Addressed to the British government and King Charles III, the draft communique for the Commonwealth summit, taking place in Samoa on October 21-26, calls for a "meaningful, truthful and respectful conversation" about reparations for the transatlantic slave trade and further research on the subject, while the UK opposes the discussions, British media reported.
The diplomats compiling the communique also suggest that reparatory justice will be a central topic for the next Commonwealth summit in the Caribbean, which indicates a potential shift in focus towards addressing historical injustices. This development comes amidst growing calls for the UK to apologize and make reparations for its role in the slavery, the news outlet noted.
"Of course, slavery is abhorrent to everybody; the trade and the practice—there's no question about that. But [...] I'd rather roll up my sleeves and work with them on the current future-facing challenges than spend a lot of time on the past," the UK's Prime Minister Keir Starmer told media after arriving in Samoa, stressing that his country is more inclined to discuss current challenges with Commonwealth leaders.
The UK monarchy has reportedly adopted a more conciliatory tone regarding slavery, expressing sorrow and regret for past wrongs.