A new study by Maat discusses the entitlement of African countries to fair reparations for periods of colonization

Okeil: Reparative justice is no longer a moral issue but a legal one that requires international commitment from former colonial powers

Maat for Peace, Development, and Human Rights has launched a new study titled "Reparative Justice... African Journey to Restore Lost Rights," coinciding with the 83rd session of the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights. The study reviews the entitlement of African countries to reparations for periods of colonization, asserting that this right is legitimate for the peoples of the continent to reclaim their historical rights after decades of colonization, exploitation, and resource plundering. It highlights the historical damages suffered by the continent, from resource plundering to cultural heritage theft, and outlines the continent's efforts to adopt reparative justice as a central issue in the African Union's agenda for 2025. Proposed forms of reparations include financial support, restoration of artifacts, and development programs, emphasizing the importance of official acknowledgment of responsibility from former colonial powers, alongside the necessity for formal apologies.

Maat's study stresses the need to address the lasting impacts of colonization, slavery, and systemic discrimination, and to work towards restoring the plundered rights of the African continent through reparations as a global human rights approach. It points out that Africans, like any other peoples, have the right to redress, litigation, and compensation.

In this context, Ayman Okeil, Chairman of Maat and ECOSOCC Deputy Presiding Officer for Northern Africa, stated: "Reparative justice is no longer merely a moral or symbolic issue; it is a legal matter requiring international commitment to address historical grievances and their ongoing effects on development and human rights in Africa."

Okeil added that African Union has launched its theme for 2025 titled "Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations" during the 38th summit of the Union in February 2025, noting that reparative justice for Africans is a global demand and a rightful claim for the peoples of the continent. It requires the collective efforts of stakeholders in Africa, including the African Union, the countries involved in colonization, civil society organizations, and those of African descent abroad.

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