CARICOM Amplifies Reparations Call at the United Nations

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is intensifying its campaign for reparative justice, bringing its demands to the global stage at the United Nations and urging accountability for the enduring legacy of slavery and colonialism that continues to impact Black communities worldwide.

Speaking on behalf of the CARICOM Reparations Commission, Hilary Brown addressed delegates during the second day of the fourth session of the UN Permanent Forum on People of African Descent, according to Reuters. Brown emphasized that reparations are not just about redress – they are a pathway to healing, equity, and progress.

She outlined CARICOM’s demands, including technology transfers and targeted investments to address health disparities and illiteracy in historically marginalized communities.

CARICOM has joined forces with the African Union (AU), aligning their respective reparations frameworks to present a united front in the pursuit of justice for people of African descent. This alliance, Brown noted, represents a “defining moment” for the movement.

“This partnership allows us to speak with one voice in demanding meaningful and transformative action,” Brown said. “CARICOM is ready to take this agenda to the next level, and we welcome the support of the African Union and other global coalitions that share our vision.

It’s time Europe is held accountable.”

The joint effort seeks to advance reparations at the United Nations and other international platforms, co-sponsor a UN resolution on the matter, and advocate for the establishment of a high-level political forum focused on reparative justice.

CARICOM’s renewed push follows a powerful appeal made earlier this year by Grenadian Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell. In February, Mitchell directly addressed European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen during CARICOM’s 48th Heads of Government Meeting in Barbados.

“I don’t mean to be impolite,” Mitchell began, addressing von der Leyen, who was attending the summit for the first time. “But I will say it plainly: the issue of reparations is one we intend to pursue with you and your colleagues in Europe.”

Mitchell continued, “We owe it to ourselves—and to future generations – to ensure slavery is acknowledged as a crime against humanity. There must be a formal apology, appropriate compensation, and a global commitment that such atrocities are never repeated.”

While von der Leyen acknowledged slavery as a crime against humanity, she stopped short of addressing reparations directly. “The dignity and universal rights of every human being are untouchable,” she said, “and must be defended by all means.”

As CARICOM and its allies press forward, the call for reparative justice continues to gain momentum – reminding the world that the scars of the past demand acknowledgment, restitution, and action.