Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett has called for a more unified and strategic approach to reparatory justice, linking the issue directly to development outcomes across affected regions.
Dr. Barnett made the remarks while participating in the First CELAC–Africa High-Level Forum held in Bogotá, Colombia on March 19, where she joined a panel titled “Forum on Historical Reparations: Perspectives from Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean.”
During the discussion, she underscored that reparations must go beyond symbolic gestures and instead be framed within a broader development agenda. “It must therefore be seen as justice plus development. It must not be seen as charity,” she asserted.
She further pointed to the United Nations’ Decade for People of African Descent as a critical opportunity to advance international efforts aimed at securing socioeconomic justice and recognition for communities impacted by the legacy of colonialism.
Referencing the 2025 African Union–CARICOM Summit in Ethiopia, Dr. Barnett noted a shared commitment between Caribbean and African leaders to deepen cooperation on reparatory justice. She indicated that CARICOM intends to strengthen collaboration with African partners in advancing this common objective.
Describing the CELAC–Africa forum as a meaningful step forward, Dr. Barnett highlighted ongoing efforts by CARICOM Member States at the United Nations, including co-sponsorship of resolutions related to reparations. She also pointed to plans for joint advocacy with African and Latin American partners for the establishment of a High-Level Political Forum on Reparations.
Her remarks reinforce a growing regional push to position reparatory justice not only as a historical obligation but as a pathway to sustainable development and equity.
