UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy recently addressed the topic of reparations for nations affected by colonialism and slavery. In light of a joint letter from 56 Commonwealth leaders advocating for discussions on reparations, Lammy clarified that this conversation “is not about the transfer of cash.”
He emphasized that the discourse surrounding reparations often oversimplifies the issue. During an interview with the BBC, he stated:
“I’m keen to emphasise that there’s a sort of simplistic press debate… that thinks this is about the transfer of cash.”
Instead, Lammy expressed a desire to focus on developing relationships with African nations through knowledge sharing and technical skills rather than financial compensation.
While speaking in Lagos, a city historically significant in the transatlantic slave trade, Lammy acknowledged the UK’s past role in these events and reiterated the importance of previous apologies for slavery:
“When we look back on that period, there were many horrors… I am the descendant of enslaved people…”
He recognized that Caribbean nations have proposed a 10-point plan for reparatory justice, but he believes that true progress lies in mutual development through skill transfers.
Lammy’s comments came shortly after discussions at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa, where calls for reparations intensified. Despite initial reluctance from Downing Street to engage in reparations talks, Sir Keir Starmer later advocated for discussions on “reparatory justice.”
On his trip to Africa, which includes visits to Nigeria and South Africa, Lammy voiced a need for a “new approach to Africa.” He highlighted:
“Much has changed since the last time my party was in government… There is so much potential.”
Lammy plans to initiate a five-month consultation period with African nations to explore collaborative opportunities. He expressed concern over issues affecting Africa, particularly the ongoing conflict in Sudan, which he aims to prioritize during his tenure as chair of the United Nations Security Council.
The urgency is clear; Lammy noted that:
“The humanitarian catastrophe… is something of tremendous concern.”
He aims to bring international attention back to Sudan as it faces significant instability, impacting not only East Africa but potentially Europe as well.
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