of direct financial reparations, insists on a broader form of "non-financial reparatory justice." Lammy, himself a descendant of enslaved people, addressed the historical impact of the transatlantic slave trade, describing it as “horrific and horrendous.”

He pointed to symbolic measures, including former Labour Prime Minister Tony Blair’s statement of apology in 2007, as examples of previous efforts to address this legacy. Lammy also underscored the need to balance reparations discussions with the UK’s current economic challenges, including the cost-of-living crisis.

The concept of reparations spans various forms, from financial payments to symbolic actions. Caribbean nations, for instance, have advocated for reparations that include both monetary payments and systemic investments in education, healthcare, and formal apologies.

In contrast, Lammy’s proposed approach focuses on enhancing technical skills and scientific knowledge as avenues for development.

Lammy’s remarks follow October’s Commonwealth leaders’ summit in Samoa, where calls for reparatory justice gained momentum. Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer, though stating that financial reparations were not on the agenda, endorsed a document supporting discussions on reparatory justice.

In Lagos, Nigeria, Lammy expressed a desire for a “new approach to Africa” beyond the traditional development aid model, signalling a shift towards mutually beneficial partnerships.

His five-month consultation period with African nations is intended to explore collaborative opportunities and redefine UK-Africa relations beyond aid dependency, aiming to create sustainable, long-term partnerships.

By Aghakazim Guliyev