France has announced plans to establish a commission to study its historical debt to Haiti, which was imposed in 1825 in exchange for the island nation’s independence. The commission will be led by French and Haitian historians who will make recommendations on how to build a more peaceful future.
The debt of $150m (later reduced to $90m) has been a source of anger among Haitians, who feel that France owes them financial reparations for the suffering inflicted during slavery. Haiti gained independence from France in 1804 but was forced to pay this massive debt, which contributed to its economic instability and poverty.
French President Emmanuel Macron acknowledged the “injustice” of the debt, saying it “put a price on the freedom of a young nation.” He promised that the commission’s recommendations will help both governments learn from history and build a more peaceful future.
The move comes as Haiti is facing significant challenges, including economic chaos, violent gang warfare, and ongoing instability. The country has seen over 5,500 deaths in gang-related violence so far this year, with more than a million people fleeing their homes.
While the establishment of the commission is seen as a step in the right direction, it remains unclear whether financial reparations will be on the table. Haitian writer Monique Clesca hopes that recognition of the debt’s injustice can help ease some pain and begin to heal historical wounds.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c39j7k1n48mo