The recent Commonwealth summit held in Samoa saw 56 members agreeing that it is time to address the legacy of the transatlantic slave trade, acknowledging the need for discussions on reparations. Leaders from Britain and former colonies engaged in sensitive talks regarding the shared history of slavery, colonization, and indigenous dispossession.
The joint “Samoa Communique” highlighted the calls for reparatory justice, emphasizing the importance of a truthful conversation to forge a future based on equity. While discussions on financial reparations were avoided, the commitment to dialogue on reparatory justice was seen as a significant step forward.
On the subject of climate change, Commonwealth leaders also united to address the existential issue, agreeing on an “Ocean Declaration” and naming Ghana’s foreign minister, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, as the new secretary-general. Botchwey, known for supporting reparations and free trade agreements, expressed gratitude for the appointment, signaling a new chapter for the Commonwealth.