Cape Verde’s President, Jose Maria Neves, has highlighted the challenges posed by the rise of right-wing populism to holding public debates on colonial reparations. In an interview with news site Brasil Já, published online on Wednesday, Neves noted that while public discussions on the matter could lead to increased political polarisation, particularly in former colonising nations like Portugal, governments should still engage in these conversations privately.
Neves stated, “We see extremist, xenophobic, anti-immigration groups growing in former colonising powers. There are no political conditions to publicly discuss these questions at the moment. But among governments, it is necessary to discuss these matters.”
Neves suggested that diplomatic channels could be utilised to facilitate these discussions without contributing to the growth of such groups. He believes solutions can be crafted behind closed doors that avoid fueling the growth of extremist groups.
The topic of colonial reparations recently resurfaced in Portugal when President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa acknowledged his country’s responsibility for crimes committed during transatlantic slavery and the colonial era. His remarks sparked a national debate and significant backlash from right-wing parties.
For over four centuries, nearly six million Africans were kidnapped and forcibly transported by Portuguese vessels to be sold into slavery, primarily in Brazil. Portugal’s colonial history includes rule over countries such as Angola, Mozambique, Brazil, Cape Verde, Sao Tome and Principe, East Timor, and various Asian territories.
Opponents of reparations argue that contemporary states and institutions should not be held accountable for historical actions. However, advocates maintain that addressing the legacy of slavery and colonialism is essential to combating systemic and structural racism, noting that current states still benefit from wealth generated through centuries of exploitation.
Melissa Enoch
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