Caribbean Nations Escalate Slavery Reparations Demands in Landmark UK Talks

A delegation from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is set to hold pivotal talks in Britain this week. The meetings will focus on addressing the historical injustices of transatlantic slavery. Officials aim to discuss a formal reparations plan to confront enduring legacies.

Caribbean Nations Detail Reparations Demands

The CARICOM reparations commission will meet with UK officials and politicians. Their visit is scheduled from November 17 to 20. The goal is to strengthen partnerships for their reparations agenda.

CARICOM’s ten-point plan outlines specific demands. These calls include a full formal apology and debt cancellation. The plan also seeks monetary compensation and education programs.

At least 12.5 million Africans were forcibly transported by European ships. This kidnapping and sale of people occurred from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Britain forcibly transported over 3 million Africans to the Caribbean.

UK’s Stance and Global Reparations Momentum

The UK government has historically been hesitant to engage on this topic. According to Reuters, Prime Minister Keir Starmer previously stated a preference to look forward. He expressed reluctance for endless discussions on past reparations.

However, global momentum for reparations is building. The African Union is developing its own formal plan. This growing movement highlights the persistent impacts of colonialism and slavery.

A 2025 poll for The Repair Campaign showed 85% of UK respondents were unaware of Britain’s scale in the slave trade. This knowledge gap is a key focus for the visiting delegation’s public education efforts.

This week’s talks represent a critical juncture for the slavery reparations movement. The outcome could reshape historical accountability discussions across Europe.

Thought you’d like to know

What is CARICOM demanding for reparations?

CARICOM’s plan calls for a full formal apology and debt cancellation. It also includes requests for monetary compensation and new education programs.

What has the UK said about reparations?

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has preferred to focus on the future. He has been hesitant to engage in lengthy discussions about reparations for historical wrongs.

How many people were affected by the transatlantic slave trade?

Historians estimate at least 12.5 million Africans were kidnapped and forcibly transported. European ships sold them into slavery from the 15th to 19th centuries.

Why are these talks happening now?

The visit follows a 2025 poll showing most Britons are unaware of their country’s role. It also aligns with growing global momentum for reparations justice.

What was the recent poll about slavery awareness?

A poll for The Repair Campaign found 85% of UK respondents were unaware Britain transported over 3 million Africans to the Caribbean. This highlights a significant public knowledge gap.